ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — The city of Ithaca is interested in renovation ideas.

Officials say money was set aside to renovate the plaza outside City Hall. They’re looking for ideas from Ithacans through a new program called participatory budgeting.

“Participatory Budgeting (PB) is a way for community members to directly decide how to spend part of the City’s budget. As opposed to the traditional budgeting process, which is led by City elected officials and City staff, PB gives City residents the power to envision and determine what projects should be prioritized and funded in their community. PB can lead to better local services, a stronger sense of shared responsibility over the City, broader civic engagement, and increased trust between residents and local government.”

A quick, 3-question online survey is available here until May 19.

The process is part of Ithaca’s Justice50 initiative, which was approved by the Common Council in May 2024.