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Wurselen Launches Citizens' Budget for Active Participation in Urban Development

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The city of Wurselen, Germany, has introduced the "Citizens' Budget" program, a new participation format aimed at involving citizens in urban development and decision-making processes. Under the motto "Your city, your project!", the city council approved a fixed amount in the city budget to fund projects originating from the citizens. This initiative is designed to promote local community life, implement good ideas from the public, and strengthen community spirit.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Citizens' Budget is a participation format that invites Wurselen residents, aged 14 and over, as well as clubs and initiatives, to submit project proposals that serve the common good and are within the city's responsibility.
  • Funding can be provided for new playground equipment, additional facilities in playgrounds and schoolyards, seating and shelters, social and nature conservation projects, with a maximum project cost of EUR5,000.
  • Proposals are reviewed by the administration, presented publicly, and then voted on by citizens over a two-week period.
  • The projects with the most votes are announced and implemented within the available budget.
  • The city council approved the citizen budget by statute at the end of 2021, and funding started in the 2023 fiscal year.
  • The participation format is now launching, with Mayor Roger Niessen explaining, "With the Citizens' Budget, we want to give the people of Wurselen a stronger voice in shaping their living environment."
  • The program contributes to sustainably improving the cityscape and quality of life, and citizens are encouraged to submit project proposals by June 30, 2025.

Statistics:

  • The maximum project cost is EUR5,000.
  • The participation format is launching after the necessary position was filled at the beginning of 2025.
  • The city council had already approved the citizen budget by statute at the end of 2021.
  • Funding for the projects started in the 2023 fiscal year.
  • Citizens have two weeks to vote on the proposals.
  • Proposals can be submitted by all Wurselen residents aged 14 and over, as well as by clubs and initiatives.

Sources:

  • City of Wurselen. (n.d.). Your City, Your Project! - Wurselen Citizens' Budget 2025. Retrieved from .

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