QUEENS — Forest Hills and Rego Park residents will soon be able to discuss how to best spend $1 million in their neighborhoods.
Locals will share their ideas during a series of upcoming “neighborhood assemblies” in September and October organized by Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz, as part of participatory budgeting, a process that allows residents to weigh in on how budget funds should be spent in their district.
Koslowitz, who represents District 29, which includes Forest Hills, Rego Park, Kew Gardens and Richmond Hill, said it's the first time she is introducing the process to her constituents.
“I wanted to see how it works and I wanted to involve the community,” Koslowitz said Tuesday.
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Locals will get a chance to tell the councilwoman how they think she should spend $1 million for projects in their neighborhoods, which can include things like installing security cameras, creating a community garden, renovating a playground or planting more trees.
Residents as young as 14-years-old as welcome to participate.
Koslowitz said three meetings are scheduled for September in Forest Hills and Rego Park. Four additonal meetings will be held in October, including in Richmond Hill and Kew Gardens.
The first series of “neighborhood assemblies” about participatory budgeting in Council District 29 are scheduled for: Sept. 8, at 7 p.m. at American Legion Hall at 105-15 Metropolitan Ave. in Forest Hills; Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. at Russell Sage JHS 190 (enter in the back of building) at 68-17 Austin St. in Forest Hills; and Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. at P.S. 175 (enter on 64th Rd) at 64-35 102nd St. in Rego Park. Additional meetings are planned for October (dates will be announced later). For more information, call Koslowitz's office at 718-544-8800.
