Starting today, Sanford City Council is piloting “participatory budgeting” to give residents the ultimate say in which community enhancement project should be funded next.
Participatory budgeting is a democratic process where community members vote on how to spend part of a public budget. For the inaugural cycle, Council has selected three potential projects that are feasible, cost effective, sustainable, and that will have a positive community impact.
Today through August 22, Sanford residents can cast their vote for one these projects:
- Landscaping improvements at City entrance signs – This choice will add enhanced landscaping to the gateway signs located on Highway 421 North, Highway 87 South, and at the intersection of Highway 42 and Highway U.S. 1.
- Concrete games in City parks – If selected, the City will install permanent, weather-resistant games made from concrete, such as chess/checkers tables and cornhole, to municipal parks to encourage family-friendly recreation and community interaction.
- Winter Wonderland at Depot Park – This option will turn Depot Park into a professionally decorated, photo-friendly holiday area with lights and seasonal displays throughout the upcoming winter season.
“These projects were chosen because of their potential to improve our public spaces and enhance our quality of life,” says Mayor Rebecca Salmon. “Now we are turning over the final decision to our residents.”
How to vote: Voting is now open at www.sanfordnc.net/pbvote and will close at the end of the day on August 22, 2025. Paper ballots are available in the lobbies of the Sanford Municipal Center, Public Works Service Center, and Buggy Company Building.
Only one vote per person will be counted. Ballots with more than one selection will not be counted. The winning project will be announced in early September and implementation is anticipated by the end of the year.
The two remaining projects may be considered in future budget cycles or through alternative funding sources, notes Salmon. Voters will also have the opportunity to make suggestions for future participatory budgeting cycles.
Learn more about participatory budgeting for Sanford at www.sanfordnc.net/pbvote. For questions or concerns, send an email to info@sanfordnc.net.