What's Happening in Newmarket, ON…

Citizens of Newmarket can make their priorities known to the local government in a new way.

The municipality has launched an online “Budget Game” that lets residents break down where they would like to see their tax dollars go.

The “game” takes the form of a survey allowing residents to rank the importance of eight priorities: by-law and licensing service; community programs and events; public library services; planning and development services; roads, bridges, and sidewalks; fire and emergency services; facilities, parks, and trails; and waste management. Participants are also able to write in custom feedback to add their own items or explain their rankings.

The budget game is one of a number of initiatives the town of Newmarket uses to encourage civic participation. Services with the highest rankings will have priority in helping the city council compose the budget for 2020. The city will also be looking at priorities like environmental sustainability and downtown revitalization. Other means of outreach include the HeyNewmarket forum and the city’s e-mail and phone lines. Municipalities often use methods ranging from live-streaming of council meetings, to brochure printing and poster printing to attract residents to local events and get them involved in local democracy.

The 2020 “Budget Game” is currently available through the Newmarket website, as are other civic engagement tools. Participants will be entered into the draw for a $100 recreation and culture credit.