St. Pete Standard

St. Petersburg, FL (April 16, 2024) - Tonight, at their annual Budget Open House, the City of St. Petersburg unveiled the Innovative Equity Project, a new initiative aimed at enhancing community engagement in resource allocation within the city. Mayor Kenneth T. Welch expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "St. Pete's Innovative Equity Project is a creative and participatory way to involve our constituents in the annual budget process."

With a budget of up to $1 million, multiple city departments have collaborated on proposals, including initiatives ranging from home repairs and utility assistance to youth crime prevention and educational programs. These projects align with the Mayor's Pillars for Progress and Governing Principles, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and equity.

Residents of St. Petersburg are now called upon to participate in the decision-making process by voting for their preferred project. The options presented for consideration include programs like Cover St. Pete, Forward Together, Swim Smart & Library Lockers, Dream Big Day, and Water Assistance for St. Petersburg Homeowners (WASH).

To cast their vote, community members can visit the designated website or participate in-person at various pop-up display locations across the city. The deadline for voting is June 12, 2024.

For more information about the Innovative Equity Project and to engage in the voting process, individuals are encouraged to visit the project's official website at stpete.org/InnovativeEquity.