Austinites are getting a say in the city's 2024-25 budget, here's how

The city launched an interactive budget survey tool that people can use to choose their top priorities from a comprehensive list of options.

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- City of Austin residents have the opportunity this month to provide input on how the city's 2024-25 budget should be allocated.

The city launched an interactive budget survey tool that people can use to choose their top priorities from a comprehensive list of options.

The city said the tool aims to provide participants with a "meaningful opportunity to engage with the City and ensure that the budget reflects the community's diverse needs and preferences."

The survey asks participants for their prioritization of 12 service areas generally associated with city government, like police, fire departments, libraries, parks and health services.

The city said insight gathered from the survey will be used to inform city staff, as they work to develop a proposed budget that reflects the needs and priorities of the community.

"The City of Austin is committed to transparency and accountability in its budgeting process," Chief Financial Officer Ed Van Eenoo said. "By engaging residents through this survey, we can ensure that our budget reflects the values and priorities of the people we serve."

The survey will be available online throughout May in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Chinese Simplified.

More information on the budget development process can also be found online.