There is no getting around the fact that the city budget impacts damn near every aspect of our lives. First off, Chicago residents are the ones who pay the taxes. It’s our money. Then, the City Council and the Mayor (all elected positions) make and vote on how to spend that money in the City Budget. The money is put towards things like parks, youth jobs, garbage pickup, police, mental health facilities, and more. So what better time than now–when Chicago is actively creating the 2024 City Budget–to sit down with Natalie Frazier, City Bureau Documenters Coordinator and City Budget expert? Together, Naira and Natalie break down the city budget process, encourage residents to participate in public hearings, and highlight the impact of budget decisions on residents.Beyond that, you’ll learn about City Bureau’s Documenters program and other ways you c ...