Closing Bell: Brooklyn Wants Wi-Fi, Gondolas

Earlier this week WNET’s Metro Focus ran a fun post checking in with four council members on the participatory budget system, which allows citizens to suggest how their tax dollars – approximately $1 million per district – should be spent, and then vote on said ideas. Council Member Brad Lander (pictured, representing CB6 territory) and Council Member Jumaane D. Williams (representing Flatbush, parts of Canarsie and Midwood) shared some of the best, and weirdest, suggestions for the borough so far. They include a community center in Kensington, wi-fi in all public parks, a roller skating rink, more dumpster pools and a recording studio/youth center. Our favorite: the “Gwondola,” a Gowanus-based gondola system. Never hurts to dream! Proposals are now being considered by volunteer committees and will be voted on this spring.
Checking In on NYC’s Participatory Budgeting Project [Meto Focus]