Province launches budget consultations

For the third year running, the province is launching its online budget consultation tool, Budget Talks, to get public feedback to help shape policies and programs.

This year, the government will be providing $3 million that will fund up to eight public proposals as part of the 2017 provincial budget, making Ontario the first province to commit funds to ideas gleaned from the public.

“The Ontario Budget affects every Ontarian. That’s why it’s important for the government to hear from the people across the province, to discuss their priorities and understand what investments they want to see in their communities,” states Charles Sousa, the province’s finance minister, in a news release.

“The innovative and online consultation tool, Budget Talks, provides an opportunity for more people to share their ideas on how we can help make everyday life easier. I look forward to engaging in constructive consultations across Ontario. Together we will keep building a province where everyone can reach their full potential.”

Proposals must be submitted by midnight on Dec. 11, be for a pilot project, study, event or digital service, be within the provincial government’s scope to deliver, require a one-time investment of no more than $1 million, be finished or show progress by spring 2018 and help support one of the eight focus areas outlined on Budget Talks.

Those eight areas are community infrastructure projects, small business, child care, reconciliation between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples, access to health care, fighting climate change, making government services faster and easier, and helping students achieve their full potential.

The online tool is available at ontario.ca/budgettalks. Proposals can also be submitted by fax to (416) 325-0969 or via email at submissions@ontario.ca.