Controversy Over Boston's Plan to Let Children, Non-Citizens Vote on Budget

Mayor Michelle Wu's participatory budgeting initiative faces backlash amid fiscal challenges and concerns about decision-making.

Boston's participatory budgeting allows residents as young as 11 and non-citizens to vote on $2 million in city expenditures.
City Councilor Ed Flynn criticizes the plan as 'tone-deaf' and 'inappropriate' given the city's financial uncertainties.
The initiative aims to increase civic engagement but has raised concerns about the appropriateness of involving minors and non-citizens.
Some council members argue for increasing the budget allocation, while others push for reductions to fund essential services.
The plan will be implemented in January, with residents voting on 15 community projects selected by the mayor's office.