Akron residents will soon be able to participate in shaping the city’s financial future through “Capital Budget 101” events scheduled for early November. The city of Akron is preparing to host two informative gatherings, aiming to demystify the capital budget process and invite the community to directly engage with it. The events are scheduled to take place on Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 6 to 7:30 pm at the Patterson Park Community Center and on Thursday, Nov. 13, from 6 to 7:30 pm at the REACH Opportunity Center, according to a news release from the City of Akron.
The Planning Department, alongside city administrators, will educate attendees on the capital budget's role, its distinction from the operating budget, and the impact it has on the city’s infrastructure. In an effort to fully involve residents, the department will facilitate an interactive sticker exercise, previously conducted at ward meetings, designed to give participants a tangible sense of how to allocate limited funds across various budgeting priorities. "We’re proud to once again offer opportunities for Akron residents to get more involved in our budgeting process," Akron Mayor Shammas Malik said in a statement obtained by the City of Akron’s news releases. "The budgeting process can seem complicated but by providing these events in our neighborhoods, we can bring capital budget planning directly to the residents we serve and allow them a chance to weigh in on the process as we are forming our proposal for City Council’s consideration."
These community events are not the only avenue for resident participation. A Facebook Live session will also be held to discuss the Capital Budget proposal, and the Planning Department is ready to attend additional ward meetings upon councilmembers' requests, per the same news release. The precise details and date of the Facebook Live event will be communicated by the City of Akron in due time.
Last year's capital budget, passed in February 2025, delineated a hefty $380 million investment in Akron’s infrastructure — a clear indication of the city's commitment to improving its physical landscape. While capital budgets focus on these long-term investments, they differ significantly from operating budgets, which cover city services and operational expenses. Both types of budgets are critical for the management and growth of city services and infrastructure. The goal of these upcoming events is not only to inform but also to actively involve Akron citizens in a budget process that can often feel distant and complex. More information on these events, including locations and times, can be found here.
