The Community Budget Alliance San Diego (CBASD) is aNONPROFIT ORGANIZATION that's been empowering local communities by fostering transparency and engagement in city budgeting processes. Since 2013, CBASD has been stringent commensurate with its mission to information sharing and collaborate with San Diego's diverse neighborhoods to ensure that city financial resources align with the needs and priorities of its residents.
In the heart of California, San Diego's budget is more than just numbers and figures. It's a tangible reflection of its citizens' aspirations, challenges, and dreams. CBASD, recognizing this, has dedicated itself to bridging the gap between these aspirations and the city's financial plans.
CBASD's Mission and Vision
The mission of CBASD is to promote participatory budgeting in San Diego. Participatory budgeting is a democratic process in which community members directly decide how to allocate public funds. This approach shifts power dynamics, creating a more inclusive and equitable city.
CBASD's vision is to see San Diego become a national leader in participatory budgeting, setting an example for other cities to follow. This vision aligns with the city's motto, "San Diego: Where Innovation Meets Opportunity," emphasizing the potential for civic engagement to drive progress.
Key Functions of CBASD
CBASD plays a pivotal role in educating and engaging San Diegans in the budgeting process. It conducts community outreach, facilitates budget workshops, and provides resources to help residents understand the city's budget and their role in shaping it.
One of CBASD's flagship programs is the Participatory Budgeting San Diego (PBSD) process. PBSD provides an opportunity for San Diegans to directly decide how to spend a portion of the city's budget. This process starts with a city-wide vote, followed by neighborhood assemblies where residents prioritize projects and ultimately, city council allocates funds based on the community's decisions.
Impact of CBASD's Work
CBASD's efforts have yielded tangible results. Since its inception, PBSD has funded over 300 projects, totaling more than $4 million. These projects range from park improvements and public art to community events and after-school programs. Each project is a testament to the power of community engagement and the value of resident-led decision-making.
Moreover, CBASD's work has sparked a shift in San Diego's political landscape. Elected officials are increasingly aware of and responsive to community priorities, boding well for the city's future. The alliance's success has also inspired other cities to explore participatory budgeting, further expanding its influence.
Getting Involved with CBASD
CBASD welcomes involvement from all sectors of San Diego's diverse community. Whether you're an individual passionate about civic engagement or an organization seeking to partner on community initiatives, there's a place for you at CBASD.
Volunteer opportunities abound, from supporting PBSD votes and assemblies to helping with community outreach and budget education. Additionally, CBASD hosts regular meetings where participants can learn more about the organization, provide input, and connect with fellow community members.
Join CBASD Today
If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference in San Diego, join the Community Budget Alliance San Diego today. Together, let's reimagine city budgeting, fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and innovative San Diego.
Visit the CBASD website for more information and to get involved. Together, we can build a better San Diego, one budget at a time.