Frequently asked questions

What is Asukasbudjetti?

The City of Turku implements participatory budgeting in the form of a citizens’ budget. Participatory budgeting is a mode of operation that invites residents to discuss, plan and decide on how shared taxes are used. There is no single correct method for implementing it, but it can be carried out in a number of different ways.

Participatory budgeting can be used in many different situations to solve a variety of needs and problems. It can be utilised in designing and making decisions on investments and services, for example. (Source: kuntaliitto.fi)

How can I participate in Asukasbudjetti?

In April–May 2020, anyone can provide proposals promoting the well-being of Turku citizens on this website. Everyone is free to define well-being as they see fit.

In June 2020, residents and the city’s specialists will come together to develop these proposals into feasible plans. All residents that have made proposals meeting the criteria as well as other operators are invited to these events that are organised online.

In September 2020, all Turku citizens that turn at least 13 during the voting year are eligible to vote on the plans. The voting alternatives are presented on this site at the end of August. In October 2020, the City of Turku will count the votes and announce the winners. The city will implement the winning plans during 2021.

How can I check if my proposal is on the city land?

The criteria state that the proposal should "focus on an issue that falls within the competence of the city, not, for example, private land". From the guide map (address: opaskartta.turku.fi) you can check that your proposal is placed on the city land. In addition, a more suitable place for the proposal can be sought together with city officials.

How can things be this expensive when done by the city, for example EUR 200,000 for a new play area or EUR 2,000 for planting a tree?

Generally speaking, the costs of the city’s building projects are increased by the fact that public facilities must be extremely durable and safe. In addition to this, the location and the foundation conditions have an impact on the price. The price estimates include many other types of costs, such as required preliminary assessments and studies, overall design, illustrative images, electrical and HVAC design documents, possible tender procedure, project administration and the salary and additional costs of employees hired for the implementation of the projects. Detailed cost calculations are performed for the projects selected for implementation through voting.

I wish to receive further information, who can I contact?

Area Development Coordinator (cooperation in residential areas and development stage workshops) Katri Arnivaara, katri.arnivaara@turku.fi, tel. +358 (0)50 301 2916.

Open Participation Specialist (participation and matters related to this site) Anri Niskala, anri.niskala@turku.fi, tel. +358 (0)50 558 9789.