Earlier this month, Washington residents filled the Council Chambers at City Hall when the City Council conducted a meeting concerning the 15^th Street project. Last year, supporters of the city-owned pool packed the Council Chambers when they learned the city was considering closing the pool for financial reasons.

It’s a shame few people, other than city staff, the mayor and council members show up at the annual public hearing on the proposed budget for the upcoming year. You would think more people would show up for a hearing that addresses possible increases in the city’s tax rates, utilities rates and fees. Sad to say, it’s par for the course to have less than 10 people, perhaps five people, show up for a budget hearing.

People complain about how the city spends its money. They accuse city officials of wasting money on unimportant things and not allocating money for important things. Some city residents want the city to provide money so free, pubic Wi-Fi can be installed downtown and along the waterfront. Others say spend that money on fixing potholes.

It’s easy to say that if you don’t participate in public budget discussions, you should not complain if the council adopts a budget you do not like. There is some truth in that philosophy. If you want something in or out of a budget, let the people who put a budget together know. Some people believe their wishes and desires won’t be heard, much less acted on.

Earlier this month, many people voiced opposition to the proposed 15^th Street project. Expecting the council to mull over their concerns before acting, those people to an immediate response. The council unanimously voted to reject that proposed project.

When the city’s budget process begins early next year, city residents and property owners need to participate in that process. Your concerns could be heard and acted upon favorably.

Participation provides power. As they chanted about 50 years ago, “Power to the people, right on.”

They made changes then. You can bring about change now.