It’s budget time!

The annual city hall process might not get people hopping, but it should, says one local activist who wants Londoners to come to a public participation meeting at city hall on Monday.

“In talking to people that I run into, friends, family and co-workers, people are relatively interested in how their money is spent,” said Abe Oudshoorn, vice-chair of the London Homeless Coalition.

“But when it comes to public input and telling city hall what they think, it’s usually low numbers and the usual suspects.”

Oudshoorn has made a video on his blog that outlines some of the challenges facing the city and encourages citizens to get involved in the budget process.

“We’ve talked about it at the dinner table, whether you’re for or against zero. Now let’s talk to the city,” Oudshoorn said.

The city’s first public input session about the budget is Monday at 4 p.m. in council chambers.

City politicians will have to decide whether they want to stick with a third-straight zero percent tax increase, saving taxpayers about $59 on their annual tax bill.

“People might not think that politicians will listen, but actually if you talk to them you’ll see how open they are to listening,” Oudshoorn said.

“I’ve sat in on meetings where councillors have quoted statistics that I’ve told them.

“As the incoming chair of the Homeless Coalition, I know that a lot of cuts will affect those who don’t have any other options available, cuts to transit and libraries and housing.”

Check out Oudshoorn’s blog and video here:

http://abeoudshoorn.com/blog/?p=811

IF YOU GO

What: Budget public input meeting

When: Monday, Jan. 14, 4 p.m.

Where: City Hall, council chambers

ONLINE:

Check out london.ca/budget for information about this year's process