Participatory Budgeting in Lahti amplifies the voices of citizens of all ages

Lahti’s fourth round of participatory budgeting has once again demonstrated the power of community-driven development. Between May and June 2025, a total of 3,019 residents—approximately 2.5% of the city’s population—cast their votes to shape the future of their neighbourhoods.

This year, ideas that enhance comfort and bring colour to the city were especially popular. The most-voted idea was a flower garden next to the Family Park in the southern area, supported by 681 residents. Other top ideas included improving the safety and appearance of the underpass near Kivimaa School, creating a harbour flea market, and enhancing the travel center (Matkakeskus) area.

Children and youth voted actively

Children and young people played a significant role in the voting process, contributing about one-third of all votes. Their influence is evident in the results: a proposal to provide free menstrual products in schools received 448 votes, and a youth-painted mural also gained strong support. Free gym access for schoolchildren and a Wibit inflatable obstacle course for the swimming hall were among other youth-favoured ideas.

Although the circular trail idea for Linnaistensuo received the most votes in the eastern area, it cannot be implemented in this round due to ongoing planning. Instead, a flower meadow in Vanhankartanonpuisto and improvements to Karisto beach—both receiving over 400 votes—will move forward.

The selected 43 ideas will be implemented in 2026 with a total budget of €200,000. Preparations will continue in collaboration with various city departments and partners.

Omalahti.fi site was used for the first time

This year marked the debut of the digital platform omalahti.fi, which enabled residents to submit over 900 ideas. Of these, 162 were selected for the voting phase. Voting took place both online and via paper ballots in schools, kindergartens, libraries, and the Service Point at Trio.

For more information on all submitted ideas, selected projects, and vote counts, visit lahti.fi/osbu and omalahti.fi.

https://omalahti.fi/fi-FI/pages/osbu