SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The City of South Bend announced it's launched the fifth year of "Build the Budget," which provides a platform for residents to voice their priorities for the 2026 budget season.

“Participating in the annual budget planning process is an important way that residents can shape our city and its future,” said Mayor James Mueller. “The more ideas and input we get, the stronger our budget and City will be. I encourage all residents to participate and make their voice heard.”

During the engagement period, city staff will collect ideas and feedback from residents via an online budget survey, 311 voicemails, and interactive budget games at community events.

City officials say last year, there were more than 1,300 resident engagements and their goal is to exceed that this year.

You can participate in the "Build the Budget" process from now until Sept. 26.

You can find all the information about the process, including upcoming meetings, and a link to the budget survey on the city's website.

The city’s first budget hearing is Aug. 13, with the final budget vote scheduled for Oct.13.