Public Budgeting Simulations--15---250 words

https://www.icivics.org/games/peoples-pie
http://www.gothamgazette.com/budgetgame/

One of the most difficult tasks for governments is budgeting. The federal budget when compiled looks like a big city phone book. Public officials ask themselves where they can make cuts, where they can increase revenues, whether they should increase taxes and other concerns, while at same time hoping to keep a majority of their citizens happy.

Below are links to a budgeting simulation that involves the budget for the City of New York and another game, People's Pie, which allows you to set tax policies for corporations and individuals and establish funding priorities.

Please play both games and then share your experiences in a short paper of 1-3 paragraphs responding to the questions below.

In one to three paragraphs answer the following questions:

• Was there anything that you wanted to do but couldn't find the money?
• What was the key area of concern you addressed to assist your city?
• Discuss some of your biggest challenges or decisions.
• Include any other observations about these simulations.