Budget Challenge deadline Monday

Douglas County residents have another week to participate in a countywide online survey asking for input on how to spend taxpayers’ money.

For a second year, the county has launched the online budget challenge inviting residents to set priorities for an imaginary $500 to be divided among county services.

Last year’s exercise prompted county officials to shift $1 million to the road system that they say has been woefully underfunded for 20 years.

This year, the county has sweetened the offer. Participants who complete the Budget Challenge Forum can enter to win a spa package and dinner at David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort using social media.

By tweeting “I finished the Douglas County #budgetchallenge http://bit.ly/17fI4X1 4 a chance 2 win a Spa Pkg & Dinner @ David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort,” or changing their Facebook status, they are entered in the drawing.

Anyone without Internet access can come to the Minden Inn and complete the challenge online or use the Douglas County Public Library.

Residents have an opportunity to make general comments about the process, upload photos or videos to illustrate concerns.

The comment period runs through 5 p.m. Monday. Participants are asked to distribute the $500 in six categories.

They include economic vitality; managed growth and development; preservation of natural environment, resources and cultural heritage; reliable infrastructure; safe community and financial stability.

Participants can access the Budget Challenge at www.douglascountynv.gov, and click on Open Douglas County; or http://www.peakdemocracy.com/1537 or by texting “subscribe” to 775-309-4358.

The online registration asks for name, email address and physical address.

Registration information is secure and will not be shared with any outside party.

Participants can choose from a quick, 5-minute version or the longer form estimated at 15 minutes.

The longer form includes more sub-results. Each version allows the participant to establish new priorities.