While PB is a useful tool for increasing participatory democracy, it is not meant to replace representative democracy.

The City of Durham works hard to provide basic services such as wastewater treatment and trash collection. In addition, the city has a number of initiatives meant to increase community engagement and involvement in city policies, such as their ENGAGE Comprehensive Plan Engagement, as well as equity-focused programs such as their Green and Equitable Infrastructure Project Planning and YouthWorks programs.

PB helps the City of Durham understand what residents want in their communities, but it does not replace or take funds from the general services that the city provides to keep Durham running.