~ As the city of Boston enters its sixth week of departmental hearings on the Mayor's proposed FY26 budget, Councilor Brian Worrell, Chair of the Committee on Ways & Means, provided an update on the progress made so far.

The most recent working session, held on May 2nd, focused on the city's revenue for Fiscal Year 2025 and further discussion of past and future Council amendments. The administration presented data showing that the city's revenue remains strong despite uncertain economic times.

According to the data, through 75% of the year (March 31, 2025), the city has already reached 87% of its projected revenue for Hotels Tax, 84% for Aircraft Fuel Tax, and 86% for Meals Tax. Additionally, they have exceeded their projected revenue for Income from Investments by nearly 84%, and have already surpassed their full-year projected revenue for Short-Term Rental fees by 175%. This data supports the administration's conservative projections for FY26 budget.

The departmental hearings began with two sessions focused on equity and inclusion. Councilor Worrell emphasized using equity as a lens in all decision-making processes. The Black Male Advancement department presented over $34 million in policy recommendations for FY26 and Councilor Worrell encouraged other departments to follow suit. He also stressed the importance of having representation from this cabinet on all RFP selection committees to ensure diversity.

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During hearings with the Economic Opportunity and Inclusion cabinet, Chief Segun Idowu highlighted their successes in providing SPACE Grants to fill vacant storefronts and expanding technical assistance to small businesses. He also discussed their efforts towards promoting equity in city contracts through deliberate data collection and analysis. This initiative has led to an increase in contracts with minority- and women-owned businesses.

On Thursday, discussions were held with the Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) in the morning and the Environment, Energy and Open Space cabinet in the afternoon. DoIT focused on addressing digital equity gaps and streamlining digital processes for permitting, while the Environment Department discussed climate resiliency projects and possible changes to the wetlands ordinance.

Next week, the Council will continue with six more departmental hearings, including those with the Boston Public Health Commission, Boston Centers for Youth and Families, Boston Public Library, Inspectional Services Department, Property Management, and Public Facilities. Councilor Worrell reminded the public that testimony is welcome at all hearings and encouraged them to visit the Council's budget website for more information.

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