An update on the FY21 Budget from the chair of the Committee on Ways and Means

The Mayor introduced a proposed budget last week, which the Council will formally consider over the next two months, prior to a vote. This year’s FY21 budget process is coming in the midst of great uncertainty, as our City grapples with the immediate challenges of COVID-19.



This public health emergency will have enormous impacts on the budget for next year and the years to come – both in terms of government revenues and in terms of the needs we must meet for the people of Boston. Already the needs for food access, housing support, and business assistance are huge and only growing. So more than ever before, we can expect this year’s budget to be a work in progress, one that may have to change significantly over the next few months.



We need a diversity of voices involved in budget hearings and decisions – both on the Council, and from the public. You can learn about ways to get involved in the budget hearings remotely here and view the Council’s budget review schedule here.



You can also learn more about the City’s proposed budget by watching the hearings I chaired this week:



The budget overview

The BPS budget overview

The capital budget working session

The dedicated public testimony hearing



Next week, we will review the Capital Budget and the Public Facilities Department, along with certain revolving funds.



When I joined the Council back in January, I never expected that we’d be in such a painful economic situation by April. Nonetheless, I’m glad to be serving in the important role of Ways & Means Chair as we confront these challenges together. We will need to exercise strong collective judgment over the coming months about what is the best way to budget for this pivotal year ahead, and I look forward to doing so in partnership with my colleagues and with all of you.



With thanks,



Kenzie