City Council proposes $561 million budget amid legal obligations and staffing challenges

In a recent special city council meeting, New Bedford officials discussed the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which totals $561 million. The general fund, a key component of this budget, is set at $500.4 million. City leaders emphasized the challenges of meeting legal obligations, particularly in mandated school funding, pension contributions, and healthcare costs, which have driven the budget increase compared to last year.

City officials warned that failing to adequately fund these obligations could lead to lawsuits and enforcement actions, jeopardizing the city's hard-earned bond rating. The budget reflects a conservative approach, with department heads submitting only essential funding requests to maintain service levels for residents. Notably, the proposed budget will result in two fewer net employees than the current year, continuing a trend of workforce reduction despite the acknowledged need for more staff across various departments.

The meeting highlighted the city's commitment to generating revenue through strategic hiring, such as adding EMT positions and employing an in-house plumber to cut costs. While the need for additional employees is clear, city leaders reiterated that financial constraints prevent immediate hiring.

As the council prepares to delve deeper into departmental budgets in the coming weeks, residents can expect discussions focused on balancing fiscal responsibility with the need for effective city services. The outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping New Bedford's financial landscape and community services in the year ahead.