The Boston City Council's Ways & Means Committee convened on May 28, 2025, to discuss the FY26 Budget, focusing on Age Strong and Veterans Services. The meeting highlighted critical issues affecting transportation and support services for older adults and veterans in the city.

The session began with public comments, where residents expressed concerns about transportation accessibility. One speaker, who has not used public buses since 2017, shared frustrations regarding the inadequacy of taxi services and the challenges faced in navigating the city’s streets. They emphasized the dangers posed by poorly designed bus stops, particularly on Columbus Avenue, where they felt unsafe stepping off the sidewalk to catch a bus. The speaker called for immediate improvements to ensure that bus stops are located at curbs rather than in the middle of the street, highlighting the need for safer transit options for vulnerable populations.

Following this, Danae Davis, a caregiver for her elderly mother, spoke about the difficulties in finding resources for older adults, particularly those with conditions like Alzheimer's. She underscored the importance of accessible services and support systems for families caring for aging relatives.

The committee members acknowledged these concerns and discussed potential budget allocations to enhance transportation services and support for older adults and veterans. They recognized the need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by these communities.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore the issues raised and to consider the feedback from residents in the ongoing budget discussions. The committee plans to continue engaging with the community to ensure that the needs of older adults and veterans are adequately met in the upcoming fiscal year.