In a recent budget hearing held by the New Bedford City Council, discussions centered on the allocation of funds for police and fire departments, highlighting the ongoing challenges of staffing and community safety. The meeting, which took place on June 9, 2025, revealed significant concerns regarding police overtime and the impact of grant funding on public safety initiatives.

One of the key topics was the EAPS grant, which is typically funded by the health department. A council member expressed frustration over the grant's limitations, which excluded overtime for ranked officers, arguing that this restriction hindered the ability to increase patrols in high-crime areas. The councilor emphasized the need for more officers on the streets to address rising crime rates, particularly in neighborhoods facing gang violence and substance abuse issues. The police chief acknowledged the concerns but clarified that the health department had denied requests to modify the grant's terms, which limited its use for overtime.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of police staffing levels. The chief noted that current vacancies within the department drive up overtime costs, which are projected to reach approximately $2.7 million this year. The chief assured council members that as positions are filled, overtime expenses should decrease. However, the ongoing negotiations with the police union regarding staffing levels remain a critical factor in managing these costs.

In parallel, the fire department's budget was presented, showcasing a proactive approach to maintaining staffing levels and reducing reliance on overtime. The fire chief reported that the department had successfully managed its budget in the previous fiscal year, allowing for necessary training and equipment upgrades. The proposed budget for FY 26 is level-funded, with no new positions requested, but it includes essential enhancements to ensure operational readiness.

The fire chief highlighted the importance of data analysis in improving fire safety and response strategies, advocating for the creation of an administrative manager role to oversee this function. This position aims to enhance the department's ability to respond to emergencies effectively and efficiently, particularly as the city transitions to a new incident reporting system.

Overall, the budget hearing underscored the critical need for adequate funding and staffing in both the police and fire departments to ensure the safety and well-being of New Bedford residents. As discussions continue, the city council faces the challenge of balancing fiscal responsibility with the pressing demands of public safety. The outcomes of these budget considerations will significantly impact the community's ability to address crime and emergency response effectively in the coming year.