Ways & Means FY27 Budget: DoIT, PEG Access Fund on April 27, 2026 at 10:00am

The Boston City Council held a Ways & Means budget hearing on April 27, 2026, focusing on the Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) and the PEG Access Fund as part of the FY27 budget review. The department presented its proposed budget, highlighting ongoing modernization projects such as replacing legacy constituent relationship management systems with a Boston-based vendor, improving permitting processes, and developing a centralized property information portal. Significant cost savings were achieved by performing technology migrations and system upgrades in-house, avoiding millions in contractor expenses. The department also discussed digital equity initiatives, including expanding free public Wi-Fi and refurbishing computers at community centers. Budget reductions were noted due to declining external funds, particularly related to cable subscription revenues affecting the PEG Access Fund, with concerns about future programming cuts. Council members inquired about contract renewals, staffing changes, cybersecurity measures, and the use of artificial intelligence in city services. The department emphasized a strategic shift from contractual services to in-house personnel to improve cost efficiency and service quality. Public testimony included support for community media and digital inclusion efforts. Overall, the hearing detailed DoIT's efforts to modernize city technology infrastructure while managing budget constraints and maintaining essential services.