05.05.2026 Budget & Appropriations Committee Meeting

The City of Bridgeport Budget & Appropriations Committee meeting held on May 5, 2026, focused extensively on the Health and Social Services Department's budget, staffing, and program funding. Key procurement-related discussions included requests for additional funding to expand youth summer employment programs, with a proposal for an extra $150,000 to hire 85 more youth, and $65,000 and $100,000 for after-school and Friday evening programs respectively. The committee reviewed various grants supporting public health initiatives, including a $1 million gun violence grant and workforce development grants. There was also discussion about reallocating staff within the department to improve operational efficiency, and concerns were raised about the need for more inspectors and nurses to meet service demands. Revenue generated from licensing and fees, such as food establishment licensing and vital records fees, was noted but clarified to go into the general fund or remain within specific programs like the Lighthouse youth program. Challenges with displaced clinic facilities due to flooding and the need for new leases and renovations were also addressed. The meeting included multiple questions and comments from council members regarding staffing shortages, program effectiveness, and the use of grant and fee revenues. No formal votes on budget allocations were recorded in the transcript, but motions to approve budget items were mentioned. Overall, the meeting highlighted the department's need for increased funding and staffing to maintain and expand critical public health and youth services in Bridgeport.