Ways & Means FY27 Budget:Office of Equity, Black Male Advancement, Fair Housing, Women's Advancement

The Boston City Council Ways & Means Committee held a budget hearing on May 12, 2026, focusing on the FY27 budget for the Office of Equity, Black Male Advancement, Fair Housing, and Women's Advancement. The meeting included detailed presentations from department leaders outlining their FY27 budget proposals, highlighting significant cuts to grant funding across these offices, particularly a $500,000 reduction in the Office of Black Male Advancement's contractual services, which will eliminate community empowerment grants for FY27. The Office of Fair Housing discussed plans to launch a new multi-year fair housing testing program via an upcoming RFP, despite current staffing vacancies including the executive director position. Councilors expressed concern about the impact of grant cuts on community-based organizations and questioned the administration's plans to support these groups through alternative funding or partnerships. The Human Rights Commission was noted as effectively defunded in the FY27 budget, with many of its functions absorbed by other equity cabinet departments. Public testimony underscored the critical role of grassroots organizations funded by these grants and called for restoration of funding and stronger leadership. The hearing also addressed ongoing equity initiatives, data dashboard development, and the need for continued investment in equity and inclusion efforts despite fiscal constraints.