Ways and Means on May 27, 2026 at 10:00am

The Boston City Council's Ways and Means Committee held a meeting on May 27, 2026, to discuss supplemental budget appropriations totaling approximately $47.1 million for snow and winter management expenses. The discussion included detailed explanations of the extraordinary snow removal costs incurred during the fiscal year, which significantly exceeded the usual budget due to multiple severe winter storms and increased operational expenses such as contractor fees, staff overtime, equipment rental, and roadway treatment. The committee reviewed the use of free cash as the funding source for this supplemental appropriation, emphasizing its appropriateness for one-time, extraordinary expenses rather than ongoing operational costs. Council members also explored the possibility of establishing a dedicated snow reserve fund to better manage future snow-related expenditures. Additionally, the meeting touched on Boston Public Schools' supplemental budget needs for health insurance and utilities, with a separate hearing scheduled later that day. The council discussed the impact of these supplemental appropriations on the city's fund balance, bond rating, and tax rate, and requested further details on contractor payments and monthly health insurance spending. No votes were recorded during this session, but the committee sought recommendations for approval at the next city council meeting.