City Council Hearing: FY2027 Comptroller; May 29, 2026

The City Council hearing held on May 29, 2026, by the CharmTV Citizens' Hub featured a presentation from Baltimore City's Comptroller Bill Henry and City Auditor Josh Pash regarding the FY2027 budget and operational updates. Key procurement-related discussions included staffing adjustments within the Comptroller's office, such as transferring IT specialists and funding a contractual consultant position, as well as abolishing long-term vacant positions to balance the budget. The audits department reported improved auditor retention due to competitive pay adjustments, enabling more effective contract reviews and audits. The real estate division manages over 1,300 city properties and is involved in leasing, acquisition, and disposal, with ongoing discussions about transferring vacant lots to the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to improve maintenance and disposition. The municipal post office budget reflects increased postage costs, and accounts payable is funding a new accounting assistant position. Council members emphasized the need for proactive property maintenance, particularly mowing, and discussed challenges with fragmented agency responsibilities. The auditor's office also highlighted efforts to improve audit recommendation implementation, with support from city administration. Overall, the meeting focused on budget allocations, staffing for audit and real estate functions, property management strategies, and enhancing fiscal oversight through audits.