Waterbury Board of Aldermen Special Mtg for Adoption of the Mayor's Proposed Budget - June 2, 2026

The City of Waterbury Board of Aldermen held a special meeting on June 2, 2026, primarily focused on adopting the mayor's proposed budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year and the capital improvement plan for 2027-2031. Key procurement-related actions included approval of an amendment to a professional services agreement with Linguistica International Incorporated for translation services and awarding a construction contract to Sound Stage Productions Incorporated for sound system upgrades at local high school gymnasiums, totaling $81,400. The board deliberated extensively on budget amendments proposed by minority caucus members, which sought to reallocate approximately $395,000 among various departments, including reducing $200,000 from the legal department's outside counsel budget to fund other priorities such as inspection services, senior center staffing, and seasonal wages. The legal department and mayor's office expressed concerns about cutting legal services funding due to ongoing litigation and staffing challenges. The board ultimately rejected the amendment. The meeting also included approval of multiple budget resolutions covering operating expenses, tax levies, water and pollution control enterprise funds, and capital expenses, with several votes reflecting divided opinions on mill rates and funding allocations. Discussions highlighted the need to balance fiscal responsibility with maintaining essential city services and infrastructure, including water system upgrades. The meeting concluded with motions to approve the budget resolutions and adjourn.