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Candidates say city budget prioritizes schools and pre-K; urge caution on federal cuts
Summary
Forum candidates said the city’s roughly $550 million budget funds school projects and pre-K expansion, but several voiced concern about potential federal cuts and asked for fiscal discipline and reserve planning.
At the Ward 5 LCTV forum, candidates said they had reviewed the city’s approximately $550,000,000 budget and welcomed funding for new schools and pre-K programs, while urging caution about potential federal reductions that could affect planned investments.
Why it matters: Candidates tied budget choices to school construction, pre-K expansion and long-term staffing and services that affect families in Ward 5.
Liliana Patino said she had read the budget and praised full funding for the school department while warning that reliance on federal funds calls for fiscal prudence: she quoted the mayor’s phrase, “progress is great, but commitment to fiscal discipline is firm.” Josh Polonsky said he is still learning but would prioritize transportation and road safety investments to support safer commutes and active transportation. Kataliz “Cardi” Paez said the budget is “ambitious” and highlighted funding for three new schools and pre-K expansion; she also expressed concern about contingency planning for possible federal cuts and recommended clearer personnel-request processes in budgeting.
Several candidates also linked budget priorities to parks and youth services, saying improved playgrounds and continued park investment help youth engagement.
No council action was taken at the forum; candidates described priorities and concerns they would press if elected.
