Norwalk BET reviews Community Services budget as city considers absorbing pandemic-era assistance program

The Board of Estimate and Tax reviewed the Community Services portion of the fiscal 2026 proposed budget at a special meeting March 6, focusing on human services, public health and the library.

The most substantial item discussed was a proposal to make permanent a community resource program that began during the COVID‑19 pandemic. Lamont Daniels, chief of community services, said the program was created with philanthropic support and “we worked really hard to… adhere to, you know, where we are in our city, with our budget.” Anna Vivian Estrella, director of human services, explained private foundations funded the program for several years and that the city is being asked to absorb three full‑time positions next fiscal year. Estrella told the board 706 households have already used the service this year to connect with nonprofit providers for needs such as food, clothing and medical assistance.

Tom, the city finance staff member presenting the budget, told the board the salary lines rise about $165,000 year‑over‑year for the human services section; staff explained that increase reflects the three positions being added to the operating budget after…