Council Defers Vote on Proposal to Let Mayor Tap Rainy‑Day Fund if Federal Funding Is Cut

Council members and budget staff debated a proposed ordinance that would add a specific contingency allowing the mayor to use the city’s fiscal stability fund if federal funding were substantially reduced — an action supporters say could speed emergency responses and opponents say requires council oversight and reporting.

The measure drew sustained discussion from council budget leaders, the director of Budget and Fiscal Services and several council members about timing, legal authority and the practicalities of reopening the operating budget. Council member Weier, the bill’s introducer in committee, said the change was intended to give the administration flexibility to respond rapidly if federal funds were cut and to avoid delays inherent in reopening the city budget.

Director Andy Kawano of Budget and Fiscal Services told the council that reopening the budget or using a…