Finance committee reviews multiple FY2026 revolving funds; most referred to full council

The New Bedford City Council Committee on Finance on June 18 reviewed a series of revolving‑fund authorizations for fiscal 2026 and voted to refer most items to the full city council, while tabling one request for additional information.

The revolving funds examined included accounts controlled by the Health Department, Community Services, Inspectional Services, the School Department, the Department of Facilities and Fleet Management (DFFM), Parks, Recreation and Beaches, and the Fort Tabor programs. Committee chair Councilor at large Linda Morad said the body would take funds individually and then consider whether to vote on them together.

Why it matters: the committee’s action sets the maximum amounts each departmental revolving fund may spend in FY2026. Those limits affect how departments operate and budget for personnel, building maintenance and program delivery without recurring general‑fund support.

Committee discussion and key details

Item 1 (Health Department compliance programs): The committee first received and placed the item on file, then voted to table consideration because the department director was not present. Councilor Ryan Perera moved to table and Councilor Maria Giesta seconded; the motion passed. Chair Morad said the administration’s chief financial officer could answer questions if needed but recommended waiting for the department head’s responses.

Item 2 (Adult Social Day Program, Community Services): Pamela, a Community Services staff member, told the committee the fund request for FY2026 is $330,000, up $30,000 from FY2025 “to cover step increases, health insurance costs” and to pay salaries for six full‑time positions. Pamela said the…