The Council also addressed an array of community-focused topics, including an appropriation order of $38,277,047 for community preservation projects, which promises to impact affordable housing, historic preservation, and open space and recreation positively. Additionally, the Council tackled public safety and criminal justice issues, discussing grant proposals aimed at gang violence prevention, violence intervention, and stress management for police officers.

Another topic was the Cemetery Division’s requested appropriation order of $1,260,000 for maintenance and improvements. This would fund activities such as patch repairs, digitizing records, and tree maintenance, essential for the upkeep of the city’s cemeteries.

The session further delved into a home rule petition to amend the Boston Fire Department Cadet Program’s training requirement. The proposal to reduce the cadet service requirement from two years to one is intended to increase the pool of candidates and bolster the department’s staffing levels.

The budget was another focal point, with discussions on the fiscal year 25 operating and capital budgets, encompassing equity and inclusion, transportation, public works, and accessibility in city facilities. The strategic fiscal management plan and a proposed five-year capital plan of $4.7 billion aim to address various citywide needs.

Concerning education, the Council discussed the inclusion of English language learners, universal pre-K, and equitable budgeting for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) within Boston Public Schools. The success of the pre-K program was noted, and discussions included the policy for students with IEPs attending these programs.

Moreover, the Council debated a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. While the appropriateness of the City Council addressing international issues was questioned, the resolution saw support from councilors acknowledging the suffering of both Palestinians and Israelis.

The Council unanimously adopted a resolution to recognize April 30th, 2024, as International Jazz Day. Additionally, a proposed ordinance was discussed to establish a safe and healthy hotels advisory panel, focusing on the welfare of hotel workers and guests, and addressing issues such as human trafficking and overdose prevention.

Councilor Mejia introduced a hearing order to audit the city’s accountability, transparency, and accessibility regarding construction sites impacting small businesses, emphasizing the need for timely city support. Councilor Flynn put forward a hearing order discussing plans to combat drag racing and the use of off-road vehicles on city streets.

The Council also considered docket number 0760, referred to the Committee on Public Safety and Criminal Justice, addressing the need for social determinants of health and youth decompression spaces. Docket number 0762, referred to the Committee on Education, focused on auditing Boston Public Schools’ community engagement efforts and the Green New Deal’s long-term facilities plan.

Councilor Flynn highlighted the financial burden on residents concerning water and sewer pipe maintenance in private ways, calling for a long-term financial strategy. Councilor Louijeune proposed repurposing former school and municipal buildings as affordable housing, garnering support from council members who emphasized the urgency of the housing crisis.

In addition, the Council discussed recognizing Black women veterans during Black Maternal Health Week, extending the Affordable Connectivity Program, and declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month