Boston is about to face one in every of its hardest fiscal assessments in a long time. Federal funding cuts to housing, meals help/SNAP advantages, and training are now not distant threats — they’re rapid realities that may ripple by way of our neighborhoods. These cuts will hit working households, seniors, and essentially the most susceptible residents who rely upon town’s security internet.
At a time when nationwide help for our residents most in want is shrinking, Boston should lead with independence and self-discipline. This isn’t the second for partisanship or politics-as-usual. It’s a time for management that places folks earlier than celebration and options earlier than slogans.
Unbiased management means being sincere about our challenges and artistic about how we meet them. The query is easy: how can we keep important metropolis companies and defend our most susceptible residents — with out elevating taxes on households already struggling to make ends meet?
The reply lies in utilizing the monetary instruments already accessible to us, particularly municipal bonds. Bonds should not new or dangerous; they’re a confirmed, accountable method for cities to spend money on infrastructure, reasonably priced housing, and training whereas retaining taxes steady. Correctly managed, they may also help Boston bridge funding gaps, create jobs, and strengthen neighborhoods with out including new burdens to taxpayers.
Municipal bonds should not about spending extra — they’re about managing smarter. They permit us to speculate now in what issues most — housing stability, high quality faculties, and secure streets —whereas retaining management and accountability native. Each greenback raised by way of these investments ought to construct resilience and alternative for Boston residents.
We can’t look forward to Washington to repair Boston issues. The duty is ours. By planning correctly and performing boldly, Boston can defend important packages, maintain development, and stay a metropolis that works for everybody — not simply these on the high.
Trying towards 2026, we face a transparent alternative: proceed reacting to federal shortfalls with painful cuts, or lead with function and foresight. If we select the latter, Boston can keep fiscal stability whereas upholding its dedication to equity and alternative.
As voters head to the polls this yr, it is very important look past 2025 and towards the challenges forward. The choices made now will form our metropolis effectively into the subsequent decade. For many who might have tuned out as a result of the mayor shouldn’t be on the poll, I urge you to re-engage. This second is essential. The management we select will decide whether or not Boston continues to spend money on its folks or falls behind.
Boston has at all times been a worldwide beacon of innovation, resilience, and self-reliance. Allow us to proceed that custom by embracing impartial management and good fiscal options —so we will preserve Boston robust, truthful, and thriving for everybody who calls it residence.
Winston Pierre is a candidate for Boston Metropolis Council District 5
