In a dramatic turnaround following intense public protests and police confrontations, Flint’s city council has finalized its budget for the fiscal year 2026. This decision came late on a Wednesday night, marking a pivotal moment for the city and its officials.
Just ten days prior, tensions flared as a proposed city budget led to physical clashes between protesters and Flint police, abruptly halting a council meeting. However, the atmosphere was notably more subdued during the recent session, culminating in unanimous approval with a seven to zero vote.
Following the meeting, the city council’s leading figures, the president and vice president, highlighted the significance of the decision, stating, “Tonight’s passage of the budget is a clear demonstration of what can be accomplished when this body comes together to serve the best interests of the residents of Flint.”
This budget approval is crucial as it prevents the anticipated layoffs of hundreds of city employees, a situation that arose after the council missed a charter-mandated deadline the previous week. Notices of potential layoffs had been sent to approximately 500 city workers.
The chaotic events of the June 2 council meeting, where protesters clashed with law enforcement, resulted in no arrests. Yet, Police Chief Terence Green mentioned that video evidence is still being examined, with the possibility of misdemeanor or felony charges against identified individuals.
Despite the resolution, some concerns linger regarding the budget’s dependence on $4.2 million from city reserves to offset expected revenue shortfalls in the upcoming year. Nonetheless, city officials maintain a hopeful outlook, anticipating increased revenue beyond initial projections.
—
Read More Michigan News
