The FY21 budget reflects a 4.4% growth from last year, and of that growth, 7% will go to city services including the Police. The Law Department's budget will increase by 1.9%, reflecting a staffing increase for the Fire Legal Advisor unit and additional a...
The FY21 budget reflects a 4.4% growth from last year, and of that growth, 7% will go to city services including the Police. The Law Department’s budget will increase by 1.9%, reflecting a staffing increase for the Fire Legal Advisor unit and additional appointments to the Community Ombudsman Panel that reviews appeals made with the Boston Police over internal investigation cases. The Public Safety Cabinet, which includes the Police Department, is increasing by 0.5%. The budget also supports wage increases to the FY21 Police recruit classes and an investment in the Forensic Unit. The Police Department will increase the sworn police by 25 officers with the addition of a second recruit class in FY21. The Crime Lab will receive additional equipment, supplies, and staff. The Community Engagement Bureau will expand its efforts in coordination with HHS’s targeted violence prevention investment. The police department will also continue to reduce overtime hours. The budget also adds another police cadet class in Spring 2021, composed of 20 “diverse young people.”