New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
New Bedford City Councilors Debora Coelho and Hugh Dunn have now missed all six New Bedford 2021 budget meetings.
Here are the final attendance records for the final two meetings:
Monday, August 10th
Present:
Abreu
Baptiste
Carney
Giesta
Gomes
Lima
Lopes
Markey
Wednesday, August 12th
Present:
Abreu
Baptiste
Carney
Giesta
Gomes
Lopes
Markey
Morad
The attendance logs for the first four meetings can be found here.
The final budget meeting and vote is on Aug 24.
Due to COVID-19, New Bedford City Council meetings are held on Zoom which makes attendance very easy. Councilor Dunn has stated, “My absence has no impact on my ability to effectively represent my constituents as we navigate the budget process.” Councilor Coelho hasn’t responded to an email request but announced her retirement shortly after getting elected.
The FY2021 budget review comes during a COVID-19 pandemic, shrinking revenues, and mayor requested cuts to the police and fire departments. The budget will determine the need for future property tax increases and fees, so the City Council’s role in the budget process is considered the single most important job city councilors have.
