Overview

• City Council unanimously approved the nearly $116 billion Fiscal Year 2026 budget on June 30, reversing two years of austerity measures.
• The plan directs almost $2 billion in new and expanded spending, including $112 million for universal pre-K and 3-K programs, $54 million for immigrant legal services and resources to restore the NYPD to 35,000 officers.
• Lawmakers framed the budget as a way to Trump-proof New York by strengthening key local services ahead of anticipated cuts under President Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill.’
• Fiscal watchdogs warn that spending growth outpaces revenue gains, leaving reserves below recommended levels and risking future budget gaps exceeding $9 billion.
• Parks advocates note the budget covers just one-quarter of nearly 800 previously cut department positions, leaving roughly 600 roles unfilled.