Boston Arts Advocates Pack City Hall to Oppose 27 Percent Budget Cut

BOSTON — April 30, 2026 — Boston Ways and Means Committee hearing draws more than 150 arts advocates against proposed 27 percent arts budget cut. Chair Ben Weber convened the April 30 FY27 budget hearing covering the Office of Arts and Culture, the Office of Tourism, Sports and Entertainment, and the Mayor's Office of Consumer Affairs and Licensing; no votes were taken. Chief of Arts and Culture Joseph Henry confirmed the proposed $1 million reduction eliminates the legacy business awards program, small business activation grants, and a storefront revitalization fund, while restructuring two staff positions. Testifier Kim Dawson Ohio, executive director of GrubStreet, told the committee that "a one million dollar cut isn't a one million dollar savings — it's a three to ten million dollar loss for our local economy." On tourism, Director of Special Events Amy Yandel said Sail Boston 2026, scheduled July 11-16, is projected to attract millions of visitors with 28 Class A vessels from 29 nations — comparable to Sail Boston 2000 — while the Open Streets program drops from five events to four due to a $150,000 budget reduction. Executive Director of Consumer Affairs and Licensing Kathleen Joyce reported 75 new alcohol licenses granted under 2024 state legislation and seven cannabis licenses issued in FY26, four to equity applicants.