New Britain Racial Justice Coalition Condemns Mayor Stewart’s Veto of Education, Housing and Public Service

By the New Britain Racial Justice Coalition,

The New Britain Racial Justice Coalition (NBRJC) strongly condemns Mayor Erin Stewart’s June 7 veto of the City Council’s amended FY 2025 budget, which prioritized long-overdue investments in education, housing, and public services.

The veto reverses a budget that was shaped by extensive community input and advocacy. Over the past few months, NBRJC staff & volunteers canvassed across New Britain, knocking on doors and speaking directly with residents. As a result, nearly 200 signatures were collected in support of increased investment in public schools, affordable housing, and community services. These signatures represent just a portion of the widespread public demand for a budget that truly meets the needs of working families.

The City Council responded to that demand, passing a budget that included:

• A significant increase to the school operating budget
• A near doubling of funding for the public library
• Funding for a new building inspector to improve housing code enforcement
• Preservation of the existing tax cut for residents

“The Council passed a budget that reflected the values and priorities of the people,” said Alicia Strong, Co-Executive Director of NBRJC. “The Mayor’s veto ignores the will of the community and sends a clear message that public input will be disregarded in favor of political control.”

According to NBRJC, 100% of public speakers during the May 28th council hearing supported increased funding for education, housing, and essential services. Most speakers at the previous public hearing on April 29th also supported these measures. The amendments that the Mayor has labeled as “political” were in fact the product of sustained civic engagement, and a response to pressing needs voiced by parents, students, educators, renters, and community leaders across the city.

“This was a people-powered budget. Our communities are struggling—our schools are underfunded, housing insecurity is growing, and families are demanding more from local government,” said Ariana Molokwu, Co-Executive Director of NBRJC. “Instead of acting on those demands, the Mayor has chosen to uphold the status quo.”

NBRJC calls on the City Council to override the veto and deliver on its promise to prioritize the well-being of all New Britain residents.

“We need bold action, not political maneuvering,” Strong said. “Our city deserves a budget that puts people first.”

About NBRJC

The New Britain Racial Justice Coalition is a 501c4 grassroots organization committed to building racial and economic justice through community organizing and civic education. We envision a New Britain where every resident has access to quality housing, education, healthcare, and safety.

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