Quincy’s Money Mess: Who’s Right About the Budget?

The city council and Mayor Tom Koch disagree about how Quincy is handling its money. Council members point to a $1. 6 billion debt, a credit downgrade and shrinking savings as red flags. The mayor says the city is still investing in downtown, schools and roads without cutting services or raising taxes. A new rule from Council President Anne Mahoney tries to fix the problem. It would keep at least 10 % of recurring income in a reserve fund unless the mayor declares an emergency. It also limits how one‑time money—like sale proceeds or grant cash—can be used for big projects. Any bond request must include details on costs, repayment and the impact on future taxes. Quincy’s reserves are only about 2. 6 % of revenue, far below the 10 % target. The city has $9. 8 million in reserves and roughly $374 million in non‑recurring cash, but the debt is high.The mayor’s office argues that the council already has power to approve or reject such transfers. Councilor Ziqiang Susan Yuan asked if the administration plans to change its spending habits. The mayor’s chief of staff said the council can vote on transfers but that new rules are beyond its reach. Some councilors say this would hurt the city’s credit rating, while others worry it will force tax hikes. Ward 5 Councilor Maggie McKee highlighted that Quincy has the lowest free cash among large Massachusetts cities. At the same time, Councilor Noel DiBona warned that cutting services could hurt residents more than the budget. Ward 1 Councilor David Jacobs said city spending does not match the everyday reality of most Quincyites. The debate shows a split between wanting to keep taxes low and the need for fiscal safety. It remains unclear whether new safeguards will change Quincy’s financial future.