Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has vetoed a city council proposal that would have significantly reduced funding for the police department and veteran services. Wu expressed concerns about the proposal's impact on public safety and the city's ability to meet its obligations.

The council's $4.2 billion operating budget included a $31 million cut to the police department and a $900,000 reduction for veteran services. These cuts were proposed alongside an $8 million increase for participatory budgeting, a process allowing residents more input on city spending. Mayor Wu's initial budget had only allocated $2 million for this initiative.

In a letter to the council, Mayor Wu argued that the proposed police cuts were "illusory" because the city is legally obligated to cover salary and overtime costs. The veto returns the budget to the council, requiring a two-thirds majority to override. Seven of the twelve council members initially voted for the proposal.

Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson, chair of the Ways and Means Committee, defended the cuts, claiming they would not result in job losses and that the police department had access to surplus funds. Anderson also criticized the Wu administration's lack of transparency and cooperation with the council. However, she expressed regret over the proposed cuts to veteran services, explaining they targeted a line item eligible for state reimbursement.

The Better Budget Alliance, a proponent of increased participatory budgeting, criticized Wu's veto, accusing her of prioritizing police funding over community investments. Conversely, Larry Calderone, president of the Boston Police Patrolmen's Association, praised the mayor's decision, expressing gratitude for her recognition of the importance of police funding for public safety.