New York City Councilwoman Althea Stevens cast the lone Democratic vote against the city's approximately $126 billion budget for the 2027 fiscal year, citing a lack of "equity" in the allocation of funds. Stevens, representing District 16 in the South Bronx, asserted that her constituents, facing high poverty and gun violence rates, were overlooked while more affluent areas received greater investment.

"Equity cannot simply be a word we use in speeches or campaign slogans," Stevens stated. "Equity means directing resources where the needs are greatest."

The record-breaking budget, which began July 1, was approved by a 45-6 vote. Stevens joined five Republican members in opposing the measure. Despite voting in favor of the budget, some progressive Council members, including Shahana Hanif and Sandy Nurse, publicly supported Stevens' position. Hanif expressed her solidarity on X, stating, "Truly, a shameful outcome this year. Standing with @althea4theBX!"

Stevens' district received about $11.1 million in capital and expense funding. A spokesperson for Council Speaker Julie Menin's office defended the budget, noting its overwhelming support from Democratic Council Members.

Separately, Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers, who voted in favor of the budget, criticized Mayor Zohran Mamdani for omitting funding for a trauma center in her Queens district. Brooks-Powers argued that such a facility in Far Rockaway could have saved the life of NYPD Detective Jonathan Diller, who was fatally shot in March 2024.

"The @NYCMayor has repeatedly said ‘healthcare is a human right.’ But those words ring hollow when his budget includes no capital funding for Far Rockaway’s Healthcare Trauma Access Center," Brooks-Powers posted on X.

Community advocates have long advocated for a Level 1 or Level 2 trauma center in Far Rockaway, which has relied on Jamaica Hospital since the closure of Peninsula Hospital in 2012. While the area may not meet the case volume for higher-level trauma centers, officials have explored options for a Level 3 center or expanding trauma care access through existing facilities.

The Mayor's office stated it is committed to working with Brooks-Powers and other local officials to find solutions, including exploring alternative options for trauma care access and patient transport. A Council source, however, claimed Stevens was the only member who did not meet with the speaker to discuss budget priorities during negotiations.