Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.

New York City Council

Committee on Finance

May 22, 2025

·

10:00 AM

2 hr 53 min

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Summary

A hearing on the Health + Hospitals (H+H) executive budget for FY 2026.

Discussions focused on potential impacts of proposed federal Medicaid cuts, current financial outlook, capital projects for flood mitigation, and various healthcare initiatives.

Features testimony from Health + Hospitals officials, including President and CEO Dr. Mitchell Katz, and the public.

Meeting chapters

Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.

REMARKS

Council Member Brannan's opening remarks on Health and Hospitals Corporation budget hearing

Council Member Justin Brannan opens the executive budget hearing for FY 2026, focusing on the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation. He outlines the proposed budget, key issues, and …

0:00:21

145 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Mercedes Narcisse opens joint hearing on NYC Health + Hospitals budget

Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, chair of the committee on hospitals, opens a joint hearing on the fiscal 2026 executive budget for NYC Health + Hospitals (H+H). She outlines key points …

0:02:47

3 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and opening remarks by Dr. Mitchell Katz

Dr. Mitchell Katz, President and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals, introduces himself and his colleagues to the City Council committee on finance and health. He expresses pride in his …

0:06:53

23 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Potential impact of federal Medicaid cuts on NYC Health + Hospitals

Dr. Katz discusses the severe potential impacts of a bill passed by the U.S. House that could lead to hundreds of millions in cuts to H+H. He outlines various provisions …

0:07:17

3 min

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Current financial status of NYC Health + Hospitals

Dr. Katz presents a positive financial outlook for H+H based on current projections, highlighting increased revenue and a substantial cash balance. However, he notes that this outlook is based on …

0:11:06

82 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

New funding for mental health programs

Dr. Katz briefly mentions new funding received for mental health programs at H+H. - $3.6 million in new funding allocated for the mental health continuum

0:12:29

6 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Potential impact on the Essential Health Plan

Dr. Katz highlights the importance of the Essential Health Plan for undocumented individuals and expresses concern about its future. - Essential Health Plan allows undocumented individuals to purchase insurance - …

0:12:39

19 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Conclusion and future outlook for NYC Health + Hospitals

Dr. Katz concludes his testimony by acknowledging the uncertain future for H+H due to potential federal changes. He expresses hope for positive outcomes but warns of difficult times ahead if …

0:12:59

53 sec

REMARKS

Council member appreciates candid assessment of federal funding uncertainties

Council Member Justin Brannan expresses appreciation for Dr. Katz's honest assessment of the potential impacts of federal funding uncertainties. He notes that this candor is refreshing and necessary for preparing …

0:13:53

51 sec

Q&A

Discussion on FEMA COVID funding reimbursements and claims

Council Member Brannan inquires about the status of FEMA COVID funding reimbursements, and John Ulberg provides details on the amounts claimed and remaining to be processed. - H+H has claimed …

0:14:44

136 sec

Q&A

Handling the expiration of COVID dollars and continuation of programs

Council Member Brannan inquires about challenges in continuing programs initially funded by temporary COVID dollars. H+H officials explain their successful transition from temporary measures to permanent solutions. - H+H has …

0:17:00

94 sec

Q&A

Update on Baby Box Pilot Program implementation and funding

Council Member Brannan inquires about the status of the Baby Box Pilot Program, its implementation, and potential expansion. H+H officials provide updates on the program's progress. - The pilot program …

0:18:34

69 sec

Q&A

Status update on state's Directed Payment Template (DPT) request for Medicaid funding

Council Member Brannan inquires about the status of New York State's Directed Payment Template (DPT) request for Medicaid funding. Dr. Mitchell Katz provides an update on the approval process. - …

0:19:46

63 sec

Q&A

Explanation of $614.3 million Medicaid initiative adjustment in FY 2025 budget

Council Member Brannan asks about the $614.3 million allocation for the Medicaid initiative adjustment in FY 2025. John Ulberg explains the nature and purpose of this allocation. - The $614.3 …

0:20:51

68 sec

Q&A

Contingency planning for potential federal Medicaid cuts

Council Member Brannan inquires about contingency plans in the event of significant federal Medicaid cuts. John Ulberg discusses the current approach to assessing potential impacts. - H+H is working to …

0:22:00

54 sec

Q&A

Support from City Hall and OMB in addressing potential Medicaid cuts

Council Member Brannan inquires about the level of support and engagement from City Hall and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) regarding potential Medicaid cuts. - John Ulberg confirms …

0:22:53

8 sec

REMARKS

Advocacy efforts and potential service adjustments in response to Medicaid cuts

Dr. Mitchell Katz outlines H+H's approach to addressing potential federal Medicaid cuts, focusing on advocacy efforts and preliminary planning for service adjustments. - H+H is prioritizing advocacy, working with Congress …

0:23:02

176 sec

Q&A

Concerns about potential federal Medicaid cuts and impact on H+H finances

Council Member Narcisse expresses deep concern about potential federal Medicaid cuts and their impact on H+H finances and healthcare access in New York City. Dr. Katz acknowledges the severity of …

0:26:00

65 sec

Q&A

Capital funding request for Metropolitan Hospital emergency room expansion

Council Member Narcisse inquires about the status of a $65 million capital funding request for expanding the emergency room at Metropolitan Hospital. Dr. Katz explains the ongoing discussions with OMB …

0:27:05

97 sec

Q&A

New capital projects submitted to OMB for fiscal 2026 funding

Council Member Narcisse inquires about new capital projects submitted to OMB for fiscal 2026 funding. John Ulberg explains H+H's focus on infrastructure needs and the acceleration of some funding from …

0:28:43

67 sec

Q&A

Issues with Elmhurst Hospital emergency room and potential expansion

Council Member Narcisse raises concerns about long wait times and capacity issues at Elmhurst Hospital's emergency room. Dr. Katz acknowledges the problems and discusses the challenges of expanding the facility. …

0:29:50

5 min

Q&A

Funding requests for residential treatment beds and medical equipment

Council Member Narcisse inquires about funding requests for residential treatment beds for Rikers inmates and medical equipment for Bellevue Hospital. Dr. Katz provides updates on ongoing negotiations with OMB. - …

0:35:32

92 sec

Q&A

Proposals for maternal health psychologists and women's concussion clinic

Council Member Narcisse inquires about proposals to hire maternal health-focused psychologists and create a pilot women's concussion clinic for domestic violence survivors. Dr. Katz discusses the potential implementation and benefits …

0:37:05

174 sec

Q&A

Proposal for new outpatient building at Lincoln Hospital

Council Member Narcisse inquires about the proposal to create a new outpatient building at Lincoln Hospital. Dr. Katz provides information on the project's status and funding challenges. - The proposed …

0:40:00

51 sec

Q&A

H+H staffing changes and efforts to retain physicians

Council Member Narcisse inquires about H+H staffing changes, particularly the increase in registered nurses and decrease in physician positions. Dr. Katz discusses efforts to retain physicians and address working conditions. …

0:40:57

7 min

Q&A

Cancer screening and support services in the H+H system

Council Member Narcisse inquires about cancer screening and support services in the H+H system. Dr. Katz discusses available services, challenges in patient navigation, and the most common types of cancer …

0:48:21

6 min

Q&A

Construction process and timelines for Woodhull and North Central Bronx Outpost Units

Council Member Narcisse inquires about the construction processes and timelines for the Woodhull and North Central Bronx Outpost Units. Dr. Yang provides updates on funding allocations and projected completion dates. …

0:55:26

157 sec

Q&A

Council Member Brooks-Powers inquires about Far Rockaway healthcare projects

Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers engages in a Q&A session with Dr. Mitchell Katz about healthcare initiatives in Far Rockaway. They discuss the progress on the Far Rockaway Trauma Center …

0:58:15

4 min

REMARKS

Council Member Louis inquires about staffing, financial impact, and doula initiative

Council Member Farah Louis poses a series of questions to Dr. Mitchell Katz regarding Health + Hospitals operations and initiatives. Her inquiries focus on four main areas: - Staffing levels …

1:02:40

118 sec

REMARKS

Dr. Katz explains H+H's approach to staffing and census management

Dr. Mitchell Katz elaborates on Health + Hospitals' current approach to staffing and census management. Key points include: - H+H now staffs according to patient census, a change from practices …

1:04:39

58 sec

REMARKS

Dr. Katz addresses absorption of SUNY Downstate patients and potential financial impacts

Dr. Mitchell Katz discusses the current and potential future impacts of SUNY Downstate's service reductions on Health + Hospitals, particularly Kings County Hospital. He also touches on the financial implications …

1:05:37

59 sec

REMARKS

Dr. Katz discusses implementation and support for doulas in H+H facilities

Dr. Mitchell Katz addresses the implementation of the doula initiative in Health + Hospitals facilities. He expresses support for the program and outlines how H+H is managing associated costs and …

1:06:37

29 sec

REMARKS

Dr. Katz outlines renovations for birthing centers at H+H facilities

Dr. Mitchell Katz describes ongoing and planned renovations to create more welcoming birthing centers in Health + Hospitals facilities. He highlights the support received from the Brooklyn Borough President and …

1:07:07

32 sec

Q&A

Council Member Yusef Salaam questions H+H leadership about Harlem Hospital budget and infrastructure

Council Member Yusef Salaam inquires about budget cuts, staffing, and capital projects at Harlem Hospital. Dr. Mitchell Katz and John Ulberg from NYC Health + Hospitals respond, addressing concerns about …

1:07:54

5 min

Q&A

Impact of potential federal Medicaid cuts on Health + Hospitals and New York State

Council Member Lincoln Restler inquires about the potential impact of a bill passed by the House of Representatives that could lead to significant Medicaid funding cuts. Dr. Mitchell Katz and …

1:14:09

110 sec

Q&A

Contingency planning for potential Medicaid cuts and their impact on H+H facilities

Council Member Restler presses Dr. Katz on contingency planning for potential Medicaid cuts and their specific impacts on Health + Hospitals facilities. Dr. Katz explains the challenges in detailed planning …

1:16:00

156 sec

REMARKS

Current financial status of Health + Hospitals compared to previous years

Dr. Mitchell Katz discusses the current financial status of Health + Hospitals, highlighting the improvements made since he joined the organization. He emphasizes that H+H is no longer perceived as …

1:18:36

116 sec

Q&A

Council Member Restler questions Dr. Katz on potential Medicaid cuts and impact on NYC Health + Hospitals

Council Member Lincoln Restler engages in a discussion with Dr. Mitchell Katz about the potential impacts of federal Medicaid cuts on NYC Health + Hospitals (H+H). They explore the possible …

1:20:33

6 min

Q&A

Discussion on expired contracts for midwives at NYC Health + Hospitals facilities

Councilmember Sanchez raises concerns about midwives at North Central Bronx and Jacobi hospitals working under expired contracts for nearly two years, with a potential strike looming. Dr. Mitchell Katz, CEO …

1:26:48

178 sec

Q&A

Q&A on specific flood mitigation projects at H+H facilities

Councilmember Narcisse inquires about various flood mitigation projects at H+H facilities, including their funding, timelines, and specific details. John Ulberg, CFO of NYC Health and Hospitals, provides information on projects …

1:29:53

3 min

Q&A

Discussion on additional planned flood mitigation projects at H+H facilities

Councilmember Narcisse inquires about additional flood mitigation projects planned by H+H. John Ulberg and Dr. Mitchell Katz provide information on ongoing and future projects. - Projects are underway at Woodhull …

1:32:53

35 sec

Q&A

Discussion on mental health continuum program in public schools

Councilmember Narcisse inquires about the mental health continuum program, a collaboration between H+H, DOHMH, and DOE to provide mental health services in public schools. Dr. Mitchell Katz explains the program's …

1:33:31

164 sec

REMARKS

Follow-up request for response to Councilmember Sanchez's letter about nurses

Chair Brannan makes a brief request to H+H regarding a previous inquiry from Councilmember Sanchez. - Councilmember Sanchez sent a letter to H+H in December about nurses - Chair Brannan …

1:36:15

21 sec

REMARKS

Collaboration between H+H and Judge Wang's program

Council Member Gale A. Brewer commends the collaboration between NYC Health + Hospitals and Judge Wang's program. Dr. Mitchell Katz confirms that H+H is sending a show van on the …

1:36:35

33 sec

Q&A

Asylum seeker services funding and HERC closures

Council Member Gale A. Brewer inquires about funding for asylum seeker services and the closure of emergency shelter sites (HERCs). Dr. Mitchell Katz and John Ulberg explain the current situation …

1:37:09

94 sec

Q&A

Medical care access for asylum seekers

Dr. Mitchell Katz explains how asylum seekers access medical care through the NYC Care program and H+H facilities. Council Member Gale A. Brewer inquires about the process and Medicaid eligibility. …

1:38:44

59 sec

Q&A

Funding for asylum seeker services: FEMA, state, and city contributions

Council Member Gale A. Brewer inquires about various funding sources for asylum seeker services, including FEMA, state, and city contributions. John Ulberg provides information on funding reductions and budget changes. …

1:39:43

78 sec

Q&A

New York City Care program and its applicability for asylum seekers

Council Member Gale A. Brewer seeks clarification on how the New York City Care program works for asylum seekers and its applicability to different healthcare providers. Dr. Mitchell Katz explains …

1:41:01

55 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by David Alexis, Advocate from Commission on the Public Health System

David Alexis, representing the Commission on the Public Health System, addresses the potential impact of federal Medicaid cuts on New York City's healthcare system, particularly on Health + Hospitals. He …

2:02:28

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Judy Wessler, Healthcare Advocate from Commission on the Public Health System

Judy Wessler, a healthcare advocate, commends the council members and Dr. Katz for their work while expressing concerns about potential disastrous changes in healthcare funding. She proposes reviewing affiliation contracts …

2:06:19

4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Mateo Guerrero, Trans Justice Leadership Program Manager at Make The Road New York, on Trans Equity and Healthcare Funding

Mateo Guerrero from Make The Road New York testified about the urgent need for increased funding and support for transgender and gender-expansive communities in New York City. He highlighted the …

2:10:37

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Carmen de Leon, President of Local 768, on NYC Health + Hospitals Infrastructure and Medicaid Cuts

Carmen de Leon, President of Local 768 representing NYC Healthcare employees, testified on the importance of infrastructure funding for NYC Health + Hospitals and the potential impact of Medicaid cuts. …

2:14:32

6 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Kayt Tiskus, Principal at Collective Public Affairs

Kayt Tiskus from Collective Public Affairs testified in support of funding for transgender healthcare, homeless LGBTQ+ youth, and sexual assault survivors. She emphasized the importance of the City Council's efforts …

2:21:34

136 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Dr. Anabel Ruggiero, Advocate from Transsexual Menace New York City

Dr. Anabel Ruggiero, representing Transsexual Menace New York City, advocates for increased funding for transgender healthcare and support in New York City. She draws parallels between historical persecution of transgender …

2:23:56

163 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Alexander Harris, Interim Manager of Public Policy and Advocacy at Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, on Gender-Affirming Care and LGBTQ+ Health Services

Alexander Harris from Callen-Lorde Community Health Center testifies on the critical importance of gender-affirming care and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ health services due to federal policy changes and potential …

2:26:46

6 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Kelvin Diamond on Healthcare Access and Quality

Kelvin Diamond testifies about the dire state of the American healthcare industry, sharing personal experiences of being denied emergency room treatment and highlighting concerns about healthcare access for vulnerable populations. …

2:33:11

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Bennett Mosse and Kelvin Diamond, Delegates from the Organization of Staff Analyst Union

Bennett Mosse and Kelvin Diamond, delegates of the Organization of Staff Analyst Union and employees of NYC Health and Hospitals, thanked the City Council for their commitment to Health and …

2:37:12

29 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Whitney Walton, Behavioral Health Social Worker at Jacobi Medical Center

Whitney Walton, a behavioral health social worker at Jacobi Medical Center and member of DC37, advocated for better compensation for Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) in the NYC Health + …

2:38:04

121 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Avi Severino, Trans Individual from The Bronx, on Gender-Affirming Care Funding

Avi Severino, a trans individual from The Bronx, testified in support of maintaining and expanding the $15 million investment in gender-affirming care across New York City. Severino shared a personal …

2:40:18

94 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Simone Sun, Member of the Public, on Gender-Affirming Care Funding

Simone Sun testified about the importance of maintaining and expanding funding for gender-affirming care in New York City, emphasizing the urgent need in light of federal attacks on transgender healthcare. …

2:42:03

113 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Martha Larson, Primary Care Social Worker at NYC Health and Hospitals

Martha Larson, a primary care social worker at NYC Health and Hospitals, testified about the needs of social workers in the city hospital system and their union's contract demands. She …

2:44:07

97 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Carrie Hawkes, Trans New Yorker, on Gender-Affirming Care Funding

Carrie Hawkes, a trans New Yorker, testified about the importance of gender-affirming care and requested increased funding for trans equity initiatives in the NYC budget. She emphasized the life-saving nature …

2:45:55

116 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson, Member of the Public

Christopher Leon Johnson advocates for the inclusion of the Worker Justice Project and Street Vendor Project in the Crisis Management System program to address issues faced by street vendors and …

2:48:02

130 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Nathan Franco, Social Worker at NYC Health and Hospitals (Harlem Hospital)

Nathan Franco, a social worker at Harlem Hospital, testified about the essential role of social workers in healthcare and the challenges they face with high caseloads. He presented survey results …

2:50:18

127 sec

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