Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
New York City Council
Committee on Finance
May 22, 2025
·
10:00 AM
2 hr 53 min
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.
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
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145 sec
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
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3 min
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
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23 sec
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
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3 min
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
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82 sec
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
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6 sec
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
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19 sec
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
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53 sec
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
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51 sec
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
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136 sec
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
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94 sec
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
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69 sec
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
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63 sec
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
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68 sec
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
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54 sec
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
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8 sec
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
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176 sec
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
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65 sec
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
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97 sec
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
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67 sec
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
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5 min
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
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92 sec
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
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174 sec
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
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51 sec
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
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7 min
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
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6 min
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
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157 sec
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
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4 min
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
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118 sec
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
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58 sec
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
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59 sec
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
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29 sec
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
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32 sec
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
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5 min
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
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110 sec
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
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156 sec
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
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116 sec
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
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6 min
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
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178 sec
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
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3 min
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
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35 sec
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
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164 sec
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
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21 sec
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
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33 sec
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
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94 sec
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
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59 sec
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
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78 sec
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
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55 sec
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
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3 min
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
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4 min
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
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3 min
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
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6 min
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
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136 sec
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
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163 sec
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
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6 min
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
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3 min
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
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29 sec
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
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121 sec
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
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94 sec
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
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113 sec
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
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97 sec
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
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116 sec
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
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130 sec
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
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127 sec