Boston Budget Hearing Flags Licensing Strain, Tourism Threat From Federal Policies

BOSTON — April 29, 2025 — Boston officials warn federal trade policy is eroding the city's tourism rebound ahead of a landmark 2026 event slate. At an April 29 Ways and Means budget hearing chaired by Councilor Brian Worrell, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion Shigun Itewu presented Meet Boston data showing a "precipitous decline" in Canadian air and land travel following federal tariff and diplomatic actions, even as Boston prepares to co-host FIFA World Cup matches and Tall Ships — 29 ships from 22 countries — alongside the American 250th anniversary in July 2026. Executive Director of Consumer Affairs and Licensing Kathleen Joyce told the panel her staff is "at our limit," processing a state-authorized tranche of 225 new liquor licenses, with 37 approved in round one and 21 applications already submitted ahead of the May 23 second-round deadline; the Consumer Affairs Division recovered $325,000 for Boston residents in 2024 on a three-person team backed by a $94,000 Attorney General's Office grant. Councilor Edward M. Flynn called for a formal city drone policy after at least one person was injured during a drone demonstration at a City Hall Plaza NBA fan event.