Mayor Eric Adams defended his administration’s handling of migrant crisis spending after a report from the Independent Budget Office revealed a $1 billion overestimation in 2024 costs. Despite a sharp decline in the migrant population, projections for 2025 spending have risen to over $4 billion, prompting criticism.
Adams highlighted the city’s efforts to reduce shelter dependency, with plans to close 46 emergency sites by June. Over 220,000 migrants have arrived since 2022, but fewer remain in city care. The mayor expects continued reductions under the incoming Trump administration’s focus on border security.
The mayor’s upcoming preliminary budget will clarify spending adjustments. Meanwhile, Adams is engaging with federal officials on priorities and may attend Trump’s inauguration next week.
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