In 2022, Bostonâs free-admissions program for museums allowed six participants to skip contributions to the city's Payment in Lieu of Tax (PILOT) program. The decision has drawn scrutiny from City Council members who question the transparency of Mayor Michelle Wu's administration. Initially establishing the program for Boston Public Schools students, Wu later expanded it to include other local youth. Though the city heavily relies on property taxes, many local institutions are tax-exempt, leading to minimal contributions, which raise concerns regarding funding fairness and urban equity dynamics.
The issue of transparency regarding PILOT program contributions from cultural institutions has sparked concern among Boston City Council members following museums' exemption from payments last year.
City Council members are questioning the Wu administration on the decision to exempt six museums from PILOT contributions, citing a lack of clarity and potential conflicts of interest.
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