Baltimore County Council Approves $4.78B Budget Without Tax Increase

Baltimore County has approved a $4.78 billion budget for fiscal year 2026 that maintains current services without raising taxes, despite significant economic uncertainties including a $3 billion state deficit and unpredictable federal funding. The budget, championed by County Executive Kathy Klausmeier, includes funding for school improvements, county buildings, salary increases for county staff, $60 million for new senior centers, and $38 million for roads and sidewalks, while also preserving a $500 million rainy day fund to guard against future financial challenges. The only change to the budget was a unanimous $6.6 million cut from the planned renovation of the Rocky Point Golf Course clubhouse, with the County Council asserting the Revenue Authority should oversee such projects. Despite the budget's limitations, the council expressed frustration at being unable to fully fund Baltimore County Public Schools’ requested pay raises, which contributed to layoffs and a hiring freeze within the school system. Klausmeier emphasized the difficulty of crafting a no-tax-increase budget amid rising state taxes, inflation, and rising insurance and utility costs, aiming to protect residents from additional financial burdens. Overall, the budget reflects a cautious and collaborative approach focused on fiscal responsibility and steady progress for Baltimore County residents.