Budget proposal maintains the current property tax rate, protects core services, invests in education and public safety priorities, and incorporates efficiencies in county operations.
Charles County Administrator Michael D. Mallinoff, Esq., ICMA-CM, on Tuesday presented the county’s proposed fiscal 2019 budget of $400,885,500 to the Board of Commissioners. The proposed budget represents an increase of 2.4 percent over last year. The budget proposal maintains the current property tax rate, protects core services, invests in education and public safety priorities, and incorporates efficiencies in county operations to achieve a balanced budget.
According to a Charles County press release:
“This proposed budget reflects our community’s values and priorities,” said Mallinoff. “We have invested taxpayers’ money in the services they value most, and the employees who deliver these services to the residents and businesses in Charles County.”
The County’s General Fund Operating Budget includes many efficiencies that will help fund the opening of a new Waldorf Senior and Recreational Facility, implement an upgrade to the county’s 9-1-1 system, and expand curbside recycling. The proposed budget also increases spending for schools and public safety, including new sworn officers, a public safety strategic plan, and additional funding for public schools. Employees may receive additional compensation through merit/step increases allocated for sworn officers, teachers, and county staff.
In his presentation, Mallinoff emphasized the importance of maintaining a transparent and accountable government. He highlighted investments in performance management software, a new website, the “County Administrator’s Monthly Report,” and other tools to improve technology and enhance access to government services. He also cited the county’s triple-A bond rating to demonstrate the value of making fiscally-responsible choices through the budget process.
Staff presented detailed information about additions to the general fund, operating budgets for enterprise funds, and proposed infrastructure investments in the capital improvement program. They also discussed new fees and charges that will be assessed to enhance revenues and support program offerings. Following the presentation, the County Commissioners held a public hearing on the proposed budget to receive public statements and comments. An additional public hearing on the constant yield tax rate is scheduled on Tuesday, May 1.
Additionally, Charles County Government will host two budget meetings to share information with the community and invite them to ask questions and share feedback. These meetings will be held on Thursday, April 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Waldorf West Library (10405 O’Donnell Place, Waldorf) and Wednesday, April 25, at 1:30 p.m. at the Richard R. Clark Senior Center (1210 Charles Street, La Plata). The same information will be presented at both meetings and the public is invited and encouraged to attend. More information is available at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov.
