Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman has proposed a fiscal 2026 budget focused on “Protecting Our People,” responding to growing uncertainty at the federal level while maintaining investments in core services.
The $2.4 billion plan maintains a progressive income tax structure and reduces the property tax rate, while directing new funding toward education, public safety, health and human services, and housing.
The proposed budget underscores the County’s intention to safeguard essential services from rising costs and potential federal and State cuts. It preserves an 8% rainy day fund and creates a $10 million reserve to cover potential reductions in federal aid.
Education and Public Safety Drive New Investments
The proposal includes a record $52 million increase for Anne Arundel County Public Schools, fully funding the superintendent’s request and boosting support for special education, bilingual services, community schools, and school-based mental health programs. It also supports new school construction, including $120 million toward the Old Mill Master Plan.
Public safety investments include new staff positions in police, fire, and the Sheriff’s Office, including personnel for a third shift at the Real-Time Information Center and the Fire Training Academy. The capital plan advances major projects like a new Northern District Police Station, a Joint 911 Center, and new fire stations in Jessup, Waugh Chapel, and Arundel.
Human Services, Housing, and Resilience
The budget expands funding for violence prevention, crisis response, re-entry services, legal aid, and programs that support vulnerable youth. It also includes resources for food assistance, health ambassadors, and staffing for the County’s new Nonprofit Center.
Housing and homelessness programs will continue receiving support through the Housing Trust Fund, including eviction prevention, shelter services, and new affordable housing initiatives.
The County Executive included targeted investments to bolster the Resilience Authority, stormwater infrastructure, and a revolving loan fund, all designed to position Anne Arundel to weather future funding challenges.
Tax Relief and Financial Stability
Under the proposal, the County would reduce its property tax rate for the second consecutive year, from 98.3 to 97.7 cents per $100 of assessed value, while maintaining the 2% Homestead Property Tax Credit and a progressive income tax structure.
What’s Next
The Anne Arundel County Council began reviewing the proposal this week. Residents are encouraged to attend public hearings scheduled for May 14 and May 21. The full fiscal 2026 proposed budget is available at aacounty.org/budget.
