Allegany County’s proposed fiscal 2027 budget keeps local tax rates unchanged while addressing continued flood recovery costs, rising employee expenses, and growing public safety demands.
The proposed General Fund budget totals roughly $118.6 million, an increase of about 1.9% over fiscal 2026. There are several drivers behind the increase, including expanded EMS operations in Georges Creek, higher health insurance costs, union agreements, and continued recovery work tied to the May 2025 flooding event.
The preliminary budget also reflects stronger local revenues. Property tax collections would increase by roughly $3.1 million, largely due to higher assessments, while income tax revenues would rise by about $1.9 million.
At the same time, the County continues to absorb additional State-related costs, including higher mandated pension and assessment costs.
Education and public safety continue to account for the largest share of County spending. Education represents about 37% of general fund expenditures, followed by public safety at 29%.
The proposed budget includes more than $35 million for the Board of Education, roughly $11.5 million for the detention center, about $7.6 million for ambulance services, and more than $3.7 million for 9-1-1 operations.
Emergency management and ambulance service spending would increase by roughly $900,000 under the proposal, as the County continues to build out EMS coverage in Georges Creek. Employee-related costs overall would rise by approximately $2.7 million, driven by salary agreements, staffing additions, pension changes, and a projected 24% increase in health insurance costs.
The County’s proposed income tax rate would remain at 3.2%, while the real property tax rate would stay at $0.975 per $100 of assessed value.
Budget hearings and work sessions will continue through May ahead of final adoption on Thursday, June 4, 2026.
