The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County have proposed a fiscal 2027 budget that increases funding for public safety, schools, employee compensation, and capital projects while keeping both property and income tax rates unchanged.
The recommended General Fund budget totals roughly $377 million, an increase of about $28.4 million, or 8.2%, over the fiscal 2026 approved budget. The County’s total operating budget across all funds reaches roughly $682.8 million, alongside a $76.5 million Capital Improvement Program.
The proposed property tax rate would remain at $0.8478 per $100 of assessed value, while the local income tax rate would stay at 3.2% of net taxable income.
Despite holding rates flat, revenues continue to rise, largely due to higher assessments and income tax growth. Property tax revenues increase by roughly $8.3 million, while income tax revenues rise by nearly $13.8 million.
Public safety remains a significant focus in the proposed budget.
The proposal funds additional compensation increases for Sheriff’s Office sworn law enforcement and corrections personnel, including rank adjustments, step increases, and a 2% COLA. The Sheriff’s Office would also replace 25 vehicles at a cost of roughly $2.7 million.
Emergency services funding also continues to expand. The budget adds eight paramedic and EMT positions within the Emergency Medical Billing Fund and includes funding for emergency equipment replacement.
Education funding also increases under the proposal.
The budget fully funds the Board of Education’s request, roughly $8.4 million above the prior-year level. The Capital Improvement Program also continues funding for public school projects alongside roadway improvements, park projects, public facilities, and land conservation efforts.
County employees on the merit scale would receive the third and final year of a three-year market adjustment phase-in, along with a 2% COLA and one merit step increase.
The budget also includes several reserve allocations tied to fiscal uncertainty, including:
- $650,000 reserved for unfunded State mandates
- $500,000 reserved for emergency appropriations and severe weather events
- $78,145 reserved for post-public hearing adjustments
At the same time, the proposal relies on roughly $12.3 million in fund balance for non-recurring costs while maintaining the County’s reserve policy target of 15%.
Under St. Mary’s County Code, the Commissioners must adopt the fiscal 2027 budget by June 1.
