County Council reviews FY26 budget with $18M increase in property tax revenues

Worcester County's budget workshop on April 8, 2025, revealed a significant proposed increase in the fiscal year 2026 budget, with a total revenue increase of $18.1 million primarily driven by rising property taxes. The county's financial strategy includes a robust real estate market that has led to a $1.25 million boost in recordation and transfer taxes, reflecting a high volume of deed activity.

During the meeting, officials detailed how property tax revenues are calculated based on assessments from the previous year, resulting in an overall increase of $18 million. This growth is slightly tempered by an increase in homestead credits, but the overall outlook remains positive. The budget also includes a modest increase of $3,181 for debt service, with no new general fund debt anticipated for the upcoming fiscal year.

The library department presented a budget request reflecting a 12% increase, driven by anticipated revenue growth from library use charges and state aid. Notable requests included funding for a marketing coordinator to enhance community outreach and a $32,000 allocation for replacing outdated digital signage at the Ocean City branch.

The Department of Recreation and Parks also outlined its budget, highlighting a $27,000 increase in occupational licenses due to upcoming registrations. However, the department noted a decrease in rental license fees, adjusting projections based on current trends.

Overall, the discussions underscored Worcester County's commitment to enhancing services and infrastructure while navigating the complexities of revenue generation and expenditure management. The proposed budget reflects a proactive approach to fiscal planning, aiming to support community needs and growth in the coming year.