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Bel Air budget includes $55,584 for fire hydrant rentals after Maryland American surcharge
Summary
Staff reported that Bel Air pays Maryland American Water for rental of about 304 hydrants, at $164.75 each plus a property‑tax surcharge, and placed $55,584 in the FY26 budget for hydrant rentals.
Town staff told commissioners on May 7 that the FY26 budget includes $55,584 for annual fire‑hydrant rentals paid to Maryland American Water.
Public Works staff said the town maintains 304 hydrants that Maryland American invoices at a rental of $164.75 each. In addition, staff described a property‑tax surcharge introduced by Maryland American that increased the total bill by about $5,500 this cycle. “When we first saw this on our bills, we were getting calls from residents even though they’re not our bills, they’re Maryland American bills,” staff said, describing initial community confusion about the surcharge.
How it matters: hydrant rental is a predictable annual expense but the property‑tax surcharge and annual recalculation has notable budget impact. Staff said they monitor hydrant maintenance and report that Maryland American has improved responsiveness and hydrant upkeep in recent years.
Supporting details: staff noted 304 hydrants at the $164.75 rental rate yields the $55,584 budget allocation and that the company conducts an annual analysis that can tweak the surcharge. Commissioners asked for better communication from Maryland American about larger increases; staff agreed they will request earlier notice for significant hikes.
Ending: The commissioners did not take a separate vote; staff will continue to monitor the hydrant billing and follow up with Maryland American about notice and maintenance timing.
