METCOM outlines FY26 capital improvement program, flags $2.4 million sewer increase after expected grant fell short

METCOM Executive Director (name given in presentation as Mr. Erickson) and Chief Financial Officer Patty Stigman presented the Metropolitan Commission's recommended fiscal year 2026 capital improvement budget and a six‑year plan to the Commissioners of St. Mary's County on April 22, 2025. The package divides projects into water and sewer categories and includes project detail sheets, anticipated funding sources, and a schedule that the commission said will proceed to a joint meeting with the county on May 20, 2025 to seek approval.

The commission described water projects for FY26 as largely on plan, about $150,000 higher than projected in last year’s program, while sewer programming increased by about $2,400,000 compared with last year. "If you think you're gonna get grant funding, don't show it as grant funding," Mr. Erickson said, recounting the experience the commission had when expected Bay Restoration Fund (BRF) support did not materialize; "so always assume worst, and if you get a grant, come back with the great news." Patty Stigman said, "At the end of fiscal year 26 we have budgeted debt of $141,000,000 but in actuality we only borrow as cash flow warrants." The planning commission previously found the CIB consistent with the comprehensive plan on March 24; METCOM held a public hearing April 15.

Why it matters: METCOM's capital plan guides water and sewer infrastructure spending and debt levels that affect future rates, capacity for new development, and the timing of projects that can…