Garrett County finance team proposes FY26 budget, recommends modest cut to property tax rate

Scott Weeks, Garrett County's director of finance, presented the county's proposed fiscal 2026 operating budget of $103.7 million and a capital budget of $13.1 million during the Board of Garrett County Commissioners' May 20 public meeting.

Weeks told the board the county faced a sharp fiscal test when the governor's proposed budget showed what the finance team initially labeled a $6.3 million state effect: cuts to a disparity grant and the potential transfer of additional pension costs and state office operating costs to the county. After legislative changes, Weeks said the near-term net state effect in the county's model was about $5 million, but he cautioned the county may see additional state-driven pressures in future years.

"I'm pleased to bring forward a proposed balanced budget for your consideration," Weeks said, summarizing staff work and public engagement. He recommended reducing the real property tax rate from $1.056 per $100 to $1.02 per $100, which the presentation showed would lower property tax revenues…