Sykesville council adopts mid‑year budget revision, shifts $500,000 in capital spending

The Sykesville mayor and town council on June 8 adopted Ordinance 2026‑02, a mid‑year amendment to the town’s fiscal 2026 budget that reduces the operating and capital program by just over $500,000 and shifts most affected capital projects into fiscal 2027.

Town staff member Joe told the council the revision reflects stronger income tax receipts in the intergovernmental category but higher-than-expected costs in vehicle maintenance and employee benefits, particularly health insurance and retirement. He said the change ‘‘opens up the opportunity for reuse’’ of the 714 Sanduski building after a structural evaluation and noted continued work with Howard County and the historic district commission on the Canary building.

Councilman Goff moved to adopt the ordinance and Councilman Smith seconded; the motion passed unanimously on a voice vote. The council opened a public hearing on the revision and received no comments before taking the vote.

Treasurer Jen reported at the same meeting that May revenues included $277,000 in income tax receipts and a $56,000 refund tied to utility relocation work. She said the town had spent about $400,000 on a grant‑funded Arbor project and contributed $100,000 toward a planned south‑end restaurant project that was referenced in the capital plan.

The ordinance takes effect for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026, and staff said several projects will be reprogrammed into FY27 to align with revised timelines and funding.

Council documents and staff presentations remain the primary source for line‑by‑line changes; the council recorded the adoption as unanimous.