Howard County executive unveils $2.5 billion FY27 operating budget; no property or income tax increase proposed

Dr. Calvin Ball, Howard County executive, presented his proposed fiscal 2027 capital and operating budgets Wednesday evening, saying the plan invests in schools, public safety, flood mitigation and renewable energy without raising property or income taxes.

Ball outlined a $2.5 billion operating budget, a 6.6% increase from FY26, and a $432.6 million capital budget that he said includes $120.7 million in general obligation bonds and $79.1 million in one‑time pay‑as‑you‑go funds. "This budget is about people," Ball said, framing the proposal as investments residents will "see, feel, and rely upon every day."

The executive singled out education funding: his proposal fully funds the Board of Education's capital request, including $98.6 million in local capital (the largest local contribution in more than 25 years) and county funding of $871.5 million toward the school system's FY27 operating request. Ball said the local investment would fund 99.3% of the school system's operating request and push total school spending to an historic $1.3 billion for FY27.

Public safety and emergency services were also emphasized. Ball proposed $168.9 million in the fire fund (including $8.5 million for infrastructure for new stations and headquarters design), and a $9.3 million operating increase for the Howard County Police Department to support staffing and community engagement. The capital plan includes $600,000 for public safety system enhancements such as computer‑aided dispatch upgrades.

Ball addressed flood mitigation in Ellicott City, noting recent infrastructure projects and proposing $37.2 million in state grants and low‑interest loans to continue the "Ellicott City safe and sound" program. He also proposed investments in community facilities (including a new Elkridge community and 50+ center and an ice rink schematic design at Meadowbrook Athletic Complex) and $14 million for county solar projects intended to lower energy bills for low‑ and moderate‑income households.

On health and human services, Ball proposed one‑time funds to complete the hospital observation unit expansion at Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center and additional operating funds for mobile crisis and maternal and infant programs, as well as increased opioid‑restitution spending to expand peer recovery specialists.

Ball said the budget was prepared amid federal and state uncertainty and growing cost shifts from the state, which he estimated would add $7.4 million in FY27 and more than $16.7 million across FY26–27. He noted the county retained AAA bond ratings from all three agencies.

The council will receive the budget as it begins its review process, including the legislative schedule announced during the hearing. Ball thanked staff and community partners for their input as the council considers the proposal.