Council approves 911, transportation, water and WSSC fees and updates waste estimates

The Montgomery County Council unanimously approved a set of FY26 fees and related resolutions on May 14, including an increase in the county 911 fee, a transportation fee package that expands fare‑free transit for residents, the DEP water quality protection charge, a by‑county WSSC water system development charge, and an update to Executive Regulation 9‑25 (waste generation assumptions).

"The recommended increase would...increase from 75¢ to a dollar 47 per telephone subscriber," Chair Katz said when summarizing the Public Safety Committee recommendation on the 911 fee, noting the change applies to all telephone subscribers (cell and landline) and is expected to generate approximately $12,500,000 to close a projected revenue gap.

Chair Glass highlighted the transportation package and said the most significant item was making transit free for all residents at all times, building on the success of a prior program that offered free rides for children.

Ms. Farag noted a procedural requirement: the effective date of the 911 fee depends on certification; the county must certify the fee to the comptroller, the Public Service Commission, and the 911 board, and the fee will be brought back annually for resolution so it closely matches expenditures.

Each resolution was moved and seconded on the floor and approved unanimously. Staff will prepare updated resolutions reflecting today’s votes.