PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously on June 10, 2025, to approve a $386 million general fund operating budget for fiscal year 2026, effective July 1, 2025. The budget reflects a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents through investments in education, public safety, general government services, and infrastructure.
The Calvert County Board of Education will receive $163 million, comprising 44% of the general fund, as mandated by the State of Maryland. This substantial allocation supports schools, teachers, and educational programs, ensuring continued excellence in the county’s education system. Local income and property tax rates remain unchanged at 3.2% and 96.7 cents per $100 of assessed value, respectively. However, residents may face higher property tax bills due to rising assessments by the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation.
Commissioner President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance stated, “This budget prioritizes general government, education, public safety, capital investments, and maintaining a high level of service to the Calvert County community. Despite funding challenges, we are confident this new operating budget will provide the services and amenities expected from the community.”
Budget Highlights
The FY 2026 budget includes several key allocations:
| Category | Funding Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Sheriff’s Office | $40 million | Includes funding for two new deputy positions to enhance law enforcement. |
| Public Safety Operations | $20 million | Supports 16 new positions, offset by $2.2 million in fee and EMS revenue. |
| General Government Services | $31 million | Funds administrative functions like planning and permitting. |
| Capital Construction | $7 million | Includes $5 million for the county’s road paving program. |
Public safety is a cornerstone of the budget, with nearly $40 million allocated to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, including funds for two additional deputy positions to strengthen law enforcement capabilities. An additional $20 million supports public safety operations, funding 16 new positions to enhance emergency response and community safety. These investments are partially offset by $2.2 million in revenue from public safety fees and EMS cost recovery initiatives, reducing the need for tax increases.
General government services, funded at $31 million, encompass essential administrative functions such as planning, permitting, and regulatory activities that support community growth and efficient county operations. Infrastructure development is also prioritized, with nearly $7 million transferred to the capital construction budget, including $5 million dedicated to maintaining the county’s road paving program. Well-maintained roads are critical for safe and efficient transportation, benefiting residents and businesses.
Fee Increases and Community Impact
Starting July 1, 2025, modest fee increases will occur at the Calvert County Department of Public Works and the Department of Parks & Recreation. These adjustments address rising costs, changing community needs, and expanding programs and services. Detailed fee schedules are available at Parks & Recreation Fees and Public Works Fees.
Maintaining current tax rates provides financial stability for residents and businesses, allowing for predictable budgeting. However, the rise in property assessments, a statewide trend, may result in higher property tax bills for some residents, reflecting increased property values across Maryland.
Budget Process and Transparency
The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners, responsible for approving the annual budget, collaborates with county departments and incorporates public input to develop a financial plan that meets community needs. The budget approval process ensures that funds are allocated efficiently to support critical services while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Residents can review the complete FY 2026 operating and capital budgets at Calvert County Budget. This transparency allows the community to understand how funds are allocated and the priorities set by the commissioners.
Commitment to Community Services
The FY 2026 budget underscores Calvert County’s dedication to education, with $163 million ensuring that schools remain well-funded and capable of delivering high-quality education. The significant investment in public safety, including new positions, enhances the county’s ability to protect residents and respond to emergencies effectively. The revenue from fees and EMS initiatives helps sustain these services without increasing the tax burden.
Infrastructure investments, particularly road maintenance, demonstrate the county’s long-term development and safety focus. While modest fee increases are necessary to keep pace with rising costs and fund new and improved services, ensuring that the county continues to meet the evolving needs of its residents.
The approval of the FY 2026 budget marks a significant step in ensuring that Calvert County remains a vibrant and well-served community. By balancing investments in education, public safety, and infrastructure with fiscal responsibility, the commissioners aim to maintain the high quality of life that residents expect.
