The Charles County Board of County Commissioners unanimously adopted a balanced General Fund budget of $644,157,500 for fiscal year 2027, an 8.2 percent increase over the previous year. The plan maintains current property and income tax rates while aligning with the county’s strategic priorities.
The budget supports ongoing government operations and key investments in education, public safety and community services across Charles County, which includes growing communities such as Waldorf, La Plata and Indian Head. For Southern Maryland families in Charles County, the spending plan ensures continued funding for local schools, sheriff’s office operations and health services without placing additional burden on taxpayers.
Briefings at the May 12 meeting included an update from the Charles County Department of Health on respiratory virus activity, emergency preparedness and nursing programs. Dianna Abney, Health Officer, and Amber Starn, Director of Community Health and Evaluation, presented the bi-annual report.
Michael Heim, Chief of Operations and Supporting Services for Charles County Public Schools, discussed the costs associated with the DMV Soldiers Semi-Pro Basketball team using the St. Charles High School gym. The team pays $5,280 for the combined use of the gym and locker rooms for 12 home games.
Commissioners approved several items reflecting community priorities. They sent a letter of support for the Maryland State Library Agency FY28 Capital Grant for the new La Plata Library. They also approved a letter of support for a new grant-funded initiative for cardiovascular health programs for seniors.
In addition, the board approved a letter of support and a resolution for the Southern Maryland Interest Group Inc.’s official chapter of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Finally, they approved a request for community support funds for the Interfaith Commission 2026 Prayer Breakfast.
The budget adoption marks a significant step in the county’s fiscal planning process. Full details are available in the Fiscal Year 2027 budget news release.
The Charles County Board of County Commissioners continues to focus on responsible growth while maintaining services that support families, businesses and public safety in the tri-county Southern Maryland region. The plan ensures continued investment in education, which remains the largest portion of county spending, along with public safety and community programs that benefit residents in Waldorf, La Plata and surrounding areas.
