Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier today submitted her $5 billion FY2027 budget proposal.
“When I took office, I said we had a big job ahead of us,” said County Executive Kathy Klausmeier.
“We wanted to keep the budget balanced, protect the County’s reputation, honor promises to residents, invest in public safety, schools, libraries, and parks and grow our economy. We listened to residents and have kept our promises.”
The county said this proposed budget does not increase taxes as families continue to feel pressure from rising costs. Baltimore County has also retained its Triple Triple-A bond rating, placing it among the top counties in the nation for fiscal responsibility.
FY2027 budget puts highlights include:
Investing in Public Safety:
The FY2027 budget prioritizes resources for first responders and public safety infrastructure.
• $9 million for a new Police Support Operations Division facility to make sure law enforcement operations are fully supported.
• $800,000 in additional direct support for volunteer fire companies to expand Medic Attended Status hours, ensuring more consistent emergency medical coverage across the County.
• An additional $10 million for road repairs, resurfacing, and pedestrian safety improvements across the County.
The budget also includes approximately $3.4 million to add 12 new battalion chiefs in the Fire Department—deepening the County’s commitment to keeping residents safe.
Investing in Education.
• The budget includes $9.3 million to restore teaching positions at all elementary schools, and reallocated funding to preserve middle school staffing.
• Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) is receiving $34.7 million additional dollars, $44.5 million or 4.5% over the amount required by state mandates.
• The County will also support BCPS with $2.6 million for special education, including 20 new positions and increased assistance for speech language pathologists.
• The budget also includes $2.9 million to the Community College of Baltimore County, enabling it to avoid raising tuition and fees.
“This budget reflects a clear commitment to disciplined leadership and meaningful investment in the people we serve,” said Baltimore County Administrative Officer D’Andrea L. Walker.
“We are strengthening public safety, supporting our schools, and making thoughtful decisions that keep Baltimore County on solid financial ground. This budget is about accountability and delivering on our responsibilities today while preparing for tomorrow.”
Growing the Economy and Workforce
The County continues to support business growth and workforce development by working through its Department of Economic and Workforce Development to ensure Baltimore County’s economy remains strong.
• $450,000 for CCBC Dundalk Welding Program Facility.
• Continued funding in support of Strategic Workforce Initiative Fund, a multi-year effort to strengthen the talent pipeline, expand training access, and sustain employer-aligned workforce initiatives, which began as a $1 million investment in FY 2025.
• Ongoing support for the Sparrows Point Container Terminal project, expected to create thousands of jobs and generate significant economic activity.
Supporting Healthy Communities
• Expansion of the school-based vision program to provide free eye exams and glasses to students.
• More than $58 million in proposed bond funding for a new Essex Library, with planning and design expected to begin in 2027.
• $1.5 million in funding for design and installation of EV charging stations in the County
• $3.2 million for stormwater pond repairs and maintenance
Other Investments:
• Recent and ongoing projects include improvements at Sparrows Point Park, Rockdale Park, and playground upgrades at community sites across the County.
• A new “Active Aging Adult” membership will allow residents age 62 and older to access drop-in recreational programs across the county, at a reduced cost, making it easier for older adults to stay active and engaged.
Fifth District County Councilman David Marks is happy with the County Executive’s budget and share a list of budget items for his District.
* Angel Park improvements and Chapel Road open space
*Joppa View Elementary parking redesign
*Seven Oaks Elementary and Perry Hall Middle upgrades
* Mount Vista Park improvements
*Midge treatment in Middle River
“Our goal has always been to secure funding for priorities such as public safety, schools, and land preservation,” Marks concluded.
“I thank the County Executive for her support as we work in a bipartisan way to move Baltimore County forward. Over the past three years, we’ve secured funding to complete the renovation of Pine Grove Middle School, open Nottingham Middle School, renovate playgrounds in Carney and Kingsville, and preserve more than 80 acres of sensitive land at Carroll Island.”
The County Council is scheduled to vote on the proposed FY 2027 budget on May 21, 2026.