Marks questions lack of state assistance in 5th District
Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier released her administration’s priorities for the 2026 legislative session, with a focus on fiscal stability, equitable state funding, transportation and school infrastructure, and strong, healthy communities.
According to Klausmeier, she wants a balanced and responsible budget that protects essential services and long-term investments.
“As we move into the legislative session, Baltimore County remains focused on partnering with our leaders in Annapolis to navigate the State’s fiscal shortfall while protecting our own fiscal stability,” Baltimore County Executive Klausmeier said in the press release.
“Our agenda this year centers on balancing the County budget responsibly, ensuring that the State’s budget challenges do not translate into increased costs for our residents, and maintaining transparency in our priorities. Through these requests, we aim to safeguard taxpayers, strengthen essential services, and build a stronger future for Baltimore County.”
Some of the highlights of the Klausmeier Administration’s 2026 legislative agenda includes:
* shared fiscal responsibility by avoiding the shift of additional costs, including teacher pensions, Pre-K funding changes, and increased SDAT support
* Improving Baltimore County’s transportation infrastructure
*Targeting transit investments to improve access to key employment centers.
*Addressing impacts from the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse to local roads.
*Funding for school construction.
*More midge treatment
Baltimore County will also advocate for State capital funding to support key community and public safety projects, including:
• New Essex Library
• North Point Government Center
• Sparrows Point Fire and Police Station
Fifth District County Councilman David Marks questions the lack of funding and projects in his district.
“While I appreciate the increase in funding for midge treatment, it should not go unnoticed that the Klausmeier administration is supporting no state assistance for any capital projects in Carney, Middle River, Perry Hall, White Marsh, or Kingsville ” Marks said.
“I suppose this shouldn’t be a surprise given the cancellation of the Middle River library last fall.”