Mayor Michael O’Connor presented his proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Budget to the City Council and Frederick residents today, underscoring the City’s commitment to balanced growth, fiscal responsibility, and strategic investments in infrastructure and public services.
The proposed budget of $163.3 million for the general fund aims to maintain high-quality services while ensuring continued vibrancy. The budget upholds the municipal property tax rate at $0.7305 per $100 of assessed value, reaffirming the City’s commitment to keeping taxes steady and avoiding increases for residents.
“Frederick’s growth continues to be driven by thoughtful investments in infrastructure, economic development, and public services,” said Mayor O’Connor. “This budget reflects our commitment to fiscal responsibility while ensuring we provide the resources necessary to sustain and enhance our community’s quality of life.”
The overall budget, which includes water and sewer, stormwater management, parking, the Weinberg Center for the Arts, the airport, and the golf course, totals $238.4 million. It continues to align with the strategic priorities outlined in CommUNITY 2030, the Comprehensive Plan, and other guiding documents, ensuring that Frederick is well-prepared for a sustainable and successful future.
Budget Highlights:
No property tax increases: The budget keeps the municipal property tax rate steady at $0.7305 per $100 of assessed value, emphasizing responsible financial management.Maintaining core services: An additional $8.5 million is reserved to ensure the continuity of City services in the event of state or federal funding declines.Vehicle and equipment upgrades: A total of $3 million has been set aside for new vehicles, and $2.3 million for equipment upgrades, ensuring modern, reliable resources for public works, emergency response, and city service teams.Sustainability investments: The proposed budget allocates $500,000 to support the citywide composting program, reducing solid waste and contributing to a greener, more sustainable Frederick.Charter change support: The proposed budget adds positions to support the newly established and expanding City Council, as well as continues investments in supporting the charter changes.Efficiency investments: Focused on increasing operational efficiency, the budget includes technology upgrades and process improvements while avoiding cuts to essential services or positions.
The City of Frederick remains dedicated to responsible governance and working collaboratively with the City Council, local partners, and every level of government to ensure the budget advances the City’s long-term vision.
For more information on the proposed budget or to view detailed breakdowns of funding allocations, visit https://frederickmd.gov/budgetFY26.