Budget Worksession - Monday, April 27th, 2026

The City of Bowie, MD held a budget worksession on April 27, 2026, to review and discuss the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget. The meeting focused extensively on potential budget cuts, revenue measures, and service adjustments to address a structural deficit without relying on the fund balance. Key procurement-related discussions included the acceptance of a $625,000 federal COPS grant to add five police officers, with associated equipment costs, and the decision to eliminate funding for two additional traffic cameras due to unfavorable contract renegotiations. The council also considered reductions in various community programs, public safety administrative expenses, and infrastructure maintenance, including a significant $1 million cut in street light maintenance with plans to seek alternative funding sources. Other procurement topics included deferring capital improvement projects such as the White Marsh baseball infield renovation and reducing funding for economic development grants and community events. The council expressed interest in exploring a hiring freeze for the fiscal year to manage costs and discussed the potential acquisition of budget management software to improve efficiency. Several motions to cut or retain specific budget items were passed by consensus or vote, reflecting a balanced approach to fiscal responsibility while maintaining essential services. The meeting concluded with plans to revisit some items and continue budget deliberations in a follow-up session.