May 13, 2026 - Council Budget Worksession

The Montgomery County Council held a budget worksession on May 13, 2026, focusing primarily on the FY27 operating budget, including revenues, expenditures, and reconciliation items. The Council approved several resolutions related to fees and charges for public facilities, 911 services, transportation, water quality protection, solid waste, and income tax rates. A significant portion of the discussion centered on balancing the budget with priority funding blocks, including grant replacements, community grants, and funding for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). The Council debated various budget cuts and restorations, particularly concerning MCPS funding, nonprofit organizations like the Kid Museum, and essential county services such as nursing home inspections and public safety. Motions were passed to approve priority funding blocks and to allocate additional resources to MCPS, while also considering further potential lapses and operating expense reductions to close the budget gap. The Council emphasized the complexity of the budget process, the need for progressive taxation, and the importance of maintaining critical services amid fiscal constraints.