LA PLATA, Md. — Charles County has begun developing its fiscal 2026 budget, aiming to balance available resources with community service needs while keeping tax rates unchanged. The budget will support the county’s strategic goals and priorities for the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
Community participation is essential in shaping the budget. Resident feedback helps set funding priorities and ensures resources are directed where they are needed most. The county is encouraging residents to take a brief budget survey—just 10 minutes—to have a meaningful impact on its future.
The survey asks key questions, including:
- Which public services matter most to you? (e.g., education, public safety, infrastructure, parks and recreation)
- How should the county adjust resources in response to state funding changes?
- Would you support tax adjustments to maintain or enhance services?
- Which areas need increased funding to improve services for the community?
To keep residents informed, the county offers a podcast, “Let’s Get Fiscal,” designed to answer budget-related questions. Hosted by Doria Fleisher of the Media Division and Jake Dyer of Fiscal and Administrative Services, the podcast explores the potential impacts of Maryland’s funding shortfalls on the county budget and highlights the importance of community input in shaping spending priorities.
Fleisher encouraged residents to participate, explaining that filling out the survey is an easy way to contribute. “This is a chance for you to give your input just from sitting at home, spending five minutes on your phone, tablet or computer,” she said.
Dyer emphasized the survey’s impact on past budget decisions. “Last year, we saw that public safety was a high priority, particularly on the police side. Using that information, we were able to add more police officers and emergency services positions to the budget,” he said.
He added that this year’s survey includes new questions on how the county should respond to a “$3.5 million cost shift” from the state, which will require local funding adjustments.
Take 10 minutes today to help shape a better Charles County.
Take the survey here.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
