Note: The video reflects the County Executive’s proposed FY26 budget presented to the Council. Figures in this story below are based on the approved FY26 operating budget.

Howard County has released its approved $2.3 billion operating budget for Fiscal Year 2026 — a 0.8% decrease in funding from 2025, reflecting a more uncertain outlook. The General Fund, which supports most government services including education, totals $1.6 billion, which also decreased by 0.8%. Despite emerging challenges at the federal and state level, this budget provides continued support to critical services such as schools, safety, and community services.

Education remains the largest priority. The budget provides $814.5 million in historic recurring county funding to the Howard County Public School System, which is 7% higher than last year — the highest growth over a decade — and $53.8 million above the state-required minimum. In addition, $1.5 million is provided for one-time school expenses, and $69 million is included in the county’s own budget to support debt service payments for school infrastructure projects, school employees’ pension liabilities, and school retirees' health benefits. Nearly two-thirds of all new county General Fund revenue in FY 2026 will be used on school needs. Howard Community College and the Howard County Library System also see modest increases.

Public safety receives major investment, with $171.5 million for police — including funds for staffing, equipment, and body-worn camera support — and $165.9 million for fire and rescue services.

The budget also commits funding to health initiatives, such as $5 million toward the Howard County General Hospital emergency room expansion, $2.3 million in opioid response programs, and new support for maternal and infant health.

Housing receives more than $25 million, with funding for affordable housing, homelessness prevention, and homeownership programs. Additional investments also support community services, youth employment, workforce development, climate initiatives, and transportation projects.