MOCO Recommended Budget Hearings Scheduled For April

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — Public schools and affordable housing are prioritized in County Executive Marc Elrich's recommended 2023 budget, with each receiving record amounts of funding if approved.

The Montgomery County Council is hosting five public hearings for residents to give feedback on the proposed budget — they're scheduled for April 19 and 20 at 1:30 p.m., and April 19, 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. The County Council said it'll open sign ups for residents who wish to participate on March 24.

"I encourage Montgomery County residents to provide their feedback to the Council, as we move through the budget process," said Council President Gabe Albornoz in a statement. "Your views are instrumental in developing a final budget that will benefit community members by balancing the needs for essential and important county services with demands on our taxpayers and holding the line on our long-term fiscal obligations."

The County Council is reviewing Elrich's recommended budget and will continue to do so over the next two months. It will approve a final budget at the end of May, which will go into effect July 1.

"Because of the investments we have made in our community, the County's fiscal picture has drastically improved," said Elrich in a news release announcing his recommendation. "This budget is put forth as our community is emerging from the devastating impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

"It makes record investments in our community to ensure that our community's prosperity continues and that everyone, regardless of race, nationality, ethnicity, gender or color, can better access it," he continued. "Looking ahead, these critical investments in people and businesses position all of us to respond to future challenges, including climate change."

The County Council is meeting in person again after two years of remote meetings. Residents are still able to provide written testimony at meetings or participate virtually, the Council said. Livestreaming will still be available on the Council website, Facebook Live (@MontgomeryCountyMdCouncil or @ConcejodelCondadodeMontgomery), or YouTube.

See the entire recommended budget here.