Montgomery County Executive Proposes 6% Property Tax Increase to Fund Schools

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich has unveiled his final budget proposal, recommending a 6% increase in property tax rates to fully fund Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) for the fiscal year 2027. The proposed budget totals $8 billion, representing a $420 million increase from the previous year's budget of $7.6 billion. Elrich presented this plan during a press conference at Richard Montgomery High School, emphasizing the need for investments to support the county's growth.

Washington's Top News (WTOP)Elrich proposes nearly 6% tax increase to fund schools’ request

Elrich's proposal allocates $3.8 billion to MCPS, which constitutes 51% of the overall county budget. He stated that the increase is essential to meet the school system's budget requests and to enhance per-pupil funding adjusted for inflation, marking a significant change from previous years. Grace Rivera-Oven, president of the Montgomery County Board of Education, expressed her enthusiasm for the proposal, highlighting it as a demonstration of the county's commitment to prioritizing education.

Elrich proposes nearly 6% tax increase to fund schools’ request

The budget proposal comes amid significant financial challenges, including substantial federal layoffs that have impacted tax revenue and a recent snowstorm that cost the county $45 million. Elrich noted that these factors made drafting this budget particularly difficult. The proposed property tax increase would raise the rate to $1.089 per $100 of assessed value, resulting in an estimated annual increase of $97 for residents earning $100,000 and $26 for those earning $50,000. Residents making less than $50,000 may pay less or receive enhanced refunds.

Elrich proposes nearly 6% tax increase to fund schools’ request

Elrich acknowledged the difficulties the Montgomery County Council will face in making budget decisions this year, which he described as some of the most challenging since the Great Recession. Council President Natali Fani-González emphasized the need to balance community needs with limited resources and new financial obligations. The Montgomery County Education Association praised the budget for its investments in educator recruitment, retention, and school safety.

Elrich proposes nearly 6% tax increase to fund schools’ request

Despite the support from educational leaders, Elrich's previous tax increase proposals have faced rejection from the County Council, which last raised property taxes in 2024. The council's decisions will be scrutinized as they navigate the complexities of the current economic landscape.

Elrich proposes nearly 6% tax increase to fund schools’ request

The Montgomery County Council is expected to vote on Elrich's budget proposal and the associated tax increases by the end of May. The outcome will determine the future funding landscape for Montgomery County Public Schools and other essential services.

Washington's Top News (WTOP)Elrich proposes nearly 6% tax increase to fund schools’ request

• “My budget has tax increases because I cannot instantly grow the county,” — Marc Elrich, Montgomery County Executive

Washington's Top News (WTOP)

• “It shows a true commitment of where education is a priority. I am so incredibly happy,” — Grace Rivera-Oven, President, Montgomery County Board of Education

Elrich proposes nearly 6% tax increase to fund schools’ request

• “The budget decisions the Montgomery County Council makes this year will be some of the most challenging since the Great Recession,” — Natali Fani-González, Council President

Elrich proposes nearly 6% tax increase to fund schools’ request