Wicomico County Proposes $237.5 Million Budget - Here's What It Means for You

Wicomico County, MD - Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano has submitted her proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2027 to the County Council. The plan totals $237.5 million and covers everything from public safety and schools to roads and county employees.

Giordano says the budget was built with the community in mind. "I am proud to present a balanced budget that reflects our commitment to responsible government while continuing to invest in the priorities that matter most to our residents," she said. "This budget was built with input from our community and reflects both the opportunities and challenges we are facing as a county."

One of the biggest pieces of news for homeowners is a proposed cut in the property tax rate. The rate would drop to $0.7799 per $100 of assessed value, which is a decrease of three cents. For a home valued at $300,000 that has not been recently reassessed, that works out to about $100 in savings per year.

Public safety is getting a record level of funding in this budget. A major focus is the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office, which recently reached a new three-year agreement with the county.

That deal is aimed at making sure deputies are paid competitively so the department can hire and keep good people.

The budget also puts money toward fire services, emergency response, and corrections. Giordano spoke directly to why this matters. "Our residents deserve to feel safe in their communities, and that starts with investing in the men and women who serve and protect us every day," she said. "This agreement and this level of funding demonstrate our commitment to supporting law enforcement and strengthening public safety across Wicomico County."

Schools are also a priority in this budget. Total education funding would go up to $58.2 million. That includes money for teacher pensions, pre-K programs, and something new, weapons detection systems in schools.

Several community organizations would see more funding as well. The list includes volunteer and municipal fire departments, the Public Library, Wor-Wic Community College, PAC-14, the Humane Society, and Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development.

On the infrastructure side, the county is planning over $25.5 million in capital projects spread across 33 different efforts. The Fruitland Primary School project alone has $11 million in new bond funding and $21 million in forward funding attached to it. Fruitland Intermediate School is also in line for a $7 million HVAC replacement.

County employees would see a 5% salary increase under this plan, made up of a 2% cost-of-living adjustment and a 3% step increase. The budget also puts more than $1.5 million extra into the pension fund to keep it on solid ground.

The county is also dealing with pressure from the State of Maryland. The state cut more than $700,000 in Teacher Retirement Supplement funding, which adds strain to the local budget. Giordano addressed this head-on. "We continue to see the State shift more financial responsibility onto local governments," she said. "Despite those challenges, we have worked diligently to protect taxpayers while ensuring we meet our obligations and continue delivering essential services."

There are some fee changes coming too. Commercial haulers who use the landfill will see tipping fees go up in two steps, eventually reaching $100 per ton. Homeowners will not see a change to their landfill tags, but a new $20 brush permit option will be available. Recreation and Parks fees will also be adjusted.

The County Council will now take up the budget for review. Residents will have a chance to weigh in before a final vote is taken.

Giordano summed up the goal simply: "This budget is about balance, meeting today's needs while preparing for tomorrow. We are investing in public safety at historic levels, supporting our workforce, strengthening our schools, and continuing to provide tax relief, all while maintaining fiscal responsibility."