Councilmembers Andrew Friedson and Laurie-Anne Sayles have both sent emails to their district constituents declaring their opposition to a property tax increase.
The increase of 3.4% was proposed by County Executive Marc Elrich in his budget plan for fiscal year 2026. Elrich hopes to use the increase to fully fund Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). MCPS has submitted a budget request for $3.65 billion. Beyond education, the money would be used for public safety and other essential services.
On Friday, Friedson stated in his email to voters, “This proposal comes at a time when many families are already feeling squeezed by the rising cost of living.”
He cited the escalating tax on homeowners, ” Property tax assessments have increased by 29 to 40 percent over the last seven years, and Montgomery County is already generating more revenue from taxpayers. We need to fund our priorities—our schools, public safety, transportation, and libraries—without driving up housing costs and placing additional burdens on our residents.”
In her email, Laurie-Anne Sayles agreed, “Understanding the burden it may place on families and individuals, I am committed to not raising property taxes this year. Instead, I advocate for responsible budget cuts and strategic reallocations to ensure we maintain our essential services and fully fund our schools without exacerbating our neighbors’ financial burden.”
On Tuesday, the county council will hold a public hearing on the budget at 1:30 p.m. at the Council Office Building.
Public hearings are televised live by County Cable Montgomery (CCM) on Xfinity channels 6 and 996, RCN channels 6 and 1056; and FiOS channel 30. Also available live via streaming through the Council website, Facebook Live (@MontgomeryCountyMdCouncil or @ConcejodelCondadodeMontgomery), or YouTube (@MoCoCouncilMD).
