Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
Background: We have been working hard to develop the County’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026, which begins July 1, 2025. Thank you for your input. It has been invaluable in helping shape a budget that reflects our community’s priorities and values. Later this month, I will present the Proposed Budget.
Keep in mind: We are facing the most challenging budget in nearly two decades. Budget decisions are being made against uncertainty in Washington and growing deficit in Annapolis. Frederick County remains committed to fiscally responsible spending that protects the core services you expect.
Top Priority: Education. We are making an historic investment in school construction projects, including:
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A new elementary school #41 in the eastern part of the County. Slated to open in August 2026.
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The design of a new Brunswick High School.
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Accelerated renovations to Twin Ridge and Hillcrest Elementary Schools.
Learn more: www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Budget
Share Your Feedback on Frederick County Communications
Background: We ask that you take an online survey to share your feedback on Frederick County Communications.
Why it matters: Your feedback will help us to improve our communication efforts to increase transparency and better serve you. The results of the survey will help shape future communication strategies to meet our community's needs.
What it is: The survey aims to find out how well the County communicates, how clear and easy to understand the information is, and how you prefer to receive information. The survey will close Sunday, April 6 at midnight.
The survey is available in both English and Spanish. Please click the below links to take the survey. Thank you for your participation!
New Livable Frederick Plans
Background: Livable Frederick has announced new plans on Housing, Historic Preservation, and Green Infrastructure.
Why it matters: Planning for more affordable housing, historic preservation, and green infrastructure is critical to maintaining the high quality of life that we enjoy in Frederick County.
What it is: Livable Frederick is an ongoing initiative designed to address issues such as housing, historic preservation, the environment, health, and the economy.
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The Housing Element focuses on housing needs, particularly housing for low-income and workforce households.
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Historic Preservation aims to ensure that historic preservation efforts remain relevant, effective, and inclusive.
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The Green Infrastructure Plan addresses issues related to the natural and build environment.
Get involved: Participate during Planning Commission workshops, during the public hearing process, and as the Plan moves forward through the legislative process with the County Council. Learn more: www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/LivableFrederick
Expanding Childcare Opportunities & Strengthening Our Workforce
Background: The Division of Family Services and Frederick County Workforce Services have partnered to launch a comprehensive Childcare Initiative. The goal is to add more childcare providers and increase families’ access to childcare options.
Why it matters: Every family in Frederick County should have access to reliable, high-quality childcare, and every childcare provider should have the support they need to thrive.
What it is: This initiative helps families find the care they need and empowers individuals to build rewarding careers in childcare. Up to 70 Frederick County residents will gain access to free training and resources that enable them to start and operate a licensed family-owned childcare business or obtain certifications to work in childcare settings. Learn more: www.FrederickWorks.com/Childcare-Initiative.
That's not all: Frederick County has also begun a new comprehensive Child Care Study to reassess the current childcare landscape in our community. Frederick County residents with children aged birth to 12 years old are invited to complete the survey and participate in focus groups. Learn more: www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/ChildCare.
Animal Control Renovation and Expansion
Background: Last month, the Division of Animal Control held a groundbreaking ceremony to begin the total renovation and expansion of the facility located at 1832 Rosemont Avenue in Frederick.
What it's important: The renovation and expansion will enhance living conditions for shelter residents and improve services for members of the community.
What it means for you: During the renovation, animals will still be available for adoption and essential services will continue as normal. Due to limited space, shelter tours and other educational programs at the shelter will be discontinued until construction is completed. The project is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2026.
Thank you to the County Council, our local elected officials, the Frederick Friends of Our County Animal Shelter, and animal advocates in the community for helping to make this happen! A special thanks to the State delegation for helping to secure $1M in funding for this project.
Supporting the Agriculture Industry
Background: Frederick County’s rich agricultural heritage has been a cornerstone of the community for generations. To ensure this vital industry remains strong, the Office of Agriculture recently unveiled a strategic plan.
Why it matters: We all rely on farmers for the food we eat each day. With this plan, we are taking another step to show farmers that they can rely on this community to support their work.
What it is: The Agriculture Strategic Plan examines industry trends and offers best practices. More than 100 people from Frederick County’s agricultural community gave input, expertise and insights to shape the report. The plan outlines ways to help farmers work together, preserve farmland, teach people about farming, and more. See the plan here.
Help Form a Climate and Energy Action Plan
Background: Frederick County Government and the City of Frederick are working together to create the first Community-Wide Climate and Energy Action Plan (CEAP) to address the challenges of the climate crisis in our region.
Why it matters: As the federal government reduces its climate efforts, it is more important than ever for local governments to take action and ensure our communities are prepared to meet environmental challenges.
What it is: The CEAP will assess how climate change could affect Frederick’s infrastructure, natural resources, community members, and health. It will also provide recommendations to address these impacts. Public engagement will complement scientific data supporting the plan. Learn more: www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/ClimateAction
Events & Activities
Parks and Recreation Activities: Our division of Parks and Recreation offers a wide range of activities and events for the whole family. Whether you are looking to improve your skills or learn something new, Parks and Rec has activities for all ages. Browse and register for activities on the Parks and Rec website.
Frederick County Public Libraries: Our public libraries offer a variety of enriching events and programs for kids, teens, and adults. From story times to crafts to educational workshops, there’s something for everyone. Learn more on the Frederick County Libraries website.
50+ Community Centers: Our 50+ Community Centers offer a variety of fitness classes, social groups, special events. Learn more on our 50+ Community Centers webpage.
Frederick County Workforce Services: Workforce Services offers a variety of in-person and virtual classes and workshops to help people prepare for a new career. Learn more on the Frederick County Workforce Services event page.
Boards & Commissions - Volunteers Needed
Are you interested in getting more involved in Frederick County? Visit our Boards and Commission webpage to learn how you can serve. Our Boards and Commissions rely on the expertise of community members to support, develop, and advise on key issues that impact industries across the County. For more information, please email fcgboards@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
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