Governor Moore Announces $28 Million in School Construction Funding for Frederick County
The news: Yesterday, Governor Wes Moore visited Frederick High School to announce $28 million in school construction funding for Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) as part of his Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal. Governor Moore has been a steadfast partner in meeting the needs of students in Frederick County and beyond.
Why it matters: Because of our consistent investment in school construction and strong partnership with FCPS, we are building schools faster than any other jurisdiction. This saves taxpayers dollar and brings relief to overcrowded classrooms and aging buildings.
More details: The news about FCPS funding was part of Governor Moore's proposed $10.2 billion investment in Maryland public schools. Read more in the Governor's press release.
Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Meetings
The news: You're invited to share your priorities for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget at a series of upcoming town hall meetings. I will hold one town hall meeting in each of the five County Council Districts in the coming weeks. The schedule is as follows:
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Saturday, January 10 at 1 p.m. – Libertytown Fire Station Social Hall
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Monday, January 12 at 7 p.m. – Whittier Elementary
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Wednesday, January 21 at 7 p.m. – Brunswick Elementary
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Monday, January 26 at 7 p.m. – Governor Thomas Johnson Middle School
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Thursday, January 29 at 7 p.m. – Deer Crossing Elementary
Why it matters: Our budget should align with the needs, priorities, and values of our community. Your feedback is important to help us develop a budget that prioritizes what matters most.
More details: Learn more about the upcoming town hall meetings and provide written comments at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/BudgetFY27.
Community Benefits Listening Sessions on Data Centers
The news: I am holding two listening sessions where you are invited to share ideas about community benefits associated with data center development in Frederick County. The County will negotiate an agreement to bring benefits to the community, and we want to listen to you first. The sessions will take place:
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Wednesday, February 4 at 6:30 p.m. at Winchester Hall, 12 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701
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Thursday, February 12 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Joseph on Carrollton Manor, 5843 Manor Woods Road, Frederick, MD 21703
Why it matters: We have now made data centers the most heavily regulated industry in Frederick County, and we cut the number of acres available for data center development in half. We learned the lessons of Loudoun County and regulated the industry before the first data center even came online, and we restricted development to an area with infrastructure needed to support these projects. With the Council’s work behind us, we can move forward with an open and transparent process for hearing directly from our residents about the investments from the industry they want to see.
More details: I encourage everyone to attend one of the meetings to learn more and provide input. To sign up to speak at one of the meetings or to submit comments online, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/CommunityBenefits.
Keeping Transit Services Fare-Free
The news: Last month, I joined County Council Vice President Kavonté Duckett, County Council Member Renee Knapp, and then-City of Frederick Council Member Kelly Russell to announce new legislation to ensure local Transit remains fare-free.
Why it matters: Transit services are crucial for community connectivity, providing access to employment, education, healthcare, and essential services. Our fare-free service has made Transit more accessible for our riders during a time when many families are tightening belts and pinching pennies
More details: The new proposal would invest a portion of recordation tax revenue directly into Transit so the services remain fare-free for riders in our community. For more information, see the press release or visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Council.
Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan - Resident Needs Assessment
The news: Frederick County is updating its Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan and we want your input.
Why it matters: Your feedback will help us identify the needs and priorities of our community, and help shape how we preserve natural resources, support agriculture, and enhance recreational facilities over the next five years.
More details: Please complete this survey with your household members in mind. It will take approximately ten minutes to complete.
Affordable Housing Project Update
The news: Frederick County has selected Conifer LLC to develop county-owned land into affordable housing. The interim agreement signed last month is the first step toward building approximately 148 new units on a seven-acres site next to the Prospect Center on Himes Avenue.
Why it matters: Everyone deserves housing that is affordable. This project represents a significant step forward in our efforts to provide quality housing options for our seniors, working families, veterans, and others who are currently priced out of the market.
More details: The interim agreement is the first step toward establishing a Comprehensive Agreement with Conifer. A Comprehensive Agreement is expected to be completed by June 30, 2026. For more details, see the press release.
Senior Center Feasibility Study
The news: The Frederick County Division of Aging and Independence is launching a feasibility study to ensure senior centers meet the evolving needs of older adults today and in the years to come.
Why it matters: The study will look at where new senior centers might be needed and what programs should be offered. Members of the community are invited to attend sessions and complete surveys to share their input.
More details: You can get involved and share input through both virtual and in-person community engagement sessions or by filling out a survey. To learn more, see the press release.
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 web page.
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.
Office of Economic Development: The Office of Economic Development (OED) is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment in Frederick County and offers a variety of events and activities designed to support local businesses and entrepreneurs. See what’s happening on the OED events calendar.
Boards & Commissions - Volunteers Needed
Are you interested in getting more involved in Frederick County? Visit our Boards and Commissions web page 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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