Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater began her budget listening tour in Mount Airy, engaging residents on fiscal year 2026 budget concerns.
There will be one meeting in each of the five County Council districts. The next ones are scheduled for Middletown Library, Waverley Elementary, Oakdale Middle, and Walkersville Middle. Each meeting will be recorded and available online later.
Fitzwater is required to hold two public hearings for the budget process. The first was on December 4, and the second is set for March. Besides these hearings, she’s hosting town halls to discuss the budget and the Capital Improvement Program for the next several years.
At the meeting, seven people spoke, many of whom had concerns about the Board of Education’s budget. Some asked for funding to reinstate the Remote Virtual Program for younger students, which was cut last year.
Cheryl Dyson, the FCPS superintendent, mentioned that keeping the program for middle schoolers is a priority this budget season. She’s open to discussing options for other grades too.
Local educators also raised issues about teacher salaries and overall education funding. One representative urged the council to do their best for the kids, despite the tough financial outlook.
Eric Anderson from Habitat for Humanity shared a story about helping a local woman with a roof repair. He highlighted the need for continued funding for organizations that assist low- to moderate-income families, as current support is running out.
Fitzwater has until April 15 to submit her proposed budget to the County Council, which must adopt it by May 31. If they can’t agree, her proposal will automatically take effect.
