After a challenging few months, the Prince George’s County Council has successfully adopted a $5.8 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2026, set to begin on July 1, 2025. Despite notable reductions in state and federal funding, the Council managed to approve a spending plan without imposing new taxes or increasing the burden on local residents.
The budget process, which spanned over two and a half months, was marked by extensive community engagement. Council Members deeply considered input from their constituents, weaving many of their concerns and priorities into the final proposal.
“This year, more than ever, the budget required us to dig deep, not just into spreadsheets and forecasts, but into the lived experiences of the people we represent,” stated Chair Edward Burroughs III (District 8). “I am a firm believer that leadership starts with listening, and we have heard loud and clear from our community about what matters to them.”
The adopted budget introduces a range of enhancements to the initial proposal put forth by Acting County Executive Tara Jackson in March. Among the key allocations are nearly $6 million for the Council’s non-departmental grants and $1.5 million for County Executive grants. These crucial grants underpin vital services for Prince Georgians, including food and mortgage assistance, youth mentoring programs, and support for seniors. Additionally, $1 million has been earmarked for a new small business microgrant program, aiming to bolster local entrepreneurship.
Environmental and public safety initiatives also received a boost. The Council restored $800,000 for a dedicated litter cleanup program and fully funded the labor trafficking unit, which plays a critical role in combating worker exploitation. Support for the disabled community was reinforced with restored funding to the Provider Council, assisting with caregiver costs, and an additional $250,000 to maintain a program delivering meals to elderly residents.
A landmark allocation of $250,000 to the Black Maternal Health Fund, championed by Vice Chair Krystal Oriadha (District 7), marks a significant step forward. This funding, made possible through CR-90-2023, establishes the county’s first dedicated resources to address issues surrounding Black maternal health.
“This is an incredible moment for all women of color in Prince George’s County,” said Vice Chair Oriadha. “This is an issue I am very passionate about, as a Black mother who experienced birth complications. I am so grateful that Chair Burroughs and my fellow Council Members have joined in making Black maternal health a priority, and I know that we will have happier, healthier families here in Prince George’s County as a result of this monumental funding.”
In a move to ensure efficient county operations, the Council prevented a nearly $1 million budget cut to the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE). Furthermore, new regional liaisons will be established at DPIE to foster direct collaboration with Council Members, community leaders, and HOAs to resolve issues. The spending plan also allocates $120,000 to support Council Member Wala Blegay’s (District 6) CB-31-2024, initiating funding for her legislation aimed at resolving HOA disputes.
Public health was another key focus, with $150,000 allocated to expand HIV prevention services in the southern part of the county, an area with higher infection rates. The Health Assures program, providing medical and preventative care to the uninsured and underinsured, received a substantial increase of $1 million in funding.
Recognizing the importance of a swift response from emergency services, the Council eliminated a 30-day hiring delay for first responders, enabling new police officers, sheriff’s deputies, and firefighters to begin their essential work as quickly as possible. Mental health support for staff was also prioritized, with $184,000 designated for a psychologist position at the Sheriff’s Office.
Community-focused initiatives also saw significant investment, including a new website providing re-entry resources for citizens returning from incarceration, half a million dollars to provide much-needed seating at county bus shelters, and $250,000 for a Raincheck Rebate program to assist homeowners with improvements that prevent stormwater runoff.
Finally, in a win for local media and community access, the Council found a way to preserve funding for Prince George’s County Community Television, a priority that resonated deeply with concerned citizens and employees during hours of testimony.
“I am incredibly proud of this final budget, and all that we were able to squeeze into it, despite challenging circumstances – many of which were out of our control. I am also thrilled about how many of the community’s priorities we were able to fund,” concluded Chair Burroughs. “While we couldn’t say yes to everything, and we had to make difficult compromises that balance short-term needs with long-term sustainability, we worked to protect core services and public safety, support working families, and continue investing in the future. This budget is a reflection of our values and priorities as we shape the future of Prince George’s County, one that is more just and more equitable for all Prince Georgians, in every corner of our county.”
For residents interested in delving deeper into the details of the newly adopted budget, more information is available on the Council’s Budget Portal.
