Calvert County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Calvert County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Property tax relief for FY 2028
After two straight years of roughly $10 million surpluses, the Board asked staff to bring back options in October for cutting the property tax rate by five or six cents. Each penny cut costs about $1.6 million in recurring revenue.
Child care property tax credit (HB 389)
Two daycare special exceptions were approved in one hearing, adding capacity for working families in northern and central Calvert. Operators say demand far exceeds available spots, and both cited long wait lists and commuting parents.
Department-head severance increase to six months
The Board doubled no-fault severance for county department heads from three months to six months, with no contract end dates, just weeks before an election. Critics say it binds the next board and could cost taxpayers up to $586,000 more if everyone were let go; supporters say it aids recruitment and retention.
Potential property tax rate reduction
After two straight years of roughly $10 million surpluses, the Board asked staff to bring back options in October for cutting the property tax rate by five or six cents. Each penny cut costs about $1.6 million in recurring revenue.
FY 2028 budget planning and state funding uncertainty
Finance staff laid out a preliminary $15.3 million planning gap for FY 2028 and warned of potential state cuts to education and transportation funding. The county holds a $104 million unassigned fund balance and a triple-A rating from all three agencies.
2026 Maryland land-use legislation
Annapolis bills — the Starter and Silver Homes Act, a middle housing bill, and the Housing Certainty Act — could allow townhouses and lot splits in any residential area and extend development vesting to five years, weakening county control over growth. The county has sent opposition letters and residents are mobilizing.
North Beach tax differential rate
The county sets a tax differential that offsets county property taxes for residents of the two incorporated towns, who pay their own municipal taxes. The rates directly affect how much those homeowners pay each year.