Hagerstown Mayor and City Council to Convene Special Session for Budget and Tax Rate Approvals

Hagerstown, MD residents are advised of an upcoming meeting of the Mayor and City Council, which will include a special voting session to consider crucial fiscal matters. Per a press release from the City of Hagerstown, the meeting is scheduled for May 19, 2026, and will address key elements of the city’s financial future, including the fiscal year 2027 budget, real property tax rate, and water and sewer rate schedules. The agenda also includes a work session with various important discussions.

The special session, designated as the 37th voting session, is set to begin at approximately 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall, located at 1 East Franklin Street. During this session, the council is expected to vote on an ordinance establishing the FY 2027 Real Property Tax Rate. Additionally, they will review and potentially approve the proposed FY 2027 Budget. Significant for many households, the council will also consider ordinances detailing a five-year schedule for water and sewer rates, covering fiscal years 2027 through 2031. Residents should note that these decisions directly impact household expenses related to property taxes and utility bills.

Following the special session, a work session is scheduled to commence at approximately 4:15 p.m. in the same location. This part of the meeting will begin with a proclamation recognizing Haitian Heritage Month. Following this, the council will engage in a preliminary review of upcoming agenda items, allowing for an early look at future topics of discussion.

A key item on the work session agenda at approximately 4:30 p.m. is the Engineering and Capital Projects Program. Nancy Hausrath, Director of Utilities, is slated to present information regarding an application for the Bay Restoration Fund Grant. This grant could potentially fund important environmental and infrastructure projects within the city, details of which are expected to be elaborated upon during the session. The meeting will conclude with comments from the City Administrator and the Mayor and Council, before an anticipated adjournment at 5:00 p.m. All meetings are televised and recorded for public access. Residents can find the full agenda and supporting meeting packet on the city’s official website, http://www.hagerstownmd.org/government/agenda.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the City of Hagerstown.

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