Prince George’s and Montgomery County lawmakers, convening virtually for the annual Bi-County Budget meeting on Thursday, May 7, 2020, unanimously adopted the FY 21 budgets for WSSC Water; the bi-county portion of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC); and the Washington Suburban Transit Commission (WSTC). The Fiscal Year 2021 Bi-County budgets are effective July 1, 2020.
Prince George’s County Council Chair Todd M. Turner (D) – District 4, commended the work and partnership of both councils in this year’s bi-county budget process.
“Local budgets continue to be challenged by the impact of the pandemic on our region. Our joint commitment to this important bi-county budget work has resulted in the successful adoption of new FY 2021 spending plans for our bi-county agencies. Today’s joint action by both councils reflects several difficult decisions in response to the economic reality we are facing in light of COVID-19. I appreciate the willingness of my colleagues from both counties to work collaboratively on behalf of our residents.”
Montgomery County Council President Sidney Katz noted the collaborative efforts between counties on behalf or residents in both jurisdictions.
“The worldwide pandemic has taken its toll locally. The decisions made today by the county councils of both jurisdictions reflect the need to hold the line on budgets and uphold continuity of service budgets in every aspect of our decisions. I want to thank our colleagues in the neighboring Prince George’s County Council on their collaboration in providing the same level of services our communities deserve.”
During Thursday’s joint session, both Councils agreed to a WSSC Operating Budget of $849.7 million and a Capital Budget of $606.7 million for the utility, which includes funding to replace water mains and invest in new technologies; continue upgrades to more energy efficient equipment and systems; and increase the affordability of services for ratepayers and residents. The approved budget included a reduction in proposed rates from the proposed WSSC Operating Budget.
Pursuant to the County Charter, the County Council, in its role as fiscal authority, must adopt a new and balanced spending plan for Prince George’s County on or before June 1. Visit the Council’s FY 2021 Budget Portal for budget updates.
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