Frederick County’s $1.14 Billion Budget Prioritizes Education and Housing Amid Growth

Frederick County Public Schools will receive $63 million for infrastructure updates and new construction, as part of a $500 million budget request fully funded by the county’s $1.14 billion proposal. The county plans to build Linganore Creek Elementary School and renovate Hillcrest and Twin Ridge Elementary Schools, addressing the dual challenges of growing student enrollment and aging facilities. The budget also allocates $3 million for senior housing and aims to expand affordable housing by reviewing policies that limit housing diversity. Frederick County will need 31,000 new housing units by 2035, with 10,000 of those designated for low-income residents. The proposal includes a pilot program to help families enroll four-year-olds in private kindergarten and supports immigrant communities through partnerships with local nonprofits.