The 2025 legislative session proved challenging with a structural deficit surpassing $3 billion, coupled with tax hikes and federal funding reductions. Nevertheless, Carroll County lawmakers successfully secured substantial funding for eight capital projects. This achievement was made possible through their utilization of Maryland’s state bonding authority, a debt management system involving multiple entities to facilitate bond issuance and management for various purposes.
The all-Republican delegation played a pivotal role in acquiring these funds. Their collaborative efforts with both parties on the Budget Committees facilitated the allocation of resources. The funding was deemed essential for addressing key needs within Carroll County and parts of Frederick County.
- ARC of Carroll County is set to receive $150,000 for the acquisition, planning, design, construction, repair, renovation, reconstruction, and site improvements for two new residences aimed at serving moderate-income individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Carroll County Veterans Independence Project will be allocated $50,000 for the acquisition, planning, design, construction, and renovation of a new bathroom and laundry area at its headquarters in Westminster.
- Eldersburg Elementary School will benefit from $25,000 for a new playground, replacing the current 25-year-old structure with no available warranty or repair parts. This facility will serve nearly 500 students during the school year, as well as children in the community outside school hours.
- The Town of Mount Airy is granted $245,500 for preserving the Flat Iron Building, part of a larger $1.7 million initiative. The first phase, costing $176,000, will address urgent structural and aesthetic concerns, followed by a second phase focused on foundation, wall, and roof repair.
- Mount Airy Police Station is to receive $100,000 for constructing a new facility.
- Union Bridge Fire Company will gain $70,000 to replace aging heating and air conditioning units, which have been in use for over 30 years.
- Union Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8806 receives $50,000 for a new roof installation.
- The City of Westminster is awarded $1 million for broadband infrastructure, facilitating a fiber optic network’s deployment, encompassing acquisition, planning, design, construction, repair, renovation, and site improvements.
The efforts of Carroll’s Delegation were met with pride, reflecting the community’s values and supporting law enforcement, veterans, public education, and volunteer firefighters and EMS professionals. These projects aim to ensure the continued service of these entities to the community for the foreseeable future.
The delegation includes Sen. Justin Ready and Delegates Eric Bouchat, April Rose, and Chris Tomlinson, all representing District 5. Additionally, Sen. Chris West and Del. Josh Stonko serve District 42C.
