"We are planning ahead and not pretending that the economy is going to get better," Smith said.
General fund education spending totals $703 million, $30.5 million above the state-required maintenance-of-effort level. With enrollment expected to grow by more than 500 students, the budget allows for the hiring of 46 additional teachers.
"This budget speaks volumes to the strong management that is steering us through turbulent times," said Joe A. Hairston, county superintendent of schools. "It also sends a strong statement that the county is investing in the future of children."
The struggling economy prompted an increase in funding for Social Services programs, including foreclosure counseling, emergency assistance and $500,000 to the Maryland Food Bank.
"That grant to the food bank will help many families who are asking for help for the first time," said Councilman John Olszewski Sr., a Dundalk Democrat. "We still have to build schools, but we have to make sure kids aren't going to school hungry."
Although the $756 million capital fund is about $11 million less than last year, several projects remain on schedule, including $152 million for high school renovations, $6.8 million for the Owings Mills library and $28 million for road repairs.
After a public hearing at 7 p.m. April 28 in council chambers and a public work session on May 4, the council is expected to vote on the budget on May 21, so that it is enacted, in accordance with county charter, by June 1.
"We will scrutinize everything and look for repetition, but this budget is so lean, it will be hard to cut anything," Olszewski said.
