Anne Arundel County leaders are eyeing the state budget woes carefully because increased taxes and spending cuts could strain the county government.
“Whether it?s school construction money or aid to the counties, whatever the state may cut from us will have a major impact on the county,” said County Council Chairman Ronald Dillon. “And we don?t have an avenue to get quick funding because of our tax cap. The special session could be a major, major issue for us.”
The chief concern among the council is cuts to matching state funds for preservation, road construction and school improvements.
If the burden to provide services falls on the county, cuts may be made, council members say. Anne Arundel has a cap on its property tax, limiting its revenue potential.
“It will all depend on what kind of budget is put together, and unfortunately, just when we needed the money the most, it appears [state funding] for the school budget could be cut,” said Councilman Jamie Benoit, D-District 4.
That potential is why some say tax increases should be implemented.
“If we want the state to invest in building more schools, protecting open space and upgrading the transportation infrastructure, the state has to find a way to pay for it,” said Councilman Josh Cohen, D-District 6.
But that sentiment is not shared by all.
“If O?Malley is saying we are at a bare-bone operation of the state government and we needed more money to take care of core activities, I could support that, but I haven?t heard those words spoken yet,” said Councilman Ed Reilly, R-District 7.
Council members, however, appear to be united on their opposition to slots at Laurel Park.
“I think the responsible way to deal with slots is a referendum,” Cohen said. “If [it] goes to the ballot, it should ask if you want slots, and if you want them in your community. I think you?ll get an interesting response.”
