State budget deficit raises concerns in Howard

“I’m very concerned, but in speaking with the governor, his goal is to minimize the impact on local government,” said County Executive Ken Ulman.

“We recognize these are clearly tough economic times for the state and local governments.”

But Councilman Greg Fox, R-District 5, said he would be surprised if the deficit didn’t hurt some county residents, but he wouldn’t speculate on the potential effects.

Projections from state budget officials now show that state revenues are about $432 million lower than originally thought.

“Just about everything will be looked at,” said Del. Elizabeth Bobo, D-Howard.

“But we have to remember that Maryland is not unique. Many states have these shortfalls.”

Yet, some state officials have mentioned that the deficit could limit funding for school construction projects.

During the past two years, Howard was fortunate to receive $41 million in state funding for various school construction projects, more than the county received during the Ehrlich administration.

“At $400 million, the governor will clearly need to make some cuts, but we don’t know where yet,” Ulman said.

However, some Montgomery officials say the state may look toward their wealthy residents to help make up the difference.

Montgomery leaders and state legislators noted that legislators this past fall increased income taxes for all Maryland residents who make more than $150,000, many of whom lived in Montgomery, to help relieve the $1.7 billion budget deficit this past year.

As one of the state’s other most wealthy counties, Howard also has a number of residents who earn more than $150,000.

But it shouldn’t be about wealth, Ulman said.

“My philosophy is that we’re all in this together,” he said.

“We’re in one state and in one region.”

Howard was doing its part to be fiscally responsible, Ulman said, referring to the nearly 60 percent cutback in take-home vehicles for employees, which went into effect earlier this month.

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