Business groups and residents urge Montgomery County Council to reject proposed FY27 property and income tax increases

The Montgomery County Council held a public hearing April 21 on proposed FY27 revenue measures, including a proposed 6.3‑cent increase in the real property tax rate and a proposed increase in the county income tax rate from 3.2% to 3.3%. Dozens of residents and business representatives testified in opposition.

Angela Franco, president and CEO of the Montgomery County Chamber, told the council the chamber opposed both proposals and urged the body to reject new tax increases. "The Chamber opposes each of these proposals and we respectfully ask the council to reject both tax increases," Franco said, urging the council to slow the rate of government growth and focus on competitiveness and affordability. Franco cited budget growth from about $4.99 billion in 2015 to roughly $7.66 billion in 2026 as a core driver of the fiscal pressure the county faces.

Small-business owners and trade groups echoed those concerns. Jackie Bennett, speaking for the Greater Capital Association of Realtors, warned of a structural deficit and argued that raising property taxes would hit middle‑class families hardest. Several residents, including long‑time homeowners and retirees, described steep increases in their property tax bills and urged protection for seniors on fixed incomes. One resident, Glenn Wright, said he had lived in Montgomery County for 70 years and documented a 66.5% increase in his property tax over the last seven years.

Speakers also recommended shifting away from property tax reliance toward more progressive local income taxation or other structural reforms. Paul Salatin asked the council to consider the property tax’s effects on liquidity and affordability and recommended a move toward a progressive income tax system.

The public hearing was closed at the end of the speakers list. The council noted a Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee work session on April 29, 2026, and asked that written materials for council consideration be submitted by the close of business April 22, 2026. No council vote occurred during the hearing; the testimony will inform upcoming budget deliberations.