Though the 2025 legislative session was marked by a structural deficit of more than $3 billion, tax increases and federal funding cuts, Carroll County lawmakers were able to secure thousands of dollars in funding for eight capital projects.
The all-Republican delegation secured funding for these projects using its state bonding authority. In Maryland, the state bonding authority, or debt management system, involves several entities and programs that facilitate the issuance and management of bonds for various purposes.
“The resources we were able to bring back home for these important local projects are a product of outstanding teamwork and communication between our delegation and legislators on the Budget Committees in both parties,” Sen. Justin Ready of District 5 stated in a news release. “I am glad that we were able to work together to ensure that some of these key needs in Carroll County, as well as the District 5 portion of Frederick County, were addressed.”
The following projects in Carroll County received funding:
• ARC of Carroll County to receive $150,000 for the acquisition, planning, design, construction, repair, renovation, reconstruction and site improvements for two new residences specifically designed to serve moderate-income individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Carroll County Veterans Independence Project to receive $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 to receive $25,000 for a new playground. The playground is 25 years old and the warranty has expired; many parts needed to make repairs are no longer available. The new playground will be used by almost 500 students during the school year, and children in the community outside of school hours.
• Town of Mount Airy to receive $245,500 for the preservation of the Flat Iron Building. This funding is part of a multi-phase initiative with an overall cost of $1.7 million. The first phase of the project will determine critical structural and aesthetic concerns and cost $176,000. The second phase will focus on repairing and fortifying the foundation, external walls and roof.
• Mount Airy Police Station to receive $100,000 for the construction of a new station.
• Union Bridge Fire Company to receive $70,000 to replace heating and air conditioning units that are more than 30 years old.
• Union Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8806 to receive $50,000 for a new roof.
• The City of Westminster to receive $1 million for broadband infrastructure. This funding will help to bring a fiber optic network to Westminster. This includes acquisition, planning, design, construction, repair, renovation and site improvements.
“I am proud of the work that Carroll’s Delegation was able to accomplish throughout this legislative session to secure funding for organizations and causes that truly represent the values of our constituents …” Del. Chris Tomlinson of District 5 said. “Our friends and neighbors are overwhelmingly supportive of law enforcement, veterans, public education, and volunteer firefighters and EMS professionals. These projects will ensure that these organizations, entities and individuals are able to continue serving our community for years to come.”
The delegation includes Ready and Dels. Eric Bouchat, April Rose and Tomlinson, all representing District 5. Sen. Chris West and Del. Josh Stonko represent District 42C.
Have a news tip? Contact Sherry Greenfield at sgreenfield@baltsun.com, 240-315-7029.