Calvert County officials weigh property tax relief options

Calvert County commissioners are evaluating several proposals to provide property tax relief for residents and local businesses during budget planning for fiscal 2028.

One proposal involves reducing the county’s real property tax rate. Finance officials warned that because property assessments are rising, a rate cut alone might not significantly lower individual tax bills. For example, a 4-cent reduction would cost the county approximately $6.5 million in annual revenue, but rising assessments could still result in higher net bills for some homeowners.

Additionally, officials are considering a property tax credit for child care providers. Following state legislation that expanded local authority on the matter, the county is exploring a credit of up to $10,000 per year for eligible facilities. An analysis suggests approximately 95 properties could qualify, with the total annual cost to the county ranging from roughly $275,000 to $443,000 depending on the credit cap. Local providers noted that such relief could help offset rising operating expenses, though it may not directly lower tuition costs.