FY27 Worcester Budget Maintains 81.5 Cent Property Tax Rate, Increases Education Funding by 8 Percent

Worcester County Commissioners have approved a nearly $300.2 million Fiscal Year 2027 budget that increases funding for education, public safety, and county employees while keeping the property tax rate at 81.5 cents per $100 of assessed value and the local income tax rate at 2.25 percent. The budget includes a record boost for the Board of Education, bringing total funding to about $142 million, along with a $2.8 million increase for the Sheriff’s Office to support staffing, training, and equipment. County employees will also see salary step increases and a $4,000 cost-of-living adjustment. Additional funding goes to fire companies, EMS services, and municipalities, while reserve contributions help maintain the county’s strong financial ratings. The overall spending plan is about 7 percent higher than last year and remains balanced, according to Worcester County government officials.