Baltimore Unveils $3.9B Budget Proposal for FY2027

Mayor Scott's plan focuses on youth, community services, and public safety

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:37pm

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Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has unveiled the city's $3.9 billion budget proposal for fiscal year 2027, a 5.9% increase over the previous year. The plan prioritizes investments in youth programs, early childhood education, immigrant communities, and public safety initiatives like replacing a police station and expanding graffiti removal. The mayor says the budget remains focused on the future despite federal funding uncertainties.

Why it matters

Baltimore's budget reflects the mayor's priorities to support vulnerable communities, improve quality of life, and invest in the city's long-term future. With concerns about federal funding, the budget proposal demonstrates the city's commitment to core services and programs that address pressing local needs.

The details

The $3.9 billion operating budget and $1 billion capital plan include funding to expand pre-K and early childhood programs, provide 8,500 summer jobs through YouthWorks, support immigrant communities, and open two renovated recreation centers. The plan also allocates $35 million to replace the Northeastern District police station and add positions to the city's graffiti removal program. Additionally, the mayor announced plans to build a new state-of-the-art sports facility with an indoor track, basketball, and volleyball courts.

  • The FY2027 budget proposal was unveiled on April 1, 2026.
  • City agencies will present their budget proposals and residents can share feedback during Taxpayer Night on April 22, 2026.
  • A virtual town hall is scheduled for April 6, 2026, and a community budget forum will take place on April 15, 2026.

The players

Brandon Scott

The mayor of Baltimore who presented the FY2027 budget proposal, focusing on investments in youth, community services, and public safety.

Bob Cenamme

The city's deputy budget director who provided details on the $3.9 billion operating plan and $1 billion capital plan.

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What they’re saying

“When you are in tough times, you focus your priorities and make them work in some way.”

— Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore

“I will say this is something much-needed. From all of the messages I receive from coaches and athletes, it will be well received in Baltimore.”

— Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore

What’s next

City residents can provide additional feedback on the budget proposal during the Taxpayer Night event on April 22, 2026. The city will also host virtual and in-person town halls in the coming weeks to gather public input.

The takeaway

Baltimore's FY2027 budget proposal reflects the mayor's focus on supporting the city's youth, vulnerable communities, and public safety initiatives, despite concerns about uncertain federal funding. The plan's investments in core services and quality-of-life improvements aim to address pressing local needs and position Baltimore for long-term success.