CHEVERLY BUDGET FIRST READER TONIGHT!

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AmyJean Chung Fry

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May 21, 2026, 10:12:01 AMMay 21
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Let’s talk Budget!


Council voted on May 14, 2026 on the tax rate to be $0.60 from $0.5799. This was lower than the proposed $0.05 cent increase to $0.6299. I voted “no” to the increase because I do not believe that we fully explored places to cut expenditures.


Tonight is our budget meeting for the first reader. I believe there will be opportunity to discuss further cuts and I ask that you come with an open mind and thoughts towards a civil discussion. Please remember that cuts often impact people in very human ways.


I have been explicitly clear that I am not willing to sacrifice personnel or the culture that has been intentionally created by the Mayor and Council for our staff. Cheverly has values, and those values are written out in the 5 Year Strategic Plan.


“WE ARE CHEVERLY: A safe, interconnected, accessible community that is diverse and inclusive of all people and perspectives. Our residents benefit from solid infrastructure, green spaces, and healthy living options that allow them to grow and thrive. Those who live in and around our town have access to shopping, restaurants, parks, and other places to connect and socialize. We take pride in an effective and efficient government and work to ensure those accessing our town’s facilities are met with professionalism and excellent service.”


Much of our vision intersects the community with the town government and its ability to provide services that keep Cheverly safe, with healthy green spaces and community events that keep the community connected.


Services cost money. PERIOD. Costs go up and we are seeing that happen exponentially due to the federal government.


As a county and town that relies on homeowners as the main source of revenue, it will be nearly impossible to not raise taxes even with expenditure cuts moving forward. The County is in no better situation and the MNCPPC tax will go up if things don’t change soon. We need more commercial revenue. We need to find a way to pursue economic development that also benefits our county.


But I digress.


As I have indicated before, I want to have the hard conversation of wants versus needs, but I need neighbors to realize that your “need” may be a “want” for others. Is twice-a-week trash a luxury or a need? Is once-a-week bulk trash a luxury or a need? But let’s talk about…


I have been wanting a food compost program similar to Bowie’s for several years now. When I heard they diverted 5.4 tons and saw how Korea handles their food waste, it was something we put a pin in to discuss once the new Eley Building opened. The opportunity to participate in a pilot program allowed many families to join at no cost with the Town of Edmonton. While it was a limited program, it provided a glimpse of what a food compost program like Compost Crew could look like in Town. This included folks who normally compost in their backyards, but this food compost program includes the added convenience for those who want to compost but may not have the time. It was the first thing I recommended cutting, because I knew it was a want and not a need, and that the cost should not be borne by those who use the service rather than by the town overall.


This is just one example of the things to discuss. What may be something I really want might seem like a non-issue for you, but each resident deserves to be heard and have their opinions treated with respect, because that is a Cheverly value.


I put a lot on the table for discussion the last two meetings and not all those things were discussed thoroughly, so I send this to let you know: first reader is tonight. Feedback welcome. CMW...@Cheverly-MD.gov


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Warmly,


Amy 🫰🏽💜🫶🏽





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