FY2026 Operating and Capital Budgets

FY2026 Proposed Budget Strategic Framework Strategic Framework ü LIVABLE FREDERICK: Vision, 20 years and beyond

With the adoption of the Livable Frederick Master Plan (LFMP) in September 2019, Frederick County created a new framework for making strategic decisions about the County’s future. The Livable Frederick Comprehensive Plan serves as an umbrella under which a multitude of plans, policies, studies, and regulations are continuously emerging and evolving . The plan ensures that Frederick County grows well, preserving our rich history and cultural amenities, while delivering a vibrant economy and a high quality of life. Livable Frederick starts with a shared community vision and considers the outcome of our choices on how we live, work, and play. For the first time, the plan fully evaluates our land use choices, and their impacts on transportation, incorporates health, a growing senior population, and attracting, and retaining a well-educated, creative, and engaged workforce. The shared vision is vividly described…. “ Frederick County Is A Vibrant And Unique Community Where People Live, Work, And Thrive While Enjoying A Strong Sense Of Place And Belonging.” ü PRIORITIES: strategic plan, now through 2026 The STRATEGIC GOALS AND INITIATIVES provide direction for County operations and decision making through 2026. Livable Frederick will continue to guide our future through its continued implementation. By 2026, County Executive Fitzwaterwill leave a legacy of outstanding schools, safe communities, a vibrant economy, and a high quality of life; built on a strong foundation of honest, transparent, and engaging government. The County government will be accountable, inclusive, sustainable, and the continuity of operations will ensure a smooth transition for future leadership, and decades of future success.

The STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK describes our shared VISION and sets out the STRATEGIC GOALS AND INITIATIVES that guide us to a bright and prosperous future for Frederick County. These priorities cascade down through each division of County government fostering organizational alignment for success. In the fall of 2024, County Executive Fitzwater and Division Directors participated in targeted goal planning exercises. Ten of the STRATEGIC GOALS AND INITIATIVES were identified to be key priority focus areas for future divisional strategic planning. County Executive Guiding Principles ACCOUNTABILITY

Frederick County Government uses our resources wisely and ensures a high quality of life for our residents through our parks, schools, libraries, senior centers, transit, and other community amenities. INCLUSION Frederick County is a place where everyone can live, work, and thrive – a place where all residents feel a strong sense of belonging. SUSTAINABILITY Frederick County has a responsibility to make our community and our world a better place for all. Frederick County preserves and protects our historic and agricultural heritage, our cultural amenities, and our strong sense of belonging and community.

13