Sussex County’s Proposed 2026 Budget

May 29, 2025
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Sussex County officials have proposed a $285.1 million budget for Fiscal Year 2026, marking a 7.3% increase in spending over the previous year. 

Despite this uptick, the county plans to significantly lower the property tax rate, from 44.5 cents to just 2.14 cents per $100 of assessed value, thanks to a countywide reassessment. 

This keeps revenue neutral while making the budget more equitable for residents.

Highlights of the budget include:

  • $76.7 million for wastewater system improvements
  • $7.4 million for farmland and open space preservation
  • $5.8 million for funding 25 supplemental state police troopers
  • $2.4 million to design and build paramedic stations in Dewey Beach, Lincoln, and Milton
  • $6 million to support fire companies and ambulance squads
  • $1.25 million for affordable housing programs

Cautious Revenue Strategy

County officials emphasize a conservative approach to projected revenue, especially from realty transfer taxes, which have been declining over recent years. 

Building-related sources now make up nearly half of the $103 million general fund revenue.

The county budget draws 80% of realty tax projections to avoid overestimation. 

Meanwhile, property tax revenue, contributing 22% of the budget, is expected to increase by $614,000 due to new construction.

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Public Safety and Utility Enhancements

Public safety takes up 44% of the general fund, showing a clear priority in the county’s spending. 

Increased funding for state troopers, local law enforcement, and emergency services underscores this commitment.

The budget also introduces modest fee adjustments:

  • $12 annual increase for sewer service
  • $33 annual increase for unmetered water users
  • $3,000 hike in sewer connection fees

These fee changes will help fund capacity upgrades and enhancements at regional wastewater treatment plants.

Public Input and Final Approval

A public hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17, at the County Administrative Offices in Georgetown. Residents may also submit feedback via email to [email protected].

By law, the County Council must adopt the final budget by June 30.

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Sources: Cape Gazette, Delaware Live