GEORGETOWN, Del. — Sussex County has unveiled a proposed $285.1 million budget for Fiscal Year 2026, a plan that reflects both growth and restraint as southern Delaware continues to expand.
County Administrator Todd F. Lawson presented the budget Tuesday, highlighting increased investments in infrastructure, public safety, and community services. The new budget is up $20 million, or 7.3 percent, over the current year, driven largely by capital improvements to the county’s wastewater systems. However, day-to-day operating expenses under the general fund are rising more modestly—by $4 million or 4.4 percent.
One of the most significant changes is a new, dramatically lower property tax rate: 2.14 cents per $100 of assessed value, down from 44.5 cents. This is the first revision of the tax rate since 1989 and follows a recent court-ordered property reassessment. While the rate is lower, the increase in property values and new construction means overall revenue from property taxes will rise, maintaining what's being described as a “revenue neutral” impact.
“There’s a lot to take in with this year’s budget, but the bottom line is Sussex County continues to deliver the best services at the best possible value,” Lawson said during the County Council meeting.
Key funding highlights in the FY2026 proposal include:
$76.7 million for wastewater upgrades, including expanded treatment plants and new service areas
$7.4 million to preserve open space and farmland
Increased support for 25 supplemental state police troopers, up from $4.6 million to $5.8 million
$2.4 million for designing and building paramedic stations in Dewey Beach, Lincoln, and Milton
$6 million for local fire companies and ambulance squads to help cover operational costs and EMT salaries
$1 million in support for municipalities that provide local law enforcement, up from $920,000
$1.25 million for affordable housing projects, including home repairs and settlement assistance for low-income households
In addition, moderate fee increases are proposed, including a $12 annual sewer fee hike and a $33 annual increase for unmetered water users. Adjustments are also planned for fees related to the Sheriff’s Office, Engineering, and Geographic Information Services.
Revenue for the budget will come from property taxes, realty transfer taxes, permit fees, and various county services.
Council President Doug Hudson credited Lawson and the finance team for crafting a balanced plan under complex circumstances.
“That’s no easy feat, trying to satisfy a lot of competing interests, but this team always seems to pull it off,” Hudson said. “It’s not magic. Just good teamwork and expertise. We appreciate it, and I know the taxpayers do, too.”
The public will have an opportunity to weigh in during a hearing at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17, at the County Administrative Offices building at 2 The Circle in Georgetown. Comments can also be submitted online at budget@sussexcountyde.gov. County Council must adopt the final budget by June 30.
To review the proposed budget and presentation, visit www.sussexcountyde.gov/county-budget.