WASHINGTON COUNTY APPROVED BUDGET
FY 2026
Election Board – Department 12400
Contact: Barry Jackson
The Washington County Board of Elections is committed to serving as the agent for the federal and state governments to fulfill mandated programs; provide easy access for voter registration; conduct fair and honest elections; encourage citizen awareness of and participation in the election process; and utilizing community resources as a vehicle for publicity and voter education.
Department Description/Function
The Election Board bears the ultimate responsibility for complying with the statutory obligations (Registration and Election Laws of Maryland and regulations contained in Title 33 of the Code of Maryland Regulations {COMAR}). It is also responsible for the administration of elections and voter registration and conducting elections in Washington County that will protect the most fundamental right of citizens in democracy – to vote and have that vote counted.
Goals Fiscal Year 2026
The State Board of Elections is actively seeking procurement of new election pollbooks and voting equipment for the 2026 election cycle, and to update the Maryland Voter records system by 2028. Successfully implement a fourth early voting site. This was an FY2025 goal that is being continued in FY2026 due to the lengthy process for procurement. Promote professional development through the Election Center and Certified Elections Registration Administrator (CERA) Certification to two additional staff members. This is in additional to the FY2025 goal which was met – see below. Provide comprehensive training and professional development opportunities to equip two new election employees with knowledge and skills needed to excel in their roles and contribute effectively to the team. Replace an outdated Election Management System (EMS), to successfully transition to a modernized system that enhances efficiency, ensures accessibility, and empowers all staff to utilize the new system seamlessly. Add three full-time employees to our small staff of seven to support the increasing demands from the State of Maryland for on-going new processes, procedures, and reports to complete. To launch initiatives to strengthen relationships with the community, ensuring transparency, open communication and collaboration. The FY2025 goal to request new staff was partially achieved through the FY2026 budget process which allows the department to move forward with this goal. Invest in staff training and development programs to improve skills, boost morale, and prepare employees for future challenges. Partner with the local school board, home schools, and private schools to promote our Washington County “I Voted” contest for the 2026 election.
Accomplishments Fiscal Year 2025
Met the FY2025 goal of replacing office staff computers to remain compliant with the State of Maryland Department of Information Technology (DoIT) requirements which requires us to replace computers every five years.
2026 Budget Document
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