(a)      The Council may receive State financial support to assist in carrying out its activities.

            (1)      On or before August 1 of each year, the Council shall submit to the Department of Business and Economic Development its proposed work programs and operating budget for the following fiscal year, together with supporting schedules to show that the budget is financed, and to provide for review and recommendations. It is then forwarded to the Department of Budget and Management for consideration.

            (2)      Provision shall be made in the State budget for the ensuing fiscal year for an appropriation to partially support the Council. However, the State's contribution is subject to annual review by the General Assembly.

      (b)      The Council and its activities may be financed cooperatively by the State of Maryland and Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's counties and may avail itself of additional funds from any other public or private source.

            (1)      The commissioners of Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's counties annually shall appropriate the following sums for the use of the Council:

                  (i)      Calvert County shall contribute $7,000;

                  (ii)      Charles County shall contribute $9,000; and

                  (iii)      St. Mary's County shall contribute $9,000.

            (2)      These appropriated sums shall be used for the purpose of fostering cooperative planning and development in the tri-county region.

            (3)      The commissioners of Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's counties may appropriate any other moneys as is necessary and appropriate.