Baltimore public meetings in 2021

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hold a public hearing regarding Bill 21-0172. The proposed legislation seeks to revive the Baltimore City Urban Homesteading Program for legacy residents to revitalize neighborhoods.

• Public hearing for the Baltimore City Legacy Residents - Urban Homesteading Program (Bill 21-0172)

The Committee of the Whole held a public hearing on Bill 21-0172, which would revive Baltimore's Urban Homesteading Program for legacy residents. The item was recessed, meaning no vote or decision was made. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no substantive actions taken.

• Public hearing held on 21-0172 (Urban Homesteading Program)
• Item 21-0172 recessed without a vote

• Baltimore City Legacy Residents - Urban Homesteading Program

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is holding a public hearing regarding the Baltimore City Home Repairs Grant Program. The item covers establishing program purpose, eligibility criteria, and types of assistance provided.

• Public hearing for the Baltimore City Home Repairs Grant Program (Item 21-0173)

The Committee of the Whole held a public hearing on Bill 21-0173, which would establish the Baltimore City Home Repairs Grant Program. No vote was taken; the item was recessed, meaning it was not decided or approved.

• Public hearing held on Baltimore City Home Repairs Grant Program (21-0173)
• Item recessed without a vote

• Baltimore City Home Repairs Grant Program

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hold a public hearing regarding the Baltimore City Senior Homeowners Grant Program. The proposal seeks to establish the program's purpose, eligibility criteria, and the types of assistance provided.

• Public hearing for the Baltimore City Senior Homeowners Grant Program (21-0174)

The Committee of the Whole held a public hearing on Bill 21-0174, which would establish the Baltimore City Senior Homeowners Grant Program. The bill was recessed, meaning no vote was taken and no final decision was made. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no other substantive actions.

• Held public hearing on 21-0174 (Senior Homeowners Grant Program)
• Recessed Bill 21-0174 without a vote

Ways and Means

The committee will hold a public hearing on a proposed charter amendment to establish the Supplementary Criminal Apprehension and Conviction Fund. This fund would provide rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of criminal suspects. The amendment also includes provisions for oversight and will be submitted to voters for approval.

• Charter Amendment - Supplementary Criminal Apprehension and Conviction Fund (21-0112)

The Ways and Means Committee voted 4-3 to recommend favorably with amendment a charter amendment that would create a continuing, nonlapsing Supplementary Criminal Apprehension and Conviction Fund. The fund would be used exclusively to supplement rewards for information leading to the apprehension, arrest, and conviction of criminal suspects. The amendment now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorably with amendment Charter Amendment 21-0112 (4-3)

Baltimore City Council

The Council is reviewing several supplementary appropriations to fund pandemic-related expenses across various departments, including health and public works. Other items include new real property tax installment plans and updates to whistleblower protections.

• $22,620,168 for vaccine administration and food insecurity programs
• $15,200,000 for hotel sheltering expenses due to COVID-19
• New monthly installment plans for real property taxes
• Repeal of the Port Covington Planned Unit Development ordinance
• Naming 199 North Caroline Street as Dante Barksdale Square

• Street Encroachment - 1707 Eastern Avenue
  1707 Eastern Avenue
• Repeal of Ordinance 90-425 - Port Covington Planned Unit Development
  Port Covington
• Closing of Etting Street and four 10 Foot Alleys
  Etting Street and four 10 Foot Alleys bounded by Druid Hill
• City Property - Grant of Easements
  Dulaney Valley Road, Loch Raven Reservoir
• RPP Area 26 (Campbell Lane) - Revisions
  Campbell Lane

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is reviewing proposals to establish a Suicide Prevention Coordinator and a workgroup for women in public safety. The agenda also includes zoning changes for multi-unit conversions and investigations into eviction procedures. Additionally, the council will vote on renaming Calverton Elementary/Middle School.

• Establishment of a Suicide Prevention Coordinator within the Health Department
• Creation of a Baltimore City Workgroup on Women in Public Safety
• Zoning variance for 2044 Walbrook Avenue to convert a single-family home into 8 units
• Renaming Calverton Elementary/Middle School to Katherine Johnson Global Academy
• Investigative hearing regarding Sheriff’s Office eviction procedures

• Conditional use conversion of single-family dwelling to 2 units with bulk variance
  1049 Brantley Avenue · 2 units
• Conditional use conversion of single-family dwelling to 8 units with bulk variances
  2044 Walbrook Avenue · 8 units
• Conditional use conversion of single-family dwelling to 3 units with bulk variance
  1635 Gwynns Falls Parkway · 3 units
• Sale of City property at 900-912 Baltic Avenue
  900-912 Baltic Avenue
• Sale of City property at 1996 S Hanover Street
  1996 S Hanover Street
• Sale of City property at 606 South Ann Street
  606 South Ann Street

Committee of the Whole

The Minority and Women's Business Opportunity Office (MWBOO) will provide a briefing on procedures, processes, and recommendations for establishing equity within city contracts. This item is part of legislative oversight LO21-0016.

• Briefing on MWBOO management and contract equity

The Committee of the Whole held a public hearing on LO21-0016, a legislative oversight item on pursuing equity in city contracts through the Minority and Women's Business Opportunity Office (MWBOO). The hearing was completed, with no vote or decision recorded. The minutes list attendance and adjournment only.

• Hearing on LO21-0016 completed; no action taken.

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding quarterly oversight of the American Rescue Plan. This includes monitoring the disbursement and management of $641 million in federal funding intended to address the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Public hearing for American Rescue Plan quarterly oversight hearings
• Oversight of $641 million in federal funds from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund

The Ways and Means Committee met and considered Resolution 21-0062R, which calls for quarterly oversight hearings on the city's $641 million in federal American Rescue Plan funds. The public hearing on the resolution was recessed, meaning no final action was taken. No other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Hearing on Resolution 21-0062R (ARP oversight) recessed

• American Rescue Plan Quarterly Oversight Hearings
  $641.0M

Baltimore City Council

The Council is reviewing several newly introduced ordinances, including programs for home repairs and senior homeowner grants. The agenda also includes requests for investigative hearings regarding police disciplinary processes and the ShotSpotter program.

• Introduction of Baltimore City Home Repairs and Senior Homeowners Grant Programs
• Rezoning of 4900 Boston Street from I-2 to IMU-2
• Request for an investigative hearing on the Baltimore Police Department disciplinary process
• Proposed renaming of Tench Tilghman Elementary/Middle School to Beatrice “Bea” Gaddy Elementary/Middle School
• Establishment of a new Zero Waste Commission

• Rezone 4900 Boston Street from I-2 to IMU-2
  4900 Boston Street
• Rezone 605 South Caton Avenue from C-2 to I-2
  605 South Caton Avenue
• Amend Urban Renewal Plan for Canton Industrial Area
  Canton Industrial Area

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a budget briefing regarding the Bureau of Budget and Management Research's first quarter projection. This oversight item concerns the allocation of over a billion dollars in public funding for Baltimore City Public Schools.

• LO21-0003: Bureau of Budget and Management Research - 1st Quarter Projection
• Budget briefing for Baltimore City Public Schools

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and took attendance, with seven members present. The only scheduled item, a budget briefing on Baltimore City Public Schools oversight (LO21-0003), was heard and then recessed without any vote or decision. No substantive actions were taken.

• Held public hearing on LO21-0003 (school budget oversight), then recessed

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing for item 21-0154. The proposal seeks to authorize the Mayor and City Council to sell the property located at 1201 North Rosedale Street because it is no longer needed for public use.

• Public hearing for the sale of 1201 North Rosedale Street

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorably Ordinance 21-0154, which authorizes the sale of city-owned property at 1201 North Rosedale Street. The property is no longer needed for public use. The recommendation passed 7-0.

• Recommended favorably Ordinance 21-0154, sale of 1201 N. Rosedale St. (7-0)

• Sale of Property - 1201 North Rosedale Street — introduced
  1201 North Rosedale Street

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding an extension for the historic improvement tax credit application period. The proposal also includes provisions for a special effective date.

• Public hearing on extending applications for historic improvement tax credits (21-0168)

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously (7-0) to recommend favorably Ordinance 21-0168, which extends the application period for the historic improvement tax credit. The ordinance now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorably Ordinance 21-0168, extending historic improvement tax credit application period (7-0)

• Tax Credits - Historic Properties - Application Extension

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding Bill 21-0167. The item proposes extending the period during which applications may be accepted for the citywide High-Performance Market-Rate Rental Housing Tax Credit.

• Public hearing for High-Performance Market-Rate Rental Housing Tax Credit application extension (Bill 21-0167)

The Ways and Means Committee voted 6-1 to recommend favorable passage, with amendments, of Ordinance 21-0167, which extends the application period for the High-Performance Market-Rate Rental Housing Tax Credit citywide. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable with amendments for Ordinance 21-0167 (6-1)

• High-Performance Market-Rate Rental Housing Tax Credit - Citywide - Application Extension

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is reviewing an application extension for the High-Performance Newly Constructed Dwellings Tax Credit. The proposal seeks to extend the timeframe for accepting applications and set a special effective date.

• Application extension for High-Performance Newly Constructed Dwellings Tax Credit (21-0169)

The Ways and Means Committee voted 6-1 to recommend favorable approval, with amendments, of Ordinance 21-0169, which extends the application period for the High-Performance Newly Constructed Dwellings Tax Credit. The ordinance now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable with amendments for Ordinance 21-0169 (6-1)

• High-Performance Newly Constructed Dwellings Tax Credit - Application Extension

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a legislative oversight hearing regarding the first quarter projection for Baltimore City Public Schools. The proceeding is intended to address transparency and accountability in the allocation of over one billion dollars in public funding.

• LO21-0003: Baltimore City Public School System 1st Quarter Projection public hearing

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and recessed the public hearing on legislative oversight LO21-0003, which concerns regular budget oversight hearings for Baltimore City Public Schools. No substantive decisions were made; the hearing was recessed and the meeting adjourned.

• Recessed public hearing on LO21-0003 (school budget oversight)

Committee of the Whole

The Minority and Women's Business Opportunity Office (MWBOO) will brief the council regarding procedures, processes, and recommendations for city contracts. This item is scheduled for a public hearing.

• Public hearing briefing on pursuing equity in city contracts (LO21-0016)

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is reviewing several rezoning requests and property use changes across the city. The agenda also includes a proposal to require employment plans for certain large-scale government-assisted construction projects. Additionally, members will discuss school lunches and new labor trafficking notice requirements for contractors.

• Employment plan requirements for construction contracts of $5 million or more
• Rezoning of 1214-1220 Hull Street from R-8 to O-R-1
• Renaming James Mosher Elementary School to Billie Holiday Elementary School
• Permitting retail goods establishments with alcohol at 2600 North Howard Street
• Labor trafficking prevention notice requirements for city contractors

• Rezone 1214-1220 Hull Street from R-8 to O-R-1
  1214-1220 Hull Street
• Rezone Block 6458, Lot 004 and Block PSC0, Lot 085 from I-2 to R-8
• Conditional Use Retail Goods Establishment (With Alcoholic Beverages Sales) at 2600 North Howard Street
  2600 North Howard Street
• Rezone 1201 Dundalk Avenue from R-3 to C-2
  1201 Dundalk Avenue
• Conditional Use Retail Goods Establishment (With Alcoholic Beverages Sales) at 3901/3975 Boston Street
  3901 Boston Street (also known as 3975 Boston Street)
• Rezone 1103-1109 North Washington Street from R-8 to IMU-1
  1103-1109 North Washington Street
• Rezone multiple properties along Harford Road from R-3 to C-2
  2508-2658 Harford Road and NWS Harford Road 172 Ft SW of Mon

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a budget briefing regarding the Baltimore City Public Schools Fiscal Year 2021 closeout. The Director of the Finance Department's Bureau of Budget and Management Research will present how actual finances compare to budget projections.

• Budget briefing for Baltimore City Public Schools FY2021 closeout

The Ways and Means Committee held a virtual hearing on October 26, 2021, for Legislative Oversight LO21-0003, a budget briefing on Baltimore City Public Schools' Fiscal Year 2021 closeout. The hearing was called to recess with no substantive decisions made. Attendance included seven council members.

• Hearing on LO21-0003 (schools FY2021 closeout) called to recess

Ways and Means

The committee is holding a public hearing on Ordinance 21-0121 regarding the management of federal recovery funds. The ordinance would require the Department of Finance to provide regular reports and equity assessments on the disbursement of $641 million in funding.

• Public hearing for Ordinance 21-0121 regarding American Rescue Plan funds oversight
• Proposed monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting on $641 million in federal funding

The Ways and Means Committee voted 5-1 to recommend favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0121, which would require the Director of Finance to provide monthly reports, quarterly briefings, equity assessments, and annual reports on the disbursement of $641 million in federal American Rescue Plan funds. Councilmember Dorsey voted no, and Councilmember Burnett abstained due to a conflict of interest. The ordinance now moves to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0121 (5-1, 1 abstention)
• Ordinance 21-0121 requires monthly reports, quarterly briefings, equity assessments, and annual reports on ARP funds

• American Rescue Plan Funds - Performance Oversight
  $641.0M

Committee of the Whole

The Baltimore City Council Committee of the Whole scheduled a public hearing for item LO21-0014. This session serves as a quarterly community forum for the Consent Decree Monitoring Team.

• Quarterly Community Forum of the Consent Decree Monitoring Team (LO21-0014)

The Committee of the Whole met virtually for a public hearing on LO21-0014, the Quarterly Community Forum of the Consent Decree Monitoring Team. The hearing was recessed to reconvene at the next quarterly meeting, with no substantive decisions made.

• Held public hearing on LO21-0014 (Quarterly Community Forum of the Consent Decree)
• Recessed hearing to next quarterly meeting

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a charter amendment to establish a Supplementary Criminal Apprehension and Conviction Fund. This fund would be used for rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of criminal suspects. The amendment also addresses the administration and oversight of the fund by the Mayor and City Council.

• Charter Amendment - Supplementary Criminal Apprehension and Conviction Fund (21-0112)

The Ways and Means Committee held a public hearing on Charter Amendment 21-0112, which would create a continuing, nonlapsing Supplementary Criminal Apprehension and Conviction Fund to supplement rewards for information leading to criminal apprehension and conviction. The hearing was recessed to a later date, with no decision made.

• Recessed public hearing on Charter Amendment 21-0112 (no vote taken)

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is reviewing an item to authorize the Mayor and City Council to sell certain property via public or private sale. The land, located at NES Broening Highway 844-1 ft. SE of Colgate Creek, is no longer needed for public use.

• Public hearing regarding the sale of Block 6997, Lot 002 near NES Broening Highway

The Ways and Means Committee voted to recommend favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0091, which authorizes the sale of city-owned property at Block 6997, Lot 002, located northeast of Broening Highway and southeast of Colgate Creek. The property is no longer needed for public use. The motion carried 7-0.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0091 for sale of property at Block 6997, Lot 002 (7-0)

• Sale of Property - Block 6997, Lot 002
  NES Broening Highway 844-1 ft. SE of Colgate Creek (Block 69

Baltimore City Council

The Council is considering several large budget appropriations for pandemic-related health, security, and food security programs. The agenda also includes proposed legislation for tax credit extensions, rezoning requests, and investigative hearings regarding BGE operations.

• $22,620,168 appropriation to the Department of Health for vaccine administration and sheltering
• $15,200,000 appropriation to the Department of Health for hotel sheltering expenses
• $4,300,000 appropriation to DHCD for business assistance and PPE grants
• Rezoning of Block 3635, Lot 055 from C-4 to C-1
• Request for an investigative hearing regarding Baltimore Gas & Electric decision making

• Rezone Block 3635, Lot 055 from C-4 to C-1
  Block 3635, Lot 055

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is reconvening a hearing regarding the designation of the North Harbor District as an Area of Special Sign Control. The session focuses on reviewing an application from the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore.

• Designation of North Harbor District as an Area of Special Sign Control (21-0118)
• Application by Downtown Partnership of Baltimore

The Ways and Means Committee voted 6-0 to recommend Ordinance 21-0118 favorably with amendments. The ordinance would approve the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore's application to designate an Area of Special Sign Control for the North Harbor District. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council.

• Recommended Ordinance 21-0118 favorable with amendments (6-0)

• Area of Special Sign Control - Designation - North Harbor
  North Harbor District

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a $600,000 supplementary appropriation for the Board of Elections. This funding is intended to cover additional printing and security expenditures resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $600,000 appropriation for Board of Elections printing and security

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a $600,000 supplementary appropriation for the Board of Elections, covering additional printing and security costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The motion was made by member Dorsey and seconded by member Stokes Sr. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0126, $600K for Board of Elections (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Board of Elections
  $600,000

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing regarding a $600,000 appropriation to the Department of General Services. The funds are intended to cover additional City building security costs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Public hearing for $600,000 appropriation to the Department of General Services
• Funding for increased City building security costs due to COVID-19

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0127, which provides a $600,000 supplementary appropriation to the Department of General Services for additional building security costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation advances the ordinance to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0127, $600K for DGS security (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of General Services
  $600,000

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is reviewing a supplementary appropriation of $12,383.02 to the Department of General Services. This funding is intended for Community Action Program building improvement expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $12,383.02 appropriation for Department of General Services building improvements

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0128, a supplementary general fund appropriation of $12,383.02 to the Department of General Services for COVID-19-related building improvements at a Community Action Program facility. The motion was made by member Stokes and seconded by member McCray. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0128, $12,383.02 for General Services COVID repairs (unanimous)

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a $3,100,000 supplementary appropriation to the Department of General Services. This funding is intended to cover food security program expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Public hearing for $3,100,000 appropriation to the Department of General Services
• Funding for food security program expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0129, which provides a $3.1 million supplementary appropriation to the Department of General Services for food security program expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0129, $3.1M for food security programs (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of General Services
  $3.1M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding an $8,933,951.06 appropriation to the Department of Health. The funds are intended for pandemic response personnel, contact tracing, and testing expenses.

• $8,933,951.06 appropriation for Department of Health COVID-19 response

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0130, which would provide a supplementary general fund appropriation of $8,933,951.06 to the Department of Health for pandemic response personnel, contact tracing, and testing expenses. The recommendation advances the ordinance to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0130 for $8,933,951.06 COVID-19 health funding (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Health
  $8.9M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a $22,620,168 appropriation to the Department of Health. The funds are intended for COVID-19 related expenses, including vaccine administration, personnel, and quarantine costs.

• $22,620,168 appropriation for Department of Health - Service 315
• Funding for older adult food insecurity programs
• Funding for vaccine administration and personnel
• Funding for COVID-19 sheltering and quarantine expenses

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0131, a supplementary general fund appropriation of $22,620,168 for the Department of Health. The funds cover older adult food insecurity programs, vaccine administration and personnel, and sheltering and quarantine expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0131, $22,620,168 for Department of Health COVID-19 expenses (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Health
  $22.6M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a $15,200,000 supplementary appropriation to the Department of Health. This funding is intended to cover hotel sheltering expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $15,200,000 appropriation for Department of Health hotel sheltering expenses

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a $15.2 million supplementary appropriation for the Department of Health to cover hotel sheltering costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ordinance now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0132, a $15.2M supplementary appropriation for the Department of Health (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Health
  $15.2M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a $4,300,000 supplementary appropriation for the Department of Housing and Community Development. The funds are intended for business assistance, PPE grants, and design work expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $4,300,000 appropriation for the Department of Housing and Community Development
• Funding for business retention, expansion, and attraction services

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0133, which provides a $4.3 million supplementary appropriation to the Department of Housing and Community Development for COVID-19 business assistance, including direct aid, PPE grants, and design work. The recommendation now goes to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0133 (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Housing and Community Development
  $4.3M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a $7,100,000 appropriation to the Department of Planning. This funding is intended for food security expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $7,100,000 appropriation for Department of Planning food security expenses

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend approval of Ordinance 21-0134, a $7.1 million supplementary appropriation to the Department of Planning for food security expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The motion was made by member Stokes and seconded by member Burnett. The recommendation now goes to the full City Council.

• Recommended Favorable: Ordinance 21-0134, $7,100,000 supplementary appropriation to Department of Planning for COVID-19 food security expenses (unanimous vote)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Planning
  $7.1M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a $5,107,420 appropriation for the Department of Planning. This funding is intended to cover food security program expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $5,107,420 appropriation for Department of Planning food security programs
• Public hearing for item 21-0135

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a $5,107,420 supplementary appropriation to the Department of Planning for food security programs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation moves the ordinance to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0135, $5,107,420 for food security programs (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Planning
  $5.1M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is reviewing a $600,000 supplementary appropriation for the Department of Public Works. This funding is intended to cover overtime expenses in Waste Removal and Recycling resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $600,000 appropriation for Department of Public Works (Waste Removal and Recycling)

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0136, which would provide a $600,000 supplementary appropriation to the Department of Public Works for overtime expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The item was the only one scheduled for public hearing and was approved without opposition.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0136, $600K DPW overtime appropriation (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Public Works - $600,000
  $600,000

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing regarding a supplementary appropriation for the Department of Public Works. The funding is intended to cover solid waste contractor and collection routing software expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $1,630,015.63 appropriation for Department of Public Works waste removal and recycling services

The Ways and Means Committee unanimously recommended favorable action on Ordinance 21-0137, which provides a $1,630,015.63 supplementary appropriation to the Department of Public Works for solid waste contractor and collection routing software expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The motion was made by member Stokes, Sr., seconded by member Burnett, and carried unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended favorable action on Ordinance 21-0137 (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Public Works
  $1.6M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing for a supplementary general fund operating appropriation. The $2,350,000 request is intended to fund the operation of two fire suppression companies within Service 602.

• $2,350,000 supplementary appropriation for Fire Department Service 602
• Funding for the cost of operating 2 fire suppression companies

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend Ordinance 21-0138 favorably, which would provide a $2,350,000 supplementary general fund appropriation to the Fire Department for operating two fire suppression companies. The item was the only one scheduled for public hearing and now moves forward from the committee.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0138, $2.35M Fire Department appropriation (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Fire Department
  $2.4M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding an appropriation for the Fire Department. The proposed funding would cover first responder quarantine costs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $114,009 appropriation for Fire Department quarantine costs (Item 21-0139)

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0139, which provides a $114,009 supplementary appropriation to the Fire Department for first responder quarantine costs related to COVID-19. The item was the only one scheduled for public hearing and will now go to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0139, $114,009 for Fire Department COVID quarantine costs (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Fire Department
  $114,009

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is reviewing a proposed supplementary appropriation of $12,684,471.33 for the Fire Department. The funding is intended for Emergency Medical Services (Service 609), personal protective equipment, and building improvements related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $12,684,471.33 appropriation for Fire Department EMS, PPE, and building improvements

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0140, which would provide a supplementary appropriation of $12,684,471.33 to the Fire Department for Emergency Medical Services, personal protective equipment, and building improvements related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation now goes to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0140, $12,684,471.33 Fire Department COVID-19 appropriation (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Fire Department
  $12.7M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a supplementary appropriation for the Liquor License Board. The proposed funding is intended to cover telework technology expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $104,264.17 appropriation for Liquor License Board telework technology

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0141, which would provide a $104,264.17 supplementary appropriation to the Liquor License Board for telework technology expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation now goes to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0141, $104,264.17 for Liquor License Board telework tech (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Liquor License Board
  $104,264

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is reviewing a supplementary appropriation for the Mayoralty. The proposal provides $50,304.90 to fund community outreach by the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MIMA) following the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $50,304.90 appropriation for Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs community outreach

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0142, a supplementary appropriation of $50,304.90 to the Mayoralty for community outreach by the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MIMA) related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The motion was made by member Dorsey and seconded by member Burnett. The item was the only substantive matter on the agenda.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0142, $50,304.90 supplementary appropriation for MIMA COVID-19 outreach (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Mayoralty
  $50,305

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a $5,000,000 supplementary appropriation. The funds are intended for Convention Sales and Tourism Marketing to cover expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $5,000,000 appropriation for Civic Promotion (Convention Sales and Tourism Marketing)

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0143, which would provide a $5,000,000 supplementary appropriation for tourism support and messaging expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation now goes to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0143 (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Mayoralty Related - Civic Promotion
  $5.0M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a $2,500,000 supplementary appropriation for the Convention Center Hotel. This funding is intended to cover debt service expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $2,500,000 appropriation for Convention Center Hotel debt service

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0144, which would provide a $2.5 million supplementary appropriation to cover debt service for the Convention Center Hotel due to COVID-19. The recommendation advances the ordinance to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0144, $2.5M for Convention Center Hotel debt service (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Convention Center Hotel
  $2.5M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a supplementary appropriation for the Convention Complex. The proposed funds are intended to cover building safety and technology improvement expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $1,499,509.74 appropriation for Convention Complex building safety and technology improvements

The Ways and Means Committee recommended a favorable vote on Ordinance 21-0145, which provides a $1,499,509.74 supplementary appropriation for the Convention Center to fund building safety and technology improvements related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The motion passed unanimously. The ordinance now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended Favorable: Ordinance 21-0145, a $1,499,509.74 supplementary appropriation for the Convention Center for COVID-related safety and technology improvements, passed unanimously.

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Convention Complex
  $1.5M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a $4,000,000 appropriation. This funding is intended for the M-R: Educational Grants Program to provide support for childcare providers following the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $4,000,000 appropriation for childcare provider support

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0146, which would provide a $4,000,000 supplementary appropriation for childcare provider support related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation now goes to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0146, $4M for childcare provider support (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Mayoralty-Related: Educational Grants
  $4.0M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing on a supplementary general fund appropriation. The $7,002,637.06 request covers technology upgrades, cost tracking, compliance costs, and grants for nonprofit organizations resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $7,002,637.06 appropriation for Mayoralty-Related Miscellaneous General Expenses
• Funding for technology upgrades and compliance costs
• Grants for nonprofit organizations resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0147, which would provide a $7,002,637.06 supplemental appropriation for technology upgrades, cost tracking, compliance costs, and grants for nonprofits affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation moves the ordinance to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0147, $7,002,637.06 supplemental appropriation (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Mayoralty-Related: Miscellaneous General Expenses
  $7.0M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a supplementary appropriation of $7,383,249. This funding is intended for the Office of Children and Family Success to support the Eviction Prevention Program. The program aims to pay landlords for delinquent accounts to prevent tenant evictions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $7,383,249 appropriation for the Office of Children and Family Success
• Funding for the Eviction Prevention Program to address delinquent landlord accounts

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0148, which would provide a $7,383,249 supplementary appropriation to the Office of Children and Family Success for an Eviction Prevention Program. The program would pay landlords for delinquent accounts to avoid tenant evictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation now goes to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0148 (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Office of Children and Family Success
  $7.4M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding an appropriation of $857,509.37 to the Office of Information and Technology. This funding is intended to cover telework technology and temperature screening software expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $857,509.37 appropriation for Office of Information and Technology telework and screening software

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0149, which provides a supplementary appropriation of $857,509.37 to the Office of Information and Technology for telework technology and temperature screening software expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation moves the ordinance to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0149 for $857,509.37 supplemental appropriation (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Office of Information and Technology
  $857,509

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a $400,000 appropriation. This funding is intended to provide for unbudgeted positions within the Office of the Inspector General.

• $400,000 appropriation for the Office of the Inspector General

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0150, which would provide a $400,000 supplementary appropriation to the Office of the Inspector General for unbudgeted positions. The recommendation advances the ordinance to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0150, $400K for Inspector General (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Office of the Inspector General
  $400,000

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a supplementary general fund appropriation for the Police Department. The proposed $6,500,000 is intended to cover premium pay expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $6,500,000 supplementary appropriation for Police Department premium pay

The Ways and Means Committee voted 5-1 to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0151, which would provide a $6.5 million supplementary appropriation to the Police Department for COVID-19 premium pay expenses. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0151, $6.5M police COVID-19 premium pay appropriation (5-1)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Police Department
  $6.5M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a supplementary general fund operating appropriation. The proposed $638,963.67 would provide funding for the State's Attorney Office to cover telework technology and virtual courtroom software expenses resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• $638,963.67 appropriation for State's Attorney Office telework and virtual software

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend Ordinance 21-0152 favorably. The ordinance provides a supplementary appropriation of $638,963.67 to the State's Attorney Office for telework technology and virtual courtroom software due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendation moves the ordinance to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0152, $638,963.67 for State's Attorney telework tech (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - State’s Attorney Office
  $638,964

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a $35,500,000 appropriation to the Mayoralty-Related Employees’ Retirement Contribution. This funding is intended to cover final costs related to fire and police pension litigation.

• $35,500,000 appropriation for Employees’ Retirement Contribution
• Funding for fire and police pension litigation costs

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend a favorable report on Ordinance 21-0153, which would provide a $35.5 million supplementary appropriation to the Employees' Retirement Contribution fund to cover final costs related to Fire and Police pension litigation. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0153, $35.5M supplementary appropriation for pension litigation costs (unanimous)

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Mayoralty-Related: Employees’ Retirement Contribution
  $35.5M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding quarterly oversight of the American Rescue Plan. This involves monitoring the management of $641 million in federal funding from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund. The hearings aim to improve transparency for the city's response to COVID-19 economic impacts.

• Public hearing for American Rescue Plan quarterly oversight (21-0062R)
• $641 million in federal funding from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund

The Ways and Means Committee held a public hearing on Resolution 21-0062R, which calls for quarterly budget oversight hearings on the disbursement and management of $641 million in federal American Rescue Plan funds. The hearing was recessed and scheduled to reconvene on Tuesday, November 16, 2021. No final vote was taken on the resolution.

• Hearing on Resolution 21-0062R recessed; reconvene November 16, 2021

• American Rescue Plan Quarterly Oversight Hearings
  $641.0M

Baltimore City Council

The Council is reviewing several measures, including an act to establish an Emergency Security Deposit Voucher Program for families. Other items include proposals to prohibit retirement fund investments in fossil fuel companies and a plan for zero-emission city vehicles. Several investigative hearings were also introduced regarding urban farming and the overdose crisis.

• Rezoning of 4207-4209 Menlo Drive from I-1 to OIC district
• Prohibiting new retirement fund investments in fossil fuel companies
• Establishing an Emergency Security Deposit Voucher Program
• Transitioning the City fleet to zero-emission vehicles
• Requiring cool roofs on certain new or renovated buildings

• Rezone 4207-4209 Menlo Drive from I-1 to OIC
  4207-4209 Menlo Drive
• Repeal Reisterstown Plaza Transit Station Urban Renewal Area and Plan
  Reisterstown Plaza Transit Station
• Urban Renewal - Brooklyn-Curtis Bay Amendment
  Brooklyn-Curtis Bay

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding the North Harbor District. The committee will consider an application from Downtown Partnership of Baltimore to designate this area as an Area of Special Sign Control.

• Public hearing for North Harbor District special sign control designation (Item 21-0118)

The Ways and Means Committee held a public hearing on a proposal to designate the North Harbor District as an Area of Special Sign Control, requested by the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore. The hearing was recessed and will reconvene on October 12, 2021. No vote or decision was made on the designation.

• Recessed public hearing on North Harbor sign control designation to October 12, 2021

• Area of Special Sign Control - Designation - North Harbor
  North Harbor District

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the Board of Estimates. The proposal includes repealing part of City Code, Article 5, Subtitle 1, and establishing new contract and procurement thresholds.

• Public hearing on Board of Estimates organization and procurement thresholds (21-0041)

The Ways and Means Committee voted 6-0 to recommend Ordinance 21-0041 favorably with amendments. The ordinance would repeal City Code Article 5, Subtitle 1, designate the Comptroller as clerk of the Board of Estimates, and set contract and procurement thresholds per the City Charter. The vote sends the amended ordinance to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorably with amendments: Ordinance 21-0041 (Board of Estimates organization and procurement thresholds), 6-0.

• Board of Estimates - Basic Organization and Procurement Thresholds

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the designation of an Area of Special Sign Control for the North Harbor District. The hearing concerns an application submitted by the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore.

• Public hearing for North Harbor District special sign control designation (21-0118)

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and recessed the public hearing on the proposed Area of Special Sign Control for the North Harbor District. The hearing will reconvene on October 12, 2021. No final decision was made on the designation.

• Recessed public hearing on North Harbor sign control designation to October 12, 2021

• Area of Special Sign Control - Designation - North Harbor
  North Harbor District

Ways and Means

The committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing regarding the organization of the Board of Estimates. The proposal includes changes to City Code related to the Comptroller's role and new contract procurement thresholds.

• Public hearing for item 21-0041 regarding Board of Estimates organization
• Proposed repeal of City Code, Article 5, Subtitle 1
• Establishment of certain contract and procurement thresholds

The Ways and Means Committee voted 6-0 to recommend Ordinance 21-0041 favorably with amendments. The ordinance would restructure the Board of Estimates' clerk duties and set new procurement thresholds. The item now moves to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorably with amendments Ordinance 21-0041 on Board of Estimates organization and procurement thresholds (6-0)

• Board of Estimates - Basic Organization and Procurement Thresholds

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing for item 21-0099. The item requires the Department of Finance and the Office of the City Administrator to submit a report on addressing problems with the property tax accounting and tax lien sale systems. This is intended to ensure issues are resolved before the next tax sale.

• Public hearing for a study and report on Tax Sale Accounting (21-0099)

The Ways and Means Committee voted 6-0 to recommend favorably Ordinance 21-0099, which requires the Department of Finance and the Office of the City Administrator to report on fixing problems with the tax sale accounting system before the next tax sale. The ordinance was sponsored by Councilmembers Odette Ramos, John T. Bullock, Ryan Dorsey, and Zeke Cohen. The committee took no other substantive actions.

• Recommended favorably Ordinance 21-0099 (tax sale accounting study) (6-0)

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing on item 21-0058. This proposal would allow certain real property taxes to be paid through monthly installment plans. It also establishes maximum payment terms in accordance with State law.

• Public hearing for real property tax installment plans (21-0058)

The Ways and Means Committee voted to recommend Ordinance 21-0058 favorably with amendments. The ordinance would allow real property taxes on certain properties to be paid through monthly installment plans, with terms set by state law and regulations to be adopted by the Director of Finance. The vote was 6-0 in favor.

• Recommended favorably with amendments Ordinance 21-0058 on real property tax installment plans (6-0)

Baltimore City Council

The Council is reviewing several executive nominations for various city commissions. The agenda also includes multiple ordinances to provide supplementary funding to city departments for COVID-19 response and related expenses.

• $22,620,168 appropriation to the Department of Health for vaccine administration and food insecurity programs
• $15,200,000 appropriation to the Department of Health for hotel sheltering expenses
• $12,684,471.33 appropriation to the Fire Department for emergency medical services and PPE
• $7,100,000 appropriation to the Department of Planning for food security expenses
• Executive nominations for members of the Sustainability Commission

• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Board of Elections
  $600,000
• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of General Services
  $600,000
• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of General Services
  $3.1M
• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Health
  $8.9M
• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Health
  $22.6M
• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Health
  $15.2M
• Supplementary General Fund Operating Appropriation - Department of Housing and Community Development
  $4.3M

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing for a budget briefing regarding the Fiscal Year 2021 closeout. The Director of the Finance Department's Bureau of Budget and Management Research (BBMR) will present how actual city finances compare to budget projections.

• Budget Briefing: BBMR Fiscal Year 2021 Closeout (LO21-0003)

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually for a legislative oversight hearing on LO21-0003, a budget briefing on the Bureau of Budget and Management Research's Fiscal Year 2021 closeout. The item was scheduled for public hearing, but the hearing was recessed with no decision made. No substantive action was taken during the meeting.

• Scheduled LO21-0003 for public hearing, then recessed the hearing without action.

Baltimore City Council

The Council is introducing legislation to manage the reporting of $641 million in American Rescue Plan funds. The meeting also includes votes on several property rezonings and revisions to trespass towing regulations.

• New oversight requirements for $641 million in federal relief funds
• Revisions to trespass towing regulations, including maximum charges and credit card requirements
• Rezoning requests for properties on Hull Street, Boston Street, Dundalk Avenue, and North Washington Street
• Appointment of Yosef Kebede as Bureau Head of Water and Wastewater
• Proposed updates to the Fire Code regarding 9-1-1 access for multi-line telephone systems

• Franchise - Installation of 5 Utilities/Ductbanks — introduced
• Franchise - Underground Conduit and Fiber Optic Cable — introduced
• Exchange of Class B-D-7 License to a Class A-7 License - 604 Poplar Grove Street — introduced
  604 Poplar Grove Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21216
• Exchange of Class B-D-7 License to a Class A-7 License - 1901 Edmondson Avenue — introduced
  1901 Edmondson Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21223

Baltimore City Council

The Council will review newly introduced bills regarding modifications to the Zoning Code and a new tax credit for solar and geothermal devices. The agenda also includes resolutions requesting state action on the eviction moratorium and discussing gun violence accountability. Additionally, the Council will consider terminating peak hour parking restrictions on several streets.

• Bill 21-0113: Modifications to the Baltimore Zoning Code
• Bill 21-0115: Tax credit for solar and geothermal energy devices
• Bill 21-0117: Termination of peak hour parking restrictions on several streets
• Resolution 21-0054R: Request for state action to extend the eviction moratorium
• Resolution 21-0055R: Informational hearing on gun violence accountability

• Zoning Code Modifications
• Vacant Building Receivers - Failure to Sell
• Rezone Block 3518A, Lot 001
• Terminate Peak Hour Parking Restrictions
• Designate North Harbor as Area of Special Sign Control
• Rezone 1201 South Haven Street and Portion of Boston Street
• Amend Canton Industrial Area Urban Renewal Plan

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold an informational hearing regarding the Baltimore City Tax Sale. The session aims to collect details on liens owed, including timelines and demographic data. It will also cover homeowner assistance programs and updates on the In Rem process for vacant properties.

• Informational hearing: Baltimore City Tax Sale (21-0024R)
• Discussion of liens owed and demographics
• Review of homeowner assistance programs and reforms
• Update on In Rem process for vacant and abandoned properties

The Ways and Means Committee voted 6-1 to recommend favorably with amendment City Council Resolution 21-0024R, which calls for an informational hearing on Baltimore City's tax sale process. The hearing would gather details on liens, demographics, owner-occupied properties, and possible reforms. The resolution now moves to the full council.

• Recommended favorably with amendment Resolution 21-0024R on tax sale informational hearing (6-1)

• Informational Hearing - Baltimore City Tax Sale

Baltimore City Council

The Council is reviewing several bills, including the creation of a new city office and various rezoning requests. Other items include designating Clifton School as a historical landmark and renaming local schools and parks. The agenda also includes proposals for fire department oversight and public safety workgroups.

• Establishment of the Baltimore City Office of LGBTQ Affairs
• Rezoning of Broening Highway properties to MI Zoning District
• Designation of Clifton School as a historical landmark
• Renaming James Mosher Elementary School to Billie Holiday Elementary School
• Proposed fines for prohibited disposal under the Neighbors Against Predatory Dumping Act

• Urban Renewal - Middle East - Amendment
• Rezoning - Broening Highway and Block 6916, Lot 015
  2200, 2205, 2220, 2300, 2301, 2310, 2330, 2400, and 2500 Bro
• Landmark List - Clifton School
  2670 Kennedy Avenue
• Rezoning - Block 4053, Lot 013, Ward 09, Section 020
  Block 4053, Lot 013, Ward 09, Section 020
• City Property - Grant of Easements

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is reviewing a bill to address accounting errors in the city's tax sale system. Members are also considering a proposal to divest retirement funds from fossil fuel companies. Additionally, the council will discuss museum worker unionization and several liquor license exchanges.

• Bill 21-0099: Report on tax sale accounting and property tax payment issues
• Proposal to divest retirement funds from fossil fuel companies
• Rezoning of 4207-4209 Menlo Drive from I-1 to OIC district
• Repeal of the Reisterstown Plaza Transit Station Urban Renewal Area and Plan
• Informational hearing on museum workers' right to organize

• Rezoning - 4207-4209 Menlo Drive
  4207-4209 Menlo Drive
• Repeal - Reisterstown Plaza Transit Station Urban Renewal Area and Plan
  Reisterstown Plaza Transit Station Urban Renewal Area

Committee of the Whole

The Baltimore City Council Committee of the Whole will hold a public hearing regarding the Fells Point Response Strategy. The Deputy Mayor of Public Safety will present a plan addressing Fells Point business owners and its impact on crime prevention in other city communities.

• Public hearing for LO21-0011 Citywide Resources Impact - Fells Point Response Strategy

The Committee of the Whole held a public hearing on legislative oversight item LO21-0011, which asked the administration and Deputy Mayor of Public Safety to present a plan for responding to Fells Point business owners' concerns and its impact on the citywide crime plan. The hearing concluded with no decision, approval, or vote recorded. Seven members were present and seven were absent.

• Held public hearing on LO21-0011 (Fells Point response strategy)
• Concluded hearing without taking action or voting

Baltimore City Council

The Council is reviewing the Fiscal Year 2022 Ordinance of Estimates and Annual Property Tax. The agenda also includes final votes on legislation regarding face surveillance technology and the creation of an Office of LGBTQ Affairs.

• FY 2022 Ordinance of Estimates for city agency appropriations
• FY 2022 Annual Property Tax and payment service charge
• Legislation prohibiting certain face surveillance technology
• Establishment of the Baltimore City Office of LGBTQ Affairs
• Zoning conversion for 1100 W. Lafayette Avenue

• RPP Area 9 (Federal Hill) - Exception for 1 East Montgomery Street
  1 East Montgomery Street
• Zoning - Conditional Use Conversion of a Single Family Dwelling Unit to 5 Dwelling Units in the R-8 Zoning District - Va
  1100 W. Lafayette Avenue · 5 units

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is considering several new ordinances, including a security deposit voucher program and a public safety apprenticeship program. The council also reviewed bills signed by the Mayor regarding floodplain management and rezoning. Additionally, resolutions were introduced to hold hearings on facial recognition technology and alternatives to policing.

• Rezoning of 1201 South Caton Avenue from EC-1 to I-1
• Proposed Emergency Security Deposit Relief Act for a voucher program
• Introduction of the Homegrown Heroes Fund for public safety apprenticeships
• Proposal to close Etting Street and four alleys near Druid Hill Avenue
• Ordinance regarding labor trafficking notice requirements for city contractors

• Rezone 1201 South Caton Avenue from EC-1 to I-1
  1201 South Caton Avenue
• Close and condemn Etting Street and four 10-foot alleys
  Etting Street and four 10-foot alleys bounded by Druid Hill
• Sale of City property at NES Broening Highway
  NES Broening Highway 844-1 ft. SE of Colgate Creek (Block 69

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is voting on the fiscal year 2022 annual property tax and a revision to the local 911 telephone fee. A zoning request for 1110 West Lafayette Avenue was withdrawn from this session.

• Revision of the local 911 telephone fee (21-0072)
• Annual property tax for fiscal year 2022 (21-0081)
• Withdrawal of zoning conversion at 1110 West Lafayette Avenue (21-0077)

• Conditional Use Conversion of a Single Family Dwelling Unit to 5 Dwelling Units
  1110 West Lafayette Avenue · 5 units

Ways and Means

The committee is conducting agency budget hearings for Fiscal Year 2022. These hearings address estimated appropriations needed by city agencies for operating programs and capital projects. This session marks day five of the scheduled agency budget hearings.

• Agency budget hearings for Fiscal Year 2022
• Ordinance of Estimates for operating programs and capital projects

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend the FY2022 Ordinance of Estimates favorably. The ordinance provides appropriations for city agencies' operating programs and capital projects. The recommendation moves the budget to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable FY2022 Ordinance of Estimates (7-0)

• Ordinance of Estimates for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2022

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is scheduled to vote on a revision to the local 911 telephone fee. The item also includes provisions for a special effective date.

• Revision of the local 911 telephone fee (Voting Session 21-0072)

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorable passage of Ordinance 21-0072, which revises the local 911 telephone fee and provides for a special effective date. The motion was made by member McCray and seconded by member Schleifer, with all seven members present voting yes. The ordinance now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorable Ordinance 21-0072, revising the local 911 telephone fee (7-0)

Ways and Means

The committee is conducting public hearings regarding the Ordinance of Estimates for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022. This session marks day four of the agency budget hearings to determine estimated appropriations needed by city agencies for operating programs and capital projects.

• Public hearings for Fiscal Year 2022 agency budget estimates

The Ways and Means Committee held a public hearing on the Ordinance of Estimates for Fiscal Year 2022, which provides appropriations for city agencies' operating programs and capital projects. The hearing was recessed and will reconvene on Monday, June 7, 2021. No final decision was made on the budget.

• Recessed public hearing on FY2022 Ordinance of Estimates; reconvene June 7

• Ordinance of Estimates for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2022

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the operating budget for the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners for fiscal year 2022. The item involves approving the estimated budget needed for school programs and providing certification to the State Superintendent of Schools.

• Public hearing for BCPSS FY2022 operating budget (Item 21-0082)

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually on June 4, 2021, and held a public hearing on the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners' operating budget for Fiscal Year 2022 (Bill 21-0082). The hearing was called to recess, meaning no final action was taken on the budget at this meeting. Six members were present, one absent.

• Held public hearing on BCPSS FY2022 operating budget (21-0082)
• Hearing called to recess, no vote taken

• Operating Budget for the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners (FY 2022)

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding the operating budget for the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners for fiscal year 2022. The item involves approving the estimated budget needed for school programs and certifying it to the State Superintendent of Schools.

• Public hearing for the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners FY2022 operating budget

The Ways and Means Committee met and took up the operating budget for the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners for fiscal year 2022. The public hearing was recessed to reconvene on June 4, 2021. No final decision was made on the budget.

• Recessed public hearing on FY2022 school board operating budget to June 4, 2021

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the Ordinance of Estimates for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022. This item covers estimated appropriations needed by city agencies for operating programs and capital projects. The agenda also includes agency budget hearings.

• Public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2022 Ordinance of Estimates
• Agency budget hearings

The Ways and Means Committee held a public hearing on the Ordinance of Estimates for Fiscal Year 2022, which sets appropriations for city agencies. The hearing was recessed and will reconvene on Thursday, June 3, 2021, for day three. No final decisions were made on the budget.

• Recessed public hearing on FY2022 Ordinance of Estimates to June 3, 2021

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is conducting day one of agency budget hearings. These hearings address the Ordinance of Estimates for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022. The session covers estimated appropriations needed by city agencies for operating programs and capital projects.

• Agency budget hearings for Fiscal Year 2022
• Review of estimates for agency operating programs and capital projects

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and took up the Ordinance of Estimates for Fiscal Year 2022, which sets appropriations for city agencies. The public hearing was recessed and will reconvene on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, for day two of agency budget hearings. No final decisions were made on the budget.

• Recessed FY2022 budget hearing to June 2 (7 present)

• Ordinance of Estimates for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2022

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the Annual Property Tax for Fiscal Year 2022. This item covers tax use from July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022, and sets semiannual payment service charges.

• Public hearing for Annual Property Tax - Fiscal Year 2022 (Item 21-0081)
• Baltimore City Council Taxpayers' Night

The Ways and Means Committee held a public hearing on the annual property tax ordinance for Fiscal Year 2022, which sets the tax rate and semiannual payment service charge for July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022. The hearing was recessed to reconvene at a later date, with no vote taken. All seven members were present.

• Recessed public hearing on 21-0081 Annual Property Tax FY2022 to a later date

Ways and Means

The committee will hold a public hearing regarding the Ordinance of Estimates for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022. This item covers estimated appropriations needed by city agencies for operating programs and capital projects. The agenda also includes a budget overview for BBMR and BCPSS.

• Public hearing for FY 2022 Ordinance of Estimates
• Budget overview for BBMR and BCPSS

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually on May 27, 2021, for a budget overview with the Bureau of Budget and Management Research (BBMR) and Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPSS). The public hearing on the FY2022 Ordinance of Estimates was called to recess and will reconvene on June 1, 2021. No final decisions were made; the item remains pending.

• Held public hearing on 21-0080, FY2022 Ordinance of Estimates
• Recessed hearing to reconvene June 1, 2021

• Ordinance of Estimates for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2022 (BBMR and BCPSS)

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee has scheduled a public hearing regarding the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners' operating budget for fiscal year 2022. The item involves approving the estimated budget needed for school programs and certifying it to the State Superintendent of Schools.

• Public hearing for the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners operating budget (FY 2022)

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and held a public hearing on the Baltimore City Public Schools operating budget for fiscal year 2022 (Bill 21-0082). The hearing was recessed to reconvene on June 4, 2021, with no final decision made. Attendance included seven council members.

• Recessed public hearing on BCPSS FY2022 operating budget to June 4, 2021

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing for Bill 21-0072. This item proposes a revision to the local 911 telephone fee and provides for a special effective date.

• Public hearing for Local 911 Telephone Fee revision (Bill 21-0072)

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually on May 25, 2021, with six members present and one absent. The only item on the agenda was a public hearing on Bill 21-0072, which would revise the local 911 telephone fee. The hearing was recessed to a later date for a voting session, with no decision made.

• Recessed public hearing on 21-0072 (Local 911 Telephone Fee Revision) to a later voting session

Baltimore City Council

The Council is reviewing new proposals for the FY 2022 budget and annual property tax. The agenda also includes utility franchises for BGE and several rezoning requests.

• FY 2022 Ordinance of Estimates for city agency appropriations
• Annual Property Tax for fiscal year 2022
• BGE gas regulator station franchise at Lower Gwynns Falls Park
• Rezoning of Broening Highway properties to MI district
• Designation of Clifton School as a historical landmark

• Franchise - Gas Regulator Station Utility at Lower Gwynns Falls Park
  Lower Gwynns Falls Park
• Franchise - Gas Regulator Station Utility in Hanlon Park
  Hanlon Park
• Rezoning - 100 East 23rd Street, 2300 Saint Paul Street, 2305 Saint Paul Street, 2313 Saint Paul Street, and 2317 Saint
  100 East 23rd Street, 2300 Saint Paul Street, 2305 Saint Pau

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is reviewing several zoning changes for properties on York Road, Brantley Avenue, and West Lafayette Avenue. The agenda also includes bills to establish an independent Office of Emergency Management and a study on sewage backup reimbursement. Additionally, the Council will hold hearings regarding COVID-19's impact on mental health and small businesses.

• Establishing the Office of Emergency Management as an independent agency
• Zoning for a banquet hall at 5600 York Road
• A study on expedited reimbursement for sewage backups
• Disclosure requirements for selling formerly vacant properties
• Rezoning of 1201 South Caton Avenue

• Street Encroachment - 1707 Eastern Avenue — introduced
  1707 Eastern Avenue
• Zoning - Conditional Use Banquet Hall - 5600 York Road — introduced
  5600 York Road (also known as 5602A York Road)
• Zoning - Conditional Use Conversion to 2 Dwelling Units - 1049 Brantley Avenue — introduced
  1049 Brantley Avenue · 2 units
• Zoning - Conditional Use Conversion to 5 Dwelling Units - 1110 West Lafayette Avenue — introduced
  1110 W. Lafayette Avenue · 5 units
• Repeal of Ordinance 90-425 - Port Covington Planned Unit Development — introduced
  Port Covington

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding item 21-0062. This item proposes revising the definition of “newly constructed” and extending deadlines for certain tax credit qualifications.

• Public hearing on high-performance newly constructed dwellings (21-0062)
• Proposed revisions to the definition of 'newly constructed'
• Extension of tax credit qualification deadlines

The Ways and Means Committee voted 6-1 to recommend favorable passage of Council Bill 21-0062, which revises the definition of 'newly constructed' and clarifies tax credit deadlines for high-performance dwellings. The bill now moves to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable Council Bill 21-0062 (6-1)

• High-Performance Newly Constructed Dwellings - Clarifications

Ways and Means

The committee will hold a public hearing regarding the Board of Estimates' basic organization. This includes repealing parts of the City Code and establishing new contract and procurement thresholds.

• Public hearing on Board of Estimates organization and procurement thresholds (21-0041)
• Repeal of City Code, Article 5, Subtitle 1
• Establishment of contract and procurement thresholds

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and held a public hearing on Bill 21-0041, which would change the Board of Estimates' organization and procurement thresholds. The hearing was recessed to a later date, with no vote taken. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recessed public hearing on 21-0041 (Board of Estimates - Basic Organization and Procurement Thresholds)

• Board of Estimates - Basic Organization and Procurement Thresholds

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing for Bill 21-0042. This item proposes modernizing the methods used by the Comptroller to make certain real estate records available to the public.

• Public hearing for Real Estate Records - Modernization (Bill 21-0042)

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend Council Bill 21-0042 favorably with amendments. The bill modernizes how the Comptroller makes real estate records available to the public. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorable with amendments Council Bill 21-0042 (7-0)

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding proposed changes to the Committee on Insurance and Risk Management. The revisions involve establishing ex-officio members, clarifying committee appointments, and requiring administrative support from the Department of Finance.

• Public hearing for item 21-0043 regarding Committee on Insurance and Risk Management revisions

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and held a public hearing on Bill 21-0043, which would revise the Committee on Insurance and Risk Management. The hearing was recessed to a later date, with no vote taken. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recessed public hearing on 21-0043 (Committee on Insurance and Risk Management revisions) to a later date

Other Meetings of the Public Body

The City Council workgroup is discussing enforcement strategies for nuisance parking and auto businesses. The meeting includes reviews of 3-1-1 complaints, agency capacity, and methods to close service delivery gaps.

• Review of 3-1-1 complaints and CitiStat metrics
• Discussion on internal enforcement policies and procedures
• Review of current agency enforcement strategies
• Assessment of agency capacity and coordination

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold an investigative hearing regarding COVID-19 and small business re-openings. Representatives from the Baltimore Development Corporation are invited to brief the City Council on efforts to support economic development during the pandemic.

• Investigative Hearing - COVID-19 and Small Business Re-Openings (21-0026R)

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorably a resolution scheduling an investigative hearing on COVID-19 and small business re-openings. The hearing will invite Baltimore Development Corporation representatives to brief the council on their support efforts. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended favorably Resolution 21-0026R on COVID-19 and small business re-openings (7-0)

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold an informational hearing regarding the "1% for Art" program. Representatives from various city departments will discuss the continued administration of the program.

• Informational Hearing: “1% for Art” Program (21-0023R)

The Ways and Means committee met virtually and held a scheduled informational hearing on the '1% for Art' program, inviting multiple city agencies and arts organizations to discuss its administration. The hearing was recessed to reconvene at a later date, with no substantive decisions made. Attendance included seven council members.

• Recessed informational hearing on '1% for Art' program to a later date

Baltimore City Council

The Council is reviewing ordinances regarding zoning changes and new transparency rules for city contracts over $100,000. Additionally, members introduced resolutions to hold hearings on domestic violence and crime prevention strategies.

• Rezoning 1201 Dundalk Avenue from R-3 to C-2
• Prohibiting new retirement fund investments in fossil fuel companies
• New transparency requirements for city contracts over $100,000
• Prohibiting evasion of Baltimore City residency requirements
• Rezoning 1103-1109 North Washington Street from R-8 to IMU-1

• Rezone 1201 Dundalk Avenue from R-3 to C-2
  1201 Dundalk Avenue
• Conditional use for retail goods establishment with alcoholic beverages sales at 3901 Boston Street
  3901 Boston Street
• Rezone 1103-1109 North Washington Street from R-8 to IMU-1
  1103-1109 North Washington Street
• Transparency in Procurement for contracts over $100,000

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee is holding a public hearing regarding the annual licensing fee for commercial parking facilities in Baltimore. The proposal includes changes to how these fees are calculated and introduces an annual inflation adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index.

• Public hearing for Bill 21-0029 regarding commercial parking facility license fees

• Commercial Parking Facilities - Annual License Fee

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is reviewing several zoning changes and legislative proposals. The agenda includes final votes on security deposit alternatives and new rules for rental late fees. Additionally, the council will hold hearings regarding the city's eviction crisis and sewage backups.

• Rezoning of 407 Benninghaus Road from R-3 to OR-1
• New requirements for landlord late fees in residential leases
• Proposed alternatives to traditional security deposits
• Investigation into basement backups of untreated sewage
• Resolution regarding contracts with the State of Georgia

• Rezoning - 407 Benninghaus Road
  407 Benninghaus Road
• Rezoning - 2426 Pennsylvania Avenue
  2426 Pennsylvania Avenue
• Zoning - Conditional Use Parking Lots - 115 and 118 Mount Clare Street
  115 and 118 Mount Clare Street
• Rezoning - 4015 Foster Avenue, 4000 Hudson Street, and 801 South Haven Street
  4015 Foster Avenue, 4000 Hudson Street, and 801 South Haven
• Zoning - Conditional Use Conversion of a Single-Family Dwelling Unit to 2 Dwelling Units in the R-7 Zoning District - Va
  810 Argonne Drive · 2 units
• Rezoning - 2087 Druid Park Drive
  2087 Druid Park Drive

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is reviewing several measures, including regulations for residential late fees and security deposit alternatives. The agenda also includes multiple rezoning requests and the creation of a workgroup to study nuisance parking. Additionally, the council will consider a resolution regarding funding for local artists.

• New rules for 10-day grace periods and limits on late fees for residential leases
• Rezoning of 4900 Boston Street from I-2 to IMU-2
• Creation of a workgroup to study illegal motor vehicle storage in public rights-of-way
• Proposal to name the Northwest Park playground the Rikki Spector Playground
• Resolution to establish a $1 million emergency fund for Baltimore City artists if COVID-19 relief funds are received

• Rezoning - 4900 Boston Street
  4900 Boston Street
• Rezoning - Block 6458, Lot 004 and Block PSC0, Lot 085
  Block 6458, Lot 004 and Block PSC0, Lot 085
• Rezoning - 4207-4209 Menlo Drive
  4207-4209 Menlo Drive
• Rezoning - 605 South Caton Avenue
  605 South Caton Avenue
• Conditional Use Retail Goods Establishment - 2600 North Howard Street
  2600 North Howard Street
• Urban Renewal - Canton Industrial Area Amendment
  Canton Industrial Area
• Repeal - Reisterstown Plaza Transit Station Urban Renewal Area and Plan
  Reisterstown Plaza Transit Station Urban Renewal Area

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is reviewing several new measures, including a charter amendment for a workforce development fund. The agenda also includes hearings on broadband expansion, illegal dumping, and homelessness during the pandemic. Several zoning and land use changes are scheduled for a second reading.

• Ordinance 21-0048: Requiring project labor agreements for certain construction projects
• Ordinance 21-0049: Modifying fines for illegal dumping via the Neighbors Against Predatory Dumping Act
• Resolution 21-0034R: Discussing broadband expansion and potential municipal utility options
• Zoning change at 810 Argonne Drive to convert a single-family home into two units
• Rezoning of 407 Benninghaus Road from R-3 to OR-1

• Approval for the Exchange of a Class B-D-7 License to a Class A-7 License - 1801 East North Avenue — introduced
  1801 East North Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21213
• Approval for the Exchange of a Class B-D-7 License to a Class A-7 License - 1232 North Caroline Street — introduced
  1232 North Caroline Street

Ways and Means

The Baltimore City Council Ways and Means Committee is holding a voting session. The committee will consider legislation to establish the salary for the Director of Public Works and provide a special effective date.

• Vote on establishing the salary for the Director of Public Works (21-0032)

The Ways and Means Committee voted 7-0 to recommend favorably Ordinance 21-0032, which establishes the salary for the Director of Public Works. The ordinance was sponsored by the City Council President (Administration) and Councilmember Sharon Green Middleton. The recommendation now moves to the full City Council.

• Recommended favorably Ordinance 21-0032, establishing the salary for the Director of Public Works, by a 7-0 vote.

Baltimore City Council

The council is considering several newly introduced bills, including revisions to the Floodplain Management Code and a property rezoning. Resolutions were also introduced for informational hearings on the city tax sale and public safety cadet programs.

• Rezoning of Block 4053, Lot 013 from O-S to R-7 district
• Revision of Floodplain Management Code to meet federal requirements
• Request for $1 million in COVID-19 relief funds to assist Baltimore artists
• Informational hearing regarding the Baltimore City Tax Sale
• Renaming Eastwood Field to Mayes Meadow

• Floodplain Management Code - Revision — introduced
• Board of Estimates - Basic Organization and Procurement Thresholds — introduced
• Rezoning - Block 4053, Lot 013, Ward 09, Section 020 — introduced
  Block 4053, Lot 013, Ward 09, Section 020

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the salary for the Director of Public Works. The item seeks to establish the salary amount and provide for a special effective date.

• Public hearing on Director of Public Works salary (21-0032)

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and took up a bill to set the salary for the Director of Public Works. The public hearing on the bill was recessed to a later date, with no vote or decision made. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Recessed public hearing on salary for Director of Public Works (21-0032)

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will receive a budget briefing from the Director of the Finance Department's Bureau of Budget and Management Research. The briefing compares the City's actual finances to its budget projections.

• Budget Briefing (LO21-0003) comparing actual city finances to budget projections

The Ways and Means Committee met virtually and held a budget briefing (LO21-0003) with the Director of Finance's Bureau of Budget and Management Research to compare actual finances to budget projections. No substantive decisions were made; the hearing was informational and adjourned without any votes or actions.

• Held budget briefing LO21-0003 (informational, no vote)

Baltimore City Council

The council is introducing several new ordinances, including regulations for third-party food delivery fees and premium pay for gig workers. Members also proposed postponing the 2021 tax sale and establishing a procurement preference program for LGBTQ businesses. Additionally, resolutions were introduced to hold investigative hearings on sewage backups and arson prevention.

• COVID-19 Restaurant, Consumer, and Gig Worker Relief Act regarding third-party delivery fees
• Imari’s LGBTQ Procurement Preference Act to create an LGBTQBE Program
• Postponement of the 2021 tax sale
• Historical landmark designation for Reed Calloway House at 1316 North Carey Street
• Employment plan requirements for construction contracts of $5 million or more

• Landmark List - Reed Calloway House — introduced
  1316 North Carey Street

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is reviewing several introduced bills and resolutions. These include proposals for landlord-tenant lease renewals, zoning changes for Broening Highway, and historical landmark designations. The council also faces executive nominations for the Trauma Informed Care Task Force.

• Ordinance requiring landlords to offer tenants lease renewal opportunities
• Rezoning of properties on Broening Highway
• Designation of Clifton School as a historical landmark
• Executive nominations for the Trauma Informed Care Task Force
• Ordinance regarding annual license fee adjustments for commercial parking

• Urban Renewal - Middle East Amendment — introduced
  Middle East
• Rezoning of Broening Highway properties — introduced
  2200, 2205, 2220, 2300, 2301, 2310, 2330, 2400, and 2500 Bro
• Rezoning of 1201 South Caton Avenue — introduced
  1201 South Caton Avenue

Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee will hold a public hearing regarding the COVID-19 Restaurant, Consumer, and Gig Worker Relief Act. The proposed ordinance seeks to establish temporary regulations on third-party food delivery platforms. These regulations aim to support the economic well-being of Baltimore restaurants, consumers, and gig workers during the pandemic.

• Public hearing for Bill 21-0007 regarding third-party food delivery service fee limits

The Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to recommend favorably Ordinance 21-0007, the COVID-19 Restaurant, Consumer, and Gig Worker Relief Act, which would temporarily regulate third-party food delivery platform fees. The ordinance now moves to the full City Council for consideration.

• Recommended favorably Ordinance 21-0007, COVID-19 Restaurant, Consumer, and Gig Worker Relief Act (7-0)

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is introducing new ordinances regarding rental late fees and security deposit alternatives. The agenda also includes several proposed resolutions for investigative hearings on the water billing system, flood mitigation, and COVID-19 vaccination plans.

• Ordinance 21-0021: New rules for rent late fees and a 10-day grace period
• Ordinance 21-0022: Creating alternatives to traditional security deposits
• Resolution 21-0007R: Investigative hearing on the water billing system
• Resolution 21-0003R: Informational hearing on COVID-19 vaccination plans
• Resolution 21-0001R: Update on the Affordable Housing Trust Fund

Baltimore City Council

The Baltimore City Council is introducing several ordinances, including the creation of an Office to End Homelessness and a housing voucher program. Other introduced bills address facial surveillance technology restrictions, real property tax installment plans, and delivery fee regulations.

• Ordinance 21-0004: Establishing the Office to End Homelessness and a Permanent Housing Voucher Program
• Ordinance 21-0001: Prohibiting certain face surveillance technology purchases and use
• Ordinance 21-0007: Temporary limits on third-party food delivery service fees for COVID-19 relief
• Ordinance 21-0002: Authorizing monthly installment plans for real property taxes
• Ordinance 21-0008: Naming the Northwest Park playground the Rikki Spector Playground

• Conditional use conversion of single-family to 2 dwelling units with variances
  810 Argonne Drive · 2 units