Public Meetings - Baltimore County, Maryland

The Baltimore County Council convened on Thursday, May 1, 2026, for Legislative Day Nine. The meeting began with a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the approval of the journal from April 6, 2026. Councilman Patoka paid tribute to Laurie Feinberg, a legendary Baltimore City planner who recently passed away. The council introduced and voted on several bills, approved fiscal matters, and heard public testimony. Consent Calendar - The journal for the meeting of April 6, 2026 was approved by unanimous voice vote. - Bills 2026-2326, 2426, and 2526, previously passed by the council and signed by the county executive, were enrolled. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Rockle expressed frustration with the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) for conducting studies on transit-oriented development without public awareness. He urged the council to require after-meeting information sessions or press releases when county officials meet with state or federal agencies, so the public can stay informed. - Anita Bass, union president of Local 4538 representing Towson Apple workers and Baltimore County Public Library workers, asked about a promised council audit of the Baltimore County Public Library following the loss of 14 part-time librarians. She requested an update on whether the audit had been conducted and what the results were. - Sharonda Hoffman voiced disappointment over Apple’s departure from Towson and asked the council for a plan. She also raised concerns about a bill changing signage height limits in the Essex revitalization area from 75 feet to 100 feet, questioning why the change was pursued through legislation rather than standard permits and whether the executive director of the Essex CDC had been consulted. She noted the bill was sponsored by Councilman Marks for an area in Essex. Discussion Items - Bill 28-26 (Zoning – BL Zone – Lawn Treatment Company): Sponsored by Councilmen Ketch and Marks, this bill permits storage but not sales of lawn treatment products. Councilman Ketch explained that he reviewed federal and county controls and was satisfied with the requirements. The bill passed unanimously. - Fiscal Matters 1–7: The council considered seven contracts, including with People Encouraging People Inc., Law Offices of Lisa M. Harris LLC, Institute for Community Alliance, NV5 Consultants Inc., Bodie Selmark Forensics Incorporated, and Baltimore County Revenue Authority. Councilman Marks questioned Deputy Director Richard Richardson about the first contract, which places individuals discharged from state hospitals into apartment complexes. Richardson clarified that residents are stabilized and receive therapy; management can contact the county if issues arise. Following discussion, the council approved all seven fiscal matters unanimously. - Resolution 13-26 (Maryland Rural Legacy Plan Applications): Councilmen Catching and Marks were added as co-sponsors. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Resolution 14-26 (Property Tax Refund for Blind Person): Sponsored by Councilman Catching, this resolution authorized a partial property tax refund for Diane L. Handley. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 15-26 (Acceptance of Donation for Fire Department): This resolution, to accept a monetary donation from Lawrence M. Rivetts for the fire department, was introduced for first reading only. Key Outcomes - Bill 27-26 (WIC Budget) was passed unanimously. - Bill 28-26 was passed unanimously. - Fiscal Matters 1–7 were approved unanimously. - Resolution 13-26 and Resolution 14-26 were both approved unanimously. - Resolution 15-26 was introduced for first reading; no vote taken. - Councilman Marks confirmed he had a productive conversation with Sharonda Hoffman after her testimony and looks forward to working with her. - The meeting adjourned with a reminder for public safety.

The Baltimore County Council held a virtual public hearing on April 30, 2026, to receive public comments on the proposed county budget for fiscal year 2027 and on Bill 38-26, which would levy a property tax rate of $1.10 per $100 of assessed value (the current rate). The budget and tax rate are scheduled for adoption on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (corrected from an earlier announcement of 3:00 p.m.). Four speakers registered, with three testifying; one registered speaker (Nicole DeBorac) did not appear. Public Comments & Testimony - Paula Wolf, President, Southwest Visions Foundation – Expressed appreciation for operational funding included in the executive's budget, noting that operating support is the most difficult type of funding for nonprofits to access. She requested the council support a $50,000 allocation for operations. In response to Councilman Patoka's question, she elaborated that grants typically cover capital projects but not operating expenses, and that paid staff would accelerate volunteer-driven projects such as the proposed veterans memorial in Arbutus. - Gloria Razimolu (representing Baltimore County Arts Guild) – Thanked the council for past support and requested reinstatement of a $20,000 operating grant that was reduced to $10,000. She stated that the Arts Guild's mission is to make arts accessible countywide, beyond the Catonsville arts district, but that capacity constraints limit expansion. She noted that funding is being directed to non-arts organizations or those not primarily operating in Baltimore County, and argued that arts organizations must be resourced to lead arts engagement. Councilman Patoka and Councilman Young asked follow-up questions about the funding history and the current request. Ms. Razimolu confirmed the $20,000 grant was promised but not received in the current fiscal year. (Note: The registered speaker list showed the name Gloria Razimolu, but the speaker appeared on the call and was also addressed as "Ms. Ivy Molu" by staff; the council later referred to her as Gloria.) - Linda Sinansky – Appeared late due to a family emergency. She urged the council to have the law department allocate more of its budget to supporting permits and licensing to help inspectors understand and implement county code correctly. She also called for greater accountability from Baltimore County Public Schools, asking that the school system produce more data to justify its funding requests, rather than receiving a "carte blanche" appropriation. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the hearing was for the purpose of gathering public input. - The budget and property tax rate adoption is set for Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (virtual). - The council's budget hearings continue on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, as posted on the council website.

Auditor Liz Irwin presented an overview of the county executive's proposed fiscal year 2027 operating and capital budgets to the Baltimore County Council, focusing on fiscal sustainability. The presentation covered spending affordability guidelines, revenue trends, expenditure drivers, capital budget details, and pending legislation. Councilmembers asked clarifying questions and requested additional data, particularly on agency-level spending, vacancy information, and tax credits, to inform their upcoming budget deliberations. Discussion Items - Auditor Irwin reviewed the Spending Affordability Committee's guidelines for FY27, noting the proposed general fund spending aligns with the guideline and debt service and debt outstanding ratios remain within limits (9.3% vs 10.5% guideline for debt service; 1.6% vs 2.5% for debt outstanding). Key policy principles include maintaining reserves, fully funding ongoing costs, and limiting one-time funding for ongoing expenses. - General fund budget drivers: Largest increases are for Baltimore County Public Schools (subject to maintenance of effort), compensation-related costs (public safety and general government), retirement, insurance, and debt service. A notable decrease appears in pay-as-you-go capital contributions and Permits, Approvals, and Inspections (due to cost shifts to Metropolitan District Fund). Ongoing retirement obligations constitute a significant share of budget growth. - Revenue composition: Property and income taxes make up over four-fifths of general fund revenues. The budget anticipates using approximately $69 million in surplus alongside ongoing revenues. Combined reserves are projected at about 22% of revenues. Auditor noted the importance of careful use of one-time resources. - Staffing: FY27 budget shows 232 fewer authorized positions across all funds compared to FY26. School system positions are down by 376; Councilman Patoka raised concerns about the impact on education and requested vacancy data to assess true reductions. - Capital budget: FY27 capital budget totals about $216 million, with significant concentration in operational building projects, technology, and maintenance. Largest funding source is general fund pay-go. County has over $1.2 billion in authorized but unissued debt. - Pending legislation: Bills on the May 21st agenda include the property tax bill (rate remains $1.10 per $100 assessed value; homestead cap at 4% reduces revenue by $54.9 million; other credits total $35.9 million), the personnel bill (cost-of-living adjustments and step/longevity changes costing $10 million in salary in FY27 and $10.6 million pension impact in FY28), the budget and appropriation ordinance ($5.14 billion excluding enterprise funds), and nine borrowing referendum proposals totaling $392 million for the November 2026 ballot. - Councilman Patoka questioned where the historic preservation tax credit program is funded (Irwin believed it falls within the $35.9 million in other credits, to be confirmed). He also sought agency-by-agency projections of unspent funds to potentially reallocate to education positions, suggesting each million dollars could fund 8-10 teaching positions. - Councilman Young requested a breakdown of the $69 million in operational capital projects and total expenditure on the disabled service-connected veteran tax credit. Auditor agreed to follow up. - Councilman Jones noted that the revenue/spending intersection appeared to be flattening; Irwin clarified that actual revenues have been coming in higher than budgeted, so the gap is narrower but still present. Key Outcomes - The council will receive additional information from the auditor's office on: (a) agency-by-agency projected year-end unspent funds, (b) vacancy details from Baltimore County Public Schools, (c) detailed breakdown of operational capital expenditures, (d) location of historic preservation tax credit funding, and (e) total cost of the disabled veteran tax credit. - The council will hold agency budget hearings in the coming weeks to dig deeper into the proposed budget. - No formal votes were taken during this overview session; the next steps include deliberation on the bills scheduled for May 21st and eventual adoption of the FY27 budget.

The Baltimore County Council held a public hearing on the proposed 2026 Basic Services Maps (Bill 37-26) followed by a work session to discuss numerous contracts, appointments, and bills. The public hearing heard testimony from residents concerned about sewer and transportation deficiencies, while the work session covered updates to animal welfare legislation, retirement system reforms, and local zoning bills. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing on Basic Services Maps: - Julia Nichol (Oella resident) criticized insufficient transportation capacity and lack of community engagement, urging the council not to remove the area from the failing traffic shed. - Linda Kineski expressed difficulty accessing legible maps and raised concerns about the Rancho Sosa illegal landfill potentially contaminating wells; she requested a meeting with officials. - Winnie Carpenter (Oella resident) asked that the failed traffic shed designation remain intact for Oella and Ellicott Mills, citing lack of communication from the council. - Beth Miller (Green House Alliance) requested that the Lake Roland area be designated as a sewer deficiency due to surcharging pipes and a manhole cover incident; DPWT disputed the overflow claim. - Greg DeHoff testified about the unsafe York Road and West Road intersection, suggesting timing changes or restricting right turns. - Animal Services Bills (Bills 29-26 through 32-26): - Andrew Levine supported the bills but requested future enhancements, including microchip scanners at police/fire stations and increasing the dog limit based on acreage. - Linda Kineski spoke again on Bill 55-26 and 56-26, raising concerns about the definition of farm animals and enforcement of animal codes, urging stricter penalties. - Bill 55-26 (Towing facility in ML zone): - Ken Tomlinson (property owner) supported the sale to Rockdale Towing, noting the community association approved the use. - William Klingelhoffer (Hollbrook Chapel Dale Community Association president) expressed support, citing covenants and improvements, but noted the bill did not require environmental review. - Bill 56-26 (Natural burial at Humane Society): - Andrew Levine (Humane Society representative) requested expansion to allow human remains buried adjacent to pets, noting existing pet cemetery is nearly full. Discussion Items - 2026 Basic Services Maps: - DPWT Deputy Director Lisa Eichholtz presented the maps: water shows no deficiencies; sewer has one deficient area (Richland Manor Treatment Plant) and two areas of concern (Catonsville overflow and Brooklynville capacity); transportation includes 12 failing intersections (11 rated F, 1 rated E), all state roads. - Councilman Marks asked about Richland Manor project timeline; DPWT confirmed first package will be advertised soon, completion estimated by early 2031. - Discussion on Lake Roland sewer issues: Councilman Cope questioned the manhole cover incident; DPWT stated there was no evidence of overflow, suggesting vandalism. - Animal Services Bills (29-26 to 32-26): - Brad Croner (Administration) outlined three possible amendments to Bill 29-26: expanding farm animal definition, exempting police canines, and potentially restricting reckless owners from residing with animals. - For Bill 30-26, he noted an amendment to extend the appeal hearing timeline from 14 days to 14–30 days, based on Board of Appeals feedback. - Bill 35-26 (Employee Retirement System): - Kevin Reid explained the bill addresses post-retirement COLAs for disabled police, calculation of benefits for transfers, DROP benefit calculation for 911 call takers, continuity of service for public safety employees, and timing of actuarial information submission. - Bill 36-26 (Freestanding signs): - Councilman Marks presented a countywide amendment to redefine sign area to exclude empty airspace, improving calculation for businesses. Councilman Crandall supported the countywide approach. - Bill 52-26 (Charter Review Commission): - Councilman Marks explained the bill increases membership to reflect expanded council. - Bill 53-26 (Dangerous weapons): - Council Chair Ortell introduced a bill to prohibit sale of brass knuckles and switchblades after a county employee reported them sold at a gas station. - Bill 54-26 (Design review area – Cowenton Avenue): - Councilman Marks said the bill extends DRP review to a revitalization district in Perry Hall/White Marsh. - Bill 55-26 (Towing in ML zone): - Councilman Jones noted the property is zoned ML with a small RC4 strip; the bill allows a towing service to use a former vault company building for vehicle storage. He stated the community was involved. - Bill 56-26 (Natural burial in RC2): - Councilman Jones presented the bill to allow human remains buried adjacent to pets at the Humane Society property. Key Outcomes - Public hearing on 2026 Basic Services Maps concluded; Bill 37-26 is scheduled for a vote on Monday, May 4, 2026. - Work session on contract for water pipeline design services (removing compensation caps) saw recusals from Councilman Cope and Councilman Marks due to spouses’ employment; discussion proceeded. - Animal services bills (29-26 to 32-26) were discussed with expected amendments; final language will be refined before second reading. - Bill 36-26 (sign area definition) will have a countywide amendment circulated before the next meeting. - Bill 55-26 (towing facility) and Bill 56-26 (natural burial) will proceed; no votes were taken as the session was for discussion. - Deferred: Reappointment of Kevin Murphy to Ethics Commission (not present) will be heard at next meeting.

The Baltimore County Council convened on April 8, 2026, for Legislative Day 8. The session opened with a moment of silence for recently deceased community leaders (Senator Paula Hollinger, Bob Ramatka, and Linda Rundell) and the Pledge of Allegiance. The council approved the journal, enrolled several bills, and introduced seven new bills. Key actions included the confirmation of three appointments, passage of multiple bills (including a contentious development impact fee bill), and handling of fiscal matters and resolutions. Public testimony addressed the need for a crisis stabilization center and the future of the Animal Services Advisory Commission. Public Comments & Testimony - Tony Torsch, director of the Daniel Carl Torsch Foundation, urged the council to establish a crisis stabilization center in Baltimore County for individuals in drug, alcohol, or mental health crises. He noted that currently, residents are often transported out of county (e.g., to Anne Arundel County) because no such facility exists locally, and he referenced a $50,000 county study completed in January 2025. Torsch emphasized that a modest facility would reduce ER visits and improve outcomes, and he asked council members to consult with first responders. Council members expressed support and noted ongoing county efforts, including a tour of Frederick County's facility. - Ann George, animal advocate, addressed the inactive Animal Services Advisory Commission (ASAC), which has not met since June 2022. She proposed forming an ad hoc advisory committee to review the commission's mission, composition, and effectiveness, noting that recommendations from two prior consultant reviews were never implemented. George invited council members to suggest qualified participants for the committee. Councilman Patoka voiced strong support for her efforts and praised her dedication. Discussion Items - Bill 20-26 – Development Impact Fees (Councilman Marks): This bill sought to update the county's impact fee system. Extensive debate centered on amendments. Councilman Catch proposed an amendment with a $12,000 minimum fee and $30,000 maximum; after a failed modification to lower the minimum to $10,000 and $5/sq ft above 2,000 sq ft, the original amendment was defeated. Councilman Marks offered an amendment with no floor, a $30,000 cap (originally $35,000, lowered via suspension of rules), and technical changes (definition of occupiable space, exception for lots created before July 1, 2020, and a study requirement). This amendment passed on a 4-3 vote (Urtel, Marks, Young, Jones in favor; Crandall, Patoka, Catch against). The bill as amended then passed by the same 4-3 margin. Council members expressed differing views on the impact of fees on homebuyers and the need for infrastructure funding. - Bill 23-26 – Zoning: Housing for the Elderly in ML and MLR Zones (Councilman Catch): Permits Broadmead retirement community to expand onto adjacent land. A technical amendment was adopted, and the bill passed unanimously. - Bill 24-26 – Final Landmarks List: Sparks School Site (Councilmen Catch and Marks): Added the ruins of the first agricultural school in the U.S. to the landmarks list. An administration-supported amendment narrowed the designation to the school site and ruins, excluding surrounding open space (for potential park use). The amendment and bill passed unanimously. - Bill 25-26 – Zoning: Residential Performance Standards for Panhandle Lots (Councilman Marks): Extended the prohibition on panhandle lots in the Perry Hall area, supported by the Perry Hall Improvement Association. Passed unanimously. - Bill 26-26 – County Charter: Council Compensation and Redistricting (Councilman Jones): Seeks to remove the clause "for compensation only, considered full-time" from the recent charter amendment and to prevent mid-cycle redistricting. Councilman Jones argued the clause allows part-time work for full-time pay; Councilman Patoka defended the full-time nature of the job and the work group's recommendation. A motion to approve was made and seconded, but the council proceeded to fiscal matters without a recorded vote, leaving the bill's status unresolved. Key Outcomes - Bill 20-26 passed (4-3) as amended with a $30,000 cap and no minimum fee. - Bills 23-26, 24-26, 25-26 passed unanimously. - Bill 26-26 was moved and seconded but not voted on. - Fiscal Matters 1-8 (various contracts and purchase orders) were approved on a 6-1 vote (Crandall dissenting). - Fiscal Matter 9 (contract with Baltimore County Revenue Authority for employee parking subsidies) was deferred to the next meeting (April 20, 2026) with a work session on April 14, after concerns about Revenue Authority bonuses and transparency. - Resolutions 10-26 (grant acceptance for fire department), 11-26 (donation for beech leaf disease treatment at Cromwell Valley Park), and 12-26 (property tax exemption for a blind individual) all passed unanimously. - Resolution 13-26 (Rural Legacy Plan applications) was introduced for future consideration. - Appointments: Robert Ermer to the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board, and Sharon Bernardi and Michael Stelmack to the Board of Appeals were all confirmed unanimously.

The Baltimore County Council held its second work session for the upcoming Legislative Day 8 on April 2, 2026. The meeting covered appointments, donations, contracts, and several legislative bills. No final votes were taken; most actions are scheduled for the legislative session on April 6. Consent Calendar - Appointment to Adult Public Guardianship Review Board: Mr. Ermer, previously introduced, will be confirmed on April 6. - Reappointment to Board of Appeals – Sharon Bernardi (Councilman Jones): Ms. Bernardi, a former state deputy controller, committed to continued public service. - Reappointment to Board of Appeals – Michael Stelmack (Chairman): Mr. Stelmack expressed honor in serving and requested reappointment. - Donation to Fire Department EMS: Deputy Chief Danielle Natz presented a donation of five smart blood coolers valued at $4,500 from UM Shock Trauma to support the whole blood program. - Donation to Cromwell Valley Park: Acting Director Brian Shepard presented an $18,000 donation from the Cromwell Valley Park Nature Council for tree treatment. Councilman Marks voiced support. - Police Department Crash Reconstruction Training: Major Paul Borowski requested using $29,000 from a grant for two training courses. - Multiple Property Management Contracts: Deputy Director Nicole Frenny Frock presented amendments and contracts for pest control, turfgrass, irrigation, window washing, and building automation. - Gunpowder Sewage Pumping Station Hydraulic Contract: Miss Eichholtz presented a $282,500 contract for 90-day work. - Fluorescent Bulb Recycling Contract: Deputy Director Tony Rustel presented a 5-year, $212,611 contract with Broadview Waste Solutions. Councilman Ketch asked about transitioning to LEDs; administration will report back. - WIC Supplemental Appropriation: Deputy Director Lawrence Richardson presented a $236,867 federal pass-through for increased program applicants and lab renovation. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill 2026 – Development Impact Fees: Six members of the public testified. - Dale Lute (builder): Stated impact fees can reach $30,000–$60,000, criticizing inclusion of basements and garages, and citing inconsistent calculation. - Tim O'Shea (builder, 41 years): Said the $6/sq ft fee on a starter home (e.g., 2,500 sq ft with garage) can exceed $30,000, urging removal of unfinished spaces from calculation. - Travis Omo Periola (investor/agent): Described the system as 'convoluted' with inconsistent application by permit staff, causing builders to leave the county. Suggested a simpler per-dwelling fee. - Ted Russell (builder): Urged a quick resolution to provide certainty for pending projects. - Candy Vada (single lot owner): Expressed that the impact fee placed a heavy financial burden on her family trying to build a home on a family lot, and asked for an exemption for single lot owners. - Sharonda Hoffman: Criticized the lack of transparency in the amendment process, noting the amendment was not posted on the website before the hearing. - Bill 2326 – Housing for Elderly: Sean MacIntosh (Sparks resident, candidate) urged caution, stating Broadmead is cost-prohibitive and the area needs affordable senior housing and manufacturing space. - Bill 2626 – County Charter Amendment: - Sharonda Hoffman: Criticized the council for not recording meetings and questioned the need for the bill, noting the fiscal note indicates no fiscal impact. - Sean MacIntosh: Opposed the bill, arguing voters have already decided on full-time designation and salary should be set through the budget process. Discussion Items - Parking Agreement with Baltimore County Revenue Authority: Director Kevin Reed presented a 10-year, $14.5 million agreement for employee and vehicle parking in Towson garages. Councilman Crandall strongly criticized the Revenue Authority for lacking transparency, receiving county funds despite profitable operations, and paying employee bonuses. Councilman Patoka requested bonus information. Councilman Crandall noted that the council had cut capital funding for a golf course restaurant but the administration used prior appropriations and shifted parking costs to operating. Director Reed stated the agreement was necessary to formalize the existing arrangement. - Bill 2826 – Zoning: Lawn Treatment Companies in BL Zone (Councilman Ketch): Permits storage of lawn treatment chemicals in BL zones with a Commercial Rural (CR) overlay. Councilman Ketch raised concerns due to a past gasoline leak in Jacksonville. The council requested information from planning on locations of CR overlays on BL zones. - Bill 2026 – Development Impact Fees (Councilman Marks): Marks proposed an amendment capping fees at $35,000, removing the vague phrase 'similar to the rest of the dwelling unit,' and requiring a 6-month study of fee methodology. Councilman Patoka requested data on when other counties adopted impact fees. Marks committed to posting the amendment on the website. Discussion highlighted that a 2019 law required a review that never occurred. - Bill 2326 – Zoning: Housing for the Elderly in MLR/ML Zones (Councilman Ketch): Expands the senior overlay district to allow Broadmead to develop a satellite campus in Sparks. Ketch noted the shuttle service and reduced traffic impact. One public voice opposed, cited concerns about losing industrial land and lack of affordable senior housing. - Bill 2426 – Final Landmarks List (Ketch/Marks): Protects a portion of the Sparks Elementary School ruins, allowing the rest for recreation. Brief. - Bill 2526 – Zoning: Panhandle Lots in Perry Hall (Councilman Marks): Prohibits new panhandle lots in the Perry Hall area. Supported by the Perry Hall Improvement Association. One public speaker (Karen Harris) described personal issues with a proposed panhandle lot. No opposition. - Bill 2626 – County Charter Amendment (Councilman Jones): Jones proposed removing the full-time designation for council members and the related compensation language from the voter-approved charter amendment. He argued that the role has been part-time for 70 years and full-time pay is unfair. Councilman Patoka defended the full-time designation, citing the work group recommendation and the demanding nature of the job. No consensus reached; an amended bill is expected on April 6. Key Outcomes - Appointments, donations, and most contracts are expected to be approved on Legislative Day 8 (April 6). - The amendment for Bill 2026 will be posted online. - The administration will provide information on LED bulb transition policy and locations of CR overlays on BL zones. - Information on Revenue Authority employee bonuses will be obtained. - Bill 2626 will be revised and voted on April 6. - The council acknowledged the recent deaths of former Senator Paula Hollinger and community leader Bob Rameika.

The Baltimore County Council held its seventh legislative day of 2026 on March 18, 2026, in a virtual format due to weather. Councilman Crandall served as chair in place of Chairman Ortell. The council passed bills, confirmed an appointment, heard public comments, and debated controversial measures on law enforcement masks and council pensions. Consent Calendar - Journal approval: The journal for March 2, 2026 was approved unanimously. - Enrollment of bills: Bills 8-26 through 13-26 were enrolled after passage. - Appointment confirmation: Monique Thompson was confirmed unanimously to the Baltimore County Advisory Committee on Public School Capacity. She expressed her experience with Baltimore City Public Schools and her current role as chief benefits manager for the MTA. - Fiscal matters 1 through 4: Contracts with United States Tower Services, Bureau Veritas Technical Assessments, Precision Concrete Cutting, and three snow removal contracts were approved unanimously. - Resolution 9-26: A property tax exemption and partial refund for a blind resident, Martin Walker, was approved unanimously. - Resolutions 10-26 and 11-26: Introduced only – a donation from University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center and arborist services for Cromwell Valley Park. Public Comments & Testimony - Fred Homan (former councilmember): Criticized the council for not taking action to unseal the sealed Murray case, which involved a $150,000 payment approved by the council and a subsequent lawsuit. He urged the council to pass a resolution or hire an attorney to unseal the case, and also questioned the county auditor’s qualifications (not a CPA). Councilman Jones responded that he had publicly supported unsealing the case and noted past legislation requiring disclosure of payouts. - Sharonda Hoffman: Addressed multiple issues including: the council’s “acting surprised” about salary recommendations after the council expansion work group report; her belief that Councilman Ortell voted no on the pension referendum because he suspected problems; the need to record work sessions for ADA compliance and transparency; and the lack of a bill to implement salary commission recommendations, which she urged to be introduced sooner. Discussion Items - Bill 15-26 (Smart Growth America Community Connectors grant): Passed unanimously after a motion and second, with no debate. - Bill 16-26 (Statewide voucher program): Passed unanimously after testimony from Director Hickey. - Bill 17-26 (Zoning – Owings Mills growth area): Sponsored by Councilman Jones to allow increased uses in vacant buildings. Passed unanimously. - Bill 18-26 (Masks prohibited for law enforcement officers): Sponsored by Councilman Patoka, who argued ICE officers wear masks to create fear and terror, and that other agencies like Baltimore County Police do not use such tactics. An amendment by the sponsor to exempt Baltimore County law enforcement (police, sheriff, corrections) failed for lack of a second. Councilman Jones questioned whether state police would be included; the secretary clarified the amendment only excluded county law enforcement. After the amendment failed, a motion to pass the bill was made but no second was heard, so the bill failed. - Bill 19-26 (Employees retirement system – county council members – repeal of Bill 40-24): Sponsored by Councilmen Patoka and Ortell. Councilman Young offered an amendment to tie any future pension changes to the same commission process as salary changes (PSAB review). Patoka opposed the amendment, arguing the repeal should be unconditional. Councilman Crandall expressed support, noting discomfort with council voting on its own compensation. The amendment was motioned and seconded, then passed by a vote with Councilman Patoka dissenting. The bill, as amended, then passed unanimously. Councilman Ortell explained the bill’s intent: Bill 40-24 (2024) had aligned council pensions with the state system, but after the council became full-time (voter-approved in 2024) and the PSAB recommended a higher salary, the council now had more information to reconsider. - Bill 20-26 (Development impact fee): Sponsored by Councilman Marks. He moved to hold the bill over for two weeks due to lack of consensus on calculation methods. The motion passed unanimously. The bill will be heard at the work session on March 31 and the legislative session on April 6. - Bill 21-26 (Zoning – catering hall in BL zone): Sponsored by Councilman Marks. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 8-26 (Water and sewer plan amendment – Cycle 43): An amendment by Councilman Patoka to remove a sewer designation change for 8400 Park Heights Avenue (keeping it as S7 instead of S3) passed unanimously. The resolution as amended then passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Monique Thompson confirmed to the public school capacity advisory committee (unanimous). - Bill 18-26 (law enforcement mask prohibition) failed – no second on the main motion after the exemption amendment failed. - Bill 19-26 (council pension repeal) passed as amended – the Young amendment will require future pension changes to go through the PSAB commission process. - Bill 20-26 (development impact fee) held over for two weeks (next work session March 31, 2026). - Resolution 8-26 amended to keep sewer designation at S7 for 8400 Park Heights Avenue, then passed. - All other bills and fiscal matters passed without opposition.

The Baltimore County Council met on March 18, 2026, for a discussion with Dr. Miriam Rogers, Superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS), regarding school system updates, the FY27 budget, and key challenges. Councilman Jack Urtell (standing in for Chairman Urcel) chaired the meeting. No votes were taken; the session was informational and conversational. Discussion Items - Direct Admit Partnership with CCBC: Dr. Rogers announced a new partnership between BCPS and the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC), effective for the Class of 2026. All BCPS graduates will be automatically admitted to CCBC, with support for financial aid and college advising. CCBC offers reduced or tuition-free courses for many students, and credits transfer to four-year institutions. Seniors will receive a joint message in the coming week. - FY27 Budget and Financial Challenges: Dr. Rogers presented the adopted budget, noting that BCPS has seen declining enrollment post-COVID (economically disadvantaged students increased drastically, multilingual learners grew by 1,000 per year until this year, special education costs rose). The budget includes full compensation for year two and three of union contracts, with new spending reduced by 73.6%. Only $5 million in academic achievement investments (charter schools, special education, speech therapists) and $1.1 million for infrastructure (12 new positions for new construction, contractual staff for transcripts). The Board of Education prioritized compensation and adhered to the county executive's 2% increase target, except for $3.6 million. - State Advocacy and Funding Risks: Dr. Rogers highlighted advocacy efforts in Annapolis: a potential loss of $15 million in compensatory education was reduced to $3.5 million through advocacy; special education funding crisis (over $1 billion unfunded statewide); and a request for hold-harmless formulas and rolling enrollment counts to better capture poverty and student needs. - Multilingual Learners and Enrollment Trends: Dr. Rogers reported a concerning trend: for the first time, multilingual learner enrollment declined (by about 100 students) after a decade of growth. Some students cited fear related to immigration status, even in mixed-status families, leading to higher dropout rates among Hispanic/Latino students. The Board of Education is examining a policy for protection of multilingual learners. - Academic Improvements: BCPS saw improvements in every student group in math and language arts proficiency. 82% of schools improved their rating, 21% improvement in five-star schools, 64 individual schools improved, and BCPS has the most five-star schools in Maryland (9 of top 10 elementary schools, 1 and 4 high schools). Key drivers: new literacy curriculum aligned to science of reading, and research-based teaching strategies (John Safir's "Skillful Teacher"). - Capital Projects: Dr. Rogers updated on three high school projects (Lansdowne, Delaney, Towson) and two elementary schools (Deer Park, Scotts Branch) moving forward. Rising costs may slow future projects without additional state funding (e.g., a new Built to Learn Act). The priority list (including Overlea High School addition) remains unchanged and will be shared with the council. - Discipline and Safety: Councilman Marks raised concerns about a recent off-campus incident at Perry Hall High School. Dr. Rogers said additional supports were provided and emphasized collaboration with Baltimore County Police. She also noted ongoing discussions about moving the special education database to Maryland Online, but BCPS is weighing pros and cons. - Teacher Hiring: Dr. Rogers clarified that the 500-600 teachers mentioned in an email likely refers to recent hires, not a specific FY27 target. New educator orientation numbers from prior years were similar. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken during the meeting. - Dr. Rogers committed to forwarding the school system's capital project priority list to the council. - Council members expressed appreciation for Dr. Rogers' service and collaboration, and she affirmed her continued availability before her retirement. - The council and superintendent agreed to maintain open communication on budget and legislative advocacy, particularly regarding compensatory education, special education funding, and the Blueprint for Maryland's Future.

The Baltimore County Council held its sixth legislative day on March 4, 2026, at 4:01 PM. The meeting included the introduction of five new bills, confirmation of several appointments, final passage of multiple bills, approval of fiscal matters, and two public comments. All votes were unanimous except for the postponement of one resolution. Consent Calendar - The council approved the journal of the February 17, 2026 meeting. - Bills 5-26 and 6-26 were noted as passed by the council, signed by the executive, and enrolled. Appointments - Sheila Thomas was confirmed to the Baltimore County Advisory Committee on Public School Capacity. She spoke briefly, noting her 33.5 years in public education. - Barry Oldfelder Klein, Henry B. Peterson, and Albert Zawicki were confirmed as nominees to the Property Tax Assessment Appeals Board, to be forwarded to the governor. Bills Introduced Five bills were introduced for first reading: - Bill 22-26: Current expense budget, special supplemental nutrition program (WIC). - Bill 23-26 (sponsored by Councilman Katch): Zoning regulations, uses permitted in the MLR and ML zones, housing for the elderly. - Bill 24-26 (sponsored by Council Members Katch and Marks): Topic not specified. - Bill 25-26 (sponsored by Councilman Marks): Zoning regulations, residential performance standards, panhandle lots. - Bill 26-26 (sponsored by Councilman Jones): County Charter, County Council compensation and redistricting. Final Passage of Bills - Bill 8-26 (sponsored by Councilman Marks): Zoning regulations, eco park district transportation infrastructure prerequisite. An amendment was adopted to limit the use and occupancy permit to structures when combined square footage exceeds 600,000 sq ft, and to specify road improvements. The bill passed unanimously as amended. - Bill 10-26: Administration bill for continuum of care (38th slot). Passed unanimously. - Bill 11-26: Current expense budget, smart policing initiative. Passed unanimously. - Bill 12-26 (sponsored by Councilman Marks): Zoning regulations, uses permitted in RC5 zone (riding stables). Conditions: stable must be 200 ft from residential property line or have existed for at least 15 years. Passed unanimously. - Bill 13-26 (sponsored by Councilman Marks): Zoning regulations, signs, placemaking signs. An amendment replaced "placemaking" with "regional destination" at the administration's request. Passed unanimously as amended. Fiscal Matters Fiscal matters 1 through 7 were approved unanimously. These include contracts with National Medical Services Inc., WGL Energy Services Inc., audio visual hardware and services, Baltimore Regional Housing Partnership, image asphalt maintenance, Arcadis U.S. Inc., and two contracts for legal services. Resolutions - Resolution 7-26: Acceptance of a donation of services for the Oregon Ridge Woodland Garden Project. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 8-26: Baltimore County Water Supply and Sewer Plan Cycle 43. The vote was postponed to the March 10 work session and March 16 legislative session after Councilman Katch requested a delay to resolve issues in his district regarding one of the two properties (Rices Lane in Windsor Mill and 8400 Park Heights in Pikesville). Public Comments & Testimony - Sharonda Hoffman (in person): Commented on Bill 47-24 regarding council composition and compensation. She criticized the lack of clarity in the bill, noting it did not specify "for compensation purposes only." She expressed concern about potential pension increases and the difficulty of accessing full bill amendments in minutes. She urged the council to consider the salary recommendation of $140,000 and noted that the fair election fund parameters are too high, limiting participation. - David Conrad (online): Deferred his time, stating his question was answered during the meeting. - Gloria Kelly (in person): Addressed zoning enforcement issues, specifically the lack of accessible, signed site plans for industrial properties near residential areas. She provided an example of her own property where a business operated without a valid site plan, leading to zoning violations. She requested a reassessment of how departments share information and ensure public access to site plans. Key Outcomes - All appointments and bills (8-26, 10-26, 11-26, 12-26, 13-26) were passed unanimously. - Fiscal matters 1-7 and Resolution 7-26 were approved unanimously. - Resolution 8-26 was postponed to the next work session (March 10) and legislative session (March 16). - The council plans to discuss the salary issue at the next work session, as noted by Councilman Katch.