Baltimore City Council

“It's not just for someone else, or for kids from the suburbs to come here…This is for you. This is for Baltimore city kids.”

For the first time in 125 years, the council has the power to cut and add from the budget proposal.

During a press conference, Harrison did not divulge details about his decision to leave but the decision was made with Mayor Brandon Scott after “several weeks” of conversation. Deputy Commissioner of operations Rich Worley will serve as interim.

In order to have weekly recycling by the first quarter of 2024, officials from the Department of Public Works say they will need 20 new crews and 30 new garbage trucks.

“This is crucial for Baltimore renters in this moment.”

The commission will recommend supplemental funding for local community programs while also addressing the “damage done by structurally racist policies” during the War on Drugs.

Owner-occupied homes valued at less than $250,000 will be exempt from the controversial sales tax.

The commission is meant to increase efficiency and keep the charter up to date. It should have been convened by May 1st, 2021.

Guest host Emily Sullivan of the Baltimore Banner recaps Wednesday night's public City Hall forum on the Baltimore budget, with perspectives from Banner reporter Adam Willis and political analyst Sophia Silbergeld.

“We know this budget doesn’t prioritize the needs of the people.”