PADM: Politics, Strategies, and Initiatives of Community Economic
Development
Baltimore City Economic Action Plan
Sonya Dease
PADM 530
March 8, 2024
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PADM: Politics, Strategies, and Initiatives of Community Economic
Development
Abstract
Established in 1729, Baltimore City is in central Maryland as the state's largest city.
Baltimore City has a rich historical tapestry, contributing significantly to the American
Revolution and the War of 1812. Originally recognized for its industrial prowess in steel
processing and shipping, Baltimore has successfully diversified its economy, encompassing
sectors such as finance, healthcare, and education (City of Baltimore, 2024).
The revitalized Inner Harbor, once a historic port area, now stands as a major attraction,
bolstering the city's tourism sector. Home to prestigious educational institutions like Johns
Hopkins University, the University of Maryland, and Morgan State University, Baltimore is a
hub for academic excellence. Cultural institutions such as The Walters Art Museum and the
Baltimore Museum of Art further enrich the city's cultural scene (Facts & FAQs about
Baltimore, 2024).
Economic Situation
Baltimore City's current economic makeup reflects a mixture of opportunities and
challenges. On the positive side, the city has experienced population growth, with a recent
modest decline, standing at 569,931 as of July 2022. The median household income is $54,124,
and the owner-occupied housing unit rate is 47.9%. Encouragingly, unemployment levels in the
first quarter of 2023 decreased by 0.2%, reaching the lowest rate since 1990. The city is
approaching full employment, with increases in resident employment and the labor force
(Baltimore City Economic Indicator Report: First Quarter 2023, 2023).
Despite these positive indicators, challenges persist in the economic landscape. Employed
city residents and the labor force have both declined since March 2020, suggesting a new normal
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for employment levels. Residential real estate activity has slowed due to rising interest rates, and
the commercial real estate sector, particularly in offices, has faced disruptions from the COVID-
19 pandemic. However, the industrial sector has benefited from increased demand for e-
commerce (Baltimore City Economic Indicator Report: First Quarter 2023, 2023).
The development projects contribute to the city's economic growth, including initiatives
like the Baltimore Peninsula, CFG Bank arena, and Shops at Canton expansion. Despite
volatility in the Downtown Business District, notable projects such as the renovated Lexington
Market and new retail additions highlight ongoing economic development (Baltimore City
Economic Indicator Report: First Quarter 2023, 2023).
However, significant disparities persist between Black and white residents, as highlighted
by the Baltimore Area Survey. Black residents face higher levels of food insecurity, police fear,
and transportation challenges. Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions to
foster a more equitable economic landscape (A Portrait of Baltimore: Results of the 2023
Baltimore Area Survey, 2023).
Mayor Brandon M. Scott acknowledges Baltimore City's robust economic growth,
ranking among the fastest-growing economies in Maryland. He attributes this success to efforts
in attracting new businesses, investing in human capital through workforce development
initiatives, and supporting small, minority-owned businesses. The mayor emphasizes a
commitment to equitable development, recognizing the impact of a stronger economy on public
safety and neighborhood quality of life (Mayor Scott’s Statement on Baltimore’s Economic
Growth, 2023).
SWOT Analysis
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The SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) identifies internal and
external issues of the organization’s mission. The strengths are the internal capabilities and
positive factors that are present within the city. These components are activities that contribute to
the economic growth of the community. The weaknesses are internal factors that impede and
hinder progression in Baltimore City. The opportunities are external factors that can assist in
economic growth activity. The final component, threats, are external factors that can hinder
growth in the community. These threats can be past and present activities that continue to prevail
in Baltimore City (Teoli et al., 2022).
Strengths
Baltimore City has witnessed substantial economic growth, with its economic output
surpassing $50 billion, positioning it among the top-performing cities in the United States
(Archibald, 2023). Mayor Brandon Scott envisions reciprocal benefits for communities following
this success. The city boasts prominent national sports teams, the Baltimore Ravens, and Orioles,
drawing in out-of-state fans and contributing to its economic vitality (Mayor Scott’s Statement
on Baltimore’s Economic Growth, 2023).
The strategic location of Baltimore City is a notable strength, being within 15 minutes of
an international airport, having direct access to the Amtrak Northeast Corridor, and hosting a
thriving port with international cruise lines. Furthermore, the presence of Johns Hopkins
Hospital, a premier medical and research institution, enhances the city's reputation and provides
a foundation for further development (“A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy,”
2022).
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A significant initiative contributing to community strength is the East Baltimore
Revitalization Project, a 15-year, $800 million effort focused on rebuilding a section of the city.
The project includes a two-million-square-foot Life Sciences and Technology Park, mixed-
income housing, improved parks and streetscapes, a new school, and retail services. This
comprehensive approach distinguishes it from similar projects, aiming to benefit both the
university and the surrounding community (Cromwell et al., 2005).
The partnership overseeing the East Baltimore Revitalization Project involves key
stakeholders, including the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Johns Hopkins University and Medical
Institutions, and the City of Baltimore. Johns Hopkins is investing $1.2 billion in construction in
East Baltimore. The Annie E. Casey Foundation strives to improve outcomes for children and
families, emphasizing place-based family strengthening (Cromwell et al., 2005).
The City of Baltimore's economic development strategy focuses on creating a clean and
safe city, promoting workforce development and education, and implementing an economic
growth strategy. The movement of goods through the Port of Baltimore is a crucial growth
industry for the city, benefiting from its strategic geographic location and intermodal
infrastructure. The surge in e-commerce has further propelled economic activity at the Port of
Baltimore, with a 12% increase in containers in December 2020 compared to the preliminary
stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. This growth underscores the city's potential as a supply chain
solution for e-commerce cargo, emphasizing expedited delivery to end consumers (“Seizing the
Opportunity to Make the Baltimore to Make the Baltimore Region the Supply Region the Supply
Chain Solution: Chain Solution: Supplemental Discussion,” 2023).
Weakness
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One notable issue within the community of Baltimore City is the severe lack of trust
between minority community members and law enforcement, particularly the police. This
distrust has deep roots, exacerbated by the 2015 Freddie Gray case, which resulted in protests
and riots, highlighting longstanding tensions and a generational belief that questions the police's
commitment to protecting and serving the community (Freddie Gray & Baltimore Unrest:
Exploring the Case Using Op-Eds, 2015). Furthermore, the community exhibits a general lack of
trust in public servants and community leaders, a sentiment fueled by recent legal troubles
involving local officials. The erosion of trust in key institutions raises concerns about effective
governance and community representation (Robins & HUB, 2023).
The education system is another area of concern. The Baltimore City public school
system grapples with inadequate resources, leading to low attendance and graduation rates. This
educational deficit leaves the youth insufficiently prepared for life after graduation. The disparity
in educational resources contributes to a cycle of limited opportunities for future success (A
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, 2022).
Opportunities
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHH Baltimore City stands at the threshold of various economic and community
opportunities that could further propel its growth and development. The city's ongoing economic
upswing serves as a solid foundation for the exploration of these opportunities. A key avenue for
progress lies in the expansion and enhancement of communities, capitalizing on existing
resources and landmarks. Notable areas with high potential for development include Druid Hill
Park, Baltimore Inner Harbor, Port Covington, and Pimlico Racecourse. Transforming and
investing in these locales presents opportunities to elevate entertainment options and
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employment prospects for the local population (A Comprehensive Economic Development
Strategy, 2022).
Mayor Scott emphasizes that the city's economic advancements create an environment
conducive to attracting new businesses and developments. These developments, in turn, signify a
substantial investment in human capital, fostering job creation and economic stability. The influx
of new businesses not only contributes to the economic landscape but also augments the city's
reputation as an attractive destination for professional endeavors (Mayor Scott’s Statement on
Baltimore’s Economic Growth, 2023).
Crucially, the ongoing efforts to improve neighborhoods can serve as a powerful draw for
new residents seeking an enhanced quality of life. The comprehensive economic development
strategy outlines that as neighborhoods undergo positive transformations, they become more
appealing to prospective residents, potentially leading to an increase in the population with
higher incomes. This demographic shift can, in turn, contribute to the overall well-being of the
community, fostering a positive cycle of growth and prosperity (A Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy, 2022).
Threats
Crime in Baltimore City continues to be a challenge to the community’s economic
progression. While there has been a notable 20% reduction in homicides, other crime categories
have surged, leading to ongoing concerns, and contributing to a decline in the city's resident
population. The enduring struggle with crime rates hampers the city's ability to attract and retain
residents, hindering its overall community development (Baltimore Celebrates Historic 20%
Drop in Homicides Even as Gun Violence Remains High, 2024).
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Another challenge is the persistent wealth and income disparities between white and
African American residents, reflecting systemic issues that impact business and home ownership.
The community also grapples with a high number of vacant and abandoned buildings, presenting
obstacles to fostering new homeownership opportunities and contributing to the overall decline
in the city's attractiveness. Addressing these disparities is essential for promoting a more
equitable and inclusive community (A Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, 2022).
Additionally, Baltimore City residents face the burden of high property taxes and fees for
municipal services, creating a financial strain. This poses a threat to attracting new residents and
retaining existing community members, particularly those with longstanding ties to the city (A
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, 2022). The financial challenges may deter
potential residents and hinder the city's ability to retain a diverse and vibrant population.
Legal & Public Policy Issues
Baltimore City grapples with a multitude of legal and public policy issues that shape its
governance, socioeconomic landscape, and community well-being. These challenges encompass
areas such as economic development, vacant property revitalization, infrastructure project
management, and a broad legislative agenda reflecting concerns in criminal justice, taxation,
property rights, and public safety.
Economic Development and Vacant Property Revitalization
One significant public policy issue in Baltimore is the transformative and equitable
economic development initiative led by Mayor Brandon M. Scott. Collaborating with the Greater
Baltimore Committee and BUILD, this initiative seeks to address the longstanding challenges
posed by vacant and abandoned properties. With a targeted minimum investment of $3.0 billion
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in public and philanthropic funds, the goal is to leverage $5.0 billion in direct private investment
over 15 years, aiming to spark a redevelopment industry in Baltimore. The initiative underscores
the city's commitment to revitalizing neighborhoods burdened by vacant properties and fostering
inclusive economic growth ("Baltimore City Vacant Property Strategy Preliminary Findings –
City of Baltimore / BUILD / GBC," 2023).
Infrastructure Project Management
The city faces challenges in monitoring and handling overruns in infrastructure projects,
including transportation, water, power, and waste systems. The Opacity Problem report
highlights the difficulty in obtaining complete and robust data from city entities, hindering a
comprehensive analysis of contract overruns and damages collected from Despite a desire to
assess liquidated damages to contractors for missing deadlines, the report notes the rarity of such
assessments. The study emphasizes the importance of transparency in municipal agencies and
suggests measures for greater transparency, including displaying specific completion dates on
construction project signs and creating scorecards for bidding contractors with relevant
performance metrics contractors ("The Opacity Problem: An Examination of Baltimore City
Infrastructure Contracts," 2015).
Legislative Agenda
Baltimore City's legislative agenda reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing
public policy issues. Proposed bills cover a wide range of areas, including criminal justice
reform, traffic enforcement, liquor license regulations, waste hauling reporting requirements, tax
sale reforms, and issues related to vacant properties. For example, bills aim to reform the home
monitoring notification system, sunset the Civilian Review Board, and grant investigatory
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powers to administrative charging committees. Other initiatives focus on clarifying towing fees,
increasing fines for liquor license violations, and protecting traffic enforcement officers from
felony assault (Mayor Scott Unveils Priorities for 2023 Legislative Session, 2023). This
legislative agenda highlights the city's commitment to governance that addresses diverse aspects
of public welfare and community well-being.
Governmental Atmosphere
The political landscape in Baltimore City is multifaceted, influenced by factors such as
public sentiment, government structures, and the city's historical and socio-economic challenges.
The Goucher College Poll conducted in collaboration with The Baltimore Banner provides
valuable insights into the perceptions of registered voters in the city. The findings reflect the
complexities and concerns within the community, shaping the political atmosphere ("Goucher
College Poll Results," 2023).
The approval ratings of key figures, including State's Attorney Ivan Bates and Mayor
Brandon Scott, reveal a diverse range of opinions among Baltimore City residents. While Bates
enjoys commendable approval, Mayor Scott faces a more divided public opinion. The challenges
confronting the city, such as crime and public safety, are pivotal issues that significantly impact
voter attitudes. Crime emerges as a major concern, with an overwhelming majority of
respondents identifying it as a pressing issue ("Goucher College Poll Results," 2023).
The persistent problem of crime underscores the need for effective governance and
collaborative solutions. The poll highlights public support for various measures to address crime,
including increased resources for youth violence, heightened police presence, and stricter gun
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control laws. These findings indicate a complex sentiment among citizens who demand action
while maintaining optimism about the city's future ("Goucher College Poll Results," 2023).
The media landscape also plays a crucial role in shaping political opinions, with many
respondents trusting news from Baltimore-based media. Local media outlets like WBAL-TV,
WJZ-TV, and Fox45 TV hold substantial influence. This underscores the importance of media in
disseminating information and influencing voter decisions, emphasizing the interconnectedness
of media and politics in Baltimore City ("Goucher College Poll Results," 2023).
Mayor Brandon Scott faces challenges in the wake of a divided public opinion,
particularly regarding his handling of crime and public safety. The Baltimore Banner's poll
indicates a significant disapproval rate, reflecting the complexities of governing a city grappling
with longstanding issues. Crime rates, basic service concerns, and a declining population
contribute to the challenges Scott confronts in his role as mayor. Crime stands out as a deeply
entrenched problem, with homicides consistently exceeding 300 annually since 2015. Scott's
progressive approach to addressing crime through a public health lens has garnered both support
and skepticism. The mayor's commitment to transformative change and holistic public safety
approaches reflects a nuanced strategy to tackle the root causes of violence in the city (Sullivan,
2022).
The complexities of governing Baltimore City are evident in the mixed public sentiment
toward Mayor Scott. While supporters commend his efforts to address systemic issues, critics
highlight unfulfilled promises and ongoing challenges. Scott's commitment to transformative
change and his racially diverse base underscores the nuances of governing a city with a history of
racial disparities and economic challenges (Sullivan, 2022).
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Baltimore City's governmental atmosphere operates within a strong mayor-council form
of government, characterized by concentrated executive and legislative powers in the hands of
the mayor. The collaborative dynamic between the mayor and the city council is crucial for
effective governance, requiring negotiations and compromises to address the diverse needs of
Baltimore's communities. The city's relationship with the State of Maryland adds another layer of
complexity to its governance structure. The Maryland General Assembly's authority over certain
aspects of the city's governance, coupled with federal influence and funding, creates an intricate
web of intergovernmental relations. Collaborative efforts at multiple levels of government are
essential to addressing shared challenges and securing resources for the city (Sullivan, 2022).
Action Plan
Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott has outlined a comprehensive action plan focusing
on five key pillars: Building Public Safety, Prioritizing Youth, Clean and Healthy Communities,
Equitable Neighborhood Development, and Responsible Stewardship of City Resources (Mayor
Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Building Public Safety
In the first goal, the plan focuses on reducing violent crime by implementing and
expanding the group violence reduction strategy (GVRS) in collaboration with local
communities. Strengthening victim services, expanding investments in community-based
violence intervention programs, assessing the Safe Streets Program, and fostering community
engagement are key components of this goal. Tracking metrics such as the number of homicides,
shootings, resident perceptions of public safety, and community partnerships will gauge the
plan's effectiveness (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
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The second goal centers on achieving progress in implementing and complying with the
federal consent decree, emphasizing reforms in policing practices. This involves piloting
neighborhood policing plans, deploying an early intervention system for monitoring police
officers, and investing in technological advancements. The aim is to build public trust and
enhance accountability within the Baltimore Police Department (BPD) (Mayor Brandon M. Scott
Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Goal three seeks to hold gun traffickers accountable and reduce the influx of illegal guns
into Baltimore. Strategies include expanding the Crime Gun Intelligence Center, establishing a
Firearms Intelligence Unit, and improving data tools for tracking the origin of illegal guns. Clear
metrics, such as the number of violent crimes committed with illegal guns and the clearance rate
for such cases, will measure progress (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore,
2021).
The fourth goal focuses on supporting returning residents by developing safe return
plans, launching the Re-Entry Action Network, and increasing job placements. The plan aims to
empower returning residents by providing them with opportunities for treatment, family
strengthening, and employment services (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore,
2021).
Goal five revolves around accelerating and expanding alternative responses to 9-1-1 calls
related to behavioral and mental health crises. Initiatives include diverting appropriate calls to
behavioral health specialists, improving Baltimore's public behavioral health system, and
increasing resident awareness of online reporting for minor crimes. Tracking metrics such as the
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percentage of EMS responses within 9 minutes and the number of alternative transports will
assess the success of these efforts (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Finally, the sixth goal focuses on strengthening coordination at the federal, state, and
regional levels for joint efforts in violence prevention, intervention, enforcement, and re-entry.
This involves establishing protocols for shooting responses, implementing a regional crisis
response model, and redesigning the child fatality review process. Metrics such as the number of
cases federally prosecuted and total grant dollars received will gauge the success of these
collaborative endeavors (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Prioritizing Youth
The plan places a significant emphasis on quality educational and recreational
environments for every child in Baltimore. This involves prioritizing funding for the Blueprint
for Maryland’s Future and implementing the Kirwan Commission’s recommendations for
educational equity. City Schools will collaborate with students and families to create
individualized Student Learning Plans, focusing on social, emotional, and academic needs.
Strengthening partnerships with the Enoch Pratt Free Library aims to enhance school
engagement and literacy among Baltimore youth. The plan also envisions increased access to
quality education through freer after-school programs at local recreation centers and improved
facilities. Additionally, a unified Municipal I.D. program is in the works to streamline access to
various city services, ensuring inclusivity (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore,
2021).
To address the needs of disconnected youth, the plan introduces a groundbreaking year-
round YouthWorks pilot program, offering longer-term employment to high school juniors and
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seniors. Strategic plans will remove barriers and ensure equitable access for disconnected boys
and young men of color. A mentorship and training pipeline will connect young adults to career
opportunities within City government, with a specific focus on DPW and Rec & Parks. Efforts to
strengthen pathways for recent Baltimore City Public Schools graduates into training and career-
track jobs are underway. The plan also envisions expanded youth entrepreneurship programs,
introducing foundational business and career skills to young people aged 7-17. A districtwide
career and higher education mentoring program for youth aged 15-21, led by City Schools, is
also in the pipeline. Additionally, older youth transitioning from foster care will receive
comprehensive support, including mentorship, education, employment, and housing initiatives
led by Baltimore City DSS. Increased access to community summer camps and recreational
activities is also on the agenda (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
In addressing justice-involved youth, the plan introduces the SideStep youth diversion
program, developed in collaboration with Baltimore youth. This community-driven approach
supports young individuals who make mistakes rather than resorting to immediate arrests.
Deepening interagency partnerships, providing additional support for youth in custody and their
families, and implementing the Crossover Youth Practice Model are crucial components of the
plan. Furthermore, the plan emphasizes funding for community-based violence prevention
programming for school-aged children and youth, workforce training programs for justice-
involved students, and policies and training for police officers through behavioral health, trauma-
informed, and youth justice lenses. Tracking metrics include enrollment in city-funded trade
schools, and GED/HS degree completion for justice-involved youth (Mayor Brandon M. Scott
Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
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To ensure babies and young children are developmentally ready for kindergarten, the plan
introduces measures such as expanding early childhood and parent programming in Baltimore
rec centers, providing quality Head Start services, and increasing Early Learning Hubs. Efforts to
decrease racial disparities in infant mortality, improve maternal care, and outreach through the
B’more for Healthy Babies program are also integral. Specific initiatives include educating foster
parents, caseworkers, and birth parents on safe sleep practices, initiating a Plan of Safe Care for
substance-exposed newborns, and providing early intervention services for children aged 0–3
with suspected developmental disabilities. A comprehensive health and behavioral assessment
for every child entering foster care, along with yearly mental and behavioral health screenings
for children under five in-home visit programs. Tracking metrics include the number of children
under five from lower-income households utilizing kindergarten readiness programs,
participation in Healthy Start, and participation in Head Start (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building
a Better Baltimore, 2021).
To make local government more accessible and reflective of the youth population, Mayor
Scott's plan introduces actions such as hosting biannual Youth Summits, establishing Recreation
Center Councils with youth representation, and holding collaborative meetings between the
Baltimore City Youth Commission and the City Schools CEO’s Youth Leadership Advisory
Council. Partnering with the Youth Commission to establish a cabinet member youth shadow
program, strengthening relationships through participation in career days and classroom visits,
and tracking metrics such as the number of youths serving on boards and commissions and total
participation in the Mayor’s Youth Summit are also part of the plan (Mayor Brandon M. Scott
Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Clean and Healthy Neighborhoods
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Firstly, in the realm of Environmental Health, the city is committed to decommissioning
waste incineration within the next decade, a crucial step to curtail chronic health disparities. A
particular emphasis is on reducing lead paint poisoning, especially in households with pregnant
women and young children. To bolster neighborhood health and cleanliness, a coordinated
strategy to inspect nuisance properties is set to launch. Simultaneously, sustainable waste
management practices, increased air quality monitoring in low-income neighborhoods, and an
ambitious tree canopy expansion aim to create healthier living conditions (Mayor Brandon M.
Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Transitioning to the challenge of Housing Insecurity and Homelessness, the city plans to
increase affordable housing by raising inclusionary housing standards. A Right to Counsel
program offers legal assistance to tenants, focusing on housing stability and eviction prevention.
Reforming the tax lien certificate sale process and expanding shelter options underscore the
commitment to reducing homelessness. The plan further involves efficient connections to
available shelter beds and demobilizing temporary housing established in response to COVID-19
(Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
The third focus area revolves around Neighborhood Cleanliness and Green Spaces.
Initiatives such as improving solid waste pickup, street sweeping, and enforcing safe parking
seek to enhance the overall cleanliness of neighborhoods. The city plans to actively combat
illegal dumping and engage residents in community clean-up efforts. Environmental design
strategies and anti-littering campaigns instill a sense of responsibility, while community
volunteer programs aim to support those caring for public green spaces (Mayor Brandon M.
Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
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Accessibility and Mobility constitute the fourth domain, focusing on ensuring every
neighborhood has access to affordable, healthy food, reliable public transportation, and quality
streets and sidewalks. Initiatives include expanding nutrition incentives, developing an equitable
transit plan, and setting standards for safe accommodations for various modes of transportation.
The city also plans to intensify outreach and education efforts to promote sustainable
transportation practices (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Moving on to Water Service and Quality, the plan outlines actions to reform the water
billing system, implement the Water Accountability and Equity Act, and address sewage
overflows. These measures, along with upgrades to wastewater treatment plants, aim to provide
residents with access to affordable, quality water while meeting the latest EPA standards on lead
and copper seepage (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Lastly, the city is committed to sustainability and zero waste. This involves initiatives to
remove trash and debris, distribute recycling carts, and increase awareness of recycling services.
The plan also seeks to divert food waste from the residential waste stream through composting,
conduct a comprehensive review of the city's sustainability footprint, and achieve gold
certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better
Baltimore, 2021).
Equitable Neighborhood Development
The first pillar of the plan centers around Economic Recovery and Workforce Development.
Aiming for an 80 percent citywide vaccination rate, the focus extends to vulnerable groups,
including city employees, students, and residents. Measures include supporting populations
vulnerable to COVID-19 economic consequences through training, apprenticeships, and
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subsidized work. The plan further emphasizes technical assistance for small businesses,
particularly those owned by minorities and women. Community Job Hubs enhance access to
essential job training and employment services, with a commitment to increasing resident wages
annually. Monitoring metrics such as unemployment rates, business closures, and the allocation
of funds ensures a vigilant approach to these initiatives (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a
Better Baltimore, 2021).
Equitable Capital Investment stands out as the second core area, seeking to ensure the timely
resolution of housing and community development service requests, with a clear emphasis on
equity. Strategies include stabilizing vacant structures in formerly redlined neighborhoods to
prevent additional vacancies and attract new homeowners. A comprehensive review and equity
analysis of zoning legislation aims to create a more inclusive development framework. The plan
also underscores the importance of block-level strategies to drive reinvestment and revitalization,
along with increased access to capital for local, small, and minority-owned businesses. Tracking
metrics, including the total number of vacant buildings and capital spending in redlined
neighborhoods, serve as crucial indicators of progress (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a
Better Baltimore, 2021).
The third focus area revolves around Supporting Economic Engines and Local Businesses.
Here, the plan introduces an Economic Recovery Fund to assist local businesses in overcoming
the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Measures include increasing employment and revenue
for small, minority-owned businesses, creating opportunities for local artists, and streamlining
the procurement process for minority-owned businesses. Strengthening partnerships between the
city, anchor institutions, and local businesses are vital, along with visual enhancements to
commercial corridors. Metrics tracking participation and revenue in Baltimore city contracts and
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the increase in hotel tax collected reflect the plan's commitment to tangible outcomes (Mayor
Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Population Growth and Retention comprise the fourth pillar, emphasizing the need to
increase affordable housing stock, improve access to mortgages, and analyze the impact of
home-buying incentives. Efforts towards encouraging immigration to Baltimore and supporting
legacy residents through home improvement programs. Tracking metrics encompass population
estimates, especially focusing on middle-income and immigrant populations (Mayor Brandon M.
Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Finally, the plan addresses the imperative of Digital Inclusion. Initiatives include deploying a
citywide public Wi-Fi network, ensuring internet access at recreation centers, and supporting
older adults in gaining internet access and training. The plan also envisions STEM programming
and technology giveaways to bridge the digital divide. Metrics tracking public internet usage,
training outcomes, and the provision of devices serve as crucial benchmarks (Mayor Brandon M.
Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Responsible Stewardship of City Resources
The City aims to ensure reliability, access, and transparency in its financial systems.
Actions include implementing online bill payment options, developing an integrated financial
accounting system, establishing a centralized data system for efficiency and transparency,
addressing repeat audit findings to increase reliability, and fortifying cybersecurity infrastructure
to protect resident data (Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
To deliver quality, efficient customer service with equity and accessibility, the plan
proposes annual customer service training, additional self-service options for payments, the
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launch of NeighborhoodStat for service delivery improvement, biennial resident surveys, ADA
compliance for City websites, and tools to track the impact of diversity and inclusion programs
(Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
The city seeks to recruit, retain, and develop a diverse and high-achieving workforce.
Initiatives include a citywide data training program, a multi-year retention plan, recruitment fairs
with on-the-job training, an internship program with local institutions, promotion of employment
opportunities to residents, partnerships for leadership development, and the suspension of pre-
employment drug screenings for non-safety-sensitive positions (Mayor Brandon M. Scott
Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Efforts to improve government performance, accountability, and cross-agency
collaboration involve developing a performance management system, setting data quality
standards, establishing a Sustainability and Resiliency Subcabinet, and completing a
comprehensive update of the City's 10-year financial plan, including the capital budget (Mayor
Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
The city aims to increase transparency and meaningful resident participation in
governance. Actions include creating a Taxpayer Receipt for transparent accounting of tax
dollars, expanding public engagement and education around the budget, enhancing Open
Baltimore for user-friendliness with community-developed tools, and establishing a community-
driven commission to assess public monuments, street names, and building names (Mayor
Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
The plan includes specific tracking metrics for each goal, such as monitoring the percent
of invoices paid within 30 days, tracking annual audit deficiencies, evaluating resident
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satisfaction, monitoring workforce metrics, assessing 311 service request on-time performance,
and tracking engagement with Open Baltimore and public forums during the budget process
(Mayor Brandon M. Scott Building a Better Baltimore, 2021).
Conclusion
In concluding the Baltimore City Economic Action Plan, we draw inspiration from the
profound guidance found in Proverbs 16:3, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will
establish your plans” (The Holy Bible, n.d.). This biblical wisdom resonates with the essence of
our economic strategy, emphasizing the significance of principled commitment and ethical
stewardship. By aligning our economic actions with a dedication to responsible and transparent
practices, we embark on a path that not only seeks financial prosperity but also reflects a
commitment to justice, fairness, and community well-being.
As we navigate the intricacies of economic development, we strive to build a foundation
grounded in compassion and equity. Through collaborative efforts and a shared commitment to
these values, we envision Baltimore not only as a city of economic strength but as a flourishing
community where every resident can thrive. By heeding the wisdom of ancient scriptures, our
Economic Action Plan aims to establish a legacy of sustainable growth and shared success,
reflecting a city that stands as a testament to responsible and holistic stewardship.
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Development
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