As you know, tomorrow is Election Day. I encourage every eligible voter in Baltimore and across Maryland to participate, either in-person or by mail, to ensure that their voice is heard in this landmark election. I believe voting is a sacred duty as our democracy bestows the privilege to choose who will best represent our interests in local, State, and federal offices. It calls on us to consider and vote on important constitutional questions that impact every aspect of our lives.
The Baltimore Banner’s 2022 Voter Guide is an excellent resource for those with questions about how to vote, where to vote, and the roster of candidates running for office. Marylanders have five state-wide ballot questions to consider, including residency requirements for Senators and Delegates and the legalization of recreational marijuana. In addition to those questions, Baltimore City residents have 11 questions to weigh when they cast their vote, including term limits for City officials and the ability of the City to procure loans to support affordable housing, new school facilities, infrastructure, and economic development. I urge you to take a minute to acquaint yourself with these important measures here.
Weather forecasters promise us a beautiful day tomorrow. Polling places will open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m. You can find your polling place here. Mail-in ballots can be dropped off around the City until the polls close at 8:00 p.m. A list of ballot drop box locations can be found here.
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Last month, the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP) released what is known as the “Nation’s Report Card”, and the findings highlight the immense challenge before us. Results from fourth and eighth graders nationwide show a steep decline in scores in math and reading. In Maryland, approximately 69% of fourth graders performed at or below the basic level in reading, while eighth graders were recorded at 67% at the same level. Math scores saw even worse declines.
Fortunately, Maryland has a plan in place to support our students at this critical moment. The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future puts our State at the forefront of investments that will allow every child to maximize their potential.
Last week, the Blueprint’s Accountability and Implementation Board (AIB) released a 10-year, multi-billion-dollar implementation plan that outlines an aggressive, research-driven roadmap forward for our students. It includes substantive and necessary reforms to early childhood education, the hiring and retention of high-quality and diverse teachers, emphasis on readying students for college and technical careers, investments in school buildings and technology, and the critical resources needed to lift up students living in communities with high concentrations of poverty.
I encourage you to participate in the two virtual public hearings that will be held this week to discuss the AIB’s proposal. Four advisory committees will also meet to offer recommendations and suggestions toward a final plan expected on December 1.
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Electrifying Maryland School Buses |
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The move to electric vehicles is key in Maryland’s goal of drastically reducing carbon emissions to address climate change. One of our top priorities in the last Legislative Session was to pass the Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022, aimed at accelerating Maryland’s transition away from dependence on fossil fuels. The goal of the Act is to cut greenhouse gas emissions 60 percent below 2006 levels by 2031 and reach net-zero emissions by 2045. A core component of the plan is to electrify school bus fleets throughout the State, which also has the potential to increase battery capacity for renewable energy like wind and solar.
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Creativity Center Opens in Highlandtown |
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Last week’s ribbon cutting for the Creative Alliance’s new Creativity Center demonstrates what’s possible when a community unites to transform a blighted property into a vibrant asset. The arts are vital to our City and the 46th District Delegation is proud to have secured $1.5 million to support this project. The Creativity Center is a space for connection, a space for dreaming, and a space for the next generation of artists to flourish in Highlandtown. |
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Last week, I was lucky to get a sneak preview of the Middle Branch Fitness and Wellness Center in Cherry Hill which is scheduled to open this week. This project has been an 11-year journey fueled by committed residents, thoughtful public and private partners, and an infusion of funds from the Horseshoe casino.
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of meeting Pedro A. Palomino and getting a fantastic tour of Somos Baltimore Latino! I’m glad his news organization is right here in the Fightin 46th, serving our local community with important news and events for Spanish-speaking Marylanders.
In a bit of sad news, Bertha’s Mussels will be closing its doors at the corner of Lancaster and Broadway at the end of the year. The iconic restaurant has served patrons at the corner of Lancaster Street and Broadway in Fells Point for nearly half a century. They will be sorely missed!
Members of the Maryland Congressional Delegation have written a letter to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Pete Buttigieg, urging him to provide funding for the redevelopment of the "highway to nowhere" in West Baltimore. The failed highway project displaced residents and damaged homes in predominantly Black neighborhoods over 50 years ago.
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If there is anything we can do to help, please do not hesitate to contact my office via email, [email protected], or by phone, 410-841-3600.
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