The following article was submitted by Fifth District Baltimore County Councilman David Marks as he outlines his priorities for 2026
As Councilman, my priority is always to deliver effective constituent service, support safe communities and schools, and look for ways to reform and streamline government.
There are other initiatives, however, that we will be pursuing during this final year of the four-year term. There are also some important milestones we know will happen in 2026.
Condominium Infrastructure Repair Fund
Our office is working on legislation that will help condominium and homeowner associations take care of roads they own.
This is a big problem in places like Belmont and Dunfield, where shortsighted decisions in the 1970s have now saddled homeowners with the costs of repairing their own streets.
Inspector General Oversight of BCPS
I sponsored legislation that seeks a change in state law to allow the Inspector General to review and investigate Baltimore County Public Schools. Senator Carl Jackson and Delegate Ryan Nawrocki are advancing this bill in Annapolis.
If passed, the Baltimore County Council would be able to vote on giving the Inspector General this authority. Please ask your state legislators to support this bill.
Approval of Charter Changes
Baltimore County voters will decide three charter amendments this fall. I urge adoption of all three: Question A, which will strengthen the urban growth boundary; Question B, which will establish a countywide Department of Agriculture; and Question C, which reforms the selection process for the Inspector General.
Park Improvements
We will be pushing the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks to finalize a plan for the Gerst Road Park in Perry Hall and the former C.P. Crane plant in Middle River.
Adoption of Small Area Plan
We hope to pass Small Area Plan 11, addressing areas such as Rossville, Middle River, and White Marsh, to better guide development in that area.
New Playgrounds, School and Transportation Projects
Several capital projects will be finished this year, including the new track at Perry Hall High School and playgrounds at Andrea Avenue in Carney, at Beldale Court in Carney, and Kingsville Park. My hope is that the Mohrs Lane Bridge connection, modifications to Cowenton Avenue, water main upgrades in the Silver Spring Road area, and safety improvements at Honeygo Boulevard and Cross Road move significantly to completion. We will also be aggressively pushing for a connection to White Marsh Boulevard near Earls Road.
Financing Plan for Fire Stations
We hope to advance a financing plan for new fire stations on the Eastside.
Finally, my hope is that we finally resolve the future of the Perry Hall Mansion this year. As we celebrate America’s 250fth birthday in 2026, it would be fitting to finally bring clarity and momentum to the restoration of this historic gem.
Thank you for your support and partnership in 2026!
