During a recent Baltimore County government meeting, community leaders and officials emphasized the urgent need for effective implementation of the county's master plan, particularly focusing on redevelopment and infrastructure improvements.

Nick Stewart, representing the advocacy group We The People, highlighted the importance of prioritizing redevelopment in aging areas, urging the county to focus on the adequacy of schools, sewers, and roads. He stressed that the master plan should guide capital requests from various agencies, ensuring that all proposals align with its objectives.

Marcia McLaughlin, also from We The People, raised concerns about funding for redevelopment projects, noting that Baltimore County has historically waived impact fees, resulting in a significant loss of potential revenue. She pointed out that neighboring jurisdictions successfully collect impact fees and excise taxes, which could be a model for Baltimore County to follow in order to fund necessary infrastructure improvements.

Councilman Izzy Patoka echoed these sentiments, advocating for a more predictable and specific approach to the county's six-year budget plan. He emphasized the need for community input in budget decisions and outlined various recreational and infrastructure projects needed in his district, including parks and road improvements.

Phyllis Dorris, executive director of NeighborSpace, called for increased support for green space initiatives, highlighting the need for equitable distribution of park space in the county. She expressed gratitude for the county executive's commitment to stabilize funding for her organization, which focuses on enhancing community livability through green spaces.

The discussions underscored a collective call for strategic planning and funding mechanisms to ensure that Baltimore County can effectively address its infrastructure and community development needs while adhering to the goals set forth in the master plan.