Council introduces charter amendment to lower town voting age to 16; public hearing set

The Brentwood mayor and council on March 17 held a first reading of Charter Amendment Resolution 2026-1, a proposal to lower the town's voting and registration age from 18 to 16 for municipal elections.

Vice Mayor Jerry Burgess read the resolution and summarized its intent: "We are trying to lower the voting age from 18 to 16 to try to encourage, our younger folks to get out there and be part of the process," he said. The proposed amendments would change charter sections governing voter qualifications and registration and set procedures for proof of identification and verification.

The resolution text included eligibility criteria (United States citizenship or lawful resident status, town residency and one-year residency within corporate limits, not under guardianship for mental disability, and other standard disqualifications). It outlines registration and certification procedures and specifies timelines for public notice, publication and potential referendum under the Local Government Article of Maryland law.

Town counsel and council members emphasized the process and notification requirements. Town Attorney Jason Deloach advised the council to ensure at least 21 days' prior public notice before the public hearing; the council scheduled the public hearing and second reading for April 21 at 6:00 p.m. and asked staff to publish the notice in the town newsletter and a newspaper as required.

Council members and residents used the discussion to preview viewpoints: some speakers said lowering the age will encourage civic engagement among students; others said 16-year-olds may be too immature for some municipal votes. The council left the proposal open for public comment at the scheduled hearing.

What happens next: The council will publish required notices and hold a public hearing and second reading on April 21 at 6 p.m.; the resolution would take effect according to the charter schedule unless petitioned to referendum.