NAACP urges transparency in police‑chief search; residents press for parking impact analysis on proposed fees

During the council's general comment period, multiple residents urged greater transparency around public safety and parking policy.

Steven Waddy, speaking for the Anne Arundel County NAACP, said the NAACP’s criteria for a new police chief include transparency, accountability, compassion, education and commitment to work with civil‑rights groups. "Transparent policing requires the release of data on how many arrests of people in mental health crises are happening," Waddy said, and he asked the city to disclose contacts with people who have foster‑care histories and low literacy levels so the community can better target prevention and training.

Tom Creek, president of the Ward 1 Residents Association, addressed proposed fee increases in resolution R‑29‑26 and asked for a public financial analysis showing projected revenue and how additional dollars would be used to improve parking for residents and businesses. "We're not suggesting the city's numbers are wrong. We're simply asking for transparency," Creek said, noting city budget projections showed an apparent $200,000–$230,000 increase but the resolution would raise many fee types.

Other Eastport Peninsula residents warned that blanket changes to driveway or curb rules could have unintended safety and traffic consequences on narrow streets. Anne Gamunder said curbside flow in Eastport often relies on drivers pulling into driveway openings to let opposing traffic pass; she warned that eliminating that informal practice could block emergency vehicles in places where there is no alternate pull‑out.

The council did not vote on the parking resolution at the meeting; R‑29‑26 was advanced on first reading and referred to the finance committee for further review and a likely impact analysis. Several council members said they would seek additional data before final action.