BALTIMORE (WBFF) — A bid to fast-track a Baltimore City Council charter proposal aimed at expanding the city inspector general’s access to records and resources failed Monday at City Hall, despite arguments from supporters that the measure is needed to strengthen investigations into fraud and corruption.
Councilman Mark Conway, who represents District 4, introduced a motion during the council meeting to petition the proposal out of the Charter Review Special Committee and bring it to the full council for consideration. The move would have put the bill on a faster timeline, allowing time for the legislation to potentially override a mayoral veto, which Conway said he believes is likely.
“Are we strong enough or are we too weak to defend the Inspector General’s office?” Conway said.
Conway said politics have shaped the debate over the proposal. “I said this when I introduced the bill initially. There’s a thick layer of politics on this. A very thick layer politics on it. And we all know it,” he said.
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The proposal centers on restoring access to records for the Office of Inspector General, led by Isabel Cumming, which serves as the city’s watchdog for corruption and fiscal waste.
At a council committee meeting last week, residents voiced support for the charter amendment, calling for the inspector general to have the access needed to conduct investigations. “I’m here today in support of bill for charter amendment,” one speaker said. Another said, “The OIG must have access to records and staff to complete investigations.” A third added, “Let’s give them the tools they need to do their job.”
But before Monday’s vote, several council members argued the proposal should continue through the committee process rather than be rushed to the full council.
Council President Zeke Cohen said, “It is extremely important that we operate through the committee process.” He added, “We don’t just go with the first product and take our time and we do it right.”
Councilwoman Odette Ramos of District 14 said, “I personally cannot make laws with a gun to my head. I cannot pass a law that we have not had that deliberative process to really make sure that we get it right.”
Councilman Ryan Dorsey, District 3, said, “This is not legal. It’ll be overturned in court and everybody here values the deliberative process.”
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Councilman Zac Blanchard who represents District 11 said, “I’m committed to getting the legislation right, and I believe the committee should schedule another hearing as soon as possible.”
Councilman John Bullock of District 9 said, “Rather than rush it, let’s get it done right. There are a number of other issues that the Charter Review Committee.”
Conway expressed frustration during the debate. “I’ve been alone doing this the whole time. I should not have to do this by myself,” he said.
The council ultimately voted 13-1 against Conway’s motion.
After the vote, Conway said, “I’m really disappointed, to say the least. People are counting on us to get this right. People are counted on us, to try to figure it out. And as I said up there, I felt like I was the only one actually trying.”
Conway said the bill is not dead and will go back to committee. He said the proposal would not take effect for two years even if it passes.
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