Baltimore County Council to Vote on Interim County Executive
BALTIMORE – The Baltimore County Council is scheduled to vote on the appointment of an interim county executive during its legislative session on Tuesday, January 7.
Johnny Olszewski, who recently resigned with two years left in his term to represent Maryland’s second congressional district, was sworn into Congress on Friday.
The council had initially planned to vote on Monday; however, a winter storm prompted the postponement of the session to Tuesday.
Council Chairman Izzy Patoka explained the delay, saying, “Given the Baltimore County Government’s closure on Monday, it’s fitting that the County Council also delay the scheduled Legislative Session. The safety of our residents and all participants in the session is our top priority.”
The list of potential successors to Olszewski has been narrowed to five candidates:
On December 17, 2024, each candidate had the opportunity to present their case to the council, outlining why they should be appointed as acting county executive for the remainder of Olszewski’s term.
During the session, candidates had 15 minutes to answer a series of questions on critical issues, including crime reduction, budget management, affordable housing, recruitment and retention of emergency responders, and the county’s development strategy.
Patoka emphasized the importance of selecting a candidate who is both fiscally responsible and capable of overseeing the county’s 20 agencies.
He added, “The process will officially start with a portal on the County Council’s website, where candidates will be asked to submit a letter of interest, a resume, and a financial disclosure.”
If no candidate secures at least four votes from the council members, County Administrator D’andrea Walker will assume the role of acting county executive.
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