Campaign Twitter
Rose 4bmore
Campaign Phone
410-499-8224
My experience as a former educator provides valuable insights into educational policies, community engagement, and youth development, which are in desperate need of attention from our local government and elected officials. Working as a federal government employee has provided me the understanding of bureaucratic processes, budgeting, policy analysis, and regulatory frameworks, which are crucial skills for effective governance at the municipal level. These attributes are essential.
I propose implementing community policing initiatives where law enforcement officers engage with communities, build trust, and work collaboratively with community. This will include regular meetings, neighborhood watch programs, and community outreach events. I will also advocate for legislative and policy changes aimed at addressing systemic issues contributing to crime, such as gun control measures, sentencing reforms, and initiatives to reduce recidivism rates.
I would further support the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Act, the multi-billion-dollar public education reform plan. I support prioritizing pockets of poverty, giving schools services they need to thrive. I would push to issue municipal bonds to raise capital for school construction and renovation projects. This would allow our city to spread the cost of infrastructure improvements over time and leverage future tax revenues.
I will support the development and implementation of health education and outreach programs tailored to the needs of Baltimore's diverse communities. These programs will raise awareness of preventive care, healthy lifestyle choices, and disease management, and empower residents to take control of their health. I will advocate for the funding of community health centers and clinics in underserved neighborhoods throughout Baltimore. These centers can provide affordable and accessible primary care
Develop and implement a comprehensive Climate Action Plan that outlines specific targets and strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, adapting to climate change impacts, and fostering sustainable development practices. I would prioritize the transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power for Baltimore's operations and encourage their adoption by businesses and residents. Incentivize the installation of solar panels and energy-efficient technologies.
I propose establishing community land trusts to acquire and rehabilitate vacant buildings for affordable housing purposes. Utilizing community land trusts can help ensure long-term affordability by retaining ownership of the land and leasing the housing units to low- and moderate-income residents. I would also enact inclusionary zoning requirements that can be used to mandate developers to include a percentage of affordable housing units in new residential developments.
The decision to reduce the size of a City Council involves a careful consideration of the specific needs and dynamics of the communities represented. It may offer advantages such as cost savings and efficiency, but there are potential drawbacks related to representation, oversight, and diversity of perspectives that must be taken into account. The optimal size of a council varies depending on the size of our city, the complexity of issues, and the values and priorities of the community.
Campaign Twitter
@jamestorrencejd
Campaign Phone
443-278-3390
Campaign Instagram
www.instagram.com/jamestorrencejd
I have been a member of the Baltimore City Council since 2020 and adjunct professor at the University of Baltimore teaching Constitutional Law and Civil Liberties and Bill of Rights courses. An unwavering commitment to public service led me to opportunities in local and federal government, serving as: a Chief of Staff to former State Senator Verna Jones-Rodwell; fellow and administrator focused policymaking, strategy and more. I hold a Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore School of Law.
Finalize the creation and sustainability of an Office of Returning Citizens to focus on the critical needs of formerly incarcerated individuals. Continue advocating for the group violence reduction strategy that led to a drop in the homicide and non-fatal shooting rates. Work colleagues to ensure the City's budget supports Citiwatch camera partnership for residents and investment in crime prevention through environmental design to improve conditions (i.e., lighting, landscaping) that deter crime
Will continue to support the increase local funding based on the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future requirements and ensure this is balanced with other priorities for the City’s budget. Continue to ensure the successful renovation of the historic Frederick Douglass High School. Work with the Mayor’s office to ensure capital planning supports local funding can be fronted to support maintenance and cost of school buildings.
Active working with the Health Department and State partners to move the women’s health clinic to a new facility in West Baltimore. Advocated for and supporting the addition of a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) at the Village of Mondawmin (old Target) which will provide comprehensive medical and social services to eligible individuals who live in the community.
Working with DPW to prioritize stormwater resilience projects in historically redlined communities throughout the 7th district. My office has canvassed communities to provide residents with resources and knowledge of the updated Maryland EmPOWER Act to support a transition to climate friendlier utility usage.
Introduced the Baltimore’s Land Bank, a quasi-governmental entity that will leverage community partnerships and financial capital to combat blight and vacant housing. This is a strategic entity to prioritize equitable development and improve the quality of life for our residents. For instance, the legislation requires community benefits agreements, prioritizes community members investments in homeownership, land stewardship, farming and more. Working with DCHD on whole block redevelopments.
At present, the proposal would not align with other jurisdictions who are looking to increase the size of their council and presents no positives. In the fact, the proposal does not discuss the redistricting requirements established by the Courts to protect racial and community interests. The loss of democratic representation does not mean potential improvements to be gained in the efficiency and quality of municipal decision-making. As this would limit committee work and constituent services.
