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 On Wednesday, I signed into law a bill to create a new Ethics Board structure and make the Ethics Board more independent. This new law represents one of the most sweeping changes to the City Ethics Code in many years, and will help restore the public's trust in government.
Today, the Baltimore Sun said the laws are "an important step forward" that "will help restore public trust in City Hall."
One of the provisions of the bill that I am most proud of recognizes that best practices in ethics evolve over time. As they change, so must we. This bill codifies this principle by encouraging the new, independent ethics board to study best practices and recommend changes to the law to make it stronger on an ongoing basis. This will ensure that Baltimore City will have strongest local ethics laws in Maryland.
The bill increases transparency and effectiveness by strengthening the makeup of the Ethics Board. Specifically, the new law:
- Allows the President of the City Council and the Comptroller to nominate members, and staggers the term of all appointees, ensuring more independence.
- Provides that the Ethics Board, not the Mayor, shall elect its own chair.
- Bans City, State and other County lobbyists from serving on the Board.
- Excludes City, State or County employees from serving on the Board.
- Requires at least 2 of the Mayor's appointments to be members of the Maryland Bar.
- Broadens the category of individuals, namely key individuals who serve on City boards and commissions, to undergo new ethics training.
It was also my pleasure to sign another important Ethics bill that was written by my colleague Councilman Bill Cole. Councilman Cole's legislation closes loopholes in the old ethics law, expanding and clarifying provisions related to gift solicitations and financial disclosures of public officials.  In addition to signing this important legislation into law, it was my great pleasure to introduce the first three new appointments to the Ethics Board. They are all distinguished and independent citizens committed to public service. Allow me to introduce them.
Mr. Guy Flynn is a partner at DLA Piper and was named a Maryland Super Lawyer by Law & Politicsand Baltimoremagazines from 2007-2010. Based on peer reviews, he is listed in The Best Lawyers in America. Mr. Flynn is a member of the Board of Directors of Health Care for the Homeless and Family & Children's Services of Central Maryland, Inc.
Ms. Dawna Cobb is the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs at the University of Maryland School of Law. A graduate of the Fordham University School of Law, Ms. Cobb has served as counsel to the Maryland Attorney General, Bowie State University, University of Maryland University College and the State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Ms. Cobb is past-President of Abell Improvement Association.
Ms. Linda Bowler Pierson (Lu Pierson) is a grants administrator for several charitable foundations. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park and serves on the Board of Directors of the League of Women Voters of Baltimore City, the Maryland Attorney Grievance Commission and the Maryland Access to Justice Commission.
I am grateful that they have agreed to serve on the new Ethics Board, and for their willingness to serve the people of Baltimore. |
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Sincerely,
Stephanie Rawlings-Blake
Mayor, City of Baltimore
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National Infant Immunization Week April 24-May 1
Make sure your baby is immunized and protected from H1N1 flu! The Baltimore City Health Department is holding several free flu clinics around the city. No appointment is necessary. There will be free giveaways!
For more information, and locations in your area, call 410-396-4454. |
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National STD Awareness Month Screenings
A new mobile outreach program van will provide sexually transmitted disease (STD) screenings throughout the city during the month of April and participate in screening and education events at Baltimore City Community College and Morgan State and Coppin State Universities.
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Brooklyn Main Street Market & Music Saturday, April 24, 12:00 pm-6:00 pm
This event includes live music, arts, crafts, food and much more. Come participate in activities coordinated with the brand new Masonville Cove environmental education center. Recycling bins and information on Baltimore's recycling program will be available.
Visit www.togetherbrooklyn.org for more information. |
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Ride Around the Reservoir Saturday, April 24, 10:00 am-1:00 pm
Enjoy a ride around the scenic reservoir and Jones Falls Trail. Adults' and children's bikes and helmets are available. A donation of $2 is appreciated. The ride will commence at Druid Hill Park Reservoir.
For more information, call 410-396-7900. |
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Peace, Love and Recycling Saturday, April 24, 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Learn unique ways of composting, recycling and other ways to help the Earth. Plants, seeds and various greening items will be available for sale. Groups must pre-register. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for children. The event will be at the Carrie Murray Nature Center, 1901 Ridgetop Road.
For more information, call 410-396-0808. |
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Federal Hill Main Street Spring Block Party Sunday, April 25, 11:00 am-7:00 pm
This party, featuring live music, food, drinks, arts and crafts will take place on Cross Street in Federal Hill. There is a $5 entrance fee.
For more information, call 410-727-4500 or visit www.historicfederalhill.org. |
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BCRP Advisory Board Meeting Sunday, April 25, 7:00 pm
Let your voice be heard! Baltimore City Department of Recreation & Parks meetings are open to the public. This meeting will be held at William J. Myers Soccer Pavilion, 4300 West Bay Avenue.
For more information, call 410-396-7900. |
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The Foreclosure Crisis and Our Neighborhoods Thursday, April 29, 7:00-9:00 pm
Community leaders, join Citizens Planning and Housing Association to learn how communities, nonprofits, CPHA, and other partners have been addressing the issue. This is a free event at the Senator Theatre, 5904 York Road. Pre-registration is recommended and appreciated.
For details, visit www.cphabaltimore.org or call 410-539-1369. |
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LGBTQIA Candle Light Vigil Friday, April 30, 7:00 pm
Trans-United and it's allies will host a candle light vigil to address hate crimes against gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersexed, and androgynous people. The vigil will begin at Mt. Royal and North Avenue with a six-block march and end at Maryland and North Avenue.
For more information, call 410-332-0234. |
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Owl Prowl Friday, April 30, 8:00 pm-10:00 pm
Enjoy a hike with one of our naturalists and learn how to spot owls at night. Pre-registration is required, admission is $7 per person. The walk begins at the Carrie Murray Nature Center, 1901 Ridgetop Road.
For more information, call 410-396-0808. |
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NAMIWalks Saturday, May 1, 8:00 am
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) holds its annual signature event. Gathering at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore at Druid Hill Park, participants will raise funds and raise awareness to make America a better home for people with brain disorders.
To participate in the walk, contact Monica Briggs Anderson at manderson@namimd.org or Stacey Harrison at sharrison@nami.org. |
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Young Trade Unionists Networking & Career Fair Saturday, May 1, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
This brings awareness of trade union job opportunities to job-seekers aged 16-35. Talk with representatives from local unions to learn about apprenticeship programs and career opportunities. The fair will be held at 2701 W. Patapsco Avenue.
For more information, email info@youngtradeunionists.org. |
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ARTcetra Art Auction and Fundraiser Saturday, May 1, 5:00 pm-9:00 pm
Coppin State University Helene Fuld School of Nursing will host its 2nd annual ARTcetra Art Auction and Fundraiser. All proceeds support the programs and students of the Helene Fuld School of Nursing.
For more information, visit www.coppin.edu/nursing or call 410-951-3970. |
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