Councilwoman Almond: My First 100 Days

On Dec. 6, 2010, I took the oath of office and became your councilwoman. Thank you for the trust and faith you have shown by putting me in this office, and for the kindness and friendship so many people have given to me over these first 100 days. 

As someone who served as a community leader for 30 years prior to my election, one of my goals has been to meet with as many groups in our community as possible. In these first 100 days I have talked with hundreds and hundreds of people in our area. I have done far more listening than speaking. 

The good news is that most people genuinely like living in our Northwest Baltimore County communities. People are focused on how to improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods. Toward that end, the first two pieces of legislation that I sponsored were the Greenspring-East Pikesville and the Ruxton-Riderwood Community Plans. These documents were created with the leadership and support of people in these neighborhoods. The community plans will offer guidance to both the Planning Board and me when projects arise in our district.

Public safety is always a top priority. I have been privileged to meet with many men and women who keep us safe. I have toured fire stations attended Police Community Relations Council meetings and met with leaders of the police, fire and EMS services. I have learned about the difficulty of fighting fires in communities that do not have hydrants, and with a heavy heart I attended . We are fortunate in Baltimore County to have such dedicated public servants protecting our families.

A strong public school system is critical for Baltimore County.  I have discussed education issues with leaders of our Baltimore County Public Schools, our teachers, and our parents.  I am proud that the first bill on which I testified in Annapolis as a councilwoman concerned education. HB 160 was not only sponsored by one of my district’s delegates, Steve Lafferty, but received the bipartisan co-sponsorship of all of the 2nd District’s other delegates. I am also proud of the stand that the County Council has taken demanding that . This policy has negatively impacted so many important groups and wonderful events in our county.  I trust that BCPS will do the right thing. I have also enjoyed meeting with leaders of our private schools, both secular and religious, to learn of the issues they are facing.

People in Baltimore County also need good jobs.  I have met with leaders of our business community, chambers of commerce, and the County’s Economic Development department to ensure that we are doing all that we can to create a business climate where companies want to invest and grow in Baltimore County.

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve as your councilwoman.  I will work together with County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, Council Chairman John Olszewski and the rest of the County Council to meet the challenges facing Baltimore County. If I have not had the pleasure of meeting you yet, I hope our paths will cross in the coming months.

Vicki Almond
Baltimore County Councilwoman, 2nd District