With the aim of bolstering the Port of Baltimore and revitalizing the local economy, Baltimore County has issued a call for community members to join a steering committee. This group will be responsible for shaping a potential community benefit agreement (CBA) that could support Hart-Miller Island, according to Baltimore County.

The need for such an agreement was emphasized after the distressing collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and, the Maryland General Assembly has passed legislation, specifically HB343, obligating an approved CBA oriented towards supporting Hart-Miller Island. This is seen as a foundational step for augmenting port infrastructure initiatives at Tradepoint Atlantic in Sparrows Point. Baltimore County residents, having an interest in contributing to these discussions can apply to be on the committee, which will aim to both boost the region's economy and ensure significant benefits for their neighborhoods and people.

Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski stressed the critical nature of these discussions. "As we continue to support the reopening of the Port of Baltimore and the reinvigoration of our regional economy, it’s critical we explore every opportunity to come back stronger than ever,” Olszewski said, as per Baltimore County, espousing his administration’s commitment to a “community-centered conversation”. Likewise, Baltimore County Councilman Todd Crandell highlighted the extraordinary nature of the potential benefits, which include transforming Hart-Miller Island into a significant model and destination.

Hart-Miller Island's historical context is equally important. Originally part of a trio of islands eroding over decades, the Maryland Port Administration had proposed using dredged material to combat erosion and restore Hart and Miller Islands in 1970. A dike connecting the two islands was constructed in 1981 leading to the impoundment receiving dredged material from the Baltimore Harbor shipping channels from 1984 to 2009. The use of Hart-Miller Island for placement of dredged material is contingent on a CBA, which is a new regulatory requirement set forth by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), it holds the potential to accelerate projects at Tradepoint Atlantic.

Maryland's legislative mandate leans on a strict timeline, dictating that if a CBA is not approved by December 31, the opportunity to apply for the use of Hart-Miller Island as a dredged material location would vanish. Equally important is the insight from Paul Brylske, Chairman of the Hart-Miller Pleasure Island Citizen Oversight Committee. He commended the opening of dialogue to tackle historic inequities and support for the island and adjacent areas, emphasizing the collective dialogue centered on community advantage and local concerns about safety and consistent support for the boroughs.

The structure of the management for these ambitions was outlined by the county's communications. The new community-led Steering Committee, with 9 members from the local area, will hold its first meeting in August 2024, and specifics will be announced soon. Applications for community members desiring to join the steering committee and lead the CBA discussions are currently open, and eligible parties can apply through the link provided by the county.