Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski has put together a lineup of nine community members to lead discussions on the future of Hart-Miller Island. These appointments will form the Hart-Miller Island Community Benefit Agreement Steering Committee, assessing the potential for a new community benefit agreement, according to Baltimore County's official announcement.
With a push for economic revival post the reopening of the Port of Baltimore, Olszewski said, detailed by the press release, "As someone familiar with the history of Hart-Miller Island — and deeply passionate about its future— my administration is focused on leading a community-centered conversation that ensures any efforts to bolster our economy also includes significant benefits to our neighborhoods and our people." The Maryland General Assembly recently passed HB343 which requires a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) directly supporting Hart-Miller Island as a key element for progressing a major port infrastructure project at Tradepoint Atlantic.
Olszewski's administration, facing the legislative mandate of HB343, has acted amidst the understanding that Hart-Miller Island and its surroundings have long grappled with their fates intertwined with industrial ambition. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has been authorized to permit the usage of the Hart-Miller Island Dredged Material Containment Facility for dredging material placement but only if a CBA is in effect, and state regulatory compliance is achieved, with a hard stop set for December 31, 2027.
The first steering committee meeting will convene at Sparrows Point High School come August 7th, offering a platform for community members to weigh in on the future of Hart-Miller Island. For those interested in the proceedings or providing feedback, details are available through the Baltimore County website.
