Plans to reuse the inactive Dredged Material Containment Facility at Hart-Miller Island's North Cell for a dredge material placement project have been scrapped, leading to the suspension of the Hart-Miller Island Community Benefit Agreement Steering Committee by Baltimore County. As reported by Baltimore County's official website, the meeting scheduled for tonight has been canceled following the decision from Tradepoint Atlantic not to pursue the placement of dredged material at the site.
The initial proposal, which included discussions surrounding the reopening of Hart-Miller Island for the dredge placement supporting a major port infrastructure project, was driven by heavy emphasis on public participation. "We have always believed that government works best when our people drive the conversation," Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski stated, per the county's news platform. Despite this setback, he remains dedicated to ensuring that Hart-Miller Island remains a key community asset and protected environmental space.
Engagement with the community was a priority throughout the process, initiated by a legislative proposal discussed since late March to consider the island's reopening. Karen Wynn, Chair of the now-suspended Steering Committee, was quoted in the county's press release, appreciating the community's role: "I am thankful to our volunteer Steering Committee members for the time and energy spent weighing the risks and benefits associated with considering a Community Benefits Agreement and re-opening Hart-Miller Island, and appreciative of the emphasis that this process placed on engaging our communities." These efforts led to the passing of HB 343 by the Maryland General Assembly after a public meeting showcased overwhelming support for the CBA discussion.
Community feedback led Tradepoint Atlantic to drop plans to use the Hart-Miller Island site. Councilman Todd Crandell expressed disappointment, saying, "We are leaving $40M on the table which could have created something special throughout our region," as reported by Baltimore County. Councilman David Marks also expressed his regret, noting, "I am profoundly disappointed that $40 million will now not be used for environmental and community projects, but will continue to support economic development at Sparrows Point."