The debate over the future of Harborplace, a pivotal site in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, has intensified with former Mayor Martin O'Malley publicly declaring his opposition to the redevelopment project. According to CBS News Baltimore, O'Malley, currently serving as the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, referred to the project as "a terrible developer grab of public waterfront parkland" and confirmed he would vote against Question F, which seeks to amend the city's charter to facilitate the development.

Question F, if passed, would enable a significant overhaul of the 4.5-acre waterfront site by Baltimore-based developer MCB Real Estate, helmed by David Bramble. Plans under discussion include erecting high-rise buildings featuring residential units, retail spaces, and dining venues alongside the provision of off-street parking. While some city leaders, such as Mayor Brandon Scott, have voiced their support, claiming the redevelopment would present a rejuvenated face of the city to the world, O'Malley has joined the ranks of those sounding the alarm over potential misuse of public resources for private gain. "The Inner Harbor should be for all. #greatestcity in America. Let's act like it," O'Malley said, as per the report from CBS News Baltimore.

Despite the opposing stance from O'Malley, 'Baltimore for a New Harborplace,' a group that supports the project, has cited endorsements from three former mayors — Kurt Schmoke, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, and Bernard C. "Jack" Young. According to a release detailed by WMAR 2 News, these former city leaders argue that a revitalized Harbor Place would foster a more prosperous future for Baltimore. The plan, as revealed by MCB Real Estate, includes commercial and residential development and a commitment to create new accessible parkland, an upgraded waterfront promenade, and additional greenery in the form of 500 new trees.

Resistance to Question F isn’t just from political leaders. Attorney Thiru Vignarajah filed a lawsuit, claiming the ballot wording misleads citizens concerned about privatizing the public park. Initially, a court ruled that votes on Question F wouldn’t count due to confusing wording, but last month, the state supreme court reversed this, as reported by WMAR2 News.