Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott is poised to nominate Jon Laria to chair the Baltimore City Planning Commission this coming Friday, a move seen as part of the city's larger push toward a more vibrant future. Laria, who has a long professional history in land use and public policy, is expected to be tapped for the position pending the approval of the City Council. A former partner at Ballard Spahr LLP, Laria is noted for his dedication to Baltimore and a vision for renewal, "Jon Laria's deep understanding of Baltimore's challenges and opportunities - and his well-known love for our city-- make him an ideal leader for the Planning Commission as Baltimore continues to build the renaissance underway," Mayor Scott said, as per a statement from the City of Baltimore Mayor's Office.
Laria’s career has focused on sustainable growth and equitable economic development. His prior role as Chair of the Maryland Sustainable Growth Commission speaks to his experience and advocacy for community inclusion, economic vibrancy, and environmental stewardship. A fixture in the urban planning scene, Laria’s leadership has consistently sought to shape policy that balances expansion with resource protection.
Beyond his extensive career achievements, Laria's commitment to Baltimore extends into various arenas of community service. He has lent his expertise to mayoral and gubernatorial transition teams and task forces, and his participation in civic engagement is multifaceted. He holds positions on the boards of influential organizations such as the Greater Baltimore Committee, Healthy Neighborhoods, and the Central Maryland Transportation Alliance, emphasizing his reach and the respect he garners across diverse city sectors.
With the nomination set for January 13, Laria is poised to replace Sean Davis, who vacated the Planning Commission Chair in December of last year. Davis's seven-year tenure ended in December 2024, and with this transition, the community is poised to watch how Laria's stewardship will impact Baltimore's trajectory toward sustained, inclusive growth. The mayor's official website has his full bio detailing his invaluable contributions and plans for the city.
