Baltimore County has selected its next Inspector General, Khadija E. Walker, a veteran of over two decades in federal oversight roles. Announced by County Executive Kathy Klausmeier, Walker's selection follows an extensive national search and a rigorous interview process. Awaiting confirmation by the Baltimore County Council, Walker's appointment indicates the county's ongoing commitment to government accountability and transparency. The Office of the Inspector General (OIG), where Walker is slated to take charge, plays a crucial role in combating waste, fraud, and abuse within the county's operations.
Walker comes to the position well-prepared by an impressive resume, which includes significant experience as an inspector general at the federal level, particularly her work in the wake of the water crises in Flint, Michigan, and Jackson, Mississippi. "I am happy to appoint Khadija Walker to be Baltimore County’s next Inspector General," County Executive Klausmeier announced, underscoring her qualifications and determination to attend to the public interest. According to a statement on the Baltimore County website, Walker has amassed more than 60 reports in her career, addressing various environmental challenges and emergency responses, including those related to Hurricane Katrina's aftermath.
In line with the Office of Inspector General's financial independence, which was enshrined in Baltimore County's Charter in 2024, Walker's appointment followed a comprehensive recruitment process orchestrated by a selection panel. The five-member panel, comprising the diverse wisdom of former inspectors general and local governance experts, unanimously recommended her for the role after interviewing numerous candidates.
Walker's array of Inspector General experience, including her stint at the United States Agency for International Development and the Environmental Protection Agency, has equipped her with a profound understanding of how to investigate and report on governmental inefficiencies and corruption. "Baltimore County residents deserve an independent Inspector General to elevate the work of this office and put an end to waste, fraud, and abuse in our local government," Walker stated, as per Baltimore County's news release. Her tenure at the helm of OIG positions her to enhance public trust and accountability further.
Walker's journey to potentially becoming Baltimore County's second-ever Inspector General is accompanied by a strong endorsement from Executive Klausmeier and the selection panel. Recognizing her demonstrated achievements and considerable investigative expertise, Klausmeier urges the council to consider this during the confirmation process. The appointment is expected to come before the County Council at their July 29 work session, with a vote scheduled for an upcoming legislative session.
