Public Voices Support for OIG Records Access in Baltimore City Council Hearing

BALTIMORE – A significant turnout of residents expressed their support for a proposed charter amendment aimed at restoring records access to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) during a City Council committee hearing on Wednesday.

The proposal, introduced by Councilman Mark Conway, seeks to reinstate access to essential records that Inspector General Isabel Cumming and her team argue are vital for conducting thorough investigations. This access was restricted earlier this year by Mayor Brandon Scott’s administration amid an ongoing investigation into a now-defunct youth diversion program associated with the Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE).

Community members voiced their frustrations during the hearing, with one resident warning council members of potential electoral consequences if they continue to disregard public concerns. “You will be voted out. We are tired of being disregarded by our elected representatives,” the resident stated.

Another attendee emphasized the necessity for the OIG to have full access to records and personnel to effectively carry out their duties. “Let’s give them the tools they need to do their job,” they said.

Political analyst John Dedie highlighted the potential ramifications for council members, indicating that they may be wary of losing support from influential figures such as the mayor. “It comes down to the political pressure of what the mayor could do,” he remarked, referencing Mayor Scott's influence in the council.

Mayor Scott has defended his administration's stance, claiming compliance with state law regarding public records and citing a new interpretation of the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA). However, Cumming contended that her office historically had access to the records that are now restricted. “We’ve always had this access. We’ve always done that. But it was just taken away,” she stated following the meeting.

Dedie criticized the actions of the Law Department, suggesting that they are not acting in the best interest of the voters. “People realize one thing, the city attorneys on the city payroll doing what Brandon Scott wants done,” he said.

If Conway's proposal successfully passes through the council, it will be presented to voters for final approval.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WBFF (source).