Governor Hogan has invited the Baltimore City Criminal Justice Coordinating Council to privately meet with him for a frank discussion on the spike in violent crime and homicides in the city and what can be done about it.

The Baltimore Sun reports:

“The tragic and disturbing violence being experienced in Baltimore City demands collaborative responses from partners at all levels of government,” Hogan wrote. “Our administration stands ready to continue supporting and working with Mayor Pugh, local and federal law enforcement, and all city leadership to combat this crisis and help ensure the safety and well-being of city residents.”

The article notes that the meeting, scheduled for August 29 at the Governor’s Baltimore office, is not open to the public or media. It is intended as a private discussion and not an official meeting of the council. Additionally, the Attorney General’s Office has stated that the council is not a public body under Maryland law, therefore it is not subject to the open public meeting requirement if quorum is achieved.

For more information read The Baltimore Sun.