The Baltimore City Council launched a new charter review process this week, signaling a push to modernize government and enhance how public institutions serve residents. With national political dysfunction grinding federal progress to a halt, local leaders say cities must take a more proactive role in shaping responsive, accountable government.

“Baltimore deserves a government that is transparent, effective, and accountable to the people it serves,” said Council President Zeke Cohen. “This Charter review is an opportunity to modernize our systems, strengthen public trust, and build a structure that delivers better results for residents.”

Committee Work Starts Now

The Baltimore City Council’s Charter Review Committee will begin its work today, outlining priorities for a comprehensive review of the City’s foundational governing document and launching a months-long process to gather resident input and draft potential reforms for voter consideration next year.

The committee, chaired by Council Member Ryan Dorsey and vice-chaired by Council Member John Bullock, with Council Members Jermaine Jones, Zac Blanchard, and Odette Ramos, plans to meet throughout spring 2026 and consider proposals aimed at improving transparency, accountability, efficiency, and service delivery.

Topics expected to surface include veto timelines, capital budget structure, biennial audit requirements, and the composition and authority of the Board of Estimates. Any amendments approved by the City Council by May will appear on the ballot for voters in November 2026.

Community Process and Resident Engagement

Baltimore officials emphasized the need for a transparent and community-driven review. The committee will host public engagement sessions, solicit feedback from residents and experts, and accept written suggestions throughout the process. Residents may submit recommendations at charter.review.committee@baltimorecity.gov.

Council Member and Commission President Ryan Dorsey describes the effort as a chance to realign city government with resident expectations. “We want a government that works the way people assume it should, said Dorsey. “The Charter shapes how power flows, and this review gives Baltimoreans a real voice in how decisions get made. We plan to set clear rules where the public expects certainty and create flexibility where the City needs room to meet residents’ needs.”

What Comes Next

The charter review process will run through the spring, culminating in proposed amendments for consideration by the City Council. If adopted, those proposals will go before voters in 2026.

Visit the Baltimore City Council website for more information.

Stay tuned to Conduit Street for more information.