Baltimore’s leadership has proposed a significant charter amendment aimed at modernizing the city’s water management system. This initiative involves the establishment of a dedicated agency to manage the region’s water resources effectively. If approved by voters in 2026, this change would separate the Bureau of Water and Wastewater from the Department of Public Works (DPW).
Baltimore’s Water System Overhaul
The proposed amendment seeks to enhance the city’s capacity to manage its water system efficiently. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott emphasized the importance of this change, stating that it aims to protect critical water assets and prepare for future challenges.
Key Details of the Proposal
- The amendment must be approved by voters in 2026.
- A standalone agency could be established by the end of 2028.
- The Bureau of Water and Wastewater serves 1.8 million customers.
- The total operating budget for 2027 is projected at $667 million.
- Current capital budget allocation is $473 million.
City leaders, including Baltimore City County President Zeke Cohen, argue that a dedicated agency will improve service delivery and oversight. This move is intended to provide stronger financial accountability and transparency for ratepayers reliant on the water system.
Benefits of a Separate Water Agency
Creating a new water management agency is expected to yield several advantages:
- Enhanced operational transparency
- Stronger partnerships across the region
- Better alignment with industry best practices
The water and wastewater utilities operate as enterprise systems funded by ratepayer revenue. An independent agency would foster improved financial performance with more effective revenue collection strategies.
Overall, Baltimore’s proposed amendment aims to streamline the management of water resources, ensuring that the system meets the demands of the future while safeguarding public health and the environment.
