Candidates for Baltimore City Council 6th District

A: Reducing council districts won’t allow for multiple council members to represent those areas. Our city has enough needs that get over looked with 14 districts. I believe those issues would multiply, with more area, and less manpower (council people) to assist. I actually support a two council member per district setup. It would allow for more targeted focus on legislative and constituent priorities.

A: As a city, we have to ensure that affordable housing isn’t code word for projects, or housing with poor quality of life issues surrounding them. Having housing that’s affordable brings in multiple levels of income into a certain area; creating a balance. Also, we could look at a cap on housing/ rental costs, preventing overpricing which takes advantage of folks with lower incomes. Now folks are forced to choose between food, medicine, or rent. We can certainly do better.

A: There are many other cities that have successfully dealt with their vacant housing stock, we just have to seek out those things and implement here, according to our needs. Also, we have to be creative and innovative when it comes to vacancy. Repurposing vacant properties for new business, restaurants etc. Even giving the community the ability/ incentives to buy into those vacant and recreate their usage, are some ways we can begin to chip away at this issue. We just have to provide the space and support for those things to happen.

A: Harborplace is what draws tourists, and adds to our city revenue. However, far too long has the harbor been the focus point in our city. The tax breaks, PILOT and other money saving and money giving opportunities available for businesses and downtown, must be brought uptown. Small businesses in our communities can benefit from Boost funding, tax breaks etc. These opportunities, would provide incentive for those small business owners. Also, it would provide diversity in the types of businesses our communities have. Bring the investment that has historically happened downtown, UPTOWN!! And we must come up with a plan of action immediately.

A: I would introduce legislation that would place a $2,600 fine and drivers license points/suspension on those that dump illegally. This will take some work with some other partners to get this done, but that’s what we are elected to do, work to get the job done. We have to begin to attack those things that decrease value, and increase crime and other nefarious activities in our communities.

A: Citizens all over the country, are looking for ways to save money, and cut costs. Property taxes is one of those things a lot of citizens would like to see some savings on. Citizens also, wouldn’t be so upset if they felt the services they received from the city matched the taxes paid to the city. If taxes are cut, it just has to be done in a way that’s helpful to our city’s bottom line, and without hidden agendas that could harm us in the long run. The process must make sense, and be transparent for the people of Baltimore.

A: Currently, I work for a nonprofit that serves high-risk young people and adults; helping them to make better life choices.

A: The reality is, there are so many backlogged things that could be put forward, that new things are needed at this point. I believe that advocating for trade, skill and licensure programs at our city high schools is imperative. It shows young people alternative pathways to success, without having to go to college. It shows them that we believe in giving them options, instead of a cookie-cutter route, that everyone is being forced into. Young people thrive off of having options.

A: As an educator in City Schools for over 13 years, and Neighborhood Association president for six years, I’m asking voters to elect Steven T. Johnson. I am a person that’s creative and innovative. I am a person that listens, that’s willing to not just make decisions for the people, but make decisions with the people. This requires me to be accessible, and engaging with residents. I am a person of integrity, and can get the job done; making things happen. We have a solid track record of making things happen already, let’s build on it together, as your District 6 City Councilman!!