Baltimore Maryland Growth Machine

Development deals raise alarms. Baltimore Sun graphic.

Lest readers think that I believe that Mayor O'Malley of Baltimore is the greatest thing since sliced bread, I do want to point out that it's growth-machine-business-as-usual in Baltimore. Today's Sun also has the article, "Deals for city-owned lots questioned: $2 million below appraisal accepted by [Baltimore Development Corporation] for land." Then again, there is the whole argument about $300 million for a convention hotel vs. neighborhood-based investment, etc.

And, while it's on appeal, recently a lower court Maryland judge ruled that the Baltimore Development Corporation (comparable to DC's National Capital Revitalization Corporation, but with a much bigger portfolio) isn't subject to State of Maryland laws about information disclosure and open meetings...