Why are you running for office?

As a Baltimore native who grew up in Cherry Hill, I feel strongly about enacting positive change in our community. I’m a business owner and accomplished entrepreneur, not a career politician. I believe now is the time to bring real change to Baltimore through economic empowerment and innovative solutions. As mayor, I have a plan to pivot our economic development focus to the neighborhoods and people of the city. We must root out the corruption in City Hall and turn our focus to the problems that have plagued our city for far too long. Baltimore needs a mayor who will create jobs, drive economic investment into our city, and help businesses recover amid the devastating coronavirus pandemic. I believe I am the best suited candidate for the job

CRIME

How do you assess the current police commissioner’s performance and the department’s approach to fighting violent crime, specifically murder?

Steve Adler, Interprise Partners, Interview with Robert Wallace, Mayoral Candidate

I believe we must act with more urgency to address our city’s soaring rates of crime and violence, and the devastating toll it takes on our communities. As a leader, I would like to see Commissioner Harrison more hands-on and in-touch with the communities most affected by crime and gun violence. Our strategies must be greater than just policing; however, I don't want to get into a constant revolving door of police commissioners. Like the city as a whole, the police department needs continuity. I will ensure Commissioner Harrison has the support that he needs, but I have high expectations for him and other department heads and if at any point I find that they are not meeting the goals and objectives that have been put in place, then changes will be made.

My plan is to conduct an audit of BPD performance and assess Commissioner Harrison’s record on crime. Reducing crime and violence in Baltimore starts with improving accountability and reliability within the BPD. I will work to create long-lasting solutions by expanding trauma-responsive mental health and drug addiction resources and revitalizing the CeaseFire program. Implementing my economic revitalization and jobs creation plan will provide newfound opportunities to residents in underserved communities.

SQUEEGEE KIDS

How would you address the issue of squeegee kids in the city’s intersections?

The squeegee kids are a daily irritation for many residents and deter people from outside of Baltimore from coming into the city. This situation has to be and will be addressed. Beginning on the first day of my term, squeegeeing in visible areas will be prohibited.

At the same time, I recognize that this is a complex issue and will work diligently to address the root causes that lead to young kids working in the streets. Under my administration, we will develop an app where citizens can identify where there is squeegee activity, which will alert a three-person unit made up of a law enforcement resource, education resource, and social worker, who will be dispatched in real time. I will create a task force that includes community members, squeegee workers, parents, the business community, educators and nonprofits to create and fund a comprehensive plan to get squeegee workers off the streets and into steady jobs that provide a fair wage.

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