City Council Hearing: Land Use & Transportation; October 14, 2026

The Baltimore City Council Land Use and Transportation Committee held a hearing on October 14, 2026, on Council Bill 26-0220, “Zoning—Grocery Stores.” The bill would define grocery stores as a distinct zoning use, separating them from other retail establishments, to address zoning barriers to locating and operating grocery stores, particularly in underserved communities. Committee members discussed proposed amendments addressing grocery-store floor-area thresholds and the treatment of grocery stores in transit-oriented development areas. The Planning Commission reported approving the bill with both amendments; the BMZA supported the bill with an amendment and had no objection to the other amendment. The Department of Finance anticipated no financial impact, and other participating agencies reported favorable positions.

The committee voted to recommend the bill favorably with amendments, 5–0, with two members absent. It was slated for consideration by the full Council at its next meeting. No contracts, purchases, or other procurement actions were identified; the bill concerns zoning policy and could affect future grocery-store siting and development.