City Council Hearing:Housing & Economic Development Committee August 18, 2026

The City Council Housing & Economic Development Committee of Baltimore held a meeting on August 18, 2026, to discuss two key bills. The first bill, 26-0147, proposed designating St. Peter's Cemetery as a historic landmark to preserve its cultural and historical significance. The committee heard extensive public testimony supporting the designation, emphasizing the cemetery's importance to various Baltimore communities and the need for preservation funding. Despite opposition from the Archdiocese of Baltimore regarding property rights and government oversight, the committee unanimously voted to move the bill forward. The second bill, 26-0163, the Community Healthy Foods Access Act, aimed to establish a grant program to improve healthy food access in Baltimore by supporting grocery stores and community food retailers, particularly in underserved areas. The committee reviewed amendments clarifying grant terms, eligibility, and definitions, with discussions focusing on ensuring funds target appropriate retailers and promote affordability. Expert testimony highlighted the importance of community-led initiatives and cooperative models for sustainable food access. The bill was scheduled for a voting session with further amendments to be considered.