I had planned to move onto other issues; however, the continuing rampage of crime led me to share more comments about this crisis. The words “enough is enough” are not adequate.
When reading the July 1 issue of The Economist magazine, I was significantly surprised to see that the lead article in the United States Section was “The Murderous Streets of Baltimore.” I was chagrinned.
The fact that Baltimore City continues to experience increasing amounts of record-setting murders and spikes in other serious crimesis bound to capture negative attention. This trend continues, much to the detriment of the city, and sadly overwhelming the economic development and burgeoning technology happening in Baltimore.
The Economistarticle correctly concludes that crime must be reduced before Baltimore City can experience citywide development and economic prosperity.
The article refers to the killing spree is a “contagion.” Crime reduction, especially the killings, must be the number one priority of the city government. Crime reduction takes more than just the police department. All aspects of the law enforcement community must be on the same page, philosophically and practically. The faith community still has an important role, even as America becomes predominantly less religious. Most of the shooters in the Baltimore City killings and shootings are young. They are a “lost generation,” with little morals or scruples. Improving this factor is a real sociological challenge. It cannot be done quickly. Newer generations of children must be successfully educated and nurtured. This factor is essential to a future, safer city.
Agencies providing a social safety net in the city must step up and improve their performance. Small businesses must be allowed to engage with city government more effectively and frequently. City business leadership, such as The Greater Baltimore Committee BUILD, and community associationsmust become more engaged in the battle against killings and associated crimes.
The Economist concludes that,“there is at least some hope in the form of the promised reforms and federal oversight. Of better schools and fewer drugs in Baltimore’s violent districts there is no sign and, in the absence of serious attention to this calamity, little prospect.”
The mayor of Baltimore and the governor of Maryland have met to discuss the crisis of crime in the state’s largest city. The governor appearsto not want to “throw” more money at the city’s crime rate. According to The Baltimore Sun, since the Hogan administration has been in office, Baltimore Cityhas received $64 million to aid crime-fighting initiatives. Baltimore City has been the recipient of more than $3.77 billion in local aid since fiscal year 2016 (“State Aid To Local Governments,” Maryland Department Of Budget And Management,” 5/2017)This amount includes $99 million to the restoration of the central branch of the Enoch Pratt Library, which is predominately used by Baltimore City residents. According to a recent Baltimore Sun column, the city put only $5.3 million into this project.
Perhaps the governor should spend one day a week in his Baltimore City office for the foreseeable future. This would allow him time to give hands-on attention to the crime wave affecting Baltimore.
The government of Baltimore City must realize that Annapolis is not a piggy bank for the city. There is no doubt that the governor has concerns for crime-ridden Baltimore City. As he and the mayor continue discussions and searching for effective ways to reduce murders, they must realize that dealing with human factors is essential in reducing the unparalleled crime wave. More gun control measures will not be as effective as promoted by the mayor. Those committing killings can easily purchase guns on the street at little cost. Many guns are provided by drug cartel kingpins to their lieutenants and street dealers, often with little law enforcement interference. The mayor and the governor can demonstrate stronger moral leadership by convening and assisting community groups. These are real leadership functions that will encourage more community action, as well as citizen involvement and engagement.
