While recovering from a recent medical event, I had time to hone my thoughts on the current issues and events. Today, crime is the most prominent, critical issue in Baltimore City. It permeates the media and minds of the city’s residents. Go anywhere in Baltimore and one hears conversations about the murder rate. This issue is off the charts, and no one knows where it will go or how it will end.

With numerous reform efforts, the elected city leadership introduces legislation and points fingers. While they may be well intentioned and sincere, programs with limited numbers of participants will not ultimately solve the immediate crime problem and numerous systemic ills found in many communities of Baltimore City. These efforts, while small, should not stop. At this juncture, any reform and progress is welcomed and helpful.

Within the last several weeks several important events have emerged from the ongoing issue of crime in Baltimore City.

Mayor Pugh announced and unveiled her crime reduction plan. This slickly packaged document is Pablum puree and took too long to develop. A holistic approach will not reduce the violent crime in the near term. Stopping the murders and other crimes must be the top priority for the Baltimore City government. The daily reports of the continuing murders are diminishing the reputation and economy of the city.

The Democrat mayor and the Republican governor have met to discuss the crime issue in Baltimore City. It has taken the reality of over 200 murders so far, this year to force the mayor to have a “serious and productive”conversation with the governor. Why the reticence? Fear of the citizenry is a great motivator of politicians. The loss of one’s political power base is a significant component in that equation. Now the governor has called all involved parties in the battle on crime to his Baltimore office to seek viable ways to end the continuing horror. The governor is spot on by including the judiciary in this meeting.

Even though the spate of crime has tarnished the present and future of the city, there are bright spots in the economy and developments in Baltimore.

The recent visit by former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, bringing money as well as a valuable new program, is definitely an asset for Baltimore. But it may do little to stop the murders and other crime ravaging the city. The infusion of $1.5 million to be used by City Hall should be a valuable tool in the fight to stop the horrendous crime rate. Additionally, he along with Goldman Sachs, donated $10 million to fund a small business initiative in the Baltimore over the next five years.

One of most positive developments in Baltimore City has been the growth of the technology and technology-related businesses. It is estimated that there are now over 350 technology businesses engaged in commerce in the city. This estimate may be low, as new technology industries appear every day.

Read any of the Baltimore daily business print and digital newspapers and it is evident that significant networking is occurring each week in Baltimore City. It is good news that technology-oriented companies are relocating to Baltimore City fairly frequently.

With the majority of the City Council members being young and “progressive,” let’s hope they understand the significance of the economic growth in the technology industry.Recognizing this reality and legislating wisely is essential for a positive future in Baltimore City. As young people are attracted to Baltimore, the city government must be cognizant of the need to ensure public safety, adequate 21st century transportation, and a welcoming environment.

I would be remiss if I did not mention an important Baltimore City anniversary. Twenty-five years ago Orioles Park at Camden Yards opened. It was a privilege to be a guest at the opening party the night before the stadium opened. The event, named “The Baseball,” was organized by Mayor Schaefer’s office. It was a wonderful event, culminating with James Earl Jones reciting the poem “Casey at the Bat.” A laser beam of light soared over the warehouse as the evening ended, and I still have a ceremonial brick from the “new” stadium in my study.

That stadium, still the finest in the nation, has helped bring Baltimore citizens together, mold community spirit, and increase the economic viability of Baltimore. Camden Yards is a continuing positive asset.

The challenges facing Baltimore are numerous and difficult. Creating a city where all citizens can grow and thrive is the key issue for the government and citizens of Baltimore.