Gregory V. Hare

The council discussed the strategic vision for vacant property management, emphasizing whole-block approaches and data-driven outcomes. Key reports included updates on demolition and stabilization production targets, the progress of in rem foreclosure capacity in the circuit court, and the status of the Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Initiative funding round, which saw high demand and a significant funding gap. Discussions also covered the implementation of the Reinvest Baltimore Action Plan, challenges with procurement timelines for demolition contractors, and the coordination between city and state agencies to accelerate the flow of funds for property development.

The meeting focused on the Reinvest Baltimore awardee and home ownership incentive announcements and dashboard updates regarding vacancy reduction. Discussions covered the progress of fiscal year 2026 data on building rehabilitations and demolitions in targeted neighborhoods, the implementation of production models, and capacity constraints for Community Development Organizations. Strategies for scaling production, including partnerships with private developers, and the tracking of property acquisition and disposition were also addressed.

The DRAFT Annual Action Plan for the State of Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development guides the use of federal funding from HUD to address housing, community development, homelessness, and economic development needs for low-income residents and communities. The plan focuses on seven primary goals: promoting attainable and accessible rental housing, ensuring sustainable and quality housing for homeowners, preventing homelessness, developing supportive housing, improving viable infrastructure and public facilities, supporting accessible public services, and increasing local planning and capacity building. It also incorporates three overarching priorities: repairing past damage and promoting investment in historically underserved communities, addressing environmental impacts, and promoting accessible rental and homeowner housing opportunities near transit.

The council discussed the monthly production report, focusing on demolition timelines, the status of Maryland Stadium Authority demolition projects, and the expansion of the in rem pipeline. Progress on the Baltimore Vacants Reinvestment Investment program was reviewed, including disbursement updates to community development organizations, permitting system tracking, and the status of the support fund. Additionally, the council addressed the impact of institutional investors in housing, potential policy solutions for property ownership issues, updates from various working groups, and held a closed session to discuss real property acquisitions and confidential commercial information.

This National Housing Trust Fund Allocation Plan details how the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development will administer $3,000,000 in federal funds for Federal Fiscal Year 2025 (October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026). The plan outlines policies for the use of Housing Trust Funds, prioritizing the production, preservation, and rehabilitation of affordable rental housing for Extremely Low Income (ELI) households. Key priorities include family housing in communities of opportunity, housing in community revitalization areas, integrated supportive housing for persons with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness (including veterans), preservation of existing affordable housing, and elderly housing. The document also specifies general requirements, eligibility criteria, priority factors, and additional program requirements for affirmative fair housing and tenant selection.