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yesterday

Baltimore County Debates Redistricting Plans Ahead of Council Expansion

The County’s Redistricting Commission is gathering public input on competing district maps as it works to finalize boundaries for the expanded nine-member council by June.

Residents review Baltimore County’s proposed redistricting maps. (Natalie Jones/Staff)

Overview

  • Baltimore County is expanding its council from seven to nine seats for the 2026 election, following a voter-approved charter amendment in November 2024.
  • The 2025 Redistricting Commission has released two draft maps and is soliciting public feedback through hearings, with the next session scheduled for May 19 in Randallstown.
  • The first draft map includes two majority-Black districts and one majority-minority district, while the second draft adjusts boundaries to address concerns about community representation.
  • Former county budget chief Keith Dorsey has proposed an alternative map, 'Woodlawn Approach C,' which creates two greater-majority Black districts and one simple majority-minority district on the east side.
  • Advocates and residents have raised concerns about potential Voting Rights Act violations, with some warning that 'packing' Black voters into fewer districts could dilute their political power.