Official City Bulletin: Budget Hearings and Harbor Tunnel Infrastructure Alerts
Public Meeting Notice: Budget and Appropriations Committee
The Baltimore City Council’s Budget and Appropriations Committee is scheduled to convene today, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 9:00 AM. This session will be held in a hybrid format, taking place both in the Du Burns Council Chamber on the 4th floor of City Hall and virtually via the Webex platform. The primary focus of this morning’s proceedings is the Quarterly Budget Briefings (LO25-0001), which require representatives from the Finance Department’s Bureau of Budget and Management Research, the Department of Planning, and Baltimore City Public Schools to provide updates on financial performance and current spending levels against approved budgets.
Legislation Spotlight: Property Tax Relief Hearing
Included in today’s committee agenda is a high-priority hearing for City Council Bill 26-0151. Introduced by Vice President Cohen, this measure proposes raising the homestead tax credit cap from 4% to 6%. The initiative is part of a broader property tax-relief strategy aimed at eventually lowering the city's effective property tax rate. Residents interested in the fiscal future of the city are encouraged to monitor these proceedings as the committee evaluates the potential impact on local homeowners and municipal revenue.
Traffic Advisory: Baltimore Harbor Tunnel Closures
The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has issued a traffic advisory for motorists utilizing the I-895 corridor. Overnight maintenance operations are scheduled for the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel from February 16 through February 19, 2026. Drivers should prepare for the closure of the Northbound Tunnel starting at 9:00 PM each evening. During these hours, two-way traffic operations will be implemented in the Southbound Tunnel. Motorists are advised to expect delays of 15 to 20 minutes and are reminded to obey all posted speed limits and lane markings. The tunnel is expected to fully reopen by 3:00 AM each following morning, pending weather conditions.
Public Health and Safety: Winter Property Maintenance
In the wake of recent significant winter weather, the City of Baltimore reminds property owners of their legal obligation to clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their premises. To ensure the safety of pedestrians and students returning to school, pathways must be cleared within 24 hours of a snowfall. Failure to maintain clear sidewalks may result in citations and fines. Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and ensure that pets are brought indoors or provided with insulated, dry shelter during periods of extreme cold. If you encounter an individual in need of emergency cold-weather shelter, please contact the 311 service line immediately.