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Bill

HB 1276

West North Avenue Development Authority - Neighborhood Social Connection and Development Program - Establishment (WNADA Neighborhood Social Connection and Development Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Marlon Amprey and 2 co-sponsors

Establishes West North Avenue Development Authority to coordinate neighborhood economic development, social services, and community engagement in a Baltimore neighborhood.

Returned Passed
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1276

Legislative bill overview

HB 1276 establishes the West North Avenue Development Authority (WNADA) and creates a Neighborhood Social Connection and Development Program to promote economic development, community engagement, and social services in a specific Baltimore neighborhood. The bill creates a new governmental entity with authority to coordinate development initiatives and neighborhood improvements in the West North Avenue area.

Why is this important

This bill addresses neighborhood revitalization in what appears to be an economically disadvantaged area by creating dedicated institutional infrastructure and funding mechanisms for localized development. Such authorities can either effectively catalyze community improvement or become examples of inefficient government spending, depending on implementation and oversight.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of authority and spending power – The bill creates a new public authority with development powers; questions remain about budgetary allocation, debt authority, and whether it duplicates existing city/county development functions
  • Accountability and governance structure – Details about board composition, appointment processes, public oversight mechanisms, and community representation in decision-making are critical to ensuring the authority serves residents rather than special interests
  • "Social Connection" mandate ambiguity – The phrase "social connection and development" is vague; unclear whether this creates enforceable obligations or merely aspirational goals, and what metrics determine success

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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