Baltimore County, MD / BCUpFront

The Blue Angels will help kick off the Bicentennial week-long Star Spangled Sailabration in 2012

June 16-17 at Martin State Airport. Don't miss it!

This is just one portion of The 2012 Star Spangled Sailabration which runs from June 13-19 across the region. Learn More at: http://www.starspangled200.com/

FREE HOLIDAY PARKING
ALL BALTIMORE COUNTY METERS
2-hours free parking every day
November 25-27 December 18-24

Local Shopping Made Easy!

General Growth Properties and Kimco Realty Joint Venture

Towson, Md. (November 10, 2011) - General Growth Properties (NYSE: GGP) and Kimco Realty (NYSE: KIM) today announced a joint venture partnership to redevelop the 25-year old, one million square foot Owings Mills Mall.

"General Growth Properties and Kimco are national leaders in shopping center development and management. Together, these powerhouse developers will bring fresh ideas, new stores, and an exciting vision for retail shopping in Owings Mills. They've got the track record, the relationships with national retailers, and the expertise to once again make Owings Mills a dynamic regional shopping destination," said Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz.

"We're exploring a number of options to revive Owings Mills Mall and provide shoppers of northwest Baltimore County a more viable center that meets their needs," said Shobi Khan, chief operating officer for General Growth Properties, Inc. (GGP)

In the joint venture partnership (PDF), Kimco and GGP would each own 50 percent interest in Owings Mills Mall. GGP previously owned 100 percent interest in Owings Mills Mall.

"The Owings Mills Mall presents a wonderful value creation opportunity in one of our core markets. We are very excited about the chance to partner with GGP in transforming this property into a vibrant shopping center Owings Mills residents need and want," said Mike Pappagallo, chief operating officer for Kimco Realty Corporation.

Economic Engine

"When I heard that the Owings Mills Mall was going to be redeveloped the first thing I thought about was jobs. The second thing I thought about was jobs. The third thing I thought about was jobs," said County Council Chair John Olszewski Sr. "There will be hundreds of good construction jobs associated with this project, and then there will be hundreds more created by the retailers at the finished project. This is great news for Baltimore County, and very good news for the middle class."

"There is big news, and then there is BIG news," said 4th District Councilman Ken Oliver. "The announcement that most of Owings Mills Mall will essentially be torn down and turned into a state-of-the art retail destination location is outstanding. I've been waiting for this announcement for more than a decade."

"Today's announcement of the joint partnership between General Growth Properties and Kimco Realty to redevelop Owings Mills Mall is simply fantastic," said 2nd District Councilwoman Vicki Almond. "This is the latest example of the energy and excitement that is engulfing the community. Owings Mills is truly one of the key economic engines of Baltimore County."

Owings Mill Community

Over 577,000 people with average household incomes topping $82,000 live within ten miles of the Owings Mills Mall, according to 2011 Nielsen Company estimates. The Owings Mills business community (PDF) includes headquarters for CareFirst, Medifast and Baltimore Life Companies and significant operations of T. Rowe Price, ADP, Global Payments, Zurich America, and Toyota Financial Services. Over the past 10 years, Stevenson University has constructed 13 residence halls, a business school building, two student centers, a gymnasium and a 3,500 seat stadium on its 75-acre Owings Mills campus.

Metro Center

Construction began in July 2011 for the Metro Center at Owings Mills, the $30 million centerpiece of a mixed use transit oriented development at the Metro subway station. The 120,000 square foot, six story building will be home to the largest branch of the Baltimore County Public Library and a center for the Community College of Baltimore County.

On Sunday, October 23, Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz greeted runners, walkers, survivors, and volunteers for the 19th Annual Susan G. Komen Maryland Race for the Cure in Hunt Valley . He spoke from the mainstage to all attendees and race participants in the Race Village .

The Race Village opened at 6 a.m. on the Executive Plaza complex at McCormick Road and Schilling Circle in Hunt Valley . The timed 5K Run began at 8 a.m. and the 5K Walk/1 Mile Walk started at 8:30 a.m. Nearly 30,000 participants ran/walked the race this year.

Kamenetz gave cheers and encouraging words at the beginning of the race from the start-line stage and rang the bell to start the 2011 race.

Park receives much needed makeover; site of National Historic District saved
Baltimore Mayor Rawlings-Blake joins County Executive to cut the ribbon

Baltimore, MD -- Today, Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz officially re-opened Robert E. Lee Park located at Lake Avenue and Falls Road, two years after the County acquired the park from Baltimore City.
The County renovated a large portion of the 415-acre park through two separate projects: the $1.1 million concrete slab bridge which spans 115 feet over Jones Falls and a collection of improvements and additions to the park itself including a 2000-foot long paved foot path, a 1400-foot long boardwalk which runs from the light rail station to the site of a future rangers' station, and the Paw Point Park
, a 1.5-acre chained compound for dog walking.
"Although declared a National Historic District in the 1990s, the park unfortunately fell into disrepair," stated Kamenetz. "Like so many good things that happen in our region, its revival began with a group of concerned citizens. Aided by the Ruxton-Riderwood-Lake Roland Area Improvement Association, a partnership among the County, the City, and the State developed to revive this local treasure."
Robert E. Lee Memorial Park was part of an 18th century land grant from Lord Baltimore to sev¬eral Maryland families. Lake Roland, now the center¬piece of the park, was formed later, in the 1850s, as a reservoir for the City of Baltimore. In 1992, most of
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Robert E. Lee Park
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the park was declared a National Historic District -- the Lake Roland Historic District -- in recognition of its historic elements.
"For decades, Robert E. Lee Park has been a hidden treasure for city and county residents alike," said Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. "Now, thanks to a dynamic partnership between the city, county, and state, the Park can provide better recreation and relaxation options for citizens."
Councilman John Olszewski, Sr., Chairman of the Baltimore County Council said, "I am delighted that Baltimore County has acquired and renovated the historic Robert E. Lee Park. Now we will have the best of both worlds, a place for the public to enjoy walking paths and dog owners will have their own section for walking their pets. Most importantly, a National Historic District has been saved."
Funding for the renovation and construction at the park came from the State of Maryland ($3 million) and from Baltimore County ($3.1 million). As of today, $3,777,231 has been spent; the remaining funding will be spent on future renovations and upkeep.

The purpose for this event is to join over 2 million voices for an end to America's early education gap by reading Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney.

Baltimore County Executive is taught how to make wine by Rob Deford, Owner of Boordy Vineyard, as part of the Baltimore County Fall Fest kick off.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz held a press conference announcing the availability of federal health care tax credits for small businesses with less than 25 employees who earn less than $50,000 per year. The Affordable Care Act, signed into law by President Obama in 2010, provides these substantial federal health care tax credits.

The Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative has been working hard to make sure that eligible Maryland small businesses know about the tax credit and take full advantage. Kamenetz invited the coalition to Baltimore County to inform small business owners about the tax credit availability.

The Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative has held events in Baltimore City , Wicomico, Charles, and Frederick counties with very good results. They identified over 100 small businesses that did not know about the tax credits, but are now taking advantage of them.

Towson, MD (August 31, 2011) - Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz addressed County residents on Facebook this evening regarding BGE's effort to restore power in the County.

Storm recovery information continues to be updated at baltimorecountymd.gov or on Twitter at BACOemergency.

The County Executive's message may be viewed at http://www.facebook.com/baltimorecounty or on YouTube, at the County's YouTube page http://www.youtube.com/baltimorecounty.

Towson, MD - The walls came tumbling down as long-vacant buildings were demolished to make way for a new Walmart Supercenter in the Liberty Plaza shopping center in Randallstown. Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz joined County and State legislators, Walmart and Centro Properties Group U.S. officials, and community leaders to celebrate the construction milestone for the 160,000 square foot store.

The Walmart Supercenter will bring 350 new jobs to Randallstown and will include a full grocery, bakery, deli, pharmacy, and outdoor living department. The new building will replace a strip of long-vacant stores at the rear of the shopping center at Liberty and Brenbrook Roads. The store is scheduled to open in fall 2012.

"Walmart is a long-awaited addition to the heart of Randallstown's commercial corridor, complementing a mix of local businesses and national retailers such as Marshall's, Sonic and Home Depot," stated Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. "Walmart's confidence in Randallstown will help spur other national stores and restaurants to take a fresh look at the Liberty Road corridor as a great place to do business."

"It's been a long wait, so it is especially gratifying to celebrate this milestone in the construction of the Randallstown Walmart," said Baltimore County Councilman Ken Oliver.

A full 97% of construction and demolition debris will be recycled. Metal beams will be re-forged and stone will be crushed for use in other construction projects. Brick, block and other metals will be sorted and recycled, much like residential recycling.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz held a press conference with emergency personnel to discuss Baltimore County's emergency preparation for Hurricane Irene.

September 4th, 2011
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Fort Howard Park

This event commemorates military actions that happened at North Point in September 1814. These actions, now known as the Battle of North Point, resulted when a British invasion fleet landed thousands of troops near Baltimore. These same forces had, only three weeks earlier, attacked and burned much of Washington. Come out to learn more about the Battle of North Point, and imagine what it was like all those years ago, in September 1814, as you hear the roar of cannons and the rattle of musketry again echoing across Patapsco Neck.

Kamenetz Announces Start of
Baltimore County Restaurant Week
Participating restaurants to offer specials August 12 - 26


Towson, MD -- Today, Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz announced the start of Baltimore County Restaurant Week, which runs August 12 -- 26. Over 30 restaurants throughout the County will feature special menus at a discounted, fixed price.
A full list of participating restaurants, menus and reservation links can be viewed on YouTube, http://www.youtube.com/baltimorecounty; Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/baltimorecounty; or by visiting
www.BaltimoreCountyRestaurantWeek.com.
This is Baltimore County's second Restaurant Week. The first promotion, held last January, contributed to an 11 percent increase in restaurant tax receipts from the previous January.
"Baltimore County Restaurant Week is back in full swing with both new and returning restaurants. For the next two weeks, County residents can leave the cooking at home and get a great deal too," said Kamenetz.
Restaurant Week offers one to three course lunch and dinner specials that range in price from $10.11 to $35.11.
"Restaurant Week not only saves customers some money, but it helps drive business to our restaurants at a time of year that is typically slow," said John Olszewski, Sr., chair of the Baltimore County Council.
"This is a great way to support local businesses in your community and across the County. There's something for every taste and budget," said Keith Scott, president and CEO of the Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Resource Center.
Baltimore County Restaurant Week is sponsored by Baltimore County Tourism and Promotion, the Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce and Sysco.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz today announced the start of construction for the centerpiece building at Owings Mills Metro Centre, a transit oriented town center. The six-story building will house the largest public library branch in Baltimore County and a center for the Community College of Baltimore County, Maryland's largest community college.
Metro Centre

The 120,000 square foot building is estimated to cost $30 million including building construction, furnishings, and opening day book collection for the library. Construction is scheduled to be complete in winter 2013, "With construction at the Metro Centre underway, the Owings Mills economic engine is about to launch into high speed," said Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz.

"This is a major milestone in moving the Metro Centre project forward," said Howard Brown, on behalf of the Managing Members of Owings Mills Transit, LLC. "Once the infrastructure for the library and college building has been completed, we will turn our attention to the next phase of development, the Town Center, with a lively mix of shops, offices, a hotel and apartments."
Transit Oriented Project

"As one of the State's first transit oriented development projects, Owings Mills Metro Centre reflects Governor Martin O'Malley's Smart, Green and Growing initiative," said Maryland Transportation Secretary Beverley K. Swaim-Staley. "We are transforming acres of surface parking adjacent to a transit station into a productive, vibrant and walkable mixed-use community. As a result, we will reduce sprawl, increase transit ridership and improve the environment by getting more cars off the road. This kind of development is key to Maryland's future."
LEED Silver Standards

The building is designed to meet LEED Silver standards for commercial construction set by U.S. Green Building Council. Green features include bicycle storage and changing rooms, a green roof, high efficiency heating and air conditioning systems, and water saving features such as low-flow lavatories.

"Today marks a long-awaited new chapter in creating a vibrant new downtown for Owings Mills," said Baltimore County Councilman Ken Oliver.
Metro Centre Building Facts

* Six-story centerpiece of transit oriented development at the Owings Mills Metro station
* Owings Mills branch of the Baltimore County Public Library and Community College of Baltimore County center
* Total size: 120,000 square feet
* 50,000 square foot library on first and second floors, largest branch in the County
* 70,000 square foot space for Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) on floors 4 thru 6
* 3rd Floor will be meeting and conference rooms shared by the Library and the Community College of Baltimore County

The State, through the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), is contributing $9.7 million toward the community college portion of the building. The County is funding the $20.3 million balance.

The State and County are providing a grant toward the garages and infrastructure totaling $28.2 million, $15.1 million State / $13.1 million County.
Construction Facts

* Project will provide jobs for about 150 workers
* Contractor: CAM Construction Company, awarded by competitive bid
* Construction to begin July 2011 and scheduled to complete winter 2013

Building Green

* Building to meet LEED Silver standards
* Green building features include proximity to public transportation, bicycle storage and changing rooms to encourage people not to drive
* Energy use is greatly reduced by the building's green roof and high efficiency heating and air conditioning systems
* Water consumption is reduced by more than 40 percent through water saving features such as low-flow lavatories

Baltimore County Public Library Owings Mills Branch

* Largest Baltimore County Public Library branch
* 142,000 item collection
* 70 public access computers
* Six self-service check out stations
* Four study rooms - one for teen use and one large quiet study area
* Magazine lounge
* Children's area with early learning center
* Large community meeting room that can be divided into three rooms, shared with CCBC
* Cafe with seating for 17
* Four LCD flat screen televisions
* 65 study tables, 85 chairs, 80 lounge chairs, 20 lounge tables

Community College of Baltimore County Owings Mills Center

* 27 classrooms
* 29 offices for administrative and student services
* Offices for faculty/staff
* Bookstore, training room, testing and assessment room, reception area, shared meeting space
* Technology: Smart classrooms
* Expected Course Offerings:
o Nursing
o Art
o Biology
o General Education
o ESOL
o CEED
o Consumer health classes

Towson, Md. (June 21, 2011) - Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz today announced the completion of the $4.7 million Pleasure Island Dredging and Living Shoreline Enhancement Project. This major dredging and beach replenishment effort restores boating access to the Pleasure Island Channel, improves water quality and protects 2,200 feet of fragile shoreline.

"We very much appreciate the support of our state and federal partners in what has been a real win for boaters and the environment," said County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. "Together, we've secured long-term access to the Pleasure Island channel for the thousands of boaters that use it every year, while protecting water quality and sheltering the homes and businesses on Miller Island from storms."

The shoreline of Pleasure Island, part of North Point State Park, was eroding at a rate of more than a foot per year. The newly created beach consists of 52,000 cubic yards of material dredged from the boating channel that has been planted with wetland vegetation. This "living shoreline" serves to stabilize the shoreline and prevent sediment erosion into the bay. A rock groin constructed along the north side of the island at Hawk Cove is designed to trap sand and keep the material out of the newly dredged channel.

The $4.7 million project was managed by Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability staff with design and construction costs paid for with state and federal funds. The Maryland Department of the Environment applied $2.7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Program (stimulus) money, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources' Waterway Improvement Fund contributed $1.9 million, and the Maryland Port Administration provided $100,000.

"This has been a long time coming and it is very beneficial to the recreational boating industry and also helps protect the bay from damaging sediment erosion and nutrient pollution," said County Council Chair John Olszewski Sr. who represents the area.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz took a hard hat tour of the construction of Towson City Center currently underway in downtown Towson . This major $27 million redevelopment of a 12-story building will create a vibrant signature location that is expected to bring some 500 workers into the heart of Towson 's commercial district.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz joined Governor Martin O'Malley and U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu to break ground for a new electric motor plant at GM Baltimore Operations.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, along with County Police Chief Jim Johnson, released the final crime stats for the year 2010. The statistics show a decline in crime across the County.

Towson, Md. (February 22, 2011) -- County Executive Kevin Kamenetz today announced a package of twenty-three technology initiatives that his administration plans to implement quickly to reduce costs, improve efficiency and speed up customer service. These projects span County government; automating work processes to allow faster turnaround times, better information sharing and increased public access to information. Kamenetz said the County expects to recoup its full investment of $5 million in implementation costs within three to five years, with ongoing savings projected well into the future.

"We delved into agency workflows and came up with ways to take advantage of technology to streamline our processes, reduce duplication of effort and provide instant access to information among related departments," said County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. "This translates into real savings in dollars and time for our agencies as well as the taxpayers we serve."

Kamenetz highlighted an array of improvements including an online constituent services portal; a broad computer platform to automate field inspections and licensing and 24-hour access for CountyRide scheduling requests; as well as the improvement of several internal functions involving employee training, desktop computing and pension management. The County Executive emphasized projects that will enhance public safety like providing the ability for police officers to submit reports and generate citations in the field and a multi-agency system to coordinate the booking and processing of offenders.

Two projects focus on improving citizen access to important land use functions. Next year's 2012 Comprehensive Zoning Map Process will be easier and faster for citizens thanks to planned improvements to the online application. Plus, people with average computer literacy will soon be able to easily glean valuable data from the County's GIS system because of a complete redesign of the County's "My Neighborhood" web feature.

"These technology advances are beneficial from a fiscal perspective and they will clearly make it easier for our residents to interact with their government," said Baltimore County Council Chair John Olszewski, Sr.

Prior to taking office, Kamenetz asked Director of Information Technology, Rob Stradling, to partner with the Office of Budget and Finance to review specific operations in County government that could be enhanced through a more effective use of technology. Today's announcement is the result of a comprehensive approach to prioritizing high-impact technology initiatives that can be implemented in a timely manner. The full report is available on the county's web site at www.baltimorecountymd.gov/TechnologyReport0211.pdf.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, along with Police Chief Jim Johnson and Information Technology Director Rob Stradling, announced the newest technical device to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of County citizens. iWatch Baltimore County is a neighborhood online awareness program created to educate and encourage citizens to vigilantly observe and report suspicious behaviors that may have connections to crime, including local, state, or national security threats.

Through e-mail subscriptions, residents can receive iWatch Baltimore County crime alerts and agency information, and with the use of their computers and/or handheld electronic devices be able to provide Police with tips and make non-emergency complaints.

A demonstration of the program will be conducted at the news conference.

Individuals may subscribe to receive iWatch Baltimore County crime alerts and learn more about reporting suspicious activity at: http://baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies//police/media/iWatch/index.html.

A Walmart Supercenter will soon anchor the Liberty Plaza shopping center, bringing 350 new jobs to Randallstown. Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz joined County Councilman Ken Oliver, state legislators, Walmart officials and community leaders to announce that Centro Properties will construct a 160,000 square foot building for Walmart.

MORE: http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/News/releases/0214walmart.html
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The renovation of the building was a public/private partnership to adaptively reuse the Landmark. The project cost of approximately $1.7 million, was privately funded and was headed up by Tony Azola of the Azola Companies. All infrastructure is latest state-of-the-art. This restored local, state, and federally listed historic building is a lively showpiece on one of the most prominent corners in the County Baltimore.

The Baltimore County Police Department announced the promotion of seven officers on February 3.

The following is a list of the promotees and their assignments:

Corporal Shawn Hanley is promoted to the rank of Sergeant and is assigned to Precinct 2/Woodlawn.

Corporal Michael Miskimon is promoted to the rank of Sergeant and is assigned to Precinct 12/North Point.

Corporal William Vaselaros is promoted to the rank of Sergeant and is assigned to the Operations Bureau.

Officer Paul Borowski is promoted to the rank of Corporal and is assigned to Precinct 7/Cockeysville.

Officer Kathryn Greenbeck is promoted to the rank of Corporal and is assigned to Precinct 2/Woodlawn.

Officer Tonya Jackson is promoted to the rank of Corporal and is assigned to Precinct 11/Essex.

Officer Jeffrey Peach is promoted to the rank of Corporal and is assigned to Precinct 12/North Point.

Baltimore County Launches Its First Restaurant Week

Sparks, Md. (January 13, 2011) - Today, Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz joined Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Keith Scott to launch Baltimore County Restaurant Week, which runs January 14 - 28. During Restaurant Week, more than 40 restaurants from across the County will feature special menus at a discounted, fixed price.

Delicious Deals

Baltimore County Restaurant Week offers one to three course lunch and dinner specials that range from $10 to $35. "From fine dining to family dining, you will find something to suit your taste and wallet during Baltimore County Restaurant Week," said Keith Scott, president and CEO of the Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce. A full list of participating restaurants, menus and reservation links can be found at www.BaltimoreCountyRestaurantWeek.com.

Economic Importance

In FY 2010, Baltimore County's restaurant sales brought in $1.2 billion, ranking the second highest in Maryland; Montgomery County led with $1.5 billion. Surrounded by restaurateurs at the historic Milton Inn, County Executive Kamenetz noted the economic importance of the County's restaurant industry. "Baltimore County's restaurants provide not only enjoyment for its patrons, but employment to nearly 25,000 workers. I encourage County residents and visitors to dine out during Baltimore County Restaurant Week to savor local flavor and delicious deals."

"As a lifelong County resident, I am always pleased to find new ways to enjoy all the County has to offer," said John Olszewski, Sr., chair of the Baltimore County Council. "Baltimore County Restaurant Week is a great opportunity for folks to try something new or visit a favorite spot."

Sponsors

Baltimore County Restaurant Week is sponsored by Baltimore County Conference and Tourism, Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce, The Milton Inn, Sysco Baltimore, OpenTable and Reliable Churchill and the wineries of E & J Gallo: William Hill, Mirassou, Alamos, Gascon and Barefoot.

Kindertime Toy Drive at ABC2 WMAR TV is a great example of regional teamwork. Special thanks to all the public safety agencies that helped make this happen!

At Christmas time, WBAL Radio conducts their "Kids Campaign." On December 23 and 24, the show "goes on the road" and broadcasts live at Valley View Farms for that extra holiday atmosphere. The morning show hosted by Dave Durian is the "hub" of the campaign for WBAL. County Executive Kevin Kamenetz shared the annual "executive poem" on air and showed his support for this worthwhile campaign.

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz delivers his Inaugural Address.

‎"Tourism is a vital industry for Baltimore County - visitor spending in 2009 totaled $1.85 billion," said County Executive Kamenetz quoting recently released data from IHS Global Insight, a leading international economic research and analysis firm. "Our revitalized conference and tourism initiative, along with the breadth and diversity of our attractions, will only increase this sector's impact."

I invite you to view Baltimore County's video tribute in recognition of the tenth anniversary of September 11, 2001.