Phylicia Porter
Candidate in May 14 primary
Democratic
Pigtown/ Washington Village
Age: 36 on day of General Election (Nov. 5)
Occupation: Elected Official/ Public Health Scientist
Education: Towson University: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Bioinformatics
Morgan State University: Master of Public Health
University of Maryland Francis Carey School of Law: Master of Law in Science
Previous political experience: Baltimore City Council, District 10
Why are you running for office?
The residents of District 10 should strongly support my campaign for several compelling reasons. My track record speaks volumes about my commitment to building healthy communities as a seasoned Public Health practitioner for the past decade on the Baltimore City Council. With my visionary leadership, I have not only elevated the District, but have also impacted local, state, and federal levels, demonstrating my ability to affect change across a wide range of platforms. District 10, where food, transit, economic, housing, and health insecurities are prevalent, requires my leadership. Due to my understanding of the complex interplay between these issues and my track record of addressing them effectively, I am the ideal candidate to advocate for vulnerable populations. My ability to build coalitions and collaborate across sectors demonstrates my effectiveness as a leader who can bring diverse stakeholders together to achieve common objectives.
What are the most pressing issues in your district, and how would you address them?
District 10, where food, transit, economic, housing, and health insecurities are prevalent, requires my leadership. Due to my understanding of the complex interplay between these issues and my track record of addressing them effectively, I am the ideal candidate to advocate for vulnerable populations. I have already made a tangible difference in constituents’ lives by consistently advocating for equitable access to essential resources and services. For example, I have secured more than $600,000 in investment funds for 25 community based organizations. In addition, I have elevated the economic profile of the current 13 community district to ensure residents have a better quality of life in their own neighborhoods. Lastly, I have reimagined food policy within the district securing a multi- organization network food distribution that spans from Pigtown/ Washington Village to Curtis Bay.
Baltimore’s homicide rate dropped in 2023 for the first time in nearly a decade. What do you believe is the council’s role in overseeing the police department and what would be your approach?
[ No response. ]
What do you believe is the council’s role in facilitating responsible development in the city?
The decline in Baltimore’s homicide rate in 2023 marks a significant milestone after nearly a decade of escalation. As a Council member, overseeing the police department entails multifaceted responsibilities. Firstly, it involves elevating community concerns to the police leadership, ensuring they address issues promptly and effectively. Secondly, fiscal and legislative oversight is crucial to guarantee equitable allocation of taxpayer funds across neighborhoods within police districts, promoting fair resource distribution. Lastly, fostering a balanced approach to policing is imperative, emphasizing prevention, diversion, and enforcement strategies to uphold community safety equitably. This multifaceted approach aims to foster trust, accountability, and effectiveness within the police department, ultimately contributing to a safer and more cohesive Baltimore.
Is the current structure of the City Council, and the balance of power between the mayor and council members, appropriate, and why or why not? If you would seek to change it, what would your model look like?
The current structure of the City Council and the balance of power between the mayor and council members may not be optimal. Citizens should have access to information about decision-making processes, budgets, and policies. This can be achieved through public meetings, clear documentation, and accessible communication channels. Autonomy for council members allows them to better represent their constituents’ diverse needs and interests. Council members would have greater autonomy to propose and shape legislation, with robust oversight mechanisms in place to maintain accountability. This could involve regular audits, citizen review boards, and mechanisms for public feedback on council decisions. Such a model would foster a more inclusive and accountable local government, better serving the needs of the community.
What are the most important issues the council has dealt with in the last four years? Name several smart decisions and several not-so-smart choices members have made.
Over the past four years, the Baltimore City Council has grappled with various critical matters, including local autonomy, inclusive housing, and fiscal oversight for budget adjustments. Advocating for local autonomy represented a significant stride towards community empowerment and decentralization of decision-making processes. Moreover, the establishment of oversight mechanisms for budget adjustments aimed to ensure fiscal prudence and transparency. Instances of insufficient consultation with affected communities concerning development projects exposed deficiencies in community involvement. Additionally, delays in tackling infrastructure challenges from state and federal perspectives, such as deteriorating roads and public transit, highlighted missed chances for proactive governance. In navigating these decisions, the council has exhibited a blend of strategic vision and areas necessitating enhancement, reflecting the intricacies inherent in urban governance.
What weaknesses do you see in the delivery of city services? What can be done to improve response time and resident satisfaction?
Some opportunities for growth in city service delivery often stem from communication gaps between City government, Council offices, and the resident. To enhance response time and satisfaction, fostering resident participation is vital. Educating residents on digital platforms for issue reporting can streamline processes, enabling quicker resolutions. Moreover, regular follow-ups from City Council offices and agency community liaisons ensure accountability and prioritize citizen concerns. Transparent communication about delays builds trust, emphasizing proactive updates to residents. By integrating technology, promoting engagement, and enhancing communication channels, cities can foster efficient service delivery and bolster resident satisfaction.
Editor’s note: Baltimore Sun Media received this candidate’s responses on March 15.
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