The time has come for fresh visionary leadership that is capable and willing to address our problems head-on and unlock our community’s tremendous potential.
Baltimore County is now the third-largest county in Maryland. With over 850,000 residents and growing, it is time for strong leadership to ensure that we will be a safe, thriving and vibrant community built for the future while at the same time preserving its small-town charm.
The status quo in Baltimore County is failing our residents. Violent crime, including homicides and assaults, continues to rise, and our schools are in desperate need of attention. I am fully committed to restoring safety to our neighborhoods, businesses and schools. I have spoken directly with our law enforcement officers who consistently report shortages in resources, personnel, training, equipment and institutional support. This must change. The residents of Baltimore County deserve better.
As your county executive, I will make your safety a priority. I firmly believe the first obligation of leadership is to protect its citizens. Under my administration, we will provide our law enforcement professionals with the tools and support they need to effectively protect our communities. My commitment to you is to make Baltimore County safe.
Real change means transparency in government. Your hard-earned tax dollars disappear into bureaucratic systems. There is not enough accountability in county government. You have a right to know how your tax dollars are spent — enough political hide and seek.
These challenges did not emerge overnight, but they demand immediate, decisive action from leadership committed to serving citizens rather than a few selfish political interests.
Complete transparency is needed in all government operations. No more backroom arrangements. I firmly believe that we can conduct the people’s business openly, honestly and fairly. Transparency is not just a buzzword for me. It will be the foundation upon which we build public trust. This county belongs to you, not the politicians.
An inefficient and antiquated permitting process has become more than just an administrative hurdle; it has evolved into a significant barrier to economic growth for small business owners and their families. You deserve a non-political leader who wants you to benefit. I will encourage growth and investment, while at the same time preserving our neighborhoods and communities.
Our business owners repeatedly tell me the same story: It often takes longer to secure a permit than to complete the actual project.
This self-serving bureaucratic inefficiency has stymied innovation, deterred investment and driven out businesses. The evidence is clear and concerning, and we cannot allow this to continue. You deserve better.
Maryland ranks as one of the most expensive states for business operations due to high taxes, utility costs and burdensome regulations. This pushes you, as entrepreneurs, small business owners and job creators, to move or just give up. This must change in Baltimore County.
Your child’s education stands as the cornerstone of Baltimore County’s future and my administration. Your families deserve the best education available — as the largest budgeted line item, our schools receive the lion’s share of tax revenue.
Our educational strategy will center on providing every student with an unshakable early foundation in the basics to succeed. These fundamentals are the essential tools our children will use to navigate their futures and enjoy all that life and Baltimore County can offer.
Every dollar diverted from early education, the classroom, the teachers and a better school environment is a missed opportunity for our students. We must examine our allocation of resources and ensure your tax dollars directly enhance learning experiences rather than expand administrative overhead.
My administration will use all available resources to ensure that our students receive the best education. We have the resources, we have great students and we have high expectations.
What we do not have is an administration that can properly allocate these precious resources. Too much waste, fraud and duplication of services exist, and there’s not enough support where it belongs, which is why I strongly support the Baltimore County inspector general being empowered to review school finances.
I have been proud to call Baltimore County my home for my entire life. I am excited about this county’s future but also understand that the future can only be bright for you if we have the courage to embrace the real changes that are needed.
I look forward to the campaign and the opportunity to earn your vote.
Patrick Dyer, a Republican candidate for Baltimore County executive, is the owner of a financial services business and a long-time Timonium resident.