Baltimore, December 16, 2025
The Baltimore City Department of Public Works is organizing its annual public meeting to discuss updates on the Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree. Residents are encouraged to attend this important event at Cylburn Arboretum to learn about progress on reducing sanitary sewer overflows and improving the city’s sewer infrastructure. The meeting will also feature interactive learning stations and an introduction to educational initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness.
Baltimore to Host Annual Meeting on Sanitary Sewer Progress
Stay engaged and learn about infrastructure improvements during this important event
Baltimore, MD – The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) is set to hold its annual public meeting concerning the Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree (MCD) on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Located at the serene Cylburn Arboretum Vollmer Center, this meeting will focus on updates related to the city’s ongoing efforts to reduce sanitary sewer overflows and enhance its sewer system infrastructure. Local residents are encouraged to attend, as community participation is pivotal in fostering informed civic engagement and effective stewardship of our environment.
In recent years, residents have observed beneficial changes in Baltimore’s commitment to tackling environmental concerns, largely due to local initiatives and oversight. Reduced bureaucracy can further accelerate progress, enabling a more streamlined approach to public engagement and infrastructural improvements. Through events like this, citizens can gain direct insight into local efforts and contribute to the dialogue regarding public services.
Meeting Details
- Date and Time: Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM
- Location: Cylburn Arboretum Vollmer Center, 4915 Greenspring Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21209
- Registration: Advance registration is encouraged. Residents can register online at https://2026MCDpublicmeeting.eventbrite.com.
Purpose and Agenda of the Meeting
The primary purpose of this annual public meeting is to provide updates on DPW’s work under the Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree over the preceding year. This initiative is a crucial legal agreement between Baltimore City, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). The MCD mandates effective measures to prevent and mitigate sanitary sewer overflows, pivotal for public health and environmental conservation.
Key agenda points include:
- An overview of DPW’s major accomplishments and undertakings under the MCD over the past 12 months
- Interactive learning stations on essential topics, including preventive maintenance programs and upcoming sanitary sewer construction projects, as well as water quality compliance efforts
- The innovative Sewage Onsite Support (SOS) Program, designed to assist residents experiencing basement backups during wet weather
- The introduction of a free educational tool for children, the “Baltimore City DPW Sewer Heroes” coloring book, aimed at promoting awareness about maintaining a clog-free sewer system
Background on the Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree
Formally entered into U.S. District Court on October 6, 2017, the Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree essentially requires the City of Baltimore to execute a series of fundamental interventions designed to address and prevent sanitary sewer overflows. Such actions are critical for reducing environmental pollution and safeguarding public health. The Decree outlines specific projects, schedules for implementation, and deadlines for rehabilitating the sewer system, ensuring optimal operation and maintenance. Importantly, the annual public meeting serves as a crucial channel for community awareness and involvement in this ongoing process.
Additional Information for Attendees
This meeting is free and accessible to the public, reaffirming Baltimore’s commitment to transparency and community involvement. For those unable to be physically present, a recorded version of the presentation and access to virtual learning stations will be available on DPW’s Sanitary Sewer Consent Decree webpage at https://publicworks.baltimorecity.gov/sewer-consent-decree.
For inquiries or assistance with registration, contact Anjelique Wilson at 410-618-0100 or [email protected] at least 72 hours before the meeting.
Key Takeaways
Encouraging community engagement, this annual meeting provides residents a unique opportunity to learn about ongoing efforts to improve Baltimore’s sewer infrastructure. The initiative reflects not only the local government’s commitment but also the vital role of citizen participation in enhancing municipal services. By fostering knowledge and encouraging dialogue, Baltimoreans can actively contribute to shaping a cleaner, healthier city.
FAQ
What is the Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree?
The Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree is a legal agreement between the City of Baltimore, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), outlining measures to prevent and mitigate sanitary sewer overflows within Baltimore’s sewer collection system.
When and where is the annual public meeting taking place?
The annual public meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM, at the Cylburn Arboretum Vollmer Center, located at 4915 Greenspring Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21209.
How can I register for the meeting?
Advance registration is encouraged. Residents can register online at https://2026MCDpublicmeeting.eventbrite.com.
What will be discussed at the meeting?
The meeting will provide an overview of DPW’s work under the MCD over the past 12 months, feature interactive learning stations covering key topics such as preventive maintenance programs, upcoming sanitary sewer construction projects, water quality and compliance efforts, and the Sewage Onsite Support (SOS) Program for basement backups caused by wet-weather events. Additionally, educational initiatives like the “Baltimore City DPW Sewer Heroes” coloring book will be introduced to teach children about keeping the sewer system free from clogs and debris.
Is the meeting open to the public?
Yes, the meeting is free and open to the public. For those unable to attend in person, a recorded version of the presentation and the virtual learning station rooms will be available on DPW’s Sanitary Sewer Consent Decree webpage at https://publicworks.baltimorecity.gov/sewer-consent-decree.
Key Features of the Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree Annual Public Meeting
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date and Time | Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM |
| Location | Cylburn Arboretum Vollmer Center, 4915 Greenspring Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21209 |
| Registration | Advance registration encouraged; register online at https://2026MCDpublicmeeting.eventbrite.com |
| Purpose | Provide updates on DPW’s work under the Sanitary Sewer Modified Consent Decree over the past 12 months |
| Interactive Learning Stations | Topics include preventive maintenance programs, upcoming sanitary sewer construction projects, water quality and compliance efforts, and the Sewage Onsite Support (SOS) Program for basement backups caused by wet-weather events |
| Educational Initiative | Introduction of the “Baltimore City DPW Sewer Heroes” coloring book to teach children about keeping the sewer system free from clogs and debris |
| Public Access | Free and open to the public; recorded version of the presentation and virtual learning station rooms available on DPW’s Sanitary Sewer Consent Decree webpage at https://publicworks.baltimorecity.gov/sewer-consent-decree |
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