We are standing on historic land. Sollers Point has a rich history. Not only because it borders a strong traditionally African American Community. But also because this land is part of both the past and the future of our County.
This area was made home by African-American families who came from the South, seeking employment at the old Bethlehem Steel Mill and Ship Yard on Sparrows Point.
In its heyday, Beth Steel provided 30-thousand job opportunities. Since its purchase, the steel mill has lost the majority of its jobs and now is owned by I-S-G with 25-hundred employed. But the residents stayed and overcame the adversities of job loss with the decline of work in the steel mill and today are continue to be a strong and self-sufficient community.
Believe me when I say that the residents of Sollers Point, the residents that love and understand what makes eastern Baltimore County special, deserve better than to have Washington disregard them and determine the nature of the community in which they live.
Sollers Point is part of the renaissance of Eastern Baltimore County. Significant local, state and federal funds have already been committed to the renaissance of this neighborhood. Over the next few years, Baltimore County will invest over $8 Million dollars in addition to nearly $3.5 Million dollars in state and federal sources. These projects include improving roads and infrastructure, designing the Dundalk Streetscape and Heritage Trail concepts, providing senior housing, and acquiring land to develop parks.
Believe me when I say what we all know, a prison is not welcome, is not wanted, and should not be built in eastern Baltimore County.
Revised December 22, 2003
Courthouse 