When Maryland NOW was founded in 1973, this area was established as one chapter. However, the growth of the area – including traffic arteries, the growth of the area where Baltimore County government is located, and many members’ personal preferences as to what they’d prefer to have as chapters in the area – has given us reason to think that two chapters – one in Baltimore City and Baltimore County – would best suit most needs for stability and growth on now in this part of the state.
The two areas are actually completely separate geo-political entities – Baltimore City was created by the state in 1851 – with completely separate governing structures, completely separate legislative districts in Annapolis, as well as demographic growth in the past 50 years. Only a small area of Congressional District 2 is located in Baltimore City with Baltimore County, along with parts of Carroll County and Harford County, and Baltimore City representing most of the area of Congressional District 7.
The Baltimore County NOW chapter was started in September, 2026. Officers were elected by the 14 members who have joined or affiliated with the chapter, and bylaws were developed, using Maryland NOW’s model bylaws work form. New members are joining and transferring into the chapter and they are looking forward to have their web site complete and an action agenda in place very soon.
Baltimore City NOW faces different challenges with their city council and an elected mayor, and looks forward to planning an agenda that addresses the unique environment of being the largest independent city in the United States.
Both chapters welcome new members and look forward to becoming a strong voice in Maryland NOW.
