Bill > HB258

This bill makes several modifications to the West North Avenue Development Authority (WNAVDA) in Baltimore City. The bill extends the duration of the Authority from 5 to 8 years and specifies that beginning in fiscal year 2028, the Authority must become self-sustaining. It establishes the Authority as a body politic and corporate that is an instrumentality of the state, with the exercise of its powers considered an essential governmental function. The bill modifies the board of directors to include 17 members, with specific representation from various government agencies, legislative bodies, educational institutions, and local community organizations. The Authority is granted broad powers to promote economic development in the West North Avenue Corridor, including the ability to acquire and manage properties, make grants, enter into contracts, and create development plans. The bill also establishes a special, nonlapsing West North Avenue Development Authority Fund to support the Authority's administrative expenses and requires the Authority to report on its progress toward becoming self-sustaining by January 1, 2027. Additionally, the bill provides tax exemptions for the Authority's activities while ensuring that properties sold or leased to private entities remain subject to local property taxes.