AGP Executive Report

FBI Headquarters Fight: A federal judge blocked the Trump administration from moving the FBI HQ to the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, saying the switch exceeded statutory authority and unlawfully diverted funds—clearing the way back to Greenbelt in Prince George’s County, with Maryland AG Anthony Brown calling it a win for Congress’s decision and Gov. Wes Moore urging the state to “stop the games.” Local Business & Development: College Park’s shopping center has a new owner—Terrapin Development Company—buying the Baltimore Avenue site for $53M and promising only a “facelift” like parking refreshes while keeping current tenants. Housing Affordability: A new report argues HUD spending from 2015-2024 didn’t improve affordability, with home prices outpacing wages in every state and homeownership getting harder nationwide. Ocean City Sports Complex: Ocean City’s effort to buy land for a sports complex west of Berlin failed, but officials say the project isn’t dead and may still move forward. Public Safety: Bel Air police shooting footage shows a man running before a deadly traffic stop; family members dispute whether he was armed. Education Rankings: U.S. News released its 2026-2027 Best High Schools list, with Maryland placing 43% of schools in the top quarter nationally.

Maryland Lottery: Here are the Aug. 16, 2026 results for Pick 3 (Midday 5-6-0; Evening 7-8-2) and Pick 4 (Midday 7-2-6-5; Evening 2-3-8-5), plus Pick 5, Cash Pop, Bonus Match 5, and Keno. Public Safety (Takoma Park): New stop-sign cameras are active in school zones, with warnings for 30 days before fines begin Sept. 16. Courts & Accountability (Meta): Connecticut AG William Tong joined a coalition arguing in federal court that Meta designed Facebook/Instagram features to be addictive for kids and misled families; the case is set to proceed. Local Governance (Calvert County): A Maryland open-meetings compliance board says Calvert commissioners violated the state’s open meetings law multiple times in 2025 and once this year. Housing & Energy (Data centers): A Maryland lawmaker says residents shouldn’t be stuck with higher utility bills from data centers; PJM is also proposing earlier reliability cuts for big new loads. Community News (St. Mary’s County): St. Mary’s County and Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maryland announced a Sept. 15 grand opening for a new club at the Carver Recreation Center in Lexington Park. Tech & Art (ARTECHOUSE DC): ARTECHOUSE DC resumes with the SUBMERGE project, featuring a major digital-artist immersive show opening Sept. 11.

Chesapeake Bay Cleanup: A new report says local governments are key to restoring the Bay, but technical help is uneven—more than 120 “technical assistance” programs exist, yet gaps in services and funding remain. Workforce & Defense Tech: Southern Maryland teens are getting hands-on engineering and cybersecurity training near NSWC Indian Head through RoboMasterminds and CyberLEARN, building a local pipeline for defense-sector jobs. AI Jobs in Prince George’s: Gov. Wes Moore announced Cloudforce will expand at National Harbor, adding 250 jobs and doubling its headquarters footprint. Baltimore Nonprofits’ Funding Mix: IRS data show some Baltimore nonprofits rely heavily on government grants, with Maryland Innovation and Security Institute topping the list by grant share of revenue. Retail Theft Crackdown: Federal and state prosecutors announced indictments tied to a multi-state organized retail-theft ring affecting Prince George’s County and beyond. Sports & Local Interest: The Orioles kept rolling over the Rays with a 10-2 win, while Maryland’s Garrett County schools are moving toward a cellphone ban in class. Consumer Safety: A study claims two common plastics can biodegrade in soil in about two years—though experts warn the real-world limits and conditions matter.

Military Accountability: Democrats pressed for answers over conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, citing morale and mental health concerns as the carrier’s nearly nine-month deployment stretches on. Local Governance & Public Safety: Baltimore is expanding its 911 crisis response beyond police and EMS, aiming to route more mental-health emergencies to mobile crisis teams. State Politics: Maryland Gov. Wes Moore used a CNN appearance to argue voters care more about kitchen-table costs than national ideology battles, while also calling out D.C. disconnect. Consumer Safety: A Maryland company recalled Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits sold at Walmart due to possible listeria contamination; no illnesses reported. Business & Housing: Safeway closures are growing as Albertsons reviews its store footprint after the failed Kroger deal. Sports (Maryland): Ravens QB Joe Fagnano made his preseason debut and threw his first NFL touchdown pass; meanwhile, the Orioles keep pushing for “meaningful baseball” as the wild-card race tightens. Health & Community: A Morgan State-linked urban farm in Baltimore is using local climate data to help farmers and train the next generation of climate-minded growers.

USS Abraham Lincoln Deployment: Gov. Wes Moore urged Americans to “take care of one another” as sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln face “deteriorating” conditions during a nine-month deployment, after President Trump dismissed concerns as “not nearly long enough.” Baltimore Baby Fund: Baltimore backers cleared a signature hurdle for a November ballot measure that would provide a one-time $1,000 newborn benefit (cash or supplies), estimated at $15 million a year, with funding details still to be set by city officials. Maryland Politics & Data Centers: At the MACo conference, GOP gubernatorial candidate Dan Cox attacked Gov. Wes Moore over data-center ties, while Moore and Cox also sparred over how Maryland should handle hyperscale projects. Maryland Courts: Maryland’s tax court struck down the state’s digital ad sales tax, ordering refunds to Apple, Google and Peacock TV. Consumer Safety: Walmart-linked Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits were recalled over possible listeria contamination. Job-Scam Warning: Experts say job seekers are being hit with fake text-message offers that try to lure victims into sharing sensitive personal info. Orioles Baseball: Baltimore edged the Rays 4-3 in another one-run game, winning consecutive extra-inning/late-inning thrillers.

Baltimore Oversight Fight: A judge ruled Baltimore Inspector General Isabel Cumming can move forward with her lawsuit seeking direct access to city records, rejecting Mayor Brandon Scott’s push to dismiss it—another test of how independent oversight works in Maryland. Maryland Courts & Tech Taxes: Maryland’s tax on digital advertising was struck down by the state tax court, ordering refunds to major tech firms including Apple, Google and Peacock, after the court found it violated federal rules and raised constitutional concerns. Chesapeake Bay Deal: At the Maryland Association of Counties conference, leaders discussed a Conowingo Dam settlement in which Constellation will pay $340 million for environmental projects in exchange for a key water-quality certification. Public Safety: Baltimore police identified 17-year-old Jada Sellers as the victim of a Southwest Baltimore shooting; she died weeks after the July 31 attack. Sports (Local Interest): The Orioles’ Gunnar Henderson powered a win over the Rays in a series opener, and Baltimore’s lineup shuffle had Pete Alonso in the leadoff spot. Health Research: New reporting highlights early promise for GLP-1 weight-loss drugs for women with PMOS, offering hope for a hormonal disorder that has long lacked clear answers. National Crime Case: Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty in federal court to stalking charges tied to the UnitedHealthcare CEO killing, with sentencing set for December.

Digital Tax Ruling: Maryland’s first-in-the-nation digital advertising tax was struck down by the state tax court, which ordered refunds to Apple, Google, and Peacock TV—an outcome that could reshape how the state funds K-12 priorities. Baltimore Oversight Fight: A judge sided with Baltimore’s inspector general, denying the city’s bid to dismiss her records-access lawsuit and ordering the city to respond to subpoenas. Public Safety in Schools: Wicomico County Public Schools will enforce a “Bell to Bell, No Cell” policy next school year, banning personal devices from first bell to dismissal. Chesapeake Bay Update: Maryland says it hit nearly all 2025 Bay restoration targets, but some watermen dispute whether the numbers match what they see on the water. Crime and Community: Loved ones mourn 17-year-old Jada Sellers, who died after a July shooting in Southwest Baltimore; police have not announced suspects. Healthcare and Food Safety: A federal recall pulled Walmart tomato bisque soup kits over possible Listeria contamination. Sports: The Orioles snapped the Rays’ nine-game win streak with a 6-5 win, with Gunnar Henderson going 4-for-4. National Legal Shock: Towson native Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty in federal court in the UnitedHealthcare CEO killing case, a move that could affect the New York state prosecution.

Westport Vacancy Crisis: In Baltimore’s Westport, a long-sought plan to acquire and redevelop vacant homes has stalled, leaving about a third of houses empty and fueling rats, drug activity, and fire-risk fears for nearby renters. Federal Health Policy Fight: A federal appeals court upheld a ruling that blocks companies from importing Gilead HIV meds through overseas channels and routing them to U.S. patients via employer health plans—an issue tied to Maryland patients and “alternative funding programs.” Mangione Case Update: Luigi Mangione, a Maryland native, pleaded guilty in federal court to stalking charges in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, admitting “I shot Mr. Thompson and he died,” with sentencing set for Dec. 18 and a separate state trial still looming. Eastern Shore Immigration Pressure: Sen. Chris Van Hollen warned that Trump-era immigration moves and the Supreme Court’s decision stripping Haitian temporary protected status could hit Eastern Shore poultry operations that rely on Haitian workers. Local Budgets Tighten: Maryland county leaders are looking for options as budgets get tighter, warning that state aid cuts and shifting costs are squeezing local governments. Data Center Politics in Charles County: Candidates are lining up on how to regulate data centers after commissioners paused a countywide zoning amendment and signaled a new task force approach. Public Safety & Courts: A Waldorf man was charged after an alleged Instagram message threatening a school shooting; separately, investigators say a reptile theft ring targeted pet stores across Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Maryland Open-Records Fight: Some Maryland agencies have stopped answering routine questions from four news outlets, saying they’re sending inquiries for legal review tied to a private defamation lawsuit involving Gov. Wes Moore—raising concerns about transparency in areas like prisons, juvenile justice, child welfare, and benefits. Prediction Markets vs. Maryland Law: Baltimore sued Kalshi and Polymarket, arguing the platforms are effectively running unlicensed sports betting under a “label it differently” loophole, while the companies say they’re federally regulated. Workforce & Aviation: Gov. Moore delivered the keynote at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s Aviation Maintenance Technician graduation, highlighting state investment in regional airports and a pipeline into high-demand aviation jobs. Local Business & Culture: Magoobys Joke House announced a second, smaller Hampden location opening in early 2027, aiming for an intimate 120–130 seat club with frequent shows. Public Health & Weather: A mold and air-quality expert urged Marylanders to check outdoor pollution daily and take indoor precautions during spikes, pointing to health risks from poor air. STEM for Kids: A STEM center opened at a Boys & Girls Club facility, expanding hands-on science and career exposure through a multi-state TVA partnership.

Healthcare Access & Costs: Hospitals are increasingly asking insured patients to pay upfront before care, a shift that can cancel appointments when families can’t produce cash on the spot. Utilities & Affordability: Consumer Reports is urging Maryland’s Public Service Commission to reject Baltimore Gas and Electric’s proposed rate hike, warning bills could rise nearly $100 a year while hundreds of thousands of customers already fall behind. Public Safety & Weather: The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-0 tornado touched down in Dundalk during Monday storms, with damage tied to the Patapsco River and nearby areas. Local Courts & Business Climate: A coalition of 50 Prince George’s County businesses sued to block a new $5,000 annual permit fee aimed at liquor, tobacco, firearms dealers, and self-storage. Environment & Health: Maryland’s Department of Agriculture scheduled aerial mosquito spraying in Dorchester County starting Aug. 13, weather permitting. Sports & Community Attention: Baltimore sued prediction markets Polymarket and Kalshi over sports-betting features, as the 4th Circuit weighs the state case. Sports (Maryland ties): Ravens preseason coverage and training-camp updates continue as local fans track roster battles.

Transportation & Local Economy: Businesses near Maryland Parkway in Las Vegas say road construction is cutting revenue, citing blocked access and repeated water shutoffs without warning. Education Policy: Queen Anne’s County Public Schools approved a “bell-to-bell” ban on personal electronics, aligning with Maryland’s Phone-Free Schools Act. Public Safety & Courts: A Silver Spring man, Bryan Betancur, was found guilty for nonconsensual hair-touching on Metro and posting it online; sentencing is set. Space & Jobs: NASA’s push for a lunar base puts Maryland’s Wallops Flight Facility in the spotlight, with industry day leaders pitching more work for the Eastern Shore. Sports & Maryland: Maryland football defensive lineman Zahir Mathis suffered a season-ending injury during training camp. Health & Food: A review links higher ultra-processed food intake with lower levels of key nutrients like vitamin A and E. Business/Tech: Gov. Moore announced Cloudforce will expand in Maryland, adding 250 jobs at National Harbor.

AI Jobs & Economic Development: Gov. Wes Moore announced Cloudforce will expand its Prince George’s County headquarters, adding 250 AI jobs and leasing 15,000 sq. ft. at National Harbor, with the company partnering with UM and PGCC to grow its talent pipeline. Local Food Access: St. Mary’s County’s “Farmers Feeding St. Mary’s” returns for a free produce giveaway, with the first distribution Aug. 13 in Lexington Park and a second Sept. 12. Consumer Protection & Pet Policy: A Change.org petition urges Maryland lawmakers to ban the retail sale of parrots in pet stores, arguing long lifespans and specialized care make impulse purchases risky. Public Health Benefits: Social Security added 14 serious health conditions to its Compassionate Allowances fast-track disability list, bringing the total to 314. Environment: Maryland says it met nearly all Chesapeake Bay pollution reduction targets for 2009-2025, hitting 100% for sediment and phosphorus and 99% for nitrogen. Safety & Enforcement: CBP at Dulles intercepted a meth shipment mailed from Utah to Paris, seizing about four pounds.

Public Safety: Two juveniles were arrested in the killing of 17-year-old Roman Wright in Essex, as police also reported another fatal shooting nearby earlier Monday. Weather & Events: BTS night 2 at M&T Bank Stadium is still scheduled, but organizers moved general gates to 6 p.m. amid a renewed severe-storm threat. Housing & Homelessness Funding: Maryland’s neighbors in a multistate fight won an order protecting federal support for permanent housing and homelessness services after HUD tried to cap funding. Cybersecurity & National Security: The FBI says it found a North Korean IT worker remotely working for a U.S. federal agency, underscoring the overseas scheme’s reach. Health & Science: The CDC confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as its new director, and the FDA approved Labcorp’s PGDx elio companion test for advanced melanoma. Local Economy & Community: St. Mary’s County officials are heading to MACo’s summer conference, while a Maryland library workforce investment program topped $1 million in annual staff development. Sports: The Orioles beat the Twins 5-2 to even their series.

Consumer Protection Fight: Maryland’s AGs are backing a lawsuit against a federal rule that would let big banks keep interest from mortgage escrow accounts, arguing it strips state consumer safeguards and costs homeowners. State Politics & Costs: A Baltimore Sun analysis says Maryland’s recent redistricting special session could cost taxpayers up to $50,680 in meal and hotel reimbursements. Public Safety & Health: Howard County is rushing $260,000 to a mental health crisis center after federal cuts to its 988 backup contract forced layoffs. Education Policy: Talbot County Public Schools is rolling out “no cell, bell to bell” for the 2026-27 year, following a state phone-free schools law. Local Crime: Prince George’s police say they’ve charged suspects in a multi-jurisdiction retail theft ring targeting 100+ businesses and stealing more than $500,000. Cybersecurity: A new federal-backed effort aims to help small water utilities defend against cyberattacks. Chesapeake Bay: Gov. Moore announced Maryland hit nearly all pollution reduction targets under the 2014 Bay agreement. Sports & Community: Sea Colony named a new director of racquet sports; and Maryland’s BTS concert wave is boosting local business.

Health Care & Courts: Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown’s office backed a lawsuit blocking the U.S. Department of Education from cutting school-based mental health grants, warning Maryland schools could lose millions and leave thousands without housing supports. Consumer Protection: AG Ford joined a multistate push to stop Trump administration changes that would undermine Affordable Care Act protections and drive up costs, while also announcing a $400 million settlement in principle with Sandoz over alleged generic-drug price and competition conspiracies. Public Safety & Housing: A federal judge again blocked a Trump HUD move that tried to divert Housing First funding, saying the agency violated federal rules. Local Governance & Services: Prince George’s County is facing a lawsuit over a new $5,000 annual fee on liquor, tobacco, gun and storage businesses, with plaintiffs calling it an illegal tax. Education Policy: Talbot County Public Schools rolled out “No Cell, Bell to Bell,” using device pouches to keep phones and wearables out of the entire school day. Maryland Sports: Behind Malik Washington, Maryland football is aiming to turn patience into results after a tough finish, while Baltimore’s violence-reduction strategy lost a key architect as the city shifts management.

Transportation Watch (Salisbury): Maryland finished a $5.2 million bridge repair project on US 50 Business/Salisbury Parkway and MD 991/Main St over the Wicomico River, including new pile dolphins, fenders, and underwater epoxy sealing; drivers should still expect work-zone slowdowns. Transportation Watch (Pocomoke City): SHA is starting a $451,616 safety upgrade at the US 13/MD 366 intersection, converting beacons to a full traffic signal, updating markings and signage, and adding LED “Red Signal Ahead” signs, with single-lane closures during weekday work hours through late 2026. State Politics: Gov. Wes Moore’s two-day special session advanced a constitutional redistricting change aimed at reshaping congressional district criteria, with lawmakers voting along party lines in both chambers. Public Safety & Health: Howard County’s 988 crisis hotline operator, Grassroots Crisis Intervention, says it will lay off about a third of staff after losing a federal contract, though it will keep answering calls, chats, and texts. Community Calendar: Frederick County’s Division of Aging and Independence will host a free New Market Community Health Fair Aug. 17 with screenings, Medicare and benefits help, and a mobile “Move Mobile” resource team. Business & Local Economy: Cole & Denny Architects announced it has acquired Baltimore’s AHS Architects, expanding its healthcare and mission-critical design footprint in Maryland.