Watchdogs & boards
These groups exist to check on the city. They take complaints, audit the books, and make sure rules are followed.
Watchdogs
They investigate when something seems wrong with the city.
Boards
Groups of people who make decisions on a specific topic — like zoning, schools, or police complaints.
Board of Estimates
A 5-seat board that approves almost every city contract over $50,000 and every line of the city budget. Members: Mayor, Council President, Comptroller, City Solicitor, Director of Public Works.
Open page →Board of Ethics
Makes sure city officials and employees follow the rules about honesty and conflicts of interest.
Open page →Board of Liquor License Commissioners
A state-appointed board that decides who can sell alcohol in Baltimore and enforces rules on bars and liquor stores.
Open page →Board of Municipal & Zoning Appeals (BMZA)
Hears appeals when someone wants to build something that doesn't fit the zoning rules.
Open page →Board of School Commissioners
Runs Baltimore City Public Schools. They set school policy and the school budget.
Open page →Civilian Review Board (CRB)
A group of regular Baltimoreans who review complaints against police officers.
Open page →Police Accountability Board (PAB)
Reviews complaints of police misconduct and recommends discipline.
Open page →Commissions
Long-standing groups that enforce rules and hear appeals.