BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WBFF) — Julian Jones, Baltimore County’s next county executive, is promising to put his “tough talk” on crime into action as he prepares to take office Jan. 1.
Jones, a Democrat, highlighted public safety during his victory speech Tuesday night, telling supporters, “Baltimore County we did it!” He takes over as interim County Executive Kathy Klausmeier leaves the post.
In his victory speech, Jones pledged to build new schools, open new recreation centers and address affordable housing. But he also emphasized crime as a top issue, saying, “We will work to improve police response times, put officers where they are needed most.”
ALSO READ | Julian Jones declares victory in Democratic Primary for Baltimore County executive
Pressed on what residents might see on Day One, Jones said his first step would be a broad review of county operations and finances.
“First priority is to really get a handle on our finances, find out where we are, and make a deep dive into every department in Baltimore County,” Jones said.
That includes the police department, as Jones has made public safety central to his campaign. “Yes, public safety is extremely important. It’s very important that our citizens feel safe, whether it be in the parks, neighborhoods, going into a business, you name it. That’s always going to be my number one priority,” he said.
Jones was elected amid public safety concerns that were highlighted before the primary elections in the summer, including violent crimes, juvenile offenses and carjackings. Those concerns were sharpened by the murder of a Towson University student along York Road, not far from Barley’s Backyard Restaurant & Bar.
“Of course, it’s always a good thing to protect any city, any area,” said Anita Comstock, co-owner of Barley’s Backyard. Comstock said of Jones, “Like I said, we’re glad that he’s coming aboard…to help maybe provide more services.”
ALSO READ | Residents demand answers, tougher juvenile accountability at Baltimore County town hall
Frustration over crime was also raised at public safety meetings with residents leading up to the elections, including a meeting in Essex. At that meeting on July 14, Jackie Rudolph said she spent 30 days in the hospital and 90 days in a wheelchair after she said a 15-year-old boy driving a stolen car slammed into her vehicle last year while being pursued by police.
“The juvenile who hit me, do you know what his sentence was, 90 days, home on a monitor. I’ve spent that in a wheelchair, thank you very much,” Rudolph said. “There’s a total lack of accountability for these juveniles, for their parents and it needs to change.”
In his remarks, Jones also pointed to the work ahead, saying, “The citizens of Baltimore County have spoken.” He closed his victory speech by telling supporters, “Thank you for your confidence and may God continue to bless each and every one of you. And may God bless Baltimore County.”
Jones begins his four-year term Jan. 1.
Follow FOX45 reporter Keith Daniels on X and Facebook. Send tips to [email protected].
Source: foxbaltimore.com
