In response to sudden news of a plan to transfer Spring Grove Hospital Center (SGHC) to University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) for annual rent of $1, the MPS sent a letter to the Maryland Board of Public Works (BPW) urging a delay of their decision.  The MPS called for more time, transparency, and detail to enable consideration and public discussion of the plan’s implications for our most vulnerable citizens.  MPS questioned the $1 appraisal for the 175-acre Catonsville property as well as the assertion that SGHC is “excess to the needs of the Maryland Department of Health.”

At its May 11 meeting, BPW voted 2-1 to approve the transfer.  To view the livestream recording of the meeting, go to https://governor.maryland.gov/board-of-public-works-meetings/ and click the 5/11/22 BPW Online video.  The SGHC discussion begins at about the 37-minute mark.  Comptroller Franchot was the dissenting vote.  His extensive questioning and comments begin at about 1:13.  Treasurer Davis and Governor Hogan voted in favor, even rejecting Franchot’s request for a delay until the next BPW meeting.  Most of the individuals who were able to testify on short notice requested deferral.