Statement from Jared Littmann, Candidate for Mayor of Annapolis, on Bob O’Shea’s “Protect Our Children” Proposal

Every parent wants their child to be safe at school. I appreciate anyone raising this important issue. Bob O'Shea is missing that Annapolis already has systems in place that support school safety through the City’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and through Anne Arundel County Public Schools. The City’s OEM secures federal and state grants, such as the Emergency Management Performance Grant, and participates in preparedness and resilience projects. The County school system operates an Office of School Security, assigns School Resource Officers to high schools and some middle schools, and maintains emergency response plans. The City has been the lead in active assailant drills with Anne Arundel public schools, St Mary’s, and St John’s College. OEM has also been active in the ‘Character Counts’ program at Mills Parole providing role models and mentorship.

We agree that there is room for improvement but we want to build on existing systems instead of duplicating existing safety procedures or positions.

In addition, our city schools are funded by Anne Arundel County and Maryland State. I am committed to investing in the community programs that support youth beyond the classroom including aftercare, recreation, career development, and supporting local nonprofits that support these types of services. These investments strengthen opportunities for young people, support violence prevention, and help keep our schools and neighborhoods safer. These are issues and plans that I have been discussing throughout my two years of campaigning including hosting a public safety forum to discuss these important issues.

As mayor, I will build on the systems already working. I will strengthen coordination between agencies, ensure joint training and drills, and expand youth mentorship and mental health programs that address risks early. I will also establish a structure to regularly meet with parents, students, and educators across elementary, middle and high schools, so I can hear their concerns directly and stay in constant communication with the School Board and our state delegation.

Mr. O’Shea often calls the City’s budget “bloated,” yet never identifies what he would cut. His proposals add new spending without explaining how they would be funded. Annapolis deserves real fiscal leadership that is grounded in results, not political spin.

I am proud to have the endorsement of the Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County (TAAAC), reflecting my respect for those on the front lines of education and safety, as well as the endorsements of our School Board representative, our District 30 state delegation, and the Annapolis Professional Firefighters union (IAFF Local 1926) and the Annapolis Police Union (UFCW Local 400).

Jared Littmann

Candidate for Mayor of Annapolis