Baltimore’s police department spends several million dollars every year just on renting buildings. These include office spaces, training facilities, storage areas, and even residential apartments for certain units. Instead of investing in buildings the city can own, the department is locked into paying landlords year after year, which adds up quickly.
Why the City Leases Instead of Buys
City officials say leasing property gives them flexibility. If they no longer need a space, they can move on without being stuck with a building they own. This approach can be helpful if the department’s needs change. But in practice, it also means they don’t build long-term value. Money goes out the door as rent instead of building ownership.
Costs Keep Rising
Some leases that seemed reasonable at first have ballooned over time. For example, one building that houses the police integrity unit cost far less a decade ago. Today, the rent has more than doubled. Rising rental prices put more pressure on the city’s budget, especially as landlords raise rates when leases renew.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Leasing
There are pros and cons to this setup. Leasing allows the city to shift locations or upgrade facilities without waiting years to build or buy property. On the other hand, it leaves Baltimore at the mercy of the rental market. If rent spikes, taxpayers end up footing the bill. Critics say it’s poor financial planning to rely so heavily on private landlords instead of investing in property ownership.
Why It Matters for Taxpayers
Every dollar spent on rent is a dollar not going toward community programs, better equipment, or hiring more officers. The millions of dollars flowing into leases could be used differently if the city had a clearer long-term property plan. For residents, this raises questions about how wisely tax money is being managed and whether short-term flexibility is worth the long-term cost.