Baltimore mayor leaving amid scandal touts administration’s achievements in farewell remarks

Scandal-plagued Baltimore mayor says goodbye

BALTIMORE — Baltimore’s scandal-plagued mayor says her administration has much to be proud of.

Mayor Sheila Dixon gave a farewell address at Wednesday’s Board of Public Works meeting. She will step down Thursday amid a scandal over gift cards and other gifts she received while serving as City Council president several years ago.

Dixon did not mention the scandal in her remarks, which lasted about 10 minutes. She says it’s been a “privilege” to serve as mayor, and now she’s beginning “a new chapter.”

She spoke about accomplishments including the lowest homicide totals in 20 years, a new recycling program and a jobs program for young people.

After her remarks, Dixon refused to discuss a court filing by State Prosecutor Robert Rohrbaugh that called her arrogant and unrepentant.