In a swift decision, Maryland senators expressed satisfaction with Nick Mosby’s appointment to the state’s Lottery and Gaming Control Commission.
Senate President Bill Ferguson voiced strong support, saying, “I just wanna tell you I strongly support your nominations.” Senator Antonio Hayes added, “His leadership and deep understanding of this office makes him an excellent choice.”
Mosby, a former Baltimore City Council President, will join six other commissioners in overseeing Maryland’s multibillion-dollar gaming industry. However, his financial history has raised concerns.
David Williams, a taxpayer advocate, criticized Mosby’s financial track record, stating, “His track record with finances shows he should not be on any commission or any board that has to do with handling money or any finances.”
Mosby’s financial past includes tax liens, repossessions, and delinquent water bills. In 2022, he accumulated a $907 water bill after a year of non-payment, which later exceeded $1,000. The Baltimore Brew reports that Mosby owes the city more than $1,000 after another year of non-payment. Additionally, JP Morgan Chase Bank has filed a complaint in district court regarding a “large claim consumer debt” involving Mosby, though the amount remains undisclosed.
During the hearing, Mosby defended his qualifications, asserting, “There’s nothing I’ve done in the past that I’ve done on this board to go against fraud, waste, abuse or corruption.” He dismissed past financial issues as irrelevant, saying, “Obviously the media would like to talk about stuff that took place in my mid-thirties. More than a decade ago. I think that has nothing to do with my right and readiness to serve in this position.”
Williams suggested Mosby’s appointment might be a political reward for his previous role as City Council president. He emphasized the importance of personal financial responsibility, arguing, “If you’re spending taxpayer money, you’re probably paying not as much attention, but if you’re paying your water bill or not paying your water bill, you know exactly what’s going on, so it’s even more problematic if an elected official has problems with personal finances rather than public finances.”