By Catherine Pugh, Special to the AFRO
Former Baltimore County Councilman Kenneth N. Oliver died on Nov. 11, leaving behind a rich legacy as a changemaker and community leader.
Oliver was born in Montgomery, Ala. in 1945, but was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System, where he lived with his family until moving to Baltimore County.
At 57 years old, Oliver became the first African American to be elected to the Baltimore County Council.
“He was a delight to work with on so many issues,” said former State Senator Shirley Nathan-Pulliam. “Many of the businesses on Liberty Road would not be there had it not been for Councilman Ken Oliver. He was a bridge builder between the city and county because he lived in both places.”
Former Mayor and President of the Baltimore City Council Jack Young remembers Councilman Oliver as a friend.
“We attended many events together to discuss how to bring business to our respective communities. He is responsible for the community center that was built for senior and youth activities in Randallstown,” Young told the AFRO.
In a social media post, County Councilman Julian Jones, paid honor to his predecessor. “During his 12 years in office and his time on the planning board, he made a lasting impact on our community,” said Jones.
Oliver was a graduate of University of Baltimore and received a master’s degree in business administration from Morgan State University. News of Oliver’s death was posted on social media by Baltimore County Councilman Julian Jones, who succeeded him in office.
Before becoming the first African American elected to the Baltimore County Council, where he served District 4 from 2002 until 2014, Oliver was a well-known banker. He was known as an advocate for growing and expanding African-American businesses.
“Ken was instrumental in helping fund my business where banks couldn’t. He worked tirelessly, advocating for minority and women enterprises,” said Anthony Mosby.
Oliver’s career in banking began at Equitable Trust in Baltimore. He continued his banking career becoming a vice president of the Harbor Bank of Maryland and, later, a senior vice president of the Development Credit Fund, one of the few entities providing funding for minority businesses at that time, according to Paul Taylor, director of the Mayor’s Office of Small Minority and Women-Owned Business.
Oliver also worked as a financial specialist in the Maryland Department Business and Economic Development and taught at Coppin State University.
Oliver is survived by his wife, three daughters and four grandchildren.
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