Rochelle “Rikki” Spector was first appointed to the Baltimore City Council in June 1977 to fill the term of her husband, who vacated the seat after accepting a judicial appointment. Two years later, Rikki earned the confidence of her constituents and was elected to the seat in her own right, followed by a record-setting nine more election victories. Her nearly forty years in office earned her the distinction of being the longest serving locally elected official in the State of Maryland, as well as the title of “Dean of the Baltimore City Council.” Rikki represented District 5, covering northwest Baltimore City, an area serving a significant portion of the Baltimore Jewish community.

Her time in office was marked by her focus on three themes: always being accessible to her constituents and responsive to their issues; standing strongly with the city’s small business community to create jobs and economic opportunities; and advocating for local government by protecting against unfunded state and federal mandates. Always ready to lend a hand, Rikki’s office was known for problem-solving and providing services to her constituents.

In addition to her legislative work, she served on the boards and committees of multiple community organizations, including the Maryland Science Center, CHAI, Chimes Maryland Foundation, Park West Medical Center, Sinai Hospital, and the University of Maryland.

In 2016, Rikki was injured in a violent carjacking. Rather than ensuring the 13- and 15-year-old teens were prosecuted, she quietly decided to become an advocate for the boys. Since then, she has pursued her latest passion for reforming the juvenile justice system. She is an active board member of UEmpower of Maryland, a non-profit dedicated to helping the youth of southwest Baltimore with job and life skills, focusing on food-related industries. Rikki worked hard to get a playground at Northwest Park completed; in December 2024, she was honored with its re-dedication as the Rochelle “Rikki” Spector Playground at Northwest Park in Mount Washington.

Rikki was born in Baltimore and attended Baltimore City schools, Baltimore Hebrew University, and Goucher College. She and her late husband Allen had three sons, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Rikki has long been a steadfast advocate for Baltimore, renowned for her tireless commitment to advancing education, housing, and economic justice. Her legacy of service and leadership remains a powerful and enduring influence on our community.