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Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith said Thursday that he is moving across the county into the 7th Legislative District, where he is considering a run for the Maryland Senate.

"I obviously said all along I want to continue public service with a way I can really make a contribution," said Smith (D), who cannot seek re-election because of county term limits. "I'm taking a serious look at the state Senate in the 7th."

The 7th district covers southeastern Baltimore County and a portion of southern Harford County.

State Sen. Andrew P. Harris, a Cockeysville Republican, currently represents the district. Harris has said he will give up the seat to make a second attempt for the 1st Congressional District seat that he sought unsuccessfully two years ago.

Smith now lives in a six-bedroom home in Owings Mills — the 11th Legislative District. He and his wife are "downsizing" and have leased an apartment in Cockeysville, he said.

For months, political watchers have been speculating what Smith would do next. He has been a Baltimore County councilman and a judge.

Smith was considered a significant challenger for the comptroller's seat, now held by Peter V.R. Franchot (D). But in July, he announced he would not run for that office.

Smith has an ample campaign account totalling more than $1 million, which, if he joins a slate, could assist other Democratic candidates.