Public Meetings - Prince Georges County, Maryland

The Prince George's County District Council met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in the Council Hearing Room at the Wayne K. Curry Administration Building in Largo, Maryland. The agenda listed a 1:45 PM call-to-order, but the minutes record Chair Krystal Oriadha convening the meeting at 3:24 PM with seven members present; the meeting adjourned at 3:34 PM. Council Members Adams-Stafford, Blegay, Burroughs, and Dernoga were recorded as absent on the initial roll call. The Council approved the April 27, 2026 District Council minutes, acted on the Melwood Estates ZMA, and waived District Council review of three Planning Board-approved pending finality items. Consent Calendar - Approval of District Council Minutes, April 27, 2026 (MINDC 04272026): Approved 7-0 on a motion by Council Member Wanika Fisher, seconded by Council Member Danielle Hunter. Ayes: Oriadha, Olson, Fisher, Harrison, Ivey, Hunter, and Adams. Absent: Adams-Stafford, Blegay, Burroughs, and Dernoga. Discussion Items ZMA-2025-003 Melwood Estates – Day Land Investment, LLC requested a Zoning Map Amendment to rezone approximately 27.54 acres on the east side of Melwood Road, about 1,550 feet north of its intersection with MD 4 (Pennsylvania Avenue), from AR (Agricultural-Residential) to RSF-A (Residential, Single-Family Attached). The property is located in the M-I-O (Military Installation Overlay) Zone for Height, Surface E (Conical Surface), and will remain in that overlay if approved. The item is in Council District 6; the appeal date was 5/14/2026, the action date is 9/8/2026, and the agenda listed no opposition. Prior history included M-NCPPC Technical Staff disapproval on 11/07/2025, Zoning Hearing Examiner approval with conditions on 04/14/2026, and the Council's 04/27/2026 election to review. Council Member Hunter moved, seconded by Vice Chair Olson, to reconsider the previous Council action; the motion carried 7-0. A motion was then made, seconded by Council Member Fisher, to refer the item to staff for preparation of an approving document with conditions in accordance with the Zoning Hearing Examiner's recommendation; that motion also carried 7-0. Oak Creek Club – Development Parcel M (CDP-9903-05 and CDP-9902-06) – Carrollton Oak Creek, LLC sought companion Comprehensive Design Plan amendments to revise land use on an 8.09-acre portion of the 917.75-acre Oak Creek Club site at Oak Grove Road and Church Road, approximately 3,900 feet south of MD 214 (Central Avenue), for 28 single-family detached dwelling units in the prior Residential Low Development (R-L) and Local Activity Center (L-A-C) Zones. Both applications had M-NCPPC Technical Staff approval with conditions on 03/05/2026 and M-NCPPC Planning Board approval with conditions on 05/07/2026. Council Member Hunter moved, seconded by Council Member Fisher, to waive the Council's election to review each comprehensive design plan; both motions carried 7-0, with Adams-Stafford, Blegay, Burroughs, and Dernoga absent. CSP-24001 Southern Hills – Southern Hills LLC requested a Conceptual Site Plan for a mixed-use development on the south side of Southern Avenue and the north and south sides of Wheeler Hills Road (85.4 acres), consisting of 980 multifamily dwelling units, 150 senior housing units, 168 townhouse units, and approximately 45,000 square feet of commercial/retail and medical office space. The applicant also requested an amendment to the Development District Overlay (D-D-O) Zone use table to permit multifamily and townhouse uses within the Multifamily Medium Density Residential (R-18)/D-D-O and One-Family Detached Residential (R-55)/D-D-O Zones, to be developed according to Mixed Use-Transportation Oriented (M-X-T) Zone regulations. The item is in Council District 7, with appeal/review dates of 6/18/2026. Technical Staff approved with conditions on 04/09/2026, and the Planning Board approved with conditions on 05/14/2026. Chair Oriadha moved, seconded by Vice Chair Olson, to waive the Council's election to review; the motion carried 7-0. Key Outcomes - Approved the April 27, 2026 District Council minutes by a 7-0 vote. - ZMA-2025-003 (Melwood Estates): Voted 7-0 to reconsider the Council's prior action and 7-0 to refer the matter to staff for preparation of an approving document with conditions consistent with the Zoning Hearing Examiner's recommendation. - CDP-9903-05 and CDP-9902-06 (Oak Creek Club, Development Parcel M): Voted 7-0 on each companion case to waive the Council's election to review, declining further Council review of the Planning Board approvals (appeal by 6/11/2026). - CSP-24001 (Southern Hills): Voted 7-0 to waive the Council's election to review; the appeal/review date was 6/18/2026. - The meeting adjourned at 3:34 p.m. Discrepancy Note - The minutes for the CSP-24001 vote list Council Member Dernoga as voting aye and Council Member Harrison as absent, while the initial roll call and the other recorded votes show Dernoga absent and Harrison present; the transcript does not clearly capture Council Member Fisher's response on that roll call. This appears to be an inconsistency in the official record rather than a substantive change in the 7-0 outcome.

The Prince George's County Council, sitting as the Committee of the Whole, met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in the Council Hearing Room at the Wayne K. Curry Administration Building, 1301 McCormick Drive, Largo, Maryland. Although the agenda listed a 2:00 p.m. start, the minutes record Chair Krystal Oriadha convening the meeting at 2:53 p.m. after the council returned and reconvened. The committee addressed four items, taking up CB-062-2026 first to accommodate public speakers: prevailing hours and wage rates on public works (CB-062-2026), the Local Impact Grant Funds Multiyear Plan (CR-060-2026), Executive Order No. 13-2026 reorganizing the Enforcement Division (CB-056-2026), and FY2026 capital budget supplementary appropriations (CB-059-2026). The meeting was adjourned at 3:23 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - CB-062-2026 was moved to the top of the agenda because speakers were present. Public comments were received and are part of the record (Attachment: CB-062-2026 Public Comments COW 06-09-2026), but the speakers' remarks are not captured in the provided transcript. - A speaker listed for CR-060-2026, Sherman Hardy, was not present when the chair called the name, so no public testimony was heard for that item. Discussion Items CB-062-2026 — Prevailing Hours and Wage Rates on Public Works - The legislation, sponsored by Councilmember Burroughs and co-sponsored by Councilmembers Oriadha, Olson, Ivey, Dernoga, and Hunter, was presented June 2, 2026. It would require contractors and subcontractors on certain county public works to employ workers from apprenticeable trades who are either apprentices in a program registered with the Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council or who have completed a registered apprenticeship program, and it increases the amount of damages for violations. - Sandra Eubanks, Director of GOFP, stated enactment would have no direct adverse fiscal impact on the county and may generate additional revenues from liquidated damages and enforcement actions, since the increased penalty is intended to deter bad actors rather than generate revenue. - Councilmember Burroughs, the sponsor, asked to hold the bill because the County Executive's office had submitted new amendments and suggestions, so all parties could sit down and review them before the bill returns. CR-060-2026 — Local Impact Grant Funds Multiyear Plan - Nathaniel Tutt, Director of the Public Safety, Health and Human Services Committee, presented the $4,053,700 Local Impact Grant Funds multiyear spending plan supporting the youth jobs and apprenticeship program, youth leadership academy, scholarships, and community-based programming. - Under CB-88-2015, the County Executive transmits the multiyear plan to the County Council for review and comment before submitting it to the Local Development Council; the County Council reviewed the plan on May 12, 2026, and the Local Development Council reviewed it on May 26, 2026. - Councilmember Burroughs, the sponsor, moved Amendment 1, seconded by Councilmember Dernoga; the motion carried. - Councilmember Burroughs expressed full support for the plan, citing what the Local Impact Grant Fund has delivered in District 8: community college made 100% tuition-free for any District 8 resident, the county's largest food distribution program serving over 1,000 residents every two weeks at Thurgood Marshall Middle School, and a student leadership academy grown from 70 students to over 300, projected to reach 700 next year. - Chair Oriadha publicly commended Councilmember Burroughs for being intentional about using the funds, noting the fund has existed since MGM (casino gaming revenue) began but residents previously never felt the resources in the community. She stated that when development impacts a community, the funds should provide additional resources, which is the opposite of how some community benefits agreements have functioned. CB-056-2026 — Executive Order No. 13-2026 (Reorganizational Proposal) - The legislation, presented May 26, 2026, approves the County Executive's proposal to transfer the Enforcement Division and its duties from the Department of Permitting, Inspection and Enforcement (DPI) to the Office of Homeland Security, with the goal of enhancing administrative coordination and oversight of enforcement activities. - The policy analysis stated enactment would most likely have a favorable direct physical impact by streamlining enforcement dollars within one public safety agency while providing DPI streamlined dollars for its core economic development functions; there may be costs in future years if staff consolidate into one building, but staff will remain at their current PepperCorn office for now. - Angela Angel, Council Liaison for the Office of the County Executive, stated the County Executive supports the legislation and asked for a favorable vote. Terry Bell, Associate County Attorney, stated the legislation is in proper legal form with no legal impediments. Director Gomez and Chief Reese, who will implement the reorganization, were present. CB-059-2026 — Supplementary Appropriations, FY2026 Capital Budget - The legislation, presented by the Council Chair at the request of the County Executive on June 2, 2026, amends the approved FY2026 capital budget by providing additional funding for previously approved projects, including the Clean Water Partnership, community recreation facilities, infrastructure, and animal shelter facilities. - A motion to approve was made and seconded by Councilmembers Hunter and Olson; the minutes attribute the motion to Councilmember Ivey. The motion carried 9-0. Key Outcomes - CR-060-2026: Favorably recommended with amendments to the County Council; the vote carried 7-0-1 per the transcript (interpreted from the transcript's 'Motion passes 701'). - CB-056-2026: Favorably recommended to the County Council, with support from the County Executive's office and the Office of Law. - CB-059-2026: Approved 9-0, providing supplemental FY2026 capital budget appropriations. - CB-062-2026: Held 8-0 at the sponsor's request; the bill will return after the sponsor and the County Executive's office review the new amendments. - The meeting adjourned at 3:23 p.m. by unanimous vote on a motion by Councilmember Burroughs, seconded by Vice Chair Olson. Note on discrepancies: The agenda listed the meeting start at 2:00 p.m., while the minutes record a 2:53 p.m. convening; the transcript indicates the council had returned and reconvened. The minutes attribute the CB-059-2026 approval motion to Councilmember Ivey, while the transcript does not clearly identify the mover. Vote tallies for CR-060-2026 appear in the transcript as '701' and for CB-059-2026 as '90,' interpreted here as 7-0-1 and 9-0, respectively.

The Prince George's County Council met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 1:30 PM in the Council Hearing Room, with Chair Krystal Oriadha presiding. The meeting included proclamations, public comment, acceptance of a corrected M-NCPPC budget transmittal, unanimous adoption of the consent agenda, and adoption of a resolution establishing an accessibility task force for individuals who are blind, low-vision, deaf, hard of hearing, or deaf-blind. The council also introduced bills on election day administrative leave and human trafficking awareness notices, and convened an executive session on litigation. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the County Council minutes of June 2, 2026. - First Reading of Bills: - CB-063-2026 (Residential Infill in RR Zone) presented by Council Member Fisher and referred to the Planning, Housing and Economic Development (PHED) Committee. - CB-064-2026 (Weeds and Conservation Landscaping) presented by Council Member Dernoga and referred to PHED. - Introduction of Resolutions: - CR-060-2026 (Local Impact Grant Funds Multiyear Plan) introduced and referred to the Committee of the Whole; sponsors added: Dernoga, Adams, Burroughs. - CR-061-2026 (Universal Design for Housing Implementation Date Extension for Multifamily Units) introduced and referred to the Committee of the Whole; sponsors added: Adams, Burroughs, Oriadha, Harrison, Hunter. - The consent agenda was adopted by a vote of 11–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Sherman Hardy addressed the council, expressing concerns about transparency and competence in county government, citing recent delays and confusion over documents. - Public Hearing on CR-024-2026 (Accessibility Task Force): - Gabrielle Davis (Deaf, President of Prince George's County Association of the Deaf) supported the task force, noting lack of captioning in the hearing room and need for improved emergency communication, education, and county services for the deaf community. - Janice Samuel (blind/low-vision advocate) urged increasing representation of blind/low-vision residents on the task force beyond the initially proposed single seat, citing the diversity of vision loss experiences. - Lakeisha Butler (Coalition of Blind Residents for Accessibility) praised amendments requiring at least 50% of task force members to have lived disability experience, and emphasized the need for services within Prince George's County rather than being directed to other counties. - Veronica Davila-Steele (Chair, Commission for Individuals with Disabilities) stressed the distinction between deaf and hard of hearing communities, noted an estimated 196,000 deaf/hard of hearing residents in the county (1 in 5), and cited missing captioning visibility in the hearing room as an example of design flaws that exclude. - Dahlia Shaewitz (Vice Chair, Commission for Individuals with Disabilities) supported the task force, highlighted that the DC region has a high concentration of deaf and blind individuals due to federal employment and Gallaudet University, and urged the council to act on findings beyond the task force's six-month term. - Chris Settle (legally blind) advocated for recognizing the diversity of the disability community and for more resources. Discussion Items - CB-057-2026 (M-NCPPC Budget Transmittal): Chair Oriadha explained that Draft 2 was placed on the agenda for transparency after technical errors were found in attachments. She clarified that the county executive cooperated in correcting the errors and that no new vote was needed. Staff noted two technical corrections: incorrect numbers on page 4 of the capital budget (should be 95, 95, and 1405) and an erroneous label in Appendix A ("Facilities Operations" replaced with "Administration and Development"). Draft 2 was accepted. - CR-024-2026 (Accessibility Task Force): - Council Member Blegay, the lead sponsor, noted that the resolution originated from a lack of sign language interpretation during a snowstorm press conference. She confirmed that amendments from the committee increased representation of blind and deaf residents on the task force. - Public Safety, Health and Human Services Committee Director Nathaniel Tutt reported that the committee recommended Draft 2, which includes at least 50% of members with lived disability experience. He provided statistics: approximately 1.9% of Prince George’s County residents have vision difficulty and 1.9% have hearing difficulty, both on par with state averages. The Office of Law and County Executive expressed support. The committee vote was 3–0 in favor. - Additional sponsors added: Adams, Burroughs, Adams-Stafford. - Second Reading of Bills (Introduction): - CB-039-2026 (Election Day Administrative Leave): Sponsor Council Member Blegay. The Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GOFP) Committee reported that Draft 2 removes the holiday designation and instead provides additional administrative leave for voting. No fiscal impact. Favorably recommended with amendments. - CB-040-2026 (Human Trafficking Awareness Notice): Sponsor Council Member Olson. The GOFP Committee reported that Draft 2 expands local resources listed on the required notice. No direct fiscal impact on the county. Favorably recommended with amendments. Additional sponsors added: Burroughs, Ivey, Harrison, Dernoga, Adams-Stafford. Key Outcomes - CB-057-2026 Draft 2 accepted unanimously; no additional vote required. - Consent Agenda adopted (vote 11–0). - CR-024-2026 adopted as Draft 2 with amendments (vote 11–0) after a motion to substitute Draft 2 passed (11–0). - CB-039-2026 and CB-040-2026 introduced on second reading; both will proceed to final reading. - Executive Session convened at 3:40 PM (ending 3:49 PM) under Section 3-305(b)(7) and (8) to discuss pending litigation; 10 members present (Blegay absent). Discussion included updates on several court cases. Motion to convene passed 10–0. - Meeting recessed at 2:51 PM, after which the District Council and Committee of the Whole sessions were held (separate agendas).

Overview On Tuesday, June 9, 2026, the Prince George's County Council, sitting as the District Council, and the Prince George's County Planning Board of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) held a joint public hearing to receive public testimony on CR-028-2026. The hearing concerned a preliminary minor amendment to the 2013 approved Subregion 5 Master Plan and a concurrent proposed Sectional Map Amendment (SMA). The meeting was convened at 6:11 PM by Vice Chair Eric Olson (District 3) and adjourned at 7:04 PM. Seven council members were present; Chair Krystal Oriadha and two other members were absent. The hearing was held to gather input on proposed changes to the Brandywine Town Activity Center, the Maryland 210 and Livingston Road corridors, and the MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital area, with the goal of encouraging transit-oriented development, job growth, and expanded retail while preserving rural and agricultural areas. Public Comments & Testimony - Norman Rivera (land use attorney, representing Workhorse Residential): Expressed support for the amendment, emphasizing the need for active adult housing and planned retirement communities. He noted ongoing work with staff and Council Member Harrison to advance the vision. - Frank Fannon (property owner, 44 acres near Livingston Road and 210): Urged consideration of his property for entry-level and senior housing through resubdivision with small lots or attached products. He pledged to submit detailed concepts before the record closed. - Sheri Gomez (property owner affected by proposed zoning change): Opposed the change from Residential Rural to Commercial General Office zoning, citing concerns about traffic, noise, property values, and the rural character of the community. - Taylor Frazier McCollum (resident): Criticized the plan for inadequate community outreach (only 40 survey respondents) and insufficient school capacity. She also raised concerns about potential data center development at Hyde Field and urged slower, more inclusive planning. - Peter Goldsmith (attorney for Frank Fannon): Supported the plan's goal of missing middle housing and described preliminary discussions with staff about cottage cluster housing on the Fannon properties. - Judith Allen-Leventhal (resident, Accokeek): Questioned the justification for changing zoning in the ZC-2 area (Livingston Road, Pine Drive, Beretta Drive), noting that existing single-family homes would become non-conforming. She also requested that the SMA address pedestrian safety on Livingston Road (MD 373) and coordinate with the Accokeek Gateway Project. - Edward Gibbs (attorney for Bass Properties LLC and 9500 Allentown Road LLC): Expressed support for the plan's recommendation to consolidate zoning for four parcels in the 9500 block of Allentown Road, Fort Washington, where a gas station and lumber yard exist. - Daniel Donahue (resident, Accokeek): Opposed the amendments, arguing that the road network cannot support growth, that the county's permit process is burdensome, and that the plan fails to address water supply. He also noted that Accokeek was not listed as a location for viewing the plan documents. - Tom Mateya (consultant for Parker family): Requested that the Parker family's property be rezoned to RSF-95, stating that the current AR zone is not feasible for farming or economical development, and that surrounding properties have already been developed similarly. - Scooter Monroe (founder, Workhorse Residential): Expressed general support for the plan, committing to partner with the council and community to bring investment to the county, despite challenges faced by developers. - Michael Leventhal (resident, Accokeek): Opposed changes for Accokeek, stating that community meetings did not show support for greater density or commercial uses in semi-rural areas. He argued that the planning process consistently ignores resident desires to preserve rural character. - Jessica Brown (resident, Clinton, transportation engineer): Supported transit-oriented development along the Southern Maryland Rapid Transit corridor but cautioned that upzoning without major infrastructure improvements—especially robust transit and active transportation—would be unwise. She advocated for preserving green spaces, agro-tourism, and trails. - Paula McNeil (resident, Clinton Heights): Opposed the plan, citing traffic congestion, declining quality of life, and concern that her home (zoned non-conforming) would lose value, undermining her plans for a future care home. - Caroline Alvarez Escobar (resident, behind MedStar Hospital): Strongly opposed the expansion, citing inadequate hospital administration, stormwater runoff issues, and the availability of undeveloped land on the hospital campus. She also expressed frustration with insufficient advance notice and low council attendance. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Korey Arsenault, M-NCPPC Project Manager): Provided a detailed overview of the minor plan amendment, including project history, community engagement (listening sessions in November/December 2025, an online survey with 40 responses), market study findings, and proposed zoning changes. The presentation focused on three strategic areas: Brandywine Town Center (transit-oriented mixed-use), Maryland 210 corridor (job growth and retail), and MedStar Hospital area (medical innovation district). Fifteen zoning changes were proposed, primarily along the Maryland 210 and Maryland 5 corridors. Staff emphasized that the plan would protect rural and agricultural areas while directing growth to appropriate nodes. Key Outcomes - Public hearing held as noticed. The record will remain open until 5:00 PM on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, for written testimony via eComment portal, email, or fax. - No votes were taken on the plan or SMA. The hearing was solely for receiving public input. - Next steps: The Planning Board will conduct a work session and take action on the minor plan amendment (adopt, adopt with amendments, remand, or disapprove) in September 2026. If adopted, the Planning Board will then endorse or recommend disapproval of the SMA. The District Council will hold a work session and take final action in October 2026. - The meeting was adjourned by a motion from Council Member Ivey, seconded by Council Member Harrison, with unanimous approval.

The Prince George's County Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee met on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 1:30 PM, with the meeting called to order at 1:52 PM. The meeting was chaired by Edward P. Burroughs III, with Vice Chair Timothy J. Adams present and Council Chair Krystal Oriadha attending remotely. Council Members Wala Blegay and Jolene Ivey were excused. The committee considered four legislative bills, voting to favorably recommend three with amendments and to hold one. Discussion Items - CB-049-2026 – Supplementary Appropriations: Presented by an intern from Council Member Burroughs' office, this bill provides an additional $4,053,700 in General Fund spending authority for Local Development Council Community Impact Grants, using $950,000 in miscellaneous receipts and $3,103,700 from the assigned fund balance. The Office of Law found no legal impediments, and the County Executive supported the bill. The committee voted 3-0 to recommend it favorably. - CB-050-2026 – Destination Prince George’s: This bill reassigns hotel and motel tax revenues from Experience Prince George’s to a new entity, Destination Prince George’s, for tourism promotion. Tracy Benjamin, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Economic Development, presented two administrative amendments: removing the word "the" before "Destination Prince George’s" on page 2, line 2, and changing the effective date from 45 days after enactment to August 31, 2026, to allow transition time. The Office of Law found no legal impediments. The committee voted 3-0 to recommend it favorably as amended. - CB-060-2026 – Procurement Refinements Act: Presented by an intern, this bill refines business certification requirements, centralizes waiver authority, and reduces redundant reporting. Deputy Director of Procurement Darlene Perkins explained that it clarifies the process when no county-based businesses can be found after market research for purchases under $250,000. Three technical amendments from the Office of Law were adopted (correcting spelling and subsection references). The committee voted 3-0 to recommend it favorably as amended. - CB-061-2026 – County Real Property as Surplus Property: This bill transfers responsibility for disposition of surplus property from the Redevelopment Authority to the Office of Central Services. David Byrd, Director of Office of Central Services, expressed support. Council Chair Oriadha asked about a line excluding elderly housing, affordable housing, and economic development transfers, and the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer clarified it was a cleanup item. Vice Chair Adams requested more time to review a line, and the chair moved to hold the bill. The committee voted 3-0 to hold CB-061-2026, with the expectation it may be taken up at the next Council of the Whole meeting. Key Outcomes - CB-049-2026: 3-0 vote to recommend favorably. - CB-050-2026: 3-0 vote to recommend favorably with amendments. - CB-060-2026: 3-0 vote to recommend favorably with amendments. - CB-061-2026: 3-0 vote to hold the bill for further review. The meeting adjourned at 2:30 PM.

On Monday, June 8, 2026, the Prince George's County Council, sitting as the District Council, and the Prince George's County Planning Board held a joint public hearing regarding a preliminary minor amendment to the 2010 approved Subregion 1 Master Plan and a proposed Sectional Map Amendment (CR-027-2026). The hearing was convened by Vice Chair Eric Olson at 6:09 p.m. and adjourned at 6:58 p.m. Six council members were present (Olson, Adams, Dernoga, Harrison, Ivey, Hunter) along with four planning board members. The purpose was to receive public testimony on amendments focused on transit-oriented development, mixed-use development, industrial flex space, connectivity, and preservation of parks and open space in Planning Areas 60, 61, 62, and 64, specifically around the Cantera Town Center and the Muirkirk-Marc Station Neighborhood Center. The record was held open until Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. for written comments. Staff Presentation Elena Perry, Project Manager, and Hannah Menard, Deputy Project Manager, delivered a presentation outlining the project overview, community engagement results (including a town hall, listening session, online survey, and open house), market study findings, key text changes to the plan, and proposed rezonings. Key updates included aligning the plan with Plan 2035, updating transportation and infrastructure references, adding school capacity data, and proposing 10 zoning changes to implement the plan. The presentation emphasized community preferences for mixed-use at Cantera East, a mix of industrial and residential at Cantera South, improved traffic management, green corridors, and additional recreational amenities. Public Comments & Testimony Nine individuals provided oral testimony. Positions are summarized below: - Mary Cook (25-year resident): Expressed support for infrastructure improvements (public safety, schools, transportation, green areas) before additional housing, citing the concept "Better, Not Bigger." She did not oppose the amendment but urged prioritizing infrastructure. - Russ Shipley (representing PCM Services): Requested expanding the study area boundary by 5.8 acres to include a parcel south of Virginia Manor Road to facilitate industrial development, which would save his client nearly $400,000. - J.B. Deerin (co-founder, PCM Services): Supported the amendment but requested inclusion of a specific 5.8-acre parcel to allow his company to remain in Prince George's County and avoid splitting operations, preserving 200 jobs (69% county residents). He noted the difficulty in finding suitable contractor space. - Mercey Ogutu (7-year resident, District 1): Expressed support for CR-027-2026 and recommended expanding transit connections (pedestrian, bike, and regional transit) between Cantera, Laurel, and the Muirkirk-Marc Station to improve mobility and equity. - Dean Lauren (67-year Beltsville resident, small agricultural business): Opposed the amendment, arguing that the state and county are insolvent and bankrupt, with overstated property tax bases and bond ratings. He claimed all development plans are "dead on arrival" without proper audits and called for agricultural use designation. - Chris Hatcher (representing Cantera Realty, owner/developer of Cantera): Expressed strong support for the plan, commended the community outreach, and stated he would submit written testimony. He noted the plan focuses on the 1,300-acre Cantera master-planned community. - Oscar Gregory (longtime Beltsville/College Park resident): Commended the proposal to designate the former Ebenezer Methodist Episcopal Church property (historically significant, first integrated cemetery) as open space. However, he expressed concern that community engagement underrepresented Beltsville residents, who should have a greater voice. - Darwin Romero (Laurel resident and candidate for County Council District 1): Expressed concern about the proposed rezoning of approximately 306 acres owned by Cantera Associates (from residential rural to industrial employment) and other changes affecting the Spignal Farm and BAPS temple properties. He called for transparency and a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, asking how many housing units would be lost and how the county would replace them. - Michaela Bowen Longino (lifelong Beltsville resident): Recommended upgrades to transit service, specifically an express or bus rapid transit (BRT) line along Route 1 from Laurel to College Park (similar to the P1X bus) and along MD 200 to connect to Cantera. She also cautioned about weakening energy efficiency standards by removing the LEAD reference; she planned to submit detailed written comments. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was held and the record was closed for oral testimony. Written comments may be submitted until the close of business on June 23, 2026. - No council or board members asked questions or discussed the proposal during the hearing, consistent with the hearing's purpose to listen. - The Planning Board will hold a work session to review testimony and will either adopt the minor plan amendment as drafted, with amendments, remand it, or disapprove it by September 3, 2026. If adopted, the Board will also endorse or recommend disapproval of the Sectional Map Amendment. - The District Council will hold a work session and take final action on the plan in fall 2026 (expected October). - The meeting adjourned by a unanimous vote (motion by Council Member Harrison, second by Council Member Ivey).

This meeting of the Foster Care Task Force focused on planning an inaugural event to support and celebrate youth in foster care, their families, and alumni. Members discussed event logistics, venue options, engagement strategies, and incentives to encourage participation from older youth. The meeting concluded with decisions on event format and a follow-up meeting date. Discussion Items - Event Purpose & Scale: The event was initially envisioned as a small gathering of 75–100 people, but members expressed concern that this number was too low given the potential audience (youth in care, families, aged-out alumni, foster parents). The goal shifted to a larger, inclusive celebration (targeting 100+ attendees) where attendees can connect, learn about resources, and feel supported. - Venue Selection: The originally proposed "tech lounge" was deemed too small (max 75 people including vendors). Members suggested alternative locations, including Allen Pond Park, Crystal Skating Rink in Temple Hills, and Seabrook Skating Rink. The group strongly favored a skating rink due to its ample space, built-in entertainment, and ability to host both fun activities and resource tables. A motion was made to pursue the skating rink idea. - Event Format: Initially proposed as a panel discussion with professionals and foster parents, members raised concerns that a panel might feel too formal and discouraging for youth. After debate, the group agreed to pivot to a "celebration resource fair" – a fun, interactive event featuring a DJ, moon bounce, face painting, games, giveaways, and vendor tables. The skating rink would provide the venue, allowing for skating, music, and separate quiet spaces for confidential conversations. - Incentives for Older Youth: To attract youth aged 17–19, members stressed the importance of incentives. Ideas included gift cards, Uber codes for transportation, and raffle prizes. A member from the Department of Social Services noted that older youth often require tangible incentives to participate. - "Dream Tree" Initiative: Members proposed a "dream tree" where local businesses or residents could sponsor specific wishes of foster youth (e.g., a PSP, driving school tuition). This would be incorporated as an additional feature, not altering the core event theme. - Marketing & Outreach: Members were asked to email Nathaniel with recommendations for organizations (universities, workforce programs, mental health providers, local businesses) to invite as vendors or partners. A member from Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission offered to bring outreach and arts departments. Another member suggested contacting "Hundred Black Men" mental health group. - Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes: The minutes from the previous full meeting (June 12? – date not specified) were presented for approval. A motion was made and seconded; the chair called for a vote, and the minutes were approved without opposition. Key Outcomes - Event Format Approved: The task force officially agreed to plan a "celebration resource fair" at a skating rink (either Crystal Skating Rink or Seabrook Skating Rink), with fun activities and resource tables, rather than a formal panel discussion. - Venue Investigation: The chair will contact the skating rinks to confirm availability and capacity. The group will also explore other central locations if needed. - Next Steps: The chair will develop a revised theme for the event and circulate it for feedback. Members will send outreach ideas to Nathaniel. The group will address the "dream tree" logistics and secure incentives (gift cards, Uber codes). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 12:00–12:30 PM. The meeting will confirm the venue, finalize the dream tree concept, and discuss giveaways/incentives. The chair noted that a separate meeting with youth representatives would be arranged after this meeting to incorporate their input.

This was the fourth meeting of the Prince George's County Development Review Streamlining Work Group, held on June 4, 2026, at 2:45 PM. The meeting focused on an update regarding the February 24–25, 2026 development review charette and a research project conducted by four University of Maryland graduate students. Members discussed the timeline for producing recommendations and raised concerns about stakeholder representation and access to work products. Discussion Items - Update on the Development Review Charette (February 24–25, 2026): Marcus Monroe, a work group member, reported that the charette, pushed by then-Chairman Barnes, produced over 200 individual lines of comments from developers, citizens, and small business owners. Four University of Maryland graduate students were hired to analyze the feedback and the county's development review process. Their research produced three products: an Excel document of all comments, a white paper, and a PowerPoint summary. These products have been completed and are being prepared for presentation to the county executive's team. Monroe noted the process identified six recurring problems: complexity, lengthy timelines, poor intra/interagency coordination, manual workflows, a complicated regulatory environment, and downstream effects slowing housing and development. - Concerns About Representation and Process: Mr. Smith (identified as the only environmental advocate on the work group) raised several concerns: the February charette and a prior council retreat lacked balanced representation from environmental, civic, and public health advocates; the work group's 60-day timeline is too short for comprehensive recommendations; and the work products from the charette and student research should be shared with the group before being presented to the county executive. He argued that the process appears to prioritize speed over quality and fairness, and that delays are often caused by failure to enforce existing laws, not by the review process itself. - Access to Work Products: Monroe confirmed the three products exist and will ask Planning Director Hunt to release them to the work group prior to the county executive briefing. Ms. Hightower (staff) noted that the timeline is tied to legislative deadlines (final recommendations due June 24, 2026). - MBIA Recommendations: Members from the Maryland Building Industry Association (MBIA) indicated their recommendations have already been submitted via the Excel spreadsheet and the charette comments. They did not request an additional presentation. - Compilation of Recommendations: Staff will compile all submitted recommendations (from the Excel spreadsheet, Mr. Villegas, Mr. Tedesco, and others) and distribute them to work group members for review and voting at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken. - Staff will compile a consolidated list of all recommendations from work group members and provide it before the next meeting. - Marcus Monroe will request that the charette work products (Excel, white paper, PowerPoint) be shared with the group ahead of the county executive briefing. - The next meeting (date not specified) will involve reviewing and voting on the compiled recommendations. - The target for final recommendations to the county council remains June 24, 2026, though some members expressed that the timeline is unrealistic.

The Planning, Housing and Economic Development (PHED) Committee met on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 10:24 AM in Committee Room 2027. Chair Wala Blegay presided with Council Members Shayla Adams-Stafford, Thomas Dernoga, and Eric Olson present; Vice Chair Krystal Oriadha was excused. The committee considered three items: CB-023-2026 (Rental Licenses), CR-039-2026 (Rural Promotion for Agri-tourism), and CR-040-2026 (Agritourism and Winery Promotion Pilot Program). All three items were disposed of with unanimous votes. Public Comments & Testimony - Felicia Murray (Prince George's County resident, founder of Farm Experiences Collection) testified in support of CR-039-2026. She cited global agritourism models (e.g., Vermont, Taiwan, Ireland, Michigan/Ontario) and noted the global market is $8–10 billion with projected growth over $15 billion by 2030. She urged Prince George's County not to miss the economic opportunity. - Kim Rushlin (Urban Ag Conservation Program, Prince George's Soil Conservation District) supported both CR-039-2026 and CR-040-2026 on behalf of the Soil Conservation District. She highlighted the importance of agritourism for farm viability, soil and water conservation, and recommended including the Farm Bureau, Maryland Department of Agriculture, Destination Prince George's, Chamber of Commerce, and the Planning Department. - Amy McCurdy (manager of PA Bowen Farmstead, vice president of Greater Baden and Aquasco Citizens Association) supported both bills, emphasizing the need to preserve agricultural heritage and connect suburban/urban residents to open spaces, wineries, and farms. She noted Eagle Harbor's designation as a Black heritage site. - Pam Skinner (Severn Crossing resident, 34-year resident of Bowie) questioned CR-040-2026's use of $50,000 in taxpayer money. She asked three questions: (1) criteria for qualifying a winery or agribusiness for promotion, (2) decision-making process and who decides, (3) how much can be spent per business. She also sought definition of "emerging ventures" and transparency in the pilot program. Discussion Items - CB-023-2026 (Rental Licenses): Council Member Dernoga moved to hold the bill in committee until the next session. The motion passed unanimously (4-0). No discussion on the substance. - CR-039-2026 (Rural Promotion for Agri-tourism): Committee staff (Rana Hightower) presented the resolution, noting planning department comments on regulatory barriers and MWBE inclusion. David Noto provided fiscal and policy impact, citing a steady decline in county-based farms since the tobacco buyout in 2000 and the potential positive indirect impact on the tax base. Chair Blegay explained the bill aims to counter the assumption that the rural tier has "nothing there" and to promote existing agritourism assets, which many residents are unaware of. Council Member Dernoga noted discrepancies between CR-039 and CR-040 in report timelines and proposed aligning them. The committee agreed to add Destination Prince George's, the Food Systems section of the Planning Department, and the Farm Bureau as partners, and to tie the final report to the CR-040 pilot program report. Council Member Adams-Stafford highlighted the link to food security and local farm sourcing. - CR-040-2026 (Agritourism and Winery Promotion Pilot Program): Staff presented the resolution establishing a 12-month pilot program with Destination Prince George's and the Maryland Wineries Association, allocating $50,000 for signage, marketing, and events. David Noto noted the wine industry in Maryland has experienced significant growth since 2000, with over 80 wineries statewide and seven in the county (though Council Member Dernoga counted only five or six operational ones). Council Member Dernoga explained the impetus from a February TIE committee meeting and emphasized that the pilot aims to support wineries and other agritourism (e.g., distilleries, breweries, meaderies). The committee amended the resolution to change "may" to "shall" regarding pursuit of federal and state funding, to change the winery count reference to "several" (or similar), and to coordinate the report with CR-039. Pam Skinner's concerns about fiscal discipline and criteria were addressed by Council Member Dernoga, who noted the council will not designate funds; Destination Prince George's will allocate them, and $50,000 is minimal. Key Outcomes - CB-023-2026: Held in committee (motion by Dernoga, second by Olson; vote 4-0). - CR-039-2026: Amended to add Destination Prince George's, the Food Systems section of the Planning Department, and the Farm Bureau; report timeline aligned with CR-040. Favorably recommended with amendments (motion by Blegay, second by Dernoga; vote 4-0). - CR-040-2026: Amended to change "may" to "shall" for pursuing federal/state funding, adjust winery count language to "several" (or similar), and coordinate report with CR-039. Favorably recommended with amendments (motion by Blegay, second by Dernoga; vote 4-0). - The meeting adjourned following a motion by Council Member Dernoga, seconded by Council Member Olson; all ayes (4-0).