Public Meetings - Prince Georges County, Maryland

Council Chair Crystal Orieta hosted the third fall listening tour in her home district, presenting accomplishments and soliciting public input on policy and community concerns. The meeting featured a recap of legislative packages passed in 2026 and a two-hour public comment period covering issues from maintenance to data centers. Public Comments & Testimony - Gail Powell and Leslie Dwight (Holloway Estates): Raised concerns about inconsistent grass cutting by the county, stating that a lack of staffing has led to overtime-only maintenance. Leslie Dwight argued that initiatives like Clean Corridors become unfunded mandates, and noted that some properties have not paid taxes since 1954, calling for accountability. - Richard Hensley: Complained about unmaintained roads (Woodyard Road, Allentown Road) and long response times from 311, with one request scheduled for April 2027. He also reported a drainage issue caused by a neighbor's unpermitted construction. - Joe Horkel (Upper Marlboro town council, Friends of the Library): Urged funding for the library system, noting that staff did not receive a 2% raise last year and face a second year without a raise, hurting retention. Also thanked for data center moratorium but urged noise ordinance attention. Raised concerns about county-owned vacant properties like the Elm Street school. - Floyd Simpson Jr. (Crownsville): Criticized community policing members for following and targeting residents without cause. - James McRae (Cavita Heights): Asked about the legality of a family operating a store in their front yard, causing traffic. - Stacey Hartwell: Questioned the council's policy on electric bills subsidizing infrastructure for large loads like data centers and the sphere. Chair Orieta agreed and discussed regional efforts and rate moratorium. - Dan Smith (Chevlin): Thanked for focus on ICE and democracy, urged public financing of elections. Questioned vacant property law applicability to Landover Mall. Criticized streamlining development at the expense of environmental standards. Suggested community housing retrofits. - Charlie Porter (District 7): Disappointed in lack of council presence on his street. Criticized 311 system and snow removal on Tucker Road. - Karina Addison (Largo): Asked about litigation over new fees on liquor stores and storage facilities, and whether the county consulted businesses. Chair Orieta defended the fees, arguing these businesses do not contribute positively and that she is pro-business for restaurants and small businesses. - Keen Aspive (Suitland): Complained about overgrown grass at Allentown Road and commercial vehicles parked in residential streets. Called for better customer service from 311. - Gerald Weston (North Hillmark Circle): Described an open-air drug market at Hillmar Drive and Walters Lane, with police present but not intervening. - James Yasinowski (River Bend): Represented National Harbor Noise Disturbances Group, opposed the proposed entertainment sphere due to lack of public involvement, traffic, visual pollution, and energy demands. Asked for public hearings. - Adam Wall (Library staff): Spoke about library funding cuts, loss of resources, and staff not receiving raises for two years. - Sayla Bell (No Landover Data Center Coalition): Criticized the two-year moratorium on data centers as insufficient, noting a loophole that allows early termination. Questioned the council's commitment to a permanent ban. Chair Orieta said she supports a full ban but lacked six votes; she is working on a permanent solution for Landover. - Kevin Huang: Asked about planning board members who advanced data center zoning (LDR 155) despite public opposition. Chair Orieta explained the planning board only makes recommendations, and she is a no vote on that bill. - Paul Howe (Palmar Manor): Asked about tax subsidies for the sphere. Chair Orieta explained her criteria: labor, MBE, workforce development, community benefits. - Wanda Carter (Suitland): Opposed the Silver Hill apartments project, citing traffic, lack of entry points, and impact on her street. Expressed frustration that Chair Orieta did not publicly oppose it. Chair Orieta explained she cannot speak on quasi-judicial matters until it comes before the council. - Unnamed speaker: Asked about affordable housing package. Chair Orieta described upcoming bills on small landlord incentives, surplus land for affordable housing, fast-tracking, and homeownership. - Resident from Kentland Columbia Park: Complained about vacant houses, trash, narrow streets, tree limbs, and streetlights out for months. Asked for help. - Candace Jones Young (Town Square at Suitland): Raised an issue with early entry kindergarten: her son passed the test but cannot use sibling privilege for a specialty school because early entry students must attend boundary school. Chair Orieta promised to raise with the superintendent. - Jade Campbell (Library employee): Spoke about lack of raises, building disrepair, and need for funding. - Brittany Adams: Reported a failing asphalt section on Pennsylvania Avenue SE and asked for help contacting Maryland DOT. - Reverend Richardson (District 25): Raised public safety enforcement on Hillmar Drive, Pepco right-of-way, and workforce development with Hope Project. Chair Orieta committed to follow up. - Malika Matthews: Asked about debris cleanup after accidents, burning debris regulations, and a single-family home that became a three-story apartment without proper permit. - Robert Pettis (Federation of Park Recreation Council): Opposed budget cuts and transfers from Park and Planning, arguing they harm parks and recreation. Chair Orieta defended the cuts as equitable, noting historic underinvestment in southern districts and that cuts were from building funds, not services. Discussion Items - Chair Orieta presented a detailed recap of legislative packages passed in 2026: - Immigration package: Restrictions on ICE collaboration, safe spaces, resident kidnapping protection, facial mask ban, and nonprofit data collection. - Community beautification: Clean corridors with rapid response, transparency dashboard, vacant property maintenance and tax increases (5x), illegal sign enforcement, "see it, snap it, get paid" program, and a moratorium on convenience stores in District 7. - Universal child care: Workgroup, expansion act, building block grant ($500K), and quality of life fund funded by an annual $5,000 fee on liquor stores, tobacco stores, self-storage, and gun shops. - Economic development: Fine dining fast track, EDI carve-out for sit-down restaurants, small business grants, and minority subcontractor to prime contractor program. - Data center moratorium: Two-year moratorium on all data center development. - Upcoming packages: Affordable housing, workforce development, and transparency/access to information. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the meeting was a listening tour. - Chair Orieta and her staff (Amir, Trey) committed to follow up on numerous constituent service issues, including: - Grass cutting in Holloway Estates and other areas. - Long 311 response times and resetting service level agreements. - Library funding and raises. - Vacant property enforcement (Landover Mall, county-owned buildings). - Sphere development: public hearings to be scheduled; TIFF legislation expected. - Data center moratorium: Chair Orieta working on a permanent ban for Landover. - Police presence at Hillmar Drive and Walters Lane. - Early entry kindergarten policy: referral to school board. - Park and Planning budget: Chair defended cuts, promised continued oversight. - Residents were encouraged to take the quality of life survey. - The meeting concluded at approximately [time not given].

The Prince George's County Council met on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 10:00 AM (convened at 10:43 AM) in Committee Room 2027 for Legislative Day No. 30. The meeting included proclamations, public testimony on multiple community issues, approval of a consent agenda, introduction and enactment of several bills, and a public information session for Police Accountability Board candidates. Chair Krystal Oriadha presided with 9 members present (Council Members Blegay and Burroughs absent; Council Members Adams and Dernoga participating remotely). The meeting was adjourned at 12:15 PM. Proclamations - Shirley Diggs: Recognized for 29 years of service to Prince George's County Public Schools. Presented by Vice Chair Eric Olson. - BCAUSEICAN: Recognized for intergenerational technology training. Presented by Council Member Shayla Adams-Stafford. - House of Soul: Recognized as a Black-owned business. Presented by Council Member Adams-Stafford. - Clinton Hardware (Clyde Billman): Recognized for 80 years of family partnership. Presented by Council Member Sydney Harrison and Council Member Jolene Ivey. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Taylor, Nancy Feissner, Christine Wilkin, Diana McFadden, Julia Tharrett, Heather Cronk, Sarah Harper, Laura Usher, Nicholas Udu-gama, Louise Weissman, Rodney Greer, Kathy Bartolomeo, Dmitri Kirene, Trent Leon-Lierman, Alan McIntyre — speaking individually or as representatives of groups such as Greenbelt Resistance Network and Indivisible Route One Corridor — expressed strong opposition to a permit issued by the County Executive for ICE to expand its offices at 6505 Bellcrest Road in Hyattsville. Many urged the Council to demand the County Executive rescind the permit. They described ICE as a "paramilitary terror group," cited specific incidents of abuse, and noted a chilling effect on the community, including a reported 11% drop in Hispanic student enrollment at Northwestern High School. Chair Oriadha and Council Member Fisher responded, stating the Council was unaware of the permit, stands with the community, and is exploring legal options to revoke it. - James Dawkins (District 9 resident) raised concerns about Flock automated license plate reader cameras, describing them as mass surveillance technology with documented abuses and civil liberties risks. Vice Chair Olson clarified that Prince George's County has no contract with Flock, though private entities may use them, and the Council will investigate further. - Amy Pergosky testified about the county animal shelter's failure to enforce spay/neutering requirements, citing specific cases and a parvo quarantine protocol issue. Council members noted they had increased the shelter budget and would follow up with the administration. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from September 1, 2026, were approved. - First Reading of Bills (Presentation): - CB-112-2026 (Fair Election Fund post-election fund retention) — sponsored by Dernoga, referred to GOFP. - CB-113-2026 (Rental Housing - Tenant Relocation Rights Disclosure) — sponsored by Hunter and Adams-Stafford, referred to PHED. - CB-114-2026 (Tenant Rights Education and Accessibility Act) — sponsored by Hunter and Adams-Stafford, referred to PHED. - CB-115-2026 (Rental Housing - Expedited Health and Safety Enforcement) — sponsored by Hunter and Adams-Stafford, referred to PHED. - CB-116-2026 (Stormwater Management - MWIFA Loans up to $38,500,000) — presented by Chair Oriadha on behalf of County Executive, referred to TIEE. - Introduction of Resolutions: - CR-092-2026 (require at least one evening meeting per month) — introduced by Oriadha, referred to GOFP. - CR-093-2026 (require annual countywide listening tours) — introduced by Oriadha, referred to GOFP. - Additions to Consent Agenda: - CB-117-2026 (Property Tax Cap for Elderly Individuals) — presented by Oriadha and Hunter, referred to GOFP. - CB-118-2026 (Air Conditioning in Rental Housing) — presented by Oriadha, referred to PHED. - CB-119-2026 (Establishment of Independent Office of Inspector General) — presented by Ivey and Harrison, referred to GOFP. - CB-120-2026 (Rent Stabilization for Age-Restricted Senior Housing) — presented by Oriadha, referred to PHED. - CB-121-2026 (Affordable Rental Housing Search Portal) — presented by Oriadha, referred to PHED. - CB-122-2026 (Orphans' Court Judges Compensation) — presented by Oriadha, referred to GOFP. - CR-095-2026 (Accessory Dwelling Units - State Deadline) — introduced by Adams-Stafford, Oriadha, Olson, Ivey, and Adams, referred to PHED. - Motion to adopt Consent Agenda: Approved 9-0 (Blegay and Burroughs absent). Discussion Items - Proposed Correspondence/Administrative Officer's Report: - FY 2028-2030 Local Impact Grant (LIG) Multiyear Spending Plan — The plan allocates $12,174,300 to programs including education, workforce development, community impact grants, and council administration. A motion to authorize the Chair's signature passed 7-0-1 (Ivey abstained; Harrison not voting initially but later recorded as absent; Blegay and Burroughs absent). - Second Reading of Bills (Introduction): - CB-074-2026 (Accessory Dwelling Units) — PHED Committee reported favorably with amendments. The bill adds definitions and designates zones for ADUs consistent with state law. Council Member Adams-Stafford thanked the task force. The bill was introduced. - CB-071-2026 (Home Occupation and Home Businesses - Regulation and Enforcement) — PHED Committee reported with amendments. Amendments included: moving a provision from definitions to standards, adding a 400-yard distance restriction for employee parking (no distance previously), and making civil fines non-mandatory. The amendments were approved 9-0. The bill was introduced with additional sponsors Oriadha, Olson, Adams, and Fisher. - Public Hearings/Bills Eligible for Third Reading (Enactment): - CB-070-2026 (Use Regulations and Dimensional Standards - Places of Worship) — Public hearing held (no speakers). Rules suspended (9-0). Enacted 9-0. - CB-073-2026 (Standards for Specific Sign Types) — Public hearing held (no speakers). Enacted 9-0. - Introduction and Adoption of Resolutions: - CR-094-2026 (Sister City relationship with Kumasi, Ghana) — Introduced by Chair Oriadha (by request of County Executive). Additional sponsor Council Member Fisher. Rules suspended (9-0). Adopted 9-0. - Public Information Session: - Police Accountability Board Candidates — Eight candidates addressed the Council (two additional applicants unable to attend but requested consideration): Kathryn Callwood-Fauntroy, Sharon Fantauzzi, Anice N. Hagler, Lance T. Moore, Gary Queen, Benjamin Rockey Harris, Blanche E. Sharpe, and Dion A. Smith. Each described their qualifications and interest in serving on the board, which will have five appointments. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda adopted (9-0). - Additions package accepted (9-0). - Proposed correspondence for LIG plan authorized for Chair's signature (7-0-1, Ivey abstained). - CB-074-2026 introduced (first reading). - CB-071-2026 amended and introduced. - CB-070-2026 and CB-073-2026 enacted (both 9-0). - CR-094-2026 adopted (9-0). - Police Accountability Board candidate interviews completed; Council will review applications. - Council directed staff to follow up on animal shelter spay/neuter enforcement and to explore legislative options regarding the ICE permit and Flock cameras. - Meeting adjourned at 12:15 PM.

The Planning, Housing and Economic Development Committee met on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. (originally scheduled for 10:00 a.m.) in Committee Room 2027 of the Wayne K. Curry Administration Building. Vice Chair Krystal Oriadha presided, with Council Members Shayla Adams-Stafford and Eric Olson present. Chair Wala Blegay and Council Member Thomas Dernoga were excused. The committee considered seven legislative items, including bills on senior co-housing, weeds and conservation landscaping, quiet landscaping equipment, rental licenses, accessory dwelling units, and a resolution on the M-NCPPC project charge program. Votes were all 3-0 along party lines unless noted. Public Comments & Testimony - CB-065-2026 (Senior Co-Housing Expansion): No public comment; held for sponsor. - CB-064-2026 (Weeds and Conservation Landscaping): The Department of the Environment (DOE) expressed strong support; the Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE) and Office of Homeland Security (OHS) raised enforcement concerns, noting lack of expertise to distinguish conservation landscaping from weeds. The committee directed agencies to resolve enforcement assignment within a week. - CB-075-2026 (Quiet and Clean Landscaping Equipment): The Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) supported the intent but identified operational, fiscal, and procurement challenges, recommending a study, extended timelines, continued use of existing gas equipment, expanded exemptions, and funding contingencies. - CB-023-2026 (Rental Licenses): Hugo Cantu of AOBA (Apartment and Office Building Association) expressed support, noting members can comply with draft two’s requirements. - CB-074-2026 (Accessory Dwelling Units): - Cheryl Cort (Coalition for Smarter Growth) strongly supported the bill, cautioning against onerous restrictions like owner-occupancy requirements that hinder construction and financing. - Ileana Schinder (architect and author) supported ADUs as affordable housing but opposed owner-occupancy limits and short-term rental bans, and urged fair treatment of ADU residents. - Stephanie Ireland (Prince George’s County Association of Realtors) supported the bill, citing housing crisis data (Maryland needs 590,000 new units by 2025, current production 70% below need, losing 40,000 residents annually) and ADUs as efficient use of existing land. - Miriam Bader (City of College Park) supported ADUs but raised 13 concerns, many addressed by amendments; remaining concerns included occupancy limits (proposed special exception for 2 occupants in ADU) and setbacks (requested consultation with Fire Marshal). Discussion Items - CB-065-2026 (Senior Co-Housing Expansion): Held in committee (motion by Olson, second by Oriadha, 3-0) to allow sponsor Council Member Fisher to present at a future meeting. - CB-064-2026 (Weeds and Conservation Landscaping): Initially held, then reconsidered on motion by Olson. Sponsor Dernoga (absent) requested advancement. The committee adopted four technical amendments (Canning) and an amendment reassigning enforcement from DPIE/OHS to DOE, with further refinement to occur before full Council introduction. Bill favorably recommended as amended (Oriadha/Adams-Stafford, 3-0). - CB-075-2026 (Quiet and Clean Landscaping Equipment): Held in committee (motion by Olson, second by Oriadha, 3-0) to allow time for DPW&T to submit formal amendment proposals. Seven amendments (Dernoga) were presented but not voted on due to hold. - CB-023-2026 (Rental Licenses): Favorably recommended on draft two (Adams-Stafford motion, Olson second, 3-0). Council Member Adams-Stafford encouraged future bilingual signage (English/Spanish) for the display requirement. - CB-074-2026 (Accessory Dwelling Units): Extensive discussion and amendments: - Accepted 10 technical amendments from county staff (moved by Olson, seconded by Oriadha, 3-0). - Accepted two Dernoga amendments: extending Chesapeake Bay Critical Area overlay zone conditions to the LDO zone, and limiting lot coverage increase from ADU construction to 900 sq. ft. in the CBCAO zone. - Accepted three Olson amendments: (1) occupancy limit of 4 persons per ADU, reduced by number of renters in principal dwelling; (2) requiring unpermitted ADUs to begin compliance with DPIE within 90 days and meet all health, safety, habitability, and building code requirements; (3) technical strike-and-fix (line 19). - City of College Park’s request for a special exception for 2 occupants was not adopted due to legal inconsistency with state mandate. - Bill favorably recommended as amended (Oriadha, motion by Olson, 3-0). - CR-087-2026 (M-NCPPC Project Charge Program): Favorably recommended (Adams-Stafford motion, Olson second, 3-0). Key Outcomes - Held in Committee: CB-065-2026 (Senior Co-Housing) and CB-075-2026 (Quiet Landscaping Equipment) were held for further discussion and sponsor/agency input. - Favorably Recommended to County Council: - CB-064-2026 (Weeds and Conservation Landscaping) – as amended, with enforcement assigned to DOE (to be finalized). - CB-023-2026 (Rental Licenses) – on draft two, with a suggestion for bilingual signage. - CB-074-2026 (Accessory Dwelling Units) – as amended, with occupancy limits, compliance pathway for unpermitted ADUs, and Chesapeake Bay overlay conditions. - CR-087-2026 (M-NCPPC Project Charge) – without amendment. - Agency Direction: For CB-064-2026, DPIE, OHS, and DOE were given one week to agree on a clear enforcement framework. - Next Steps: Clean versions of favorably recommended bills will be circulated to colleagues before full Council introduction. The meeting adjourned at approximately 12:15 p.m.

This public hearing, held on September 3, 2026, at the Wayne K. Curry Administration Building in Largo, Maryland, was conducted by WSSC Water to receive public input on the proposed Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for fiscal years 2028 through 2033. The hearing was opened by Commissioner Lynnette D. Espy-Willaims (per the agenda) but the transcript shows Commissioner Regina Speedboss presiding; this discrepancy is noted. Commissioner Speedboss, representing Prince George’s County, welcomed attendees alongside General Manager and CEO Keisha L. Powell and other staff. The hearing featured presentations on outreach efforts, a detailed CIP overview, public testimony, and a report on written comments. No formal votes were taken; the record remained open through September 11, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Darlene Cornelius (Capitol Heights) reported a persistent sewage smell in the Capitol Heights area, specifically at the Evelyn Cole senior center on Addison Road, and in her own home when using the dishwasher or washing machine. She also noted a consistent puddle/stream of water on Cling Log Street after underground piping work, asking who is responsible for repairs when the issue is past her property line. Commissioner Speedboss responded that WSSC Water would investigate both the sewage smell and the standing water, and clarified that WSSC Water is responsible for infrastructure in the public right-of-way. - Sharon McClevan (Suitland) raised a question about responsibility for maintenance and repairs on common property in a condominium. She described a dispute with her condominium association regarding boundaries for responsibility. Commissioner Speedboss offered to collect her address and investigate further. - No other speakers signed up or came forward during the open comment period. Discussion Items - Opening Remarks and Outreach: Commissioner Speedboss opened the hearing. Chuck Brown, Director of Communications, described extensive outreach: bilingual inserts in customer bills (May–August), public notices in the Prince George’s County Post and Washington Post, social media promotion across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Blue Sky with paid advertising, a notice sent to 4,342 Constant Contact subscribers, a newsletter emailed to approximately 10,430 customers, and a letter from General Manager Powell to all elected officials. - General Manager Remarks: Keisha L. Powell highlighted the significance of the proposed $4.7 billion investment over six years (FY28–33), including $742.8 million in FY28. She emphasized the economic impact: every $1 million invested in water infrastructure creates 15–18 jobs. Over the past five years, WSSC Water contributed $704 million to businesses in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties, with over $419 million going to local minority- and women-owned businesses. She also noted the passage of House Bill 1230 to modernize WSSC Water’s business participation framework. - CIP Overview by Finance Staff: Sunil Pandya (CIP Section Manager) and Claude Modise (Facility Design and Construction Section Manager) presented the proposed CIP. Key points included: - The preliminary FY28 capital budget is $742.8 million ($35.76 million less than FY27). - Consent decree and multi-use joint facilities account for 21.2% ($157.8 million) of the FY28 budget. - 65% of the FY28 budget is comprised of five programs: Reconstruction, Blue Plains, Metering Infrastructure Upgrade, Western Branch Water Resource Recovery Facility Process Train Improvements, and Lead Reduction/Replacement/Program Management. - The six-year CIP totals $4.71 billion, funded by $3.53 billion in bonds, $121 million in pay‑as‑you‑go, and $265 million in external funds. - No capital project was reduced to achieve the six-year total. - FY28 priorities: rehabilitating water supply treatment and storage facilities; investing in water resource recovery facilities; modernizing the support center and Anacostia Depot; compliance programs (lead/copper reduction, PFAS); meter infrastructure upgrade; and master planning/infrastructure investments. - By county: 41% ($305.1 million) in Prince George’s County, 31% ($231.6 million) bi‑county, and 28% ($206.1 million) in Montgomery County. - 86% of the FY28 budget is for system improvements, 11% for environmental regulations, and 3% for growth. - Mandated projects (consent decrees, multi‑use, public health/safety) account for 21% of both the FY28 and six‑year budgets. - Proposed FY28 includes 135 ongoing projects ($250.9 million), 68 new projects launching in FY28 ($131.8 million), and $360.1 million for initiatives such as lead reduction, PFAS, Blue Plains, master planning, and developer projects. - Project prioritization uses six weighted drivers; regulatory mandates and health/safety risk together represent nearly two‑thirds of the weight. - Highlighted projects: Sewer Reconstruction Program (No. 1), Trunk Sewer Reconstruction Program (No. 5), PFAS Management Strategy (No. 10), water main replacements (small diameter: 32 miles at $67 million; large diameter: 4 miles at $33.74 million), growth projects ($2.48 million), wastewater collection (Trunk Sewer Reconstruction $32.5 million for 6 miles; Sewer Reconstruction $57.19 million for 25 miles), nine wastewater pumping station rehabilitations (e.g., ACOLA $2.71 million, Anacostia 2 $6.1 million), Forest Heights and Spring Garden pump stations, upgrades at PUC ($13.7 million) and Western Branch ($50.68 million), Blue Plains ($151 million – treats 62% of WSSC Water’s wastewater; over 28% of FY28 CIP is for Blue Plains and Metawoman projects), innovation/investment priority category ($108 million) including Energy Performance ($11.68 million), Lead Reduction ($31.3 million), and Water Meter Infrastructure Upgrade ($53.24 million for 53,000 meters), and general facilities (Anacostia Depot reconfiguration $21.94 million; Support Center upgrades $15.43 million). - Report on Written Comments: Sunil Pandya reported that no written correspondence had been received by the date of the hearing. Any submissions received by the close of business on September 11, 2026, would be included in the commission packet and transmitted to the counties. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was adjourned by Commissioner Speedboss. No votes were taken. - The public hearing record remains open until noon on September 11, 2026, for written comments (via email to budgetgroup@wsscwater.com or mail to WSSC Water Budget Division, 14501 Sweitzer Lane, Laurel, MD 20707). - All testimony, transcripts, and any written comments received by the deadline will be transmitted to Prince George’s County and Montgomery County governments by October 1, 2026, as required by state law. - WSSC Water staff committed to investigating the sewage odor and standing water issues raised by Darlene Cornelius, and to following up with Sharon McClevan regarding condominium property line responsibility.

The Prince George's County Council convened on September 1, 2026, at 10:27 AM in Committee Room 2027, with Chair Krystal Oriadha presiding. Eleven members were present (7 in person, 4 remote). The meeting covered a lengthy consent agenda of 35 bills and 11 resolutions, public hearings on five legislative items, a second reading of a bill, and adoption of several resolutions. The meeting adjourned at 11:53 AM. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: County Council minutes of July 27, 2026, were approved. - First Reading of Bills (Presentation): 28 bills (CB-076 through CB-110) were presented and referred to committees. Key topics included: Commercial Reinvestment and Innovation Projects Act (CB-076), community service uses in RSF-A zones (CB-077), Government Resources Integrity Act (CB-078), vacant attached property enforcement (CB-079), universal design for housing (CB-080), sustainable mixed-use communities (CB-081), cannabis dispensaries (CB-082), convenience store tobacco sales (CB-083), site plan review streamlining (CB-084), data centers in rural zones (CB-085), Community Safe Spaces Act reporting (CB-086), electrical code updates (CB-087), concurrent development review (CB-088), tobacco product sales prohibition (CB-089), subdivision review streamlining (CB-090), Development Ombudsman (CB-091), accessory dwelling units (CB-092), Cannabis Reinvestment Board amendments (CB-093), property tax credits for elderly (CB-094, CB-095, CB-098), parking on unpaved areas (CB-096), affordable housing opportunity sites (CB-097), small housing provider financing (CB-099), surplus property for affordable housing (CB-100), returning citizen employment (CB-101), re-entry employment incentives (CB-102), data center personal property tax exemption (CB-103), consolidated development review (CB-104), high-wage employer fast track (CB-105), economic development incentive fund (CB-106), shovel-ready employment sites (CB-107), public land first for affordable housing (CB-108, CB-109), small landlord preservation grants (CB-110). All referred to appropriate committees. - Introduction of Resolutions: 7 resolutions (CR-080 through CR-086) were introduced. Topics included: Social Housing Task Force (CR-080), moratorium on utility price increases (CR-081), universal design fee increases (CR-082), virtual public participation rules (CR-083), commercial real estate education (CR-084), autism equity (CR-085), government transparency workgroup (CR-086). All referred to committees. - Additions to Agenda: An additions package containing CR-087 (M-NCPPC budget clarification), CR-089 (210 on the Park bond inducement), CR-090 (National Harbor development district amendment), CR-091 (Local Impact Grant Funds multiyear plan), and CB-111 (special obligation bonds for National Harbor immersive entertainment venue) was accepted by a vote of 10–0 (Council Member Blegay absent). These were introduced and referred to committees. - Motion to Adopt Consent Agenda: The consent agenda was adopted by a vote of 8–0 (Council Members Blegay, Dernoga, and Harrison absent). Public Comments & Testimony - ICE Office at 6505 Bellcrest Road, Hyattsville: Multiple speakers (Sarah Hines, Laura Usher, Nancy Feister, Linda Green) expressed opposition to a use and occupancy permit granted for ICE offices at the location, arguing it violates the Community Safe Spaces Act and threatens immigrant communities. They called on the council and County Executive to revoke the permit. Chair Oriadha noted the council is already looking into options. - Data Centers and Moratorium: Nancy Feister urged support for a moratorium on data centers, citing 80% resident opposition per a survey. She criticized council members who support data centers against constituent wishes. - Affordable Housing: John Roberson attributed rising housing costs to tariffs on materials and investor acquisitions of single-family homes, which reduce homeownership and community stability. He expressed concern that streamlining development review would limit community opposition. - Water Infrastructure: Marjorie Jones warned that a Potomac River contamination could leave the region with only 24–48 hours of water, causing potential economic losses of $15 billion per month. She contrasted this with the small tax revenue from data centers. - Emergency Weather Operations Fund: Taylor Frazier McCollum expressed support for CB-072 but questioned whether the $15 million allocation is sufficient given $27.3 million spent last winter on snow management. She also raised concerns about homeowner assistance for storm damage. - Water and Sewer Plan (CR-063): Several speakers (Kimberly Tarver, Joseph Labule, Devin Frost, Shilda Frost, Bruno Reich, Ryan Sellers) from Second Family Inc. requested reclassification of Lancaster Lane from sewer category 5 to 4 to allow public sewer connection for homes serving medically fragile children. They described failing septic systems and health risks. Bruno Reich explained that no on-site solution is feasible due to high water table. Anna Helm requested reclassification for a sustainable housing development in Bowie. Tracy Scudder, representing Adventure Tours, requested reclassification for expansion of a charter bus company to create jobs. - Additions Package Transparency: Greg Smith requested that agenda items be published earlier to allow public review, and that all bills be sent to committees rather than committee of the whole. Discussion Items - Second Reading of CB-069-2026 (Private Schools): Rana Hightower, PHED Committee Director, reported that the committee voted favorably on amendments to CB-069, which exempts private schools in the RR zone from special exception when reoccupying a building previously used as a school. The bill was introduced by Council Member Adams. - Public Hearings and Enactment: - CB-047-2026 (Off-street parking for elderly/disabled housing): Public hearing held with no speakers; bill adopted 7–0. - CB-067-2026 (Permitting fees consolidation): Public hearing held with no speakers; bill adopted 7–0. - CB-072-2026 (Emergency Weather Operations Fund): Public hearing held with one speaker; bill adopted 7–0. - CR-062-2026 (DPI fee increase): TIEE Committee Director J. Kenneth Battle reported a 5–0 favorable committee vote. Public hearing held with no speakers; resolution adopted 7–0. - CR-063-2026 (Water and Sewer Plan amendments): Public hearing held with eight speakers; hearing concluded and referred to TIEE committee for scheduling. - Proposed Correspondence: A letter to Maryland DHCD Secretary Jacob R. Day requesting an extension for implementing Accessory Dwelling Unit legislation was authorized for the Chair's signature by a vote of 7–0. - Introduction and Adoption of CR-088-2026: This resolution clarified procedures for the Project Charge program in the M-NCPPC FY2027 budget. Chair Oriadha explained it does not change funding but clarifies the intergovernmental transfer process. Rule suspension passed 9–2 (Ivey nay, Harrison abstain). Resolution adopted 9–2 (Harrison and Ivey nay). - Sponsor Addition: Council Member Adams was added as a sponsor to CB-080-2026 (Universal Design for Housing) at his request. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Adopted (8–0). - Additions Package Accepted (10–0). - CR-088-2026 (M-NCPPC budget clarification) Adopted (9–2). - CB-069-2026 (Private schools special exception) Introduced; referred to PHED committee. - CB-047-2026 (Parking for elderly/disabled housing) Enacted (7–0). - CB-067-2026 (Permitting fees) Enacted (7–0). - CB-072-2026 (Emergency Weather Operations Fund) Enacted (7–0). - CR-062-2026 (DPI fee increase) Adopted (7–0). - CR-063-2026 (Water and Sewer Plan amendments) Public hearing held; referred to TIEE committee for further action. - Letter to DHCD Secretary Authorized (7–0). - Meeting Adjourned at 11:53 AM.

The Cannabis Reinvestment Board met on August 22, 2026, to approve minutes, the revised grant application, the updated community survey, and to discuss and vote on rescheduling the upcoming town hall due to a date conflict with the Council Chair's listening sessions. The meeting was brief and focused on completing unfinished business after a prior loss of quorum. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the August 5, 2026 meeting. Discussion Items - Revised Grant Application: The board discussed including startup funding and multi-year distinctions. Staff clarified that startup funds would be handled separately, and multi-year grants would still require annual applications. Despite concerns from Ms. Carpenter about honoring the board's previous decision on startup funding, the board voted to approve the application as presented, with the understanding that startup funding would be addressed in the SOP. The motion carried unanimously. - Community Survey: The board reviewed and amended the survey, adding a zip code question, removing descriptors from the income question, and addressing the race/ethnicity question to allow multiple selections. After discussion, the board voted to approve the survey as amended, unanimously. - Town Hall Date Conflict: The board learned that its first town hall, scheduled for August 27, 2026, in District 6, conflicted with the Council Chair's listening sessions on the same evening. After debate, the board decided to move the town hall to September 17, 2026, to avoid competition and to leverage the listening sessions for promotion. Staff confirmed that the Chair's office agreed to provide a table and potentially allow brief remarks at the listening sessions. The motion to change the date passed 7-1. Key Outcomes - Grant Application: Approved. - Community Survey: Approved as amended. - Town Hall: Rescheduled to September 17, 2026; board will table at the Chair's listening sessions on August 25, 26, and 27 to promote the survey and the rescheduled town hall. - Next Steps: Staff to update promotional materials, coordinate with the Chair's office, and send calendar invitations to council members.

The meeting was held on August 6, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM. The board discussed town hall planning, reviewed a community survey, and received updates on the methodology and grant application. The meeting lost quorum before a vote on the survey could be taken, and next steps were deferred to a future meeting. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved by a motion from Valencia, seconded by Mayor and Yang, and carried unanimously. Discussion Items - Opening Remarks: Chair Carpenter expressed disappointment that the board might not attend the Mako conference due to budget constraints from the council. She emphasized the need for access to administrative fees to allow the board to operate effectively, as other boards across the state are able to do. - Methodology Update: The methodology was presented to the county council on July 21, 2026, and the letter was approved for transmission to the Office of Social Equity, moving the process forward. - Town Hall Planning: - District 6 (Councilmember Hunter): Brianna Young, Chief of Staff, offered two locations: the Wayne K. Curry building tech lounge or the North Forestville Community Center. Board member Randy Atcheson recommended North Forestville due to its organic fit with the grant's mission and the area's historical impact from cannabis enforcement. The board agreed to the North Forestville location. The date was set for August 27, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM (the originally proposed August 31 date was unavailable). Registration will be encouraged but not required, and advance questions will be collected. - District 4 (Councilmember Adams): Jabina Brown, Policy and Communications Director, will research the best centralized location (Greenbelt, Bowie, or Glendale/Lanham) and coordinate with Carlos Lopez. A September date is planned, with care to avoid conflicts with back-to-school nights. - Outreach Materials: The board agreed to create a one-pager about the board's purpose and members. Carlos Lopez will assist with flyer design and community outreach. - Survey Review: The board extensively discussed the community survey intended for distribution at town halls. Key points of debate included: - Zip Code Question: Changed from a dropdown to an open-ended line with a "not sure" option, to capture all zip codes, not just those in disproportionately impacted areas (DIAs). - Race and Ethnicity: Chair Carpenter advocated for keeping the question, stating it is important for analyzing community impact. Some members noted the Office of Social Equity advised against collecting race data to avoid discrimination, but the board ultimately decided to keep it as a separate question (race and ethnicity) to allow rolling up data. - Income Question: Proposed by Crystal as an optional question to analyze responses by income level. Dr. Campbell opposed, arguing it could have a chilling effect and the survey is not random. No final decision was reached. - Question Wording: Dr. Mims suggested aligning the survey language with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and state law. Specific changes included adding "programs" to truancy and absenteeism interventions, and updating transportation improvements to include "high-density areas that have public transportation." - Organization Types: The list of organizations that should receive funding was updated to match the SOP, including established nonprofits, brand new nonprofits, educational institutions, health providers, and others. Dr. Mims questioned whether the public would understand the categories, but others noted it helps prioritize funding. - Combined Questions: Dr. Mims noted that combining items like "youth enrichment and after school" into one rating option may confuse respondents who feel differently about each part. The board agreed to consider separating them. - Open-Ended Options: The board agreed to include space for write-in responses for challenges not covered by the checkboxes. - Grant Application: Originally on the agenda for review and approval, it was moved to the end of the meeting. Due to loss of quorum, no vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Town Hall Location and Date: The District 6 town hall will be held at North Forestville Community Center on August 27, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. - Survey Not Voted On: The board lost quorum at approximately 7:05 PM when Dr. Jordan left. The survey could not be approved. The board will attempt to vote on the survey via email or at the next meeting on August 19, 2026, to meet the deadline for the August 27 town hall. - Next Steps: The board will meet again on August 19, 2026, to finalize and vote on the survey and grant application. Staff will incorporate the discussed changes into the survey before that meeting.

The Streamline Development Review Work Group, chaired by Councilwoman Crystal Rieva (District 7 and County Council Chair), held its final meeting to review and vote on a series of recommendations aimed at streamlining the development review process. The group's recommendations will be submitted to the County Council, and the chair committed to continuing the conversation through a potential future work group. The meeting included discussion of individual recommendations, a block vote on all remaining items, and setting of deadlines for opposition comments. Discussion Items - Combined Preliminary Plan of Subdivision and Detailed Site Plan Application: The first recommendation proposed merging these two processes into one application to reduce duplicative reviews and entitlement timelines. A motion to adopt as a high-priority recommendation was made and seconded. Mr. Smith strongly opposed, citing a lack of substantive analysis and potential legal problems highlighted by planning staff, and argued it would undermine informed public comment. Mr. Tedesco supported the motion as a policy recommendation separate from pending legislation. Ms. Parker opposed, echoing Mr. Smith's concerns. The chair abstained. The motion passed with the majority in favor. - Expand Use of Concurrent Review: The second recommendation promoted concurrent review of submissions alongside subdivision and permitting processes, noting it requires no legislative amendment. A motion to adopt was made and seconded. Mr. Smith opposed, citing lack of clarity on which permits would be affected and existing transparency problems. Others supported. A roll call vote resulted in 9 yes (Camp, Benton, From, Tedesco, Bartersto, Monroe, Jordan, Villegas, DeGuzman), 2 no (Smith, Parker), and 1 abstain (chair). The motion passed. - Allow Natural Resource Inventory (NRI) Review to Run Concurrently with Floodplain Delineation: The third recommendation proposed permitting NRI applications to be reviewed while floodplain delineation is under DPI review, with final approval contingent on floodplain approval. Before discussion, a motion was made to adopt all remaining recommendations as a block. This was seconded. - Block Vote on All Recommendations: Mr. Tedesco moved to adopt all recommendations favorably as a block, citing the large number (50). Ms. Bartersto seconded. Mr. Smith opposed the block approach, arguing the work group was biased and imbalanced, the timeframe was too short, and the recommendations lacked substantive analysis beyond the first one. He noted some recommendations might be worthwhile but needed surgical handling. Mr. Monroe abstained because a single package precluded understanding of individual concerns. The chair abstained. Ms. Parker opposed. The block motion passed with 8 yes, 2 no, 2 abstentions. Key Outcomes - The work group adopted all recommendations as a block, with the chair abstaining and opposition recorded from Mr. Smith and Ms. Parker. Mr. Monroe also abstained. Written opposition statements will be included in the final report. - Deadline for written opposition comments: August 14, 2026. - Final report to be distributed to work group members by August 25, 2026, with review to be completed by August 28, 2026. - The chair stated she will submit the recommendations to the County Council and plans to continue the work group or create a community-focused version. - Members were encouraged to provide written feedback and participate in upcoming council planning sessions during summer recess.

The Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GOFP) Committee met virtually on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 9:00 AM to consider CB-072-2026, an act concerning the creation of an Emergency Weather Operations Fund. Three members were present at roll call: Chair Edward P. Burroughs III, Vice Chair Timothy J. Adams, and Wala Blegay. Council Member Krystal Oriadha also participated in the vote. The committee voted 4-0 to move the bill favorably. Discussion Items - CB-072-2026 – Emergency Weather Operations Fund: Committee Director Nathaniel Tutt presented the legislation, which would create a dedicated fund to support full lifecycle costs of emergency weather response, including pre-event staging, active response, and post-event recovery. Disbursements would be limited to emergency weather mobilization for snow and ice control, flooding, high wind events, and other weather-related incidents. Tutt noted comments from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) indicating that the fund idea originated with the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPWT) during budget discussions, prompted by difficulties securing contractors and equipment ahead of winter due to competition with neighboring jurisdictions. No public testimony was heard. Key Outcomes - Motion to move CB-072-2026 favorably: Moved by Council Chair Oriadha (referred to as Oriata in transcript), seconded by Vice Chair Adams. The roll call vote was 4-0 (Burroughs – aye, Adams – aye, Blegay – aye, Oriadha – aye). The motion carried, and the committee adjourned.