Prince George's County Shrinks Council and Approves $412 Million in Bonds

Prince George's County voters reduced the size of their local government on Election Day by eliminating two at-large council seats. The change shrinks the County Council from eleven members to nine.

Question B passed with 77 percent of the vote. The 23 percent who voted against the measure represented the minority in a clear mandate for district-based representation only.

Residents also expanded the financial powers of local officials. Question A granted the council the authority to levy taxes and fees on specific businesses without future voter approval. This category includes liquor stores, tobacco shops, and self-storage facilities. The measure passed with 78 percent support.

Voters approved a total of $412.4 million in new bonds for capital projects. The largest allocation was $140 million for roads, bridges, and parking lots, which received 90 percent approval. Another $117.9 million was authorized for county buildings with 79 percent support.

Additional funding was directed toward public institutions. $67.3 million was approved for community college facilities with 86 percent support. $33.7 million was allocated for library improvements, passing with 88 percent of the vote. Finally, $53.5 million was approved for fire department and other public safety facilities, also passing with 90 percent support.

Labor and administrative changes also passed. Question E allowed unionized county employees to take disputed labor issues to independent arbitration. This measure received 89 percent approval. Question D expanded the County Purchasing Agent's authority to sign all purchasing documents, passing with 78 percent support. Question C required council members to pass a bill to approve redistricting plan changes rather than a resolution, passing with 86 percent support.