Prince George's County appoints ethics board and cannabis restoration board members

The Prince George's County Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee convened on February 27, 2025, to discuss key appointments to various boards, including the Board of Ethics and the Cannabis Reinvestment and Restoration Board, as well as nominations for the Human Rights Commission.

The meeting began with the nomination of Jason Papadopoulos to the Board of Ethics, a position aimed at enhancing accountability within the county government. Papadopoulos, who has a background in strategic leadership and compliance, expressed his commitment to ethical governance, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of integrity in public service. His appointment was unanimously approved by the committee.

Following this, the committee considered the nomination of Deborah Mims to the Cannabis Reinvestment and Restoration Board. Mims, a U.S. Air Force veteran and federal government employee, highlighted her personal experiences with the criminal justice system and her dedication to addressing substance abuse issues. Her nomination was also favorably received, reflecting the committee's commitment to ensuring that resources from cannabis legalization benefit communities affected by past drug policies.

The meeting continued with nominations for the Human Rights Commission, where eight candidates were presented. Each nominee shared their professional backgrounds and commitment to civil rights and equity. Notable among them was Joseph Reed, seeking reappointment as chair, who emphasized his deep roots in the community and extensive experience in civil rights advocacy. The committee expressed strong support for the nominees, recognizing the critical role of the commission in promoting fairness and justice in the county.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's ongoing efforts to enhance governance, address social issues, and promote human rights, with all nominations moving forward for approval by the full council.