County officials address court backlog and abandoned property enforcement challenges

In a recent budget work session held by the Prince George's County Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee, pressing issues surrounding code enforcement and abandoned properties took center stage. The meeting, which took place on April 10, 2025, highlighted the challenges faced by local officials in addressing persistent violations and the backlog of cases that have accumulated, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As discussions unfolded, committee members expressed concerns about the enforcement of fines against property owners who neglect local laws. One member, representing an area near Bishop McNamara, pointed out that numerous homes in the community have accumulated fines for violations that remain unresolved for years. This situation raises questions about the efficiency of the legal processes in place to address these issues.

In response, officials acknowledged a backlog that had developed when court operations were limited during the pandemic. However, they reported significant progress in reducing this backlog, with cases now being processed and brought to court within 60 to 90 days. The team emphasized their collaboration with the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) to ensure that inspectors are well-trained and that problem properties are prioritized for legal action.

The conversation also turned to the issue of abandoned properties, with approximately 3,000 such properties identified in the county. Officials were asked about their strategies for moving these properties toward tax sales or into land banks to prevent further neglect. While acknowledging the challenges posed by limited resources, they assured the committee that they are actively working to address these abandoned properties.

A notable point of discussion was the frequency of code enforcement court sessions, which currently occur only once a month. Officials explained that this limitation is due to the prioritization of criminal cases in the court system, which often leaves civil cases, like code enforcement, waiting. They expressed a commitment to advocating for more court days to expedite the handling of these important cases.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while progress has been made in tackling the backlog of enforcement cases, ongoing communication with the court and additional resources will be crucial in ensuring that the community's concerns are addressed effectively. The committee's dedication to improving the situation reflects a broader commitment to maintaining the integrity of neighborhoods throughout Prince George's County.