Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Health Land Use topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Prince George's County Council directs development of health atlas tying public health to land use
Summary
The council adopted a resolution directing the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and the Prince George's County Health Department to develop a health atlas analyzing public-health metrics alongside land use to identify disparities and recommend equitable growth solutions; the measure passed 10-0.
Prince George's County Council on July 1 adopted a resolution directing the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) to work with the Prince George's County Health Department to develop a "health atlas" that analyzes public-health metrics alongside land use and recommends strategies to address health disparities.
Council members approved the measure, CR 54-2025 (draft 2), by a 10-0 vote after the Health, Human Services and Public Safety Committee reported a favorable recommendation. The resolution also directs the county health department to evaluate the public-health impacts of convenience, tobacco and liquor stores on surrounding communities.
Supporters told the council the atlas would align with the county's general plan, Plan 2035, and produce data to inform land-use decisions. Vice Chair Oriada and Councilmember Harrison said the study could create a foundation for future legislation and called for industry accountability and mitigation funding tied to health impacts. Dr. Matt Levy, the county health officer, and Sakisha Hall, planning director, both voiced strong support during the committee's June 5 meeting; the committee voted 5-0 to advance draft 2.
Committee members said the atlas is intended to produce performance measures and data-driven policy options for equitable growth. The resolution instructs M-NCPPC and the health department to coordinate on analysis and reporting and to include technical assistance and guidance as part of implementation.
Council members moved to substitute draft 2 and proceeded with draft 1 as amended; the motion to adopt was moved by Councilmember Leggett and seconded by Councilmember Watson. Several council members asked to be added as sponsors before the final vote; the motion to adopt carried unanimously among those voting, 10-0.
The resolution's adoption authorizes planning and public-health staff to collaborate on a cross-agency project intended to inform zoning and development decisions through public-health data. The council and committee discussion emphasized using the atlas to identify business oversaturation and to recommend equitable mitigation and investment strategies.
