Committee backs amendment to Board of Appeals membership language, opts for flexibility (at least 3, up to 5)

Prince George's County's General Assembly Committee voted unanimously to support an amendment to House Bill 1065 (PG10625) that would clarify Board of Appeals membership as "at least three and up to five" members.

Background and why it matters: the bill would revise the county—s Board of Appeals appointment language. Committee members and staff explained the county currently operates with three members and had previously considered five but encountered a state-law conflict. Deputy County Administrator Colette Gresham told the committee that the revised language would provide a cap while preserving necessary flexibility: "The goal was to allow that flexibility... If you put the parameters at least 3 but no more than 5, that at least gives that the cap in there, but gives us a little flexibility for what we need to do," she said.

Committee action: The committee first passed a motion to support up to five appointments, then reconsidered and approved the amended language, "at least 3 and up to 5," in a motion the vice chair moved to reconsider. The final motion passed 3-0 (Chair Calvin Hawkins, Vice Chair Wanika Fisher, Council member Oriada voting aye).

Implementation note: Committee staff will offer the amended language at the bill's hearing (April 1) and follow up with the sponsor and Senate committee as needed.

Ending: The action reflects a procedural amendment aimed at reconciling county practice with state law while preserving appointment flexibility for the Board of Appeals.