M-NCPPC to add 21 positions, launch intake division and DART system in FY2026 budget pitch to PHED

Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission leaders told the Prince George’s County Council’s Planning, Housing & Economic Development (PHED) committee on March 20 that their FY2026 budget request emphasizes workforce investment, reforms to development review and digital upgrades to serve residents and applicants.

Commission leaders presented a consolidated administration fund request that includes a $3.9 million planning-board/commissioner’s office, a $15.2 million Central Administrative Services (CAS) operating budget for the county portion, and a $52.619 million request for the Planning Department. The planning department’s personnel budget for FY2026 was presented as $33.593 million; staff said the department proposes adding 21 full‑time career positions (four reclassifications from term to career, and one new term contract position among them).

Peter Shapiro, chair of the Prince George’s Planning Board, and Acting Executive Director William Spencer, Corporate Budget Director Terry Charles and Planning Director Lakisha Hall delivered the commission’s presentation to PHED. Staff outlined nonpersonnel spending, occupancy costs at…