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Greenbelt introduces first‑reading annexation resolutions covering parts of Beltsville ARS and NASA lands
Summary
Council introduced three first‑reading charter amendment resolutions to annex approximately 2,262 acres of federal, tax‑exempt land (Beltsville Agricultural Research Center parcels and NASA Goddard‑adjacent property) for preservation and to strengthen the city's role in future land‑use decisions.
Greenbelt — The City Council introduced three related first‑reading charter amendment resolutions to enlarge Greenbelt’s corporate boundaries by annexing roughly 2,262 acres of federally owned, tax‑exempt land that includes portions of the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center and property near the NASA Goddard facility.
The three resolutions were presented as separate tracks covering roughly 223 acres (BART #1), 843 acres (BART #2) and 1,196 acres (Park Area #3), for a combined total of approximately 2,262 acres. City leaders said the primary motivation is long‑term land preservation, strengthening partnership with the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center and NASA, and enhancing the city’s ability to influence potential future development on those strategic parcels. Because the properties are federal and tax‑exempt, staff said annexation will not immediately create new service obligations or additional local tax revenue.
These were first readings only; staff said the resolutions are scheduled for further review with formal readings slated for Feb. 23, when maps and additional materials will be presented. The council described the measures as an initial step in a longer process under Maryland law that permits the annexation of tax‑exempt properties without owner's consent.
