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Council confirms two Planning Board nominees after public comment on process and transparency
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Summary
The council confirmed Brittany Jenkins to the Planning Board unanimously (11–0) and confirmed Lori Matthews after two abstentions (7–0–2), following public testimony urging fuller disclosure of appointment materials and debate over procedural timelines under state land‑use law.
The Prince George’s County Council held public hearings and confirmations for two nominees to the county’s seat on the Maryland‑National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s Planning Board on March 17.
Deputy Chief of Staff Devin Martin introduced Brittany Jenkins, a Brentwood resident and senior consultant at Deloitte, describing her data analytics and stakeholder engagement background. Jenkins told the council she would approach planning decisions with a focus on data, community impact and stewardship of parks.
Members of the public, most prominently Greg Smith of Sustainable Hyattsville, praised Jenkins’ qualifications but urged the council to provide more documentation and public notice in appointment processes. Smith cited conflicts between the county charter’s preferred practice of making appointment materials public and the state land use article’s faster timing for confirmations.
Council member De Noga moved to confirm Jenkins; the motion was seconded by Council member Adam Stafford. The roll‑call vote was unanimous, and Jenkins was confirmed 11–0.
Later the council considered Lori Matthews’ nomination; Martin summarized her long career in education, federal service and community work and asked the council to grant an excused absence because she was with family during a bereavement. Greg Smith reiterated public‑notice concerns for Matthews’ nomination as well. Daryl Barnes, chairman of the regional planning commission, and other supporters spoke in favor of both nominees.
Council member Fisher moved to confirm Matthews, seconded by Council member Hunter. Two members announced they would abstain after explaining they had not had an opportunity to meet the nominee; the motion carried with seven yes votes and two abstentions (7–0–2).
Council members and staff discussed whether the county should seek changes to state timing rules or adopt internal procedures to ensure all appointment materials are posted promptly for public review. The county attorney told the council that appointment timing for the Planning Board is governed by the state land use article and, in her view, met statutory requirements, but several speakers urged formal steps to post more material proactively.
Both nominees will serve as part‑time members on the county’s Planning Board; Jenkins fills a term expiring June 15, 2028, and Matthews fills a seat with a term noted in committee materials.
