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North Brentwood readies court fight over African American museum; settlement talks ongoing
Summary
Town leaders said June 1 they will proceed to litigation on June 11 in a dispute over the Prince George's African American Museum and Cultural Center, while noting opposing counsel signaled willingness to settle by June 5.
Mayor Robinson told the June 1 Town Council meeting that the town will move forward with litigation against the Prince George's African American Museum and Cultural Center, with a hearing scheduled for June 11. The town indicated it has assembled historical documentation it believes establishes the town’s standing in the case.
"We are moving forward with our litigation," the mayor said, adding that the town’s attorney has prepared evidence of standing and that the administration hopes a judge will agree. Council member Dame said more recent communications suggest opposing counsel and some board members prefer settlement: "...they both want to have this settled by Friday, June 5," Dame said.
Council and staff discussed standing and the historical record that documents the town’s relationship to the museum and its founding groups. The mayor said the town does not intend to consent to further continuances and expects to pursue the case in court if necessary.
Why it matters: The museum is a local cultural institution; the outcome of the litigation will affect management and access to exhibits and programming. Council said it seeks revitalization of the museum, and that discussions have been ongoing with multiple stakeholders.
Next steps: The town’s legal team will appear at the June 11 hearing; councilors and staff said they will continue settlement discussions and brief residents after the court proceeding.
