Dear Friends,

Last Thursday, I attended the funeral service for Prince George's County Police Officer Brennan Rabian, who died in the line of duty serving the County he loved. Officer Rabian grew up in District 3. He attended Charles Carroll MS and Parkdale HS and participated in the county's parks and recreation program. I hope you will join me in keeping Officer Rabian's friends and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. 

On Friday, County Executive Rushern Baker submitted to the County Council and public his Fiscal Year 2016 Budget Proposal.  As you may have heard, this budget proposal is unlike any that Prince George's County has seen in decades. We are truly at a pivotal time as we try to balance the needs of a growing county with less funding from the state and a structural deficit that is approaching its third year. The proposal includes lay-offs of 110 county staff and five days of furlough for all the remaining employees. It also includes raising county fees as well as a proposal to increase taxes for businesses and homeowners (with an offset for those under $60,000 of income) to address education funding per SB848 authorization. 

I cannot stress enough how important it is for you to engage in the budget process over the next two months. The budget dialogue is just beginning and will not conclude until the end of May after the state approves its budget and numerous committee meetings and hearings are held. I am still reviewing the budget proposal carefully, asking questions, and gathering additional information. Today Dr. Maxwell will brief the County Council on the PGCPS portion of the budget. In April, the County Council will host four public hearings on the budget. The dates are on the right. I encourage you to read the budget, gather additional information, and prepare and ask questions as well. 

This Saturday, Joe's Movement Emporium in Mt. Rainier is celebrating their 20th Anniversary.  Over two decades, this organization has grown from a single studio to a teaching and performance venue that is truly an anchor to the area. I am looking forward to celebrating with them at this occasion!

I invite you to attend my first District 3 Town Hall and Resource Fair on Wednesday, April 15, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at William Wirt Middle School. Dr. Maxwell will be our featured speaker and representatives from County agencies will be available to provide additional information and answer your questions. Please plan to attend and invite your friends and neighbors.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office or me by phone at (301) 952-3060 or by email at dmg[email protected] and please follow me on Twitter and Facebook for daily updates on what is happening in the county.

Together Strengthening Our Community,