Are the meetings of the Prince George’s County Council accessible enough for local residents?
Following a recent listening tour that featured evening conversations with community members, Prince George’s County Council Chair Krystal Oriadha presented a resolution this week aimed at enhancing accessibility. This proposal would mandate that the council schedule at least one meeting each month to commence at 5 p.m. or later.
“Community members expressed a desire for increased opportunities to engage, and a common concern is that our meetings occur during the day on weekdays, which makes participation difficult for some residents,” Oriadha explained.
The schedule for council meetings is determined by the chairperson, and some of Oriadha’s critics on the council pointed out that she had the opportunity to hold evening meetings this year but chose not to.
“Yes, we have that option, but the decision ultimately lies with the chair,” Oriadha acknowledged. “It’s crucial that we establish a standard for at least one evening meeting each month. As a collective body, we can make this choice, ensuring that it is not solely dependent on the individual in the chair position at any given time.”
In addition, Oriadha is advocating for another resolution that would permit public participation in hearings through virtual means.
“By meeting people where they are and expanding opportunities for involvement, we can foster greater engagement,” she remarked. “My hope is to maintain this level of participation, but if we revert to a system where attendance is limited to in-person meetings on Tuesdays during the day, will we continue to see the same level of engagement we have now?”
The proposed resolution for virtual participation would enable members of the public to address the council during sessions when bills are being discussed. Research indicates that in areas where virtual participation is permitted, public involvement in local government meetings tends to rise, especially among women.
Currently, the county council permits its members to engage in meetings, debate legislative issues, and vote while attending virtually.
