Ruling Affirms Prince George County Exceeded Authority on Development Decision
The Maryland Court of Appeals has affirmed a lower court’s ruling involving a proposed retail center in Adelphi. The ruling confirmed that Prince George’s City Council exceeded its authority to review and revise development decisions made by the county planning board. The retail center was approved by the planning board but placed on hold by the council, which wanted the developer to make design changes. The developers and their attorneys are hopeful the ruling will bring Prince George in line with neighboring jurisdictions. Observers have noted that the council plays a major role in development decisions due to the county’s complicated and antiquated zoning laws. The county is in the process of rewriting the code to improve public participation and reflect the area's changing needs. [WaPo]
