Reaching For The Promise
Prince George’s County Vice Chair Ed Burroughs Plans To Fight For What His District Was Promised By MGM National Harbor
By Raoul Dennis
When Prince George’s County Council Vice Chair Edward Burroughs III isn’t plowing snow to help seniors get through the frosty days of winter, he’s developing other unique plans and initiatives to assist his constituents.
Earlier this week, Burroughs’ office dropped a significant plan that he knew would raise a few eyebrows.
On Tuesday, Jan 28, Burroughs (District 8) presented a plan to allocate $9.7 million in funding annually, for the next three years, through the MGM National Harbor Local Impact Grant.
“We’ve done our best to craft a plan that lives up to what MGM and the county government promised District 8 residents when the casino was built. It’s my goal to restore the integrity of what was said when this casino fund was created, because we’ve gotten away from that,” said Vice Chair Burroughs. “This plan invests in initiatives that uplift residents and provides meaningful opportunities in District 8.”
Prince George’s Suite Magazine & Media held an interview with the councilmember to discuss his unique approach to governing, his successes and vision. See an excerpt from the interview above.
The proposal is designed to address critical needs, uplift vulnerable populations, and build a healthier community:
· Senior Citizen Support: A $4.25 million allocation will provide rental, mortgage, utility, and property tax support, recreational opportunities, and educational workshops for more than 3,000 seniors.
· Youth Employment and Development: Over $2 million investment in Joan’s House Youth Jobs and Apprenticeship Program will provide year-round job opportunities and training for young people aged 14-24 in industries including law, nonprofit, healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and hospitality.
· Food Security: Partnerships will ensure fresh food boxes for up to 1,000 families are received once a month.
· Health Equity and Mental Health Services: With some of Maryland’s highest HIV and STI rates concentrated in District 8, this plan will expand testing, prevention, and treatment services in high-need areas. It also increases access to mental health services.
· Veteran Support: Dedicated funding will ensure veterans receive tailored assistance, including benefit navigation, mental health support, and housing resources.
· Housing Stability and Foreclosure Prevention: Expanded mediation services and workshops will help families avoid foreclosure, stabilize their housing, and rebuild generational wealth in District 8.
· Investment Academy: Will provide financial literacy education and seed investments for District 8 residents. Participants will receive $1,200 in investment capital after completing coursework in personal finance and investment strategies, empowering them to build long-term financial security and generational wealth.
The Committee of the Whole favorably recommended CR-005-2025, and it’s now scheduled for a public hearing at the Council meeting on February 18. Watch the Jan 28 proceedings HERE.
