A New Chapter in Public Leadership: Darryl Barnes at the Helm of Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission

By Raoul Dennis

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB ROBERTS

In a defining move for regional planning and development, former Maryland Delegate Darryl Barnes has been appointed Chairman of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC). This appointment marks a significant turning point not just in Barnes’ distinguished public service career, but for the communities of Prince George’s and Montgomery counties that the M-NCPPC serves.

Barnes brings to the role an unmatched blend of legislative prowess, entrepreneurial acumen, and community devotion. Known for his bold, principled approach in Annapolis, Barnes now assumes leadership of one of the most powerful land use and planning agencies in the United States—an agency with responsibilities ranging from zoning and transportation to historic preservation and parks management.

A Vision for Inclusive Growth

County Executive Aisha Braveboy, who appointed Barnes, lauded him as a “visionary leader” uniquely suited to the task.

“With his extensive experience in strategic planning, government affairs, and business partnerships, Delegate Barnes is uniquely positioned to lead the M-NCPPC,” Braveboy stated. “His leadership in shaping economic policies, advocating for fiscal responsibility, and fostering business innovation will be instrumental in driving the future of our parks and planning initiatives”.

From Delegate to Chairman

A seasoned statesman, Barnes served in the Maryland House of Delegates from 2015 to 2023, rising to the role of Chief Deputy Majority Whip and earning distinction as the first-ever Chairman of the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus to serve three consecutive terms. His legislative tenure was marked by a fierce commitment to equity, particularly in economic development, minority business inclusion, and social policy.

Barnes’ time in the House of Delegates saw him advocate for transformative initiatives: equitable sports betting legislation, inclusive cannabis policy, and the landmark settlement of a 15-year HBCU funding lawsuit. His strategic positioning on the Ways and Means Committee gave him influence over state taxation and revenue systems, from sales and motor fuel taxes to inheritance and cannabis levies.

Now, as Chairman of the M-NCPPC, Barnes assumes responsibility for steering the direction of one of Maryland's most vital institutions. The Commission oversees the coordination of regional planning for land use, public parks, transportation systems, and community development across Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. It is tasked with balancing growth with sustainability, promoting livable communities, and ensuring residents have equitable access to public resources and green spaces.

Barnes’ track record underscores that vision. As President of the Bi-County Business Roundtable, he has championed business mentorship and procurement reform. As an entrepreneur, he scaled Precise Technologies Group into a multimillion-dollar company, while also launching a bottled water brand and his own lobbying firm, Barnes International, Ltd. His practical experience managing large budgets and strategic alliances will prove vital in overseeing M-NCPPC’s planning and park operations.

Rooted in Service

Barnes’ commitment to public service is personal and deeply rooted. Raised in Prince George’s County and educated in its public schools, he has long championed the communities that shaped him. He is a veteran of both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army, a businessman, a mentor, and a father. His nonprofit, Men Aiming Higher, has supported over 700 young men through mentorship, education, and leadership development.

His new role offers a chance to bring that same spirit of equity, development, and accountability to the physical and economic landscapes of Prince George’s County and beyond. With the M-NCPPC’s expansive mandate—spanning everything from affordable housing to transit access, urban design, and recreation—Barnes stands poised to shape not just the policy, but the lived experience of residents.

Duties of the Chair

As Chairman, Barnes will preside over the bicounty Commission, set strategic priorities, and work closely with local and state governments. The chairperson plays a pivotal role in:

Setting the vision for land use and development across both counties
Overseeing budgets and resource allocation for park facilities, recreational programming, and capital projects
Guiding zoning decisions, transportation plans, and housing initiatives
Advancing equity and inclusion in planning processes
Serving as chief liaison to community stakeholders, civic organizations, and elected officials

In short, the role is both administrative and visionary—bridging bureaucracy and bold thinking. It is a position that requires not just technical knowledge, but trust and moral authority.

The Road Ahead

Barnes’ appointment has been met with optimism from community leaders. David W. Smith Sr., Advocate & Leader as a homegrown Prince Georgian, praised the new chair, stating, “His vision and leadership will transform and bring change to M-NCPPC and Prince George’s County”.

Transformation has long been a hallmark of Barnes’ career—from legislative chambers to boardrooms, from mentoring youth to driving state policy. As he takes on this new challenge, the communities of Maryland can expect not only a continuation of that commitment, but a bold reimagining of how thoughtful planning, inclusive policies, and visionary leadership can shape a brighter future.