Oct 2

Oct 2 A Topical Discussion From Ingrid Watson

Councilmember Watson Shares Updates On Data Centers, Stop Light Cameras, Housing Assistance, Legislation And More

By Ingrid S. Watson

As we look forward to welcoming the vibrant colors and cooler temperatures of fall, I hope this message finds you well and rejuvenated after a restful summer. With the County Council back in session after our summer recess, I want to share some important updates and initiatives that are on our agenda.

One of the major topics we are addressing is the future of data centers in our county. This is a critical issue that will impact our community, economy, and environment, and I am committed to ensuring that our approach balances progress with the needs of our residents. We recently passed a temporary moratorium on Data Centers and await the recommendations from the Data Center Task Force. Your voices are critical in this matter.

In addition to this, I am actively working on several pieces of legislation that I believe will greatly benefit our community. This includes the introduction of a bill for stop sign cameras in the City of Greenbelt, that is aimed at enhancing safety on our roads. I have also introduced a bill advocating for the creation of an Animal Welfare Advisory Committee that will bring together organizations and volunteers who will address and meet to share recommendations focusing on the overall welfare of our animals. Another bill I introduced is the establishment of a task force focused on accessory dwelling units (ADUs). With the state mandating legislation on this matter, our council will take the lead in researching and discussing how to implement these units effectively within our community. Please read the bills in the In Layman’s Terms section below.

While my priorities for District 4 remain steadfast, I have sharpened my focus on critical areas such as healthcare, food programs, local business and nonprofit support, environmental sustainability, housing assistance, education, transportation, and animal welfare. I believe that by addressing these issues, we can foster a thriving community for all residents.

To further engage with you, I have been hosting community meetings and neighborhood walkthroughs to better understand and address the concerns that impact your quality of life. We have made some progress, but there is so much work to do. I don’t want you to forget, that I am here to serve YOU. Your quality of life, overall, is my priority.

To that end, my monthly Senior Squad meetings continue to focus on topics important to our older adults and this month we are excited to host our Comptroller Brooke Lierman and her office to share information on Navigating Financial Resources and Benefits for Older Adults in Maryland, and I am proud to continue to lead the District 4 Pick It UP! campaign, which promotes environmental health and cleanliness. We also held a very successful microchipping event for our four-legged family members! The PGC Pet Project microchipped over 160 dogs and we are hosting another FREE microchipping event in Franklin Park in Greenbelt on October 22, 2025. Microchipping is a simple, effective way to enhance your dog’s safety and increase the likelihood of a swift reunion if they go missing.

There has been SO much happening, so I encourage you to review the information in our ENewsletter and see all the great people, places and things happening in District 4.

This edition of our District 4 ENewsletter is dedicated to a beautiful friend of ours, Ms. Gloria J. Brown.

As we embark on this new season, I remain committed to serving you and ensuring that District 4 continues to thrive. Thank you for your support and engagement. Together, we can make our community a better place for everyone. Please reach out to the District 4 office (301) 952-3094 or CouncilDistrict4@co.pg.md.us with your questions or concerns.

We remain People-Powered, People-Engaged!