PG2035 was to have NO land specific amendments, yet the resolution was passed by the County Council without public notice, nor proper time for review of the public’s concerns [...] 100s of people across Prince George’s County [and Bowie] feel that they have not had a say in this process.
— Fiona Moodie
I would like to start by thanking the Prince George’s County State Delegate Delegation’s time and attention to this matter.
My name is Fiona Moodie and I represent a group of nearly eight hundred Prince George’s County residents who oppose the development of the Jesuit-owned property at White Marsh. Our movement is strong and we are growing quickly across the county.
On August 1st of this year, Elm Street Developers first pitched the idea of the development to the City of Bowie. During this initial meeting we learned that Elm Street Developers HAD been coordinating with the property ownersfor several years regarding the development of this property, yet the public was only made aware just a few weeks ago, of the zoning change and potential construction of 500 homes.
As a result, many Prince George's County residents feel alienated, as they have been left out of the decision making process regarding one of the last remaining historic and rural areas in our county.
PG2035 Was to have NO land specific amendments, yet the resolution was passed by the county council, without public notice, nor proper time for review of the public's concerns and prior to the enactment of PG2035. The property owners did not wait for a master plan process with full public input.
Additionally, This property is of great historic significance, and this must not be ignored.
White Marsh was the site of an active slave plantation for several generations. 272 of these slaves were sold by the Jesuit Priests and shipped to plantations in the Deep South where their lives were much harsher than here in Maryland. The sale of these slaves kept Georgetown University afloat.
Many slaves lived, worked and died on the White Marsh Plantation. Their graves are scattered all over this property. These men, women, and children should be left to rest in peace and not have their earthly remains turned over by a bulldozer.
A group representing the several thousand descendants of these slaves, reached out to me regarding their concern for this property. The land is crucial for the preservation and understanding of their history, the Catholic Church in America and the history of America itself. They are motivated to give testimony against the rezoning and development and would like their voices to be heard throughout this process.
Waiting to do a review of this property AFTER the site plan has been put forward is neither helpful nor appropriate.
I come here to respectfully request that the Prince George’s County Delegation sponsor and support this legislation. 100s of people across Prince George’s County feel that they have not had a say in this process. With your help and support we can ensure the integrity of the planning process, and renew the people’s confidence that their voices are being heard.
