“Imagine a legacy” starts our story. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission works tirelessly behind the scenes. It shapes the very landscape around us. Founded in 1927 the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission is not just another government agency. It is a bi-county force for parks and planning. It serves Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. These counties surround Washington D.C.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission enhances the lives of over 2 million residents. It welcomes countless visitors. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission plans physical growth. It protects vital resources. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission delivers award-winning parks. It creates recreational experiences. These experiences improve quality of life. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission plans great communities. These communities are vibrant and sustainable.
Finances for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission come from property taxes. Each year, budgets are prepared. These are approved by county executives and councils. The Prince George’s County Council decides on property tax rate increases.
Governance of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission involves ten members. Five are from Montgomery County. Five are from Prince George’s. They serve four-year terms. Each county’s members form a planning board. Montgomery County appointments are made by the County Council. The County Executive confirms these. Prince George’s County appointments are made by the County Executive. The County Council confirms them. No more than three members from each county can be from the same party. The appointing authority names the planning board chair. The Commission chair alternates yearly.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission has several departments. There are departments for parks and planning in each county. There are also cross-county departments. These include Human Resource Management and Finance. The Office of the General Counsel is also cross-county. Day-to-day operations are mostly separate. Interaction among staff across counties is rare.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission manages over 52000 acres of parks. It acquires develops and maintains park systems. The commission can spend public funds on park land. It can also sell bonds for park acquisition. Other expenses are paid from a park tax.
Taking all planning factors into account, the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission prepares a General Plan. This plan guides physical development. It includes most of Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. Each planning board makes zoning recommendations. They handle subdivision approval and street details.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission also oversees the Park Police. This force patrols parks in both counties. The Park Police is divided into divisions for each county.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission successfully defended the Bladensburg Peace Cross before the Supreme Court. This shows its deep community commitment.
So next time you enjoy a park or a well-planned community remember the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. This is the organization that works to make this area a better place for all.