Bowie · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Bowie public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FY 2027 budget amendment (O-13-26)
The council amended the current-year budget unanimously after a public hearing: $50,000 for a special election, $70,000 for the golf driving range, $835,800 for police equipment, and $110,000 for Public Works repairs.
Senior gym-walking fee
Seniors who have walked the city gym for free for years now face a $50 gym card fee in the current budget. Helen Clark, 88, spoke on behalf of a group of walkers asking the council to restore free access; council may add an agenda item soon.
IT Modernization and Revenue Diversification
Bowie endorsed the state task force studying how counties and municipalities raise revenue — an effort that could affect where city money comes from in the future.
$16 Million Streetlight Bond
The council authorized borrowing up to $16 million to repair streetlights, replace failing cable, and convert to LEDs. Final sale terms come back for a later vote. Repayment rides on the city's full faith and credit.
Property tax rate increase notification
Resident Andrea White criticized the size of the recent property tax increase and the lack of a direct mailed notice to residents, saying her city tax bill is now nearly as high as her county bill. She asked for an official notification letter and more gradual increases in the future.
Fees for nonprofit meeting space and block party permits
Millie Hall of Concerned Citizens of Prince George's County said nonprofits are being charged $50 an hour for meeting space despite the Ken Hill building being intended for nonprofit use, forcing her youth financial literacy program to Crofton. She also flagged the block party permit fee jumping from $25 to $50.
Property tax levy increase and city services
A 36-year resident says his city tax levy jumped about $900 — a 52% increase after a 45% tax rate hike — and says residents were never warned. He wants a management review of services, pointing to trash handling, snow response, and other slippage.
Early budget preparation and structural deficit
Councilmember Brady wants next year's budget work to start months earlier than usual, given staff begins in November and the city faces a structural deficit. A work session is set for the week of July 27, plus an economic development session in August.
State legislative session and municipal funding
The city's lobbyists outlined a $71 billion state budget with growing out-year deficits, a failed bill that would have preempted local zoning, and a transportation grant fix that didn't pass — putting roughly $100 million in local transportation funding at risk statewide. Mason's Law will require Bowie to inventory open drainage inlets by 2027.
FY2027 CDBG Annual Action Plan
Federal block grant money will keep funding home rehabilitation for income-eligible homeowners, the workforce development center at the Kenhill Center, and fair housing education.