The Prince George’s County Council appointed Bowie Mayor Tim Adams to fill the vacant District 4 seat, which was occupied by former Councilmember Ingrid Watson, during a Jan. 23 virtual hearing.
“We congratulate Mayor Adams and look forward to him joining us on the council,” said Council Chair Krystal Oriadha (District 7), during the meeting.
Oriadha also celebrated Adams as a barrier breaker.
“In welcoming the first council member to serve while using a wheelchair, we celebrate a milestone in inclusivity,” she continued. “I know his leadership will inspire us to prioritize accessibility and representation in our legislative efforts.”
The first African American mayor of Bowie and the longtime CEO of a defense contracting firm, Adams will be joining the council in coming days.
“District 4 reflects many of the same priorities I’ve addressed at the municipal level, including strong schools, reliable transportation, affordability, environmental stewardship, and thoughtful development that serves existing communities as well as future generations,” Adams told the Council during Friday’s public selection process. “My commitment is to listen first, govern responsibly, and be a reliable partner focused on advancing the best interests of District 4 and Prince George’s County as a whole.”
Greenbelt Mayor Emmett Jordan and Dr. Juliet Agocha, an advocate who runs a tech company, also filed for the vacancy. Agocha has also filed to run for the seat in June.
Watson will now lead the Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation (PGEDC), a non-profit dedicated to bringing businesses and jobs to Prince George’s County.
“Ingrid Watson brings a deep understanding of Prince George’s County and a strong record of public service to this role,” said Orlan Johnson, chair of the EDC’s Board of Directors. “Her prior experience within PGEDC, combined with her leadership on the county council and her deep knowledge of workforce development and economic policy, provides valuable perspective as we continue our work to support businesses, create jobs, and promote inclusive economic growth.”