Capitol Heights, MD is a small town located in Prince George's County, Maryland. With a population of just over 4,400 people, it may not be the most well-known place in the United States. However, for those who live there, it is their home and they take pride in their community. Like any other town or city, Capitol Heights has a local government that is responsible for making decisions and providing services for its residents.
The Mayor of Capitol Heights
At the head of the local government in Capitol Heights is the mayor.The current mayor of Capitol Heights is Mayor Shawn Maldon, who was elected in 2019. Maldon is a native of Capitol Heights and has been involved in local politics for many years. He previously served as a council member before being elected as mayor. As the mayor, Maldon's role is to oversee the operations of the town and work with other local officials to make decisions that benefit the community. He also serves as a representative for Capitol Heights and advocates for the town's needs at the county and state level.
Mayor Maldon's
term will end in 2023, and he has already made significant changes during his time in office. One of his main focuses has been on improving public safety in Capitol Heights.He has worked closely with the police department to implement new strategies and initiatives to reduce crime and make the town safer for its residents.
The Town Council
In addition to the mayor, Capitol Heights also has a town council that consists of six members. The council members are elected by residents and serve four-year terms. They work alongside the mayor to make decisions and set policies for the town. The current members of the town council are Council Chairwoman Karen Porter, Vice Chairwoman Carolyn Boston, Councilman Michael A. Campbell Sr., Councilman Joseph C.Solomon, Councilwoman Selita Bennett-White, and Councilwoman Tawanna P. Gaines. Each member brings their own unique perspectives and experiences to the table, making for a diverse and well-rounded council. The town council meets regularly to discuss and vote on various issues affecting Capitol Heights. They also hold public hearings to gather input from residents before making decisions.
This allows for transparency and ensures that the voices of the community are heard.
Local Services and Programs
The local government in Capitol Heights is responsible for providing essential services and programs for its residents. This includes maintaining roads and infrastructure, managing parks and recreational facilities, and providing public transportation options. One of the most important services provided by the town is public safety. As mentioned earlier, Mayor Maldon has made this a top priority during his time in office. The Capitol Heights Police Department works closely with the community to prevent crime and keep residents safe.They also offer programs such as community outreach and youth mentoring to build positive relationships with residents. The town also has a Department of Public Works that is responsible for maintaining roads, sidewalks, and other infrastructure. They also handle trash collection and recycling services for residents. In addition to these services, Capitol Heights offers various programs for its residents, including a senior center, youth sports leagues, and summer camps. These programs help to bring the community together and provide opportunities for people of all ages to get involved.
Challenges and Future Plans
Like any other town or city, Capitol Heights faces its own set of challenges. One of the main issues is the town's budget.With a small population, there is a limited tax base, making it challenging to fund all of the necessary services and programs. However, the local government is constantly working to find solutions and improve the town for its residents. Mayor Maldon has plans to revitalize the downtown area and attract new businesses to create more job opportunities for residents. The town council is also exploring ways to increase revenue and reduce expenses to balance the budget. Another challenge facing Capitol Heights is its aging infrastructure. Many roads and buildings are in need of repair or renovation.
The local government is working on securing funding to address these issues and ensure that the town remains a safe and attractive place to live.
