New Carrollton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Carrollton, MD public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Commercial vehicle parking on city streets
The current code doesn't define what a 'commercial vehicle' is — an F-350 used as a family car could technically be a violation. Staff are working on a clearer definition so enforcement can target actual problem trucks like flatbeds, not family pickups.
Fleet management and vehicle dormancy
Council reviewed the fleet dormancy report and flagged concerns about the age and condition of several vehicles; staff said older vehicles remain serviceable.
Pending Litigation Against the City
A former elected official told the council that Resolution 25-26 — used to remove her — is legally void because the charter amendment was introduced and adopted the same day without the required 21-day notice, warning of a lawsuit and election costs.
Collective bargaining rights for Public Works employees
Public works and some admin workers have signed union cards, and residents pressed the council to stop stonewalling a vote on collective bargaining rights — a context that shaped the budget debate.
Stop-sign cameras and speeding enforcement
New Carrollton is rolling out stop sign cameras at up to 25 locations, with warnings starting around October 5 and $40 tickets going live in early November. Residents will see a marketing campaign first and can track pilot violations on a public website.
Rebuttal of former mayor's public statements
The council publicly rebutted the former mayor's media claims about the reinstatements, the city manager's departure, and her eligibility to run again, presenting emails it says prove she reinstated two employees before her removal. The former mayor showed up and disputed the account.
Police Staffing, Cameras, and Community Policing
The chief says crime is down 19.39% and wants four ballistic shields so officers can respond to a school shooter, plus retention tools like the LEOPS retirement plan. Council also revisited the idea of non-sworn community resource officers for low-risk calls.
Spanish-language communication
Councilmember Malavé pushed for the council statement and rebuttal to be translated into Spanish, noting many Spanish-speaking residents only heard partial accounts. The council agreed, using the existing language-access budget line.
Civility and meeting security
After a disruptive resident approached the dais and council members were harassed in the hallway, the city is redesigning the room layout, repositioning cameras, and adding officer coverage at town halls.
Pending litigation with former Chief Rice
The council has already voted in closed session to let its insurance trust offer a judgment to David Rice, a plaintiff suing the city. This affects how a legal claim against the city gets resolved.
Residential parking enforcement
Residents are fed up with commercial and construction vehicles parked on residential streets. Council and police discussed stepped-up enforcement for expired tags, vehicles parked over 72 hours, commercial vehicles, and cars blocking intersections.
Immigration Enforcement Impact on Local Businesses
Councilmember Urbina flagged that immigrant-owned restaurants are seeing a big drop in dine-in customers due to immigration enforcement fears, and suggested city support. Mayor Nembhard cautioned against public 'ICE not welcome' signage, citing advice that it could draw federal attention.
Fire Department Donation Increase
The city will donate $10,000 to the New Carrollton Fire Department in FY2027 — a bump one councilmember pushed for and one member opposed.