The announcement came after a virtual hearing was held on Friday, January 23 where the Prince George’s County Council confirmed Adams to fill the seat left vacant by former Councilmember Ingrid Watson who resigned to become the President and CEO of the Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation (PGEDC), a non-profit dedicated to bringing businesses and jobs to Prince George’s County.

“We congratulate Mayor Adams and look forward to him joining us on the Council,” said Council Chair Krystal Oriadha (District 7). “In welcoming the first Council Member to serve while using a wheelchair, we celebrate a milestone in inclusivity. I know his leadership will inspire us to prioritize accessibility and representation in our legislative efforts.”

Breaking barriers is not new for Adams, who will become the first councilmember to serve while using a wheelchair. He has been the Mayor of Bowie since 2019 and is the first African-American mayor in the city’s history. Adams is also the Founder, President, and CEO of Systems Application & Technologies, Inc. (SA-TECH), a defense contracting firm established in 1989 and based in Prince George’s County.

“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.”