Get to know the faces behind the ballots! Over the next few weeks, we’re bringing you an exclusive look at the Prince George’s County Council candidates. We asked each candidate eight essential questions about their vision and the local issues they are fighting for.

Meet Sherman Hardy, a candidate for Prince George’s County Council District 9, stepping forward with a vision defined by mission-driven leadership and radical accountability. A veteran, federal procurement professional, and realtor, Hardy brings a pragmatic, “infrastructure first” approach to the county’s most pressing challenges. From advocating for the Southern Maryland Rapid Transit expansion to demanding stricter oversight of public spending, his platform is built on the belief that residents deserve a government as reliable as the families it serves. In this Q&A, Hardy discusses his strategy for balanced growth, his commitment to visibility in every neighborhood, and his goal to restore deep-seated trust in local governance.

1. What is your primary motivation for running for local council, and what are your top three priorities for the district?
   
   I’m running because residents deserve a county government that performs consistently and earns trust. Too often people feel like decisions are made without follow-through, and basic services lag behind what families pay for.
   
   My top three priorities for District 9 are:
   
   1. Disciplined budgeting and strong oversight so public dollars produce results
   2. Strategic growth through redevelopment with infrastructure first so development does not outpace roads, schools, and services
   3. Safer, healthier communities with strong support for first responders and emergency readiness.
   
   
2. How do you plan to support local small businesses and entrepreneurs within Prince George’s County?
   
   Small businesses need predictability, not runarounds. I will push faster, clearer permitting, fewer delays, and better customer service for entrepreneurs. I support incubators and scale-up support that connects businesses to capital, mentorship, and county procurement opportunities. I also want an intentional industry strategy so we grow beyond government jobs and commuting outside of the area, and I want incentives tied to measurable outcomes like local hiring, wage standards, and long-term tax revenue, not promises.
   
   
3. How will you ensure that the voices of all residents, especially those in underrepresented areas, are heard in the decision-making process?
   
   I will be visible and reachable year-round, not just during election season. That means rotating community office hours, regular town halls, and simple follow-up so residents can see what happened after they raised an issue. If a neighborhood is being overlooked, my job is to go there, listen there, and bring those issues back to the table with clarity and follow-through. I will also advocate for evening council sessions so that those who work during the day will have an opportunity to address its full government.
   
   
4. What specific improvements do you advocate for regarding local infrastructure, public safety, or transit?
   
   District 9 needs infrastructure that matches growth — like yesterday! I will prioritize road maintenance, safer intersections, and faster fixes for recurring problem areas. On public safety, I support strong backing for police, fire, EMS, and emergency preparedness with accountability and smart deployment. On transit, we need better connections that reduce congestion and give people real options, including stronger bus service and expansion projects. We must focus on the Southern Maryland Rapid Transit.
   
   
5. What steps should the council take to promote environmental sustainability and green spaces in our community?
   
   Environmental progress should be practical and measurable. I will prioritize stormwater fixes and flood mitigation, expanding tree canopy where it’s been lost, and protecting clean water through stronger maintenance and enforcement. I support preserving parks and green space and directing growth to designated areas so we do not pave over what makes our communities livable.
   
   
6. How can the council better support local youth programs and educational initiatives outside of the school system?
   
   The council doesn’t run the school system, but we can strengthen what happens around it. I will support youth programs that keep kids engaged and safe, including after-school options, mentoring, and workforce pathways. I want stronger partnerships with employers and unions for internships, apprenticeships, and career exposure. I also support mental health supports and safe routes around schools through county agencies. The goal is structure, opportunity, and a clear path forward.
   
   
7. What is one specific project or policy you hope to be remembered for at the end of your term?
   
   I want to be remembered for making county government more predictable and accountable. Specifically, I want to strengthen oversight so contracts, spending, and service delivery are transparent, and we put more guardrails on an out of control government. If people can look back and say basic services improved and government became more responsive, that is a legacy worth leaving.
   
   
8. What is your favorite local spot in Prince George’s County to relax or grab a meal?
   
   I love Kayaking through Prince George’s Parks — it’s one of my favorite things we offer here. For a meal, Tender Rib used to have me in a chokehold but since they’ve closed I’m searching for a new spot.