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.
Get to know Lolita E. Walker, a dedicated advocate for Prince George’s County whose commitment to service is rooted in her experience as a PGCPS graduate, parent, and former member of the Board of Education. Running for County Council in District 9, Walker centers her vision on a “Connect, Build, and Thrive” framework, prioritizing deep-seated transparency and intentional, community-informed development. In this Q&A, Walker discusses her top campaign priorities such as balancing economic growth with community needs, improving public safety and fostering youth mentorship.
- What is your primary motivation for running for local council, and what are your top three priorities for the district?
My primary motivation for running for local council surrounds service, accountability, and being a fabric in the community that helps us thrive. As a PGCPS graduate, a PGCPS parent, a homeowner, and a former District 9 resident elected to the Board of Education, I understand the importance of making decisions that directly impact our communities. I am running to bring that same level of governance, transparency, and partnership to the County Council to more broadly impact the community where me, my family, friends, and neighbors live.
My top three priorities are:- Connect by strengthening transparency and engagement so residents are informed and involved before key decisions are made
- Build with intention to ensure community-informed development aligns with infrastructure and long-term planning
- Thrive, together, by improving the quality of life through attention to infrastructure, public safety, and coordinated county services.
- How do you plan to support local small businesses and entrepreneurs within Prince George’s County?
Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs requires both access and alignment. I will work to ensure local businesses are included in county conversations around development, procurement, and economic planning. This includes strengthening communication between the business community and county agencies, and supporting strategies that make it easier for businesses to start, grow, and remain in District 9.
I also believe economic development should be balanced across the district, with attention to commercial corridors and opportunities to attract and retain businesses that meet community needs. Through collaboration between business owners, residents, and county leadership, we can create a more predictable and supportive environment for entrepreneurship while strengthening our local economy. - How will you ensure that the voices of all residents, especially those in underrepresented areas, are heard in the decision-making process?
Community engagement must be consistent, accessible, and proactive. I will implement structured opportunities for residents to engage, including regular community forums, newsletters, and clear communication around major proposals and decisions.
Equally important is engaging residents before decisions are made to ensure their feedback is heard and considered. I will also work to intentionally meet residents where they are by partnering with civic associations, faith-based organizations, and community groups to ensure broader participation.
My goal is to create a system where engagement is expected. Every resident, particularly those in underrepresented areas, must see a clear path forward to become and remain informed, involved, and heard. - What specific improvements do you advocate for regarding local infrastructure, public safety, or transit?
I support infrastructure and services that keep pace with our District 9 community’s needs. I will advocate for improvements in areas of community concern, including, but not limited to, traffic congestion, roadway maintenance, and coordinated and collaborative service delivery across agencies. This includes attention to high-traffic corridors, response to community concerns like abandoned vehicles, and alignment between development and infrastructure capacity.
Public safety remains a priority, and I support continued collaboration between communities and public safety agencies for the ongoing safety and vitality of our neighborhoods.
My focus is on identifying needs, as well as communicating progress clearly so that our residents can see how our priorities are being addressed. - What steps should the council take to promote environmental sustainability and green spaces in our community?
The council has an opportunity to integrate sustainability into how we plan, grow, and maintain our communities. This includes protecting green spaces, supporting responsible land use, and ensuring that development decisions consider short and long-term environmental impacts.
In areas of District 9 with rural and agricultural character, preservation is important. At the same time, as development occurs, it should align with infrastructure, environmental considerations, and community priorities.
The Council plays an important role in balancing this growth with sustainability, and my focus will be on coordinated decision-making that supports environmental stewardship and the short- and long-term well-being of our communities. - How can the council better support local youth programs and educational initiatives outside of the school system?
As we know, supporting our young scholars extends beyond the classroom. The Council can play a role by supporting partnerships with community organizations, expanding access to safe and engaging programs, and ensuring that resources are aligned to meet the needs of young people across the district.
My experience on the Board of Education reinforced the importance of collaboration between schools, families, and the broader community. I will continue to support and strengthen county initiatives that provide mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities for youth to explore college and career pathways.
By working with local organizations, PGCPS, and stakeholders, we can play a role in helping our youth with access to programs and experiences that support their growth, development, and future success. - What is one specific project or policy you hope to be remembered for at the end of your term?
I will be remembered for strengthening transparency, accountability, and community partnership in how we make decisions across District 9 and beyond.
Specifically, I aim to implement a clear, visible system for tracking progress on district priorities so residents are informed about what is planned and what is actually being accomplished.
If residents feel more informed, more engaged, and more confident that their voices are part of the process, I will consider that progress. My goal is to help establish a standard where community input and accountability are expected, not optional. - What is your favorite local spot in Prince George’s County to relax or grab a meal?
There are so many local spots in Prince George’s County to relax or grab a meal. In District 9, depending on my mood for studying, working, family time, or hanging with friends and family, it is hard to name just one. On any given day, I could stop by Mix & Mingle, Hennessey Creek, Piano Keys, Old Towne Inn, Michaels, Milk & Honey, one of our local libraries, or even the park, to name a few.
Wherever I can grab a meal, connect with neighbors, or attend local events, I feel the energy of District 9, and beyond.
