A Prince George’s County Council committee made no recommendation concerning the appointment a new county attorney, a vote symbolizing the council’s lack of confidence in County Executive Rushern Baker’s candidate.
Council members cited a lack of experience and a perceived disrespect of the legislative branch at an appointment hearing for M. Andree Green, Baker’s appointee.
Green, who most recently served as legal counsel for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, was appointed acting county attorney on July 1.
In the past several months, council members said a lack of respect for the legislative branch left them concerned that Green would work only for Baker’s initiatives.
While appointed by Baker, the county attorney works for both the executive and legislative branches.
Councilwoman Mary Lehman, D-Laurel, said Green has exhibited a demeanor “that indicates nothing really but disdain for the legislative section of government. It seems your attitude over the past few months has been that you only work for the county executive.”
Council members also questioned Green’s lack of experience as a trial lawyer, and while many of the past county attorneys also lacked that experience, “maybe that’s why we’ve lost some major cases,” said Councilman Will Campos, D-Hyattsville.
The appointment now goes before the full County Council, by which time Campos said he hopes the council’s concerns can be addressed.
