Planning chief pick met with resistance in Pr. George's - washingtonpost.com

An effort by Prince George's County Executive Jack B. Johnson to replace the county's chief planning official is being met with resistance from some local officials, who say the move would unfairly tie the hands of the next executive.

Last week, Johnson nominated his deputy chief administrative officer, David J. Byrd, to replace Samuel J. Parker Jr. as chairman of the planning board. If Byrd is confirmed by the County Council, the next executive would be forced to keep him on for the rest of his four-year term.

With a role in approving much of the county's development, the board chairman is one of the most critical appointments the county executive can make. The chairman also alternates as chairman of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission.