Snowstorm Update

Tom hits the streets to report on snow removal activity

Tom's latest snow report

Fabruary 10, 2010 - My staff and I are monitoring phone calls to the office (301) 952-3887 and emails that we receive. We are forwarding concerns directly to the personnel supervising the snow removal teams. I am getting these emails on my Blackberry - your message is being read and dealt with. Click here to see my latest report.

Campaign 2010

Dernoga to run for Prince George's County State's Attorney

As you probably know, I have been a member of the Prince George’s County Council since January 2002. I have been honored to serve as Chair of the Council in 2006 and again this year, in 2010. However, term limitations will require that I conclude my tenure this December. Visit our State's Attorney Campaign Website.

Many citizens have been pleased with my public service and have encouraged me to continue in public office. With public service and advocacy being the principal elements behind my decision, I have decided to be a candidate for the office of the States Attorney for Prince George’s County. I am committed to making Prince George's County a better and a safer place to live and work. I want to bring a renewed sense of commitment and accountability to the States Attorney’s office. I realize the importance of this office in our county government, and the high priority that all our citizens place on law enforcement and in the fair and equitable application of justice. I see that so much more is possible for our County when our citizens, our visitors, and our businesses are confident in the ability of our County government to keep the peace.

My campaign team is gearing up for an eventful year and I need your support. During my tenure, I have been supported by many citizens from all across Prince George’s County because I am community focused, available and someone that the average person can relate to. I have worked hard to help communities and community leaders, and I have lived up to my original campaign slogan: Working for Your Community. My work on the County Council and my background as a community advocate provide me with unique experience. I intend to bring my focused, results oriented approach to the States Attorney’s Office to protect our communities so that they truly can be the liveable communities we desire.

Please make a contribution to Citizens for Tom Dernoga to enable our team to share my vision for the future and my record of success with the people of Prince George's County, while running a vigorous grassroots campaign that we'll need to win in September and November. Also, please sign up to volunteer on the Team. I really need your help.

Current Issues

Proposed Property Tax Increases

I have received a lot of inquiries about the possible increase in real property taxes and the Council's action to support these proposals. Understand that these are actually State bills and the Council action was only about whether we “support” the State bills. We do not have authority to actually raise these taxes - not unless the State Legislature enacts the bills and gives us the authority. More . . .

Current News

Dernoga Appointed Chair of the County Council Again

Donna Brown, deputy clerk of the council, presents a crystal plaque to Councilman Thomas Dernoga on his election as council chairman, during an Exchange of the Gavel ceremony in Upper Marlboro.

I was very pleased that my colleagues unanimously voted to confirm me as Chair of the County Council for the 2010 Legislative Year. Previously, I was honored to serve as Chair in 2006 -- another election year. I am the senior member on the Council and I have had the experience of keeping the Council focused on our mission while avoiding distractions in an election year.

This year, we will be focused first on the fiscal health of the County and working with our State representatives to minimize reductions in State aid. We look forward to a more stable fiscal situation in the County and we will emphasize continued reduction in crime, job creation to lower unemployment and reducing the inventory of foreclosed houses. I am excited about the future of our County and I am honored to again serve as the Council Chair to help us steer the County to safer harbors.

New council chairman vows to improve government transparency

Dernoga plans to focus on budget, foreclosures and environmental issues

by Daniel Valentine, Gazette.net

Dec. 2 - Prince George's County Councilman Thomas E. Dernoga (D-Dist. 1) of Laurel was unanimously elected by the council Tuesday to serve as chairman... More

Dernoga assumes Pr. George's Council Chairmanship

by Jonathan Mummolo, Maryland Politics (Washington Post Blog)

Link to Washpost Blog.

Parking primer

"Kudos to County Councilman Thomas E. Dernoga (D-Dist. 1) of Laurel who complained after hearing from constituents."

Gazette.Net

April 23 - When County Executive Jack B. Johnson (D) announced plans to beautify Prince George's, few imagined it would mean they would have to change the way they park. However, after officials announced they would become more aggressive about parking violations nearly a year ago, neighborhood complaints sporadically poured in to The Gazette. More . . .

Beltsville senior center construction to begin

by Timmy Gelles, Gazette.net

April 16 - Area seniors will have a new place to meet and greet next year.
Construction of the Beltsville-Laurel Senior Activity Center, a 22,000-square-foot facility located adjacent to Laurel Regional Hospital on Contee Road, is scheduled to begin Friday and should be completed by early next summer, said County Councilman Thomas E. Dernoga (D-Dist.1) of Laurel. More . . .

Residents speak against bus cuts

by Jordan Attebury, Gazette.net

April 16 - County leaders and about 45 residents said Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority needs to explore options to cover its financial shortfall instead of proposed bus cuts at a Monday night meeting at the First United Methodist Church in Hyattsville. More . . .