The Prince George's County Council meeting on July 1, 2025, spotlighted a contentious debate over the future of the Washington Gas facility located on Chillum Road. Washington Gas representatives voiced strong opposition to a proposed rezoning of their property, arguing that the site should maintain its industrial classification rather than transition to a mixed-use development as suggested in the preliminary West Hyattsville-Queens Chapel Sector Plan.

Brandon Todd, Vice President of Government Affairs for Washington Gas, emphasized the facility's long-standing role in the community, stating, "Since 1933, this property has been continuously and consistently used as a natural gas storage, transmission, and distribution center." He highlighted that the site currently employs nearly 100 workers and serves over 500,000 customers in Maryland, including 250,000 in Prince George's County. Todd urged the planning board to consider the historical significance of the property and grant it an industrial land use classification that reflects its ongoing operations.

The discussion also touched on land use goals outlined in the draft plan, which advocates for a shift towards mixed-use development. However, Washington Gas representatives argued that such aspirations do not align with the current realities of the facility's operations. They pointed out that the property has been industrial for decades and will likely remain so for the foreseeable future.

The meeting underscored the tension between development aspirations and the practical needs of existing industrial operations. As the council prepares to review the comments and evidence presented, the outcome of this debate could significantly impact the future landscape of the area, balancing community development goals with the operational needs of a long-standing energy provider.