Wednesday’s ribbon cutting and opening of the new District VII Police Station in Fort Washington is a tremendous victory for residents across the County, but especially in southern Prince George’s County (“South County”). The District VII Station will eventually expand the reach of the Police Department in South County, thereby reducing response times and alleviating pressures on the resources of neighboring police districts. For more than a decade, South County civic and elected leaders have advocated for this station and overcome many obstacles to make this day possible. I would like to thank my Council colleagues and the County Executive for funding the construction of this Station. Now we must work to provide the additional officers that will be needed to ensure the success of District VII. The Council recently requested the restoration of funds to the Police Department to fund an additional class of officers this fiscal year to improve police staffing countywide, including in District VII. It is my hope that this request will be honored.