James Johnson

September 11, 2009 The Honorable Marilynn M. Bland Chairperson Prince George's County Council County Administration Building Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20772 Dear Chairperson Bland: It is my pleasure to submit to you and the County Council the appointment of Mr. James E. Johnson as the Director of Housing and Community Development. Mr. Johnson brings over 34 years of experience in program management and administration and is an excellent candidate to serve as Director. The Department of Housing and Community Development Director is responsible for all aspects of our housing programs, including planning, program development and management, community services and housing rehabilitation. The Director is also responsible for the administration and coordination of County support and services to the Housing Authority. Mr. Johnson, a resident of Camp Springs, has a record of achievement in program administration, personnel coordination, contract oversight, negotiations and as an entrepreneur. Since 2008, he has served as the Acting Director of Housing and Community Development and the Executive Director of the Housing Authority. Mr. Johnson has impressively managed and directed the Department’s 145 employees and $80 million budget. He developed and executed programs which have brought $22.4 million in grant funding to the County through the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Mr. Johnson improved and shepherded the process to guarantee attainment of $6.5 million in grant funding from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program in fiscal year 2009. He created and implemented a reorganization plan and operating policies for the Department and the Housing Authority which have improved operations. Mr. Johnson served as my Special Assistant for five years during which I relied on him to assist me in several capacities including management, administration and as a liaison. In his last assignment, I detailed him to serve as a technical advisor and manager to the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Housing Authority for program improvement. For five years, Mr. Johnson has successfully managed my Summer Youth Initiative Program which has assisted over 2,000 young adults with summer jobs in county government and 200

private sector companies. Honorable Marilynn M. Bland Page Two Prior to his work with the County, he was the owner of Gospel Notes Records and Books in Oxon Hill for 13 years. He has also served as personnel manager at Howard University and taught in the District of Columbia public schools. Mr. Johnson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and Biology from Benedict College and a Master of Higher Education Administration degree from Howard University. He is a member of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Mr. Johnson possesses the required skills, talents and demonstrated experience to be successful and I am confident that he will continue to be an asset to the citizens and residents of Prince George’s County. Pursuant to Sections 322, 402 and 504 of the Prince George’s County Charter, I am appointing Mr. James E. Johnson to serve as the Director of Housing and Community Development for Prince George’s County. Mr. James E. Johnson 6904 Geneva Lane Camp Springs, Maryland 20748

Director of Housing and Community Development

Attached for the Council’s consideration is an Appointee Data Form for Mr. Johnson. His Financial Disclosure Statement has been transmitted to the Clerk of the Council. Your favorable consideration of this appointment is appreciated. If I may provide you with any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Sincerely,

JACK B. JOHNSON County Executive Enclosures cc: Members of the County Council Craig S. Price, Council Administrator Redis C. Floyd, Clerk of the Council