TONYA SWEAT
Age: 52
Residence: Accokeek
What have you accomplished for your community that makes you most proud, as a public servant, leader, or advocate?
In 2016, I led the effort to re-establish the PTSA chapter at Oxon Hill High School. During my tenure as president, Oxon Hill High School was named a National PTA School of Excellence. I understand the PTSA of Oxon Hill High School continues to thrive and has grown to over 100 members. It is a testament that parents want to be engaged in their children’s education and only need a safe and welcoming space.
What do you most hope to accomplish during your first term?
I hope to make local government more transparent and accountable to the people.
As we face a county budget crisis, are there any areas where you feel that county government is overspending? If so, please specify.
It is unclear to me just how the county is spending. I intend to obtain an audit of county finances to help get a handle on spending. I suspect much of the county’s revenue is pledged to repay municipal bonds after education and public safety is covered.
Who’s on your team? Please list endorsements and any community groups in which you have a leadership role.
Maryland Forward and City Councilmember Todd Mullins (Morningside) are on my team. I also have the support of volunteer firefighters in Prince George’s County. I am a life member of the South County Economic Development Association and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
A prior version of this candidate statement said that former Laurel Councilmember Martin Mitchell was part of Sweat’s team. Mitchell told Streetcar Suburbs that he has not endorsed any candidate for county executive.