April 1, 2022 Press Release WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement after Elizabeth "Betty" Hewlett retired as head of the Prince George's Planning Board: "Few Prince Georgians have made such a tremendous impact in our community like my dear friend Betty Hewlett. It has been a privilege to serve alongside Betty for close to three decades. I've witnessed first-hand how much she cares for not just Prince George's County, but for making a positive difference in the lives of our people. For over two decades, Betty has devoted herself to public service in Prince George's County with great talent and steadfast commitment to our priorities. As the first African American woman and first woman to Chair the Prince George's County Planning Board of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Betty has done an outstanding job managing thousands of employees, a police department, and the land-use and development of land for the benefit of residents in the Fifth District and Maryland. It was under her leadership that the Planning Board received six Gold Medals for excellence in parks and recreation management – the only agency to hold that many awards in the nation. She has led the agency to countless other awards and heightened the standard of service for others to follow. "Betty has also played an integral role in orchestrating my annual Black History Month Breakfast, helping to bring leaders and members of our community together to celebrate Black history and acknowledge the work that must be done in the fight for justice and equality. She has been a fighter for diversity in Prince George's County, and continually advocated for more Black women in our government and in doing so, has become a mentor figure to so many young women who reflect her spirit to make change and lead with purpose. I thank Betty for being a fierce champion for the needs of Prince George's County and its residents and I wish her a joyful retirement in the years to come."