Politics & Government
Mayor Judith "J" Davis: A Year in Review
The Greenbelt Mayor is honored by the Washington Council of Governments for her public service.
On Dec. 14, 2011, Greenbelt Mayor Judith “J” Davis was honored by the Washington Council of Governments (COG) with the organization’s highest accolade: the Elizabeth and David Scull Metropolitan Public Service Award, in recognition for her outstanding service in the Washington region.
When she found out it was she who would receive the award, Davis said there was a moment when she thought, “Wait a minute, who?”
“There are so many others who do marvelous and wonderful things. That’s why it was such a big surprise” Davis said. “I didn’t feel like I was quite in the same league as some of the others who’ve won.”
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But with a distinguished track record, clearly other did not agree. Davis served as a public official for almost 20 years and has represented Greenbelt in a variety of ways this year alone.
“As an elected official, you need to participate in local, county and state levels to find out the concerns of the community - to get the services and solutions to their problems” Davis said. “It takes time, energy, and dedication to represent Greenbelt and help keep Greenbelt great,” she continued.
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In addition to serving as mayor of the city of Greenbelt--she was elected to her eighth term this year--while a member of the city council, Davis represents Greenbelt on the COG Board of Directors. She also serves as a member of the COG’s Climate, Energy and Environment Policy Committee. In June of this year, Mayor Davis was elected President of the Maryland Municipal League, a position she will assume in June 2012. Davis is also a volunteer in the Greenbelt community.
“If you can’t find something to do or someway to serve in the city of Greenbelt, you’re just not looking hard enough,” Davis explained. “The city is full of volunteers and they’re always looking for more.”
Davis expects more great things for the city Greenbelt in the new year. 2012 marks the 75th anniversary of the city and the City Council’s 75th Anniversary Committee will host activities each month, with the first on January 8.
“(Greenbelt) fills your life and makes you feel like doing worthwhile things for your community. I plan on staying here until I can’t stay here anymore,” Davis said.