The Town of Cheverly has announced plans to sue the neighboring town of Bladensburg for the town’s efforts to annex a that, in the eyes of Cheverly residents, has long been a part of the town.
The site, known as Hospital Hill, is getting millions of dollars in state redevelopment funds. Bladensburg leaders have spoken out about the perceived preferential treatment for Cheverly and noted that the site is owned by the county’s Redevelopment Board, rather than any municipality.
“It stands firmly behind the fairness and legality of the annexation process conducted by the Town Council. We remain committed to upholding the principles of transparency and equity in all our actions and will not engage in divisive rhetoric or inflammatory exchanges to sway the whims of the court of public opinion,†the town of Bladensburg wrote in a statement after the lawsuit was announced. “We look forward to answering the complaint filed by Cheverly and firmly believe that we have conducted the annexation in question in accordance with the law. As I clearly stated at the hearing on December 19, 2024, the Town has acted reasonably and in a good faith and business-like manner that serves the best interest of the residents of Bladensburg.â€
Cheverly Mayor Kayce Munyeneh with the process regarding the annexation, and both she and other Cheverly leaders have spoken out. Several attended a town meeting in Bladensburg, where numerous Bladensburg residents spoke in favor of the plan and Bladensburg officials unanimously voted in favor of annexation.
“I know that we are going to be neighbors after this,” said Cheverly Mayor Kayce Munyeneh. “So I want us to come to an amicable resolution without draining all our resources to pay attorneys: that is my ideal. If we can’t get to a resolution, we just move forward.”
One of the lawsuits is for $40 million, while the other is to halt the annexation process.
“Our focus continues to be on serving the best interests of all residents, fostering inclusivity, and creating opportunities that benefit the entire community — not just a select few,†the town of Bladensburg noted in a statement. “We appreciate the ongoing support of our residents as we strive to build a stronger, more united Town of Bladensburg.”