When Amy Knesel joined Greenbelt’s City Council in January 2024, she expected to help guide the city through a time of transition. Instead, she quickly found herself immersed in the day-to-day life of local government: meeting fellow officials, learning about the challenges facing the city and listening to countless residents share their concerns, stories and hopes. What began as a short-term commitment became the most
meaningful work of her life: serving neighbors and strengthening the community that has shaped her for more than a decade.
A proud Greenbelt resident since 2014, Knesel was first drawn to the city’s spirit of connection during her son’s toddler years at Greenbelt Nursery School. She soon began volunteering, helping with community events and eventually serving on the school’s board. Over the years, she has continued her involvement in many corners of Greenbelt life ‒ from the Labor Day Festival to the Pumpkin Festival, Girl Scouts to youth soccer ‒ always guided by the belief that Greenbelt’s greatest strength is its people.
On council, Knesel has focused on protecting and expanding that strength. She has supported tenants facing displacement, championed fair housing protections and helped advance all-resident voting rights. She views her role as one of building trust, ensuring transparency and creating meaningful opportunities for participation in city decisions.
Looking ahead, Knesel’s priorities include deepening civic engagement, expanding youth and family programs and strengthening partnerships between the city, schools and nonprofits. She is particularly focused on ensuring that Greenbelt’s 16- to 25-year-olds have spaces to belong, connect and contribute ‒ recognizing that these years are critical for fostering lifelong community ties.
Beyond her service to Greenbelt, Knesel’s professional life has always centered on collaboration and care. With a background in nonprofit and community operations, she helps organizations build stronger systems and partnerships. She currently works for the Town of University Park, where her experience in local government complements her approach to council duties: practical, people-centered and grounded in shared responsibility.
Knesel believes Greenbelt’s strength has always been its people. She is committed to making sure every resident has a voice, a place to belong and a chance to help shape the city’s future ‒ building a community that is stronger, more resilient and more connected with each passing year.
Learn more at amykforgreenbelt.com
