If we want residents to trust government to do big things, we have to first prove we can get the small things right. That starts at the local level.
Few things are more fundamental to our day-to-day quality of life than what the team at the Montgomery County Division of Highway Services Bethesda Depot does every day. I was able to ride along with them around District 1 on Monday. We filled potholes, toured the Depot facility, and checked in on two roads being rebuilt after they were blown out by the flooding on July 8.
The culvert on Belfast Road in Potomac was so badly damaged that it split the road wide open. MCDOT has done a great job rebuilding the road and restoring parts of the nearby stream quickly and safely so residents can use the only access point into and out of the neighborhood.
It was an awesome opportunity to see how some of the most fundamental local government responsibilities are carried out and a reminder of how important it is that we continue to focus on the basics.
For those who sustained flooding damage from the July 8 storm, County residents and business owners are eligible for Flood Assistance in the form of low-interest disaster loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 for home repairs and $40,000 to repair or replace personal items, including vehicles, at interest rates as low as 1.938%. If you’ve already begun repairs, you can still apply for a loan to cover your out-of-pocket expenses by using receipts and photos to back up your claim. Please spread the word.
It's truly an honor and privilege to represent our extraordinary community on the County Council. As always, we hope you will continue to keep in touch and reach out to us with any issues.
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