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Better 9-1-1 Response
Wednesday, July 19, 2023
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Dear Friends,
Next week, I'm introducing a bill to create a proven program to improve emergency response for those with differing abilities or facing health challenges.
The Voluntary 9-1-1 Registry will allow individuals or their caregivers to notify first responders that someone at their address may be non-verbal, sensitive to loud noises or bright lights, prone to avoid eye contact, or exhibit other traits to help our public safety professionals better support them during an emergency call.
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Image from Howard County's 9-1-1 Flagging program
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We've been working with leaders from Montgomery County's public safety agencies and Emergency Call Center to address potential hurdles and establish the most effective possible program for our communities. I'm thankful for the support of Council President Evan Glass and Councilmembers Gabe Albornoz, Andrew Friedson, Sidney Katz, and Kate Stewart, who are co-sponsors of the legislation.
Email councilmember.luedtke@montgomerycountymd.gov if you're interested in this program or in testifying at the September 12 public hearing.
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Why I Voted No On Rent Control
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On Tuesday by a 7-4 vote, the Council approved the strictest rent control law of any major jurisdiction in the region. I opposed the legislation, which caps annual rent increases at the lower number of 3% plus the regional inflation rate or 6%, because I'm concerned this along with other aspects of the bill will make it harder to lower the base rents that are the root cause of our affordable housing crisis.
The bill as approved also includes a form of vacancy control - meaning the County will now cap how much a landlord can increase the rent even on a vacant unit. Some potentially helpful amendments were approved in the final version of the bill, including exemptions for very small landlords, for new development, and in situations in which a property owner needs to do a major and costly renovation that could include required energy efficiency projects. Despite this, I'm concerned this form of rent control will discourage the very creation of new housing supply we need to address the demand that's causing such high rents. In addition, this level of rent control in other jurisdictions has led to landlords taking their existing rental units off the market - further exacerbating any supply shortage.
I supported the original bill as a needed consumer protection measure to protect tenants from double-digit rent increases, combined with additional County investment to preserve and build new income-restricted affordable housing units. Unfortunately, I’m afraid the final version of the bill severely misses the mark.
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 Click the image to hear Councilmember Luedtke's remarks on the approval of the Airpark Community Advisory Committee
The Council on Tuesday unanimously approved our bill to create a much-needed group to discuss noise and safety mitigation near the Montgomery County Airpark. I'm especially thankful to the many residents from different communities and organizations who made clear the need for this platform from which to make recommendations to regulatory authorities including the FAA. Click the image above to hear my remarks at Tuesday's Council session.
There are two excellent upcoming opportunities to celebrate community and support local businesses. Check out the County's Annual Farm Tour & Harvest Sale this weekend and National Night Out in neighborhoods throughout District 7 and Montgomery County on August 1.
Annual Farm Tour & Harvest Sale
Happening this Saturday, July 22 and Sunday, July 23, check out the variety of farms, wineries, breweries, and other locally-owned and operated agricultural businesses to visit. This includes a number of ideas for "themed" tours and a "Buy Local" challenge.
National Night Out
August 1 is National Night Out, the annual and nationwide event to bring residents together with police and other public safety officials to build connections and community. These events will be held throughout the County - look for more information soon on specific locations and say hello to Team Luedtke staff at Olney, Cider Mill, Flower Hill and other local celebrations.
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