Strengthen 21st Century Learning from Cradle to Career and Beyond
Annual Youth Town Hall
Meeting with students from across Montgomery County for the annual Youth Town Hall
This month, I had the opportunity to attend the County Council’s annual Youth Town Hall, where our young residents shared their perspectives. Students raised constructive concerns about funding for extracurricular programs, rising housing costs, drug use, and safety issues in schools and the community. They also worried about the shifting political landscape and its future impact on their lives.
Their insights are vital as they represent the next generation of voters and leaders. Inspired by impactful trailblazers, I am committed to investing in our youth and strengthening 21st-century education through robust funding for public schools, mental health resources, apprenticeship programs, and better salaries for our dedicated educators.
I enjoyed interacting with these inspiring young residents. I appreciated their questions and feedback. As I lead my S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council each semester, I am dedicated to involving youth in community and public policy discussions. Their voices matter!
Make Living in Montgomery County More Affordable
2024-2028 Growth and Infrastructure Policy
On November 12, I voted with my colleagues to approve the 2024-2028 Growth and Infrastructure Policy. This policy outlines guidelines to ensure our infrastructure supports our growing community and new developments. With this policy in place, Montgomery County will continue to expand housing and infrastructure while addressing the needs of each community. It will guide our efforts over the next four years, making Montgomery County an appealing place for residents to live and grow.
Primary Care Coalition Annual Storytelling Show
Six inspiring storytellers who shared narratives as part of PCC’s collaborative community engagement efforts
This month, we attended the Primary Care Coalition’s Annual Storytelling Show, which celebrates the individuals and partnerships that promote health and wellness in our community. The event's unique format brought together storytellers to highlight the collaborative efforts to make health accessible to everyone in Montgomery County. Thank you to the PCC for hosting this beautiful storytelling showcase, which allowed us to reflect on how healthcare accessibility affects us all.
Montgomery Village Recreation Center Community Kick-off Meeting
Speaking with residents about the future development of a recreation center in Montgomery Village. Pictured L-R: Robin Riley, Director of Montgomery County’s Recreation Department, and Clint Sobratti
I attended a community meeting focused on the future of the Montgomery Village Recreation Center. Over the past several months, I have collaborated with Councilmember Dawn Luedtke to advocate for this vital project. During the FY25 budget discussions, we submitted a letter in support of the County Executive’s recommendation for $50,000 to initiate facility planning for the recreation center.
Hearing community members share their challenges in accessing recreational spaces at the kick-off event was heartbreaking. Many expressed the pressing need for indoor recreation options for the Montgomery Village and Gaithersburg communities. Recreation centers play a vital role in creating safe and welcoming spaces for all, equitably serving everyone, particularly our youngest and oldest residents. These centers foster community connections and provide essential resources that contribute to positive mental and social health outcomes.
I am excited to collaborate with community members to bring this project to life and enhance the recreational opportunities available in our area!
Senior Villages Breakfast with the Council
Discussing budget priorities and concerns with residents of Montgomery County’s Villages
In preparation for the upcoming budget season, the County Council met with the Montgomery County Village Consortium for a breakfast and Q&A session. We discussed funding priorities and concerns raised by residents of our senior villages. These volunteer-led organizations help community members age in place by fostering social connections, coordinating volunteer assistance, and ensuring access to well-resourced, integrated communities.
There are currently 26 villages in our county, with seven more in development. I appreciated hearing from village residents and leaders, and I will prioritize funding for social welfare initiatives that support our most vulnerable residents, including our aging neighbors.
Celebration of Giving
Congratulating Montgomery County Philanthropist of the Year, Bob Buchanan
I had a wonderful time attending the Greater Washington Community Foundation’s Celebration of Giving, where we honored our County’s generous philanthropists, business leaders, elected officials, and representatives from the region’s leading nonprofit organizations. I would like to congratulate Bob Buchanan, the Montgomery County Philanthropist of the Year! This event was a powerful testament to how a community can foster generosity, creating an impact that will resonate for generations. I believe we can be more effective in serving our residents by collaborating with diverse stakeholders. I appreciated being part of a remarkable group of prominent leaders who share my vision of increasing economic mobility for more families, ultimately strengthening Montgomery County.
Advance Sustainable Local Food Production in the Ag Reserve
Montgomery College Mobile Markets
Distributing food, visiting the free community pantry, and learning from Montgomery College staff about food security initiatives on campus
My team and I distributed food alongside student volunteers at Montgomery College's Mobile Market. This monthly initiative offers free fresh fruits, vegetables, and essential food items to students, faculty, and community members. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no eligibility requirements. We also toured the on-campus pantry to learn about the college's food security initiatives that support a diverse student population. A heartfelt thank you to Montgomery College, the Capital Area Food Bank, and all the dedicated volunteers for their efforts in addressing food insecurity!
Revitalize the Economy while Recovering from the Pandemic
20th Anniversary of the Drug Court
Presenting a proclamation honoring 20 years of the county’s Drug Court. Pictured L-R: Delegate Wims, Judge Dwyer, Judge Smith, and Judge Rupp
I was fortunate to present a proclamation with Councilmember Luedtke for the 20th anniversary of the Montgomery County Drug Court. It was touching to witness the graduation ceremony for 11 deserving graduates who completed the Drug Court program, reclaiming the lives they had envisioned for themselves before facing the challenges and impact of addiction. Congratulations to the graduates, the exemplary Drug Court team, and the wonderful community organizations and individuals who make this initiative possible.
It Takes a Village AfriThrive Conference
Joining advocates and organizers for the inaugural It Takes a Village Conference
I was honored to attend the inaugural It Takes A Village Conference hosted by AfriThrive, led by Dr. Truphena Choti, which aims to build thriving African immigrant communities. The conference brought together leaders, advocates, and policymakers to address critical issues, including food security, health equity, social justice, and the diaspora's role in development. We explored how to progress by leveraging our existing knowledge, reinforcing that it truly takes a village of collaborative efforts to thrive. As the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, I am deeply committed to tackling these essential issues that resonate with me.
Global Women’s Summit
Arriving at Washington Post Live’s second annual Global Women’s Summit with Tazeen Ahman, President of the Montgomery County Women’s Democratic Club
I was thrilled to be invited to the third annual Global Women’s Summit hosted by Washington Post Live. The event showcased incredible women who are trailblazers in transforming our world. It was a powerful reminder of women's limitless potential to lead and innovate. Connecting with women representing political leadership, business acumen, fearless advocacy, and diverse expertise was inspiring and energizing.
Clarksburg Fire Station Ribbon-Cutting
Celebrating the opening of the brand new Clarksburg Fire Station with Fire Chief Smedley, many colleagues on the Council, and team members from Fire and Rescue services
I had the honor of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of the new Clarksburg Fire Station. This milestone represents the culmination of extensive development efforts to enhance the delivery of high-quality and timely emergency services for the expanding Upcounty area. The facility is modern and equipped with state-of-the-art resources, providing our first responders with the tools to address emergencies effectively. Its strategic location improves response times significantly. I would like to express my appreciation to Chief Smedley, our County's Fire and Rescue professionals, and the dedicated volunteers who work alongside our public servants to ensure the safety of our community.
National Adoption Day
Every November, on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, we celebrate National Adoption Day, a day dedicated to finalizing thousands of adoptions and shining a light on the many children in foster care who continue to wait for loving and supportive homes. National Adoption Day unites courts, attorneys, and families, all working toward providing stability and love for these precious children.
While adoption fosters beautiful family bonds, it’s important to remember that many children also require additional support, such as educational resources and therapy, to thrive truly. We must acknowledge the disparity in adoption rates, as White children are adopted at significantly higher rates than their Black and Hispanic peers, who often face more obstacles in finding permanent homes. Together, we can advocate for all children in foster care, ensuring they receive the love and support they deserve.
As the County’s Lead for Eliminating Disparities, I am committed to ensuring that every child in Montgomery County's foster system feels safe and valued. To find out more about the fostering and adoption processes in Montgomery County, check out Child Welfare Services’ brochure on adoption services and the Foster Parent Services website, or register for one of the upcoming monthly information sessions. Together, we can help these children find their forever homes.
Pleasant View Park Ribbon-Cutting
Enjoying the beautiful newest addition to Gaithersburg’s parks
This month, I celebrated the grand opening of the City of Gaithersburg’s newest park, Pleasant View Park, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony! Named after the nearby Quince Orchard community, one of the first free black communities established after the Civil War, Pleasant View Park is a sprawling 9.54-acre park with community gardens, a bicycle skills course, plenty of open space, pavilions, a playground, fitness pods, and a welcome plaza. As a former member of the Gaithersburg City Council, I’m excited to see how residents utilize this vibrant new public space!
Business Ribbon-Cuttings - Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls and Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Center
Supporting brand new businesses at celebratory ribbon cuttings across Montgomery County
Our county’s business community is thriving! I had the opportunity to attend ribbon cuttings for multiple grand openings of new businesses in our county – a new location of Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls in Gaithersburg and a new location of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Center in Rockville! I’m eager to hear from residents about how these new locations will integrate into their communities and enhance their local experience by offering excellent dining and fitness options.
MCCC Business Awards Dinner
Celebrating Montgomery County’s vibrant business community at the annual MCCC Business Awards Dinner
My team attended the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards Dinner, joining hundreds of influential business and government leaders representing various prominent organizations. We proudly celebrated the exceptional achievements of Montgomery County’s business community. As a dedicated member of the Economic Development Committee, I actively support our county’s business leaders, spotlight emerging entrepreneurs, and champion their economic success!
Tackle Climate Change Through Equitable Transportation Initiatives
Veterans Day Commemorative Bus
Ride On bus highlighting Operation Green Light and displaying contact information for the County’s Commission on Veterans Affairs and Serving Together
Montgomery County celebrated our honorable service members by unveiling a commemorative Veterans Day-themed Ride On bus highlighting Operation Green Light, a program sponsored by the National Association of Counties to recognize our veterans’ immeasurable sacrifices. The bus also publicizes services offered by the Commission on Veterans Affairs for veteran residents throughout the County and will be deployed on bus routes throughout November.
December 8: Council Resource Fair
The Montgomery County Council and the Executive will host a resource fair responding to the rapidly changing landscape. This fair will include service providers in the health and wellness, reproductive services, LGBTQ+ services, immigration and legal services, job resources, housing, and food delivery arenas. It will be held at the Council Office Building in Rockville on Sunday, December 8th, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
December HHS and ECON Committee Worksessions
The Economic Development Committee will meet for committee work sessions on December 2nd at 9:30 AM. To find committee work session agendas and watch live, you can follow along on County Cable 6, the Council website, or the Council’s YouTube or Facebook page.
December 3: World AIDS Day Activities
On Tuesday, December 3rd, Montgomery County Sexual Health & Wellness Services, in partnership with the Montgomery County (MD) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., will be hosting various events for World AIDS Day, including the 4th Annual Health Equity Breakfast and several workshops at the Silver Spring Civic Building. In Montgomery County, this year’s World AIDS Day theme is "Breaking the Silence Together: Celebrating Black Women’s Strength in HIV Awareness, Sexual Health, & Wellness." Visit here for more details and free tickets to various breakfast and lunch workshops!
December 4: Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring Open House
On Wednesday, December 4th, Meals on Wheels Takoma Park/Silver Spring will host the Heart and Art Reception and Open House from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM to celebrate their reimagined space in Takoma Park. There will be ping-pong and refreshments. For additional questions or to RSVP, please contact courtney@mowtakoma.org.
December 4: Gaithersburg Council in the Communities - Area 8
The Gaithersburg Mayor & City Council are excited to connect with residents through the city’s Council in the Community meetings. These gatherings occur in local schools or community centers, where community members can meet elected officials and representatives from essential City departments and discuss updates on ongoing projects. The upcoming Area 8 meeting will be on Wednesday, December 4, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Benjamin Gaither Center in Gaithersburg. Attendance is open to everyone, and no RSVP is required.
December 5: Walkshed Safety Evaluation Meeting Rosemary Hills and Rock Creek Forest Elementary Schools
The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) will hold a series of in-person meetings to present the findings of six school walkability studies, the last of which will be on Thursday, December 5th, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Rosemary Hills Elementary School in Silver Spring to discuss Rosemary Hills and Rock Creek Forest Elementary Schools. The meetings will show study findings and discuss the sidewalk and safety needs of students walking and biking to the studied schools. Additionally, these community meetings will help County staff better understand safety needs and plan future sidewalk and safety improvement projects within the school.
Registration is not required. Public feedback and information provided will become a matter of public record. Before each meeting, the public is encouraged to review the walkability study of each project website here.
December 5: Office of Grants Management’s First Monthly Forum
The Office of Grants Management (OGM) will host its first community forum on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 11:00 AM. This event will be virtual, expected to last one hour, and repeated roughly the first week of each month. At this first event, OGM will update its office’s operations (including a new grant management platform) plans for the new calendar year, preview upcoming grant programs, and open up questions.
December 7-8: Christmas on the Farm
Over the weekend of December 7th and 8th, visit the Montgomery County Agricultural History Farm Park in Derwood from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM to enjoy complimentary cookies and cider, a bake sale table, hay rides, barn decorations, music, holiday crafts, and farm animals, as well as a visit to the tool museum. Free parking and free admission are available for all attendees.
December 14: Akhmedova Ballet Academy Nutcracker
On Saturday, December 14th, the Akhmedova Ballet Academy will perform the Nutcracker ballet at the Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center in Silver Spring. The ballet will include a mini version from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM and a complete night performance from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. A dazzling spectacle of music, dance, and theater, the Nutcracker is a holiday favorite for all who enjoy family entertainment. Visit here for tickets and additional information!
- MCPS is seeking community input for its second phase of the calendar development process for the 2025-2026 school year. The form is available in seven languages, and the deadline for submitting feedback is December 1.
- The Montgomery County Food Council’s Online Food Assistance Resource Directory lists over 100 food assistance sites. This directory is searchable by location, languages spoken, food assistance type, accessibility, and other features to serve residents’ needs best.
- Small Business Saturday is around the corner! Consider patronizing a local Black-owned small business as we gear up for the winter holidays! Visit this website to find Black-owned businesses near you. You can also find a list of small businesses by visiting the American Express Shop Small webpage or the websites of our local Chambers of Commerce.
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Marylanders can now order another round of free COVID-19 nasal swab tests delivered directly to their homes. Each household can get four tests through COVIDtests.gov.
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Montgomery County’s Asian American Health Initiative has awarded $1.5 Million to support health and wellness programs for Asian American and Pacific Islander communities
- If you received a letter from WSSC about possible lead sources in privately owned pipes, follow their instructions online to confirm whether your private water line needs replacement quickly. Please note that WSSC replaced all publicly owned pipes in 2005, and 96% of customer-owned water service lines are NOT lead.
- It's more important than ever to get your flu shot this year. Make an appointment online to get your free flu shot at one of the County-sponsored clinics.
- Following a listening session in October, the County’s Overdose Prevention Team is seeking input from the community on how to use the Opioid Abatement Funds. The form is available in seven languages, and the deadline for submitting feedback is December 11.
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Starting Nov. 1, people who receive Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) can get a private health plan and financial help through Maryland Health Connection.
- Montgomery County has received a $150,000 grant from the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) for its Food Truck Electrification Pilot program. The program aims to replace diesel-powered food truck generators with electric power systems, significantly reducing carbon emissions and improving public health.
- A highly invasive aquatic plant called two-horned trapa (Trapa bispinosa) has been found in a pond in Poolesville, marking the first sighting in Montgomery County. If you see this plant near ponds or streams, please report it.
- WorkSource Montgomery recently completed their FY2024 Annual Report, which includes extensive data, customer testimonials, and other highlights from serving diverse residents.
- If you are living with HIV in Montgomery County, you are not alone. Join our County’s monthly virtual support group meeting on Zoom every 4th Tuesday at 5:30 PM.
- Montgomery County Children’s Opportunity Alliance offers Pre-K Capacity Building Grant Funding for local child care centers – apply now!
We hope everyone celebrating Thanksgiving enjoys a day filled with delicious food, warmth, and meaningful moments with loved ones. This holiday allows us to express gratitude and reflect on our blessings while acknowledging that Thanksgiving coincides with Native American Heritage Month. It's a chance to honor Indigenous peoples' rich cultures, histories, and contributions. May this time inspire reflection, compassion, and a spirit of togetherness.
If you have any questions or would like to contact me about anything in this newsletter, please email me at Councilmember.Sayles@montgomerycountymd.gov or call my office at 240-777-7964.
If you want to subscribe to this monthly newsletter, please click the button below. Thank you for reading, and I look forward to hearing from you and continuing to serve you as your Councilmember At-Large!
Sincerely,
Laurie-Anne Sayles
Councilmember At-Large
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