United in Service and Support Community Resource Fair
Thanks to the hundreds of residents and providers who joined us for the United in Service and Support Community Resource Fair. As we prepare for the change in federal administration, our first priority is to our residents and to continue the work of being a welcoming and inclusive community. The free resource fair provided residents with a wide range of information about public health and wellness, including reproductive rights, job skills training and contracting, and available resources so residents understand their rights.
If you couldn’t make it, view the Council webpage for local community resources available for you.
Council Extends Minority, Female and Disabled-Owned Business Purchasing Program
I was proud to cosponsor legislation that extends the County’s Minority, Female and Disabled-Owned Business Purchasing Program for five years. This extension will allow more local minority, female and disabled-owned businesses to receive County procurement contracts. Many of these businesses are at the center of community hubs and are vital to job creation and keeping our economy moving. I appreciate Vice President Will Jawando and Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles for leading this initiative to continue to support businesses and entrepreneurs in a fair and equitable way.
New Bill to Assist Essential Service Providers
I recently introduced legislation to create a discounted parking permit for childcare providers and organizations that provide services to unhoused individuals in the Silver Spring Central Business District. Those who live, work and shop in the Silver Spring Central Business District have been dramatically affected by the transportation construction in the area, which has also impacted Progress Place and childcare facilities. Meanwhile nearby garages are underutilized. The proposed rate would be five percent of the current monthly permit rate for garages in the area. If passed, this measure will ease the burden on providers offering essential services in the Silver Spring area. The public hearing for Bill 29-24 is scheduled for Jan. 21.
Minority Legislative Breakfast
I had the opportunity to discuss Montgomery County priorities as well as strengthen partnerships alongside our local, state and federal leaders at the 24th Annual Minority Legislative Breakfast. This annual event is an opportunity to hear from members of the African American Chamber of Commerce, Asian American Political Alliance and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce on their joint legislative priorities, including education, housing affordability, economic growth, racial equity and social justice, and more.
 Visit to The Civic Circle
The Civic Circle hosted a “Voices of Hope” celebration, which I was honored to join with MCPS Student Member of the Board of Education Praneel Suvarna. At a time of growing polarization and disinformation at the national level, empowering young people to participate in democracy has never been more important, and that work starts at the local level. I’m grateful to the work this organization does to support civic learning and inspire the next generation to become compassionate, informed, and engaged citizens.
 Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors Legislative Breakfast
I had a great time at the annual Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors legislative meeting -- a gathering for real estate, business and elected leaders to discuss critical issues affecting the real estate industry in Montgomery County. I look forward to using innovative approaches in partnership with GCAAR and industry leaders to create more housing, more affordable housing and homeownership opportunities in Montgomery County.
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Office of Council President Kate Stewart
