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Supporters of Bill 8-24 celebrate as the Council voted unanimously in favor of my legislation
Earlier this year, I discovered that some landlords in the County were not complying with laws that prevent discrimination against prospective renters with non-violent felony convictions. In response, I sponsored and passed Bill 8-24 to enhance our “ban-the-box” regulations, increasing oversight, data reporting, and posting requirements.
Recognizing the importance of our diverse community, supporting renters is a key component of the "M" in my S.M.A.R.T. agenda, which aims to enhance affordability in County living for all residents. While I continue to champion the cause of homeownership, it is equally important to address the needs of the one-third of our population who rent. We must work diligently to ensure that their rights are respected and that they receive the necessary protections and support, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Honoring the Spring (L) and Fall (R) Youth Advisory Council cohorts of 2024
Engaging youth voices in our policy discussions in Montgomery County is crucial, as our decisions affect their future. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to collaborate with talented young individuals who are dedicated to advancing my S.M.A.R.T. policy agenda.
In 2024, we successfully launched two additional S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council cohorts for grades 7-12. Each group had the chance to present innovative policy proposals, showcasing their insights and creativity.
I want to express my gratitude to the County and community leaders who partnered with us and offered invaluable perspectives on how local government operates. By nurturing the next generation’s civic engagement and policy-making skills, we are helping to build a brighter future for our community.
We are excited to announce the launch of our fifth cohort in January. If you or someone you know is interested in participating in the Spring 2025 Youth Advisory Council, please complete the application here!
Speaking at a press conference for the passage of Bill 4-24 with fellow sponsors Councilmembers Jawando and Mink
Montgomery County is set for significant growth as we position ourselves as a leading destination for all residents. To dismantle the historical trends that have marginalized communities, I am firmly committed to advancing legislation that uplifts our most vulnerable neighbors, including those impacted by the justice system and minority, female, and disabled-owned businesses.
At a press conference with Councilmembers Jawando and Mink, we announced the passage of Bill 4-24, establishing the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund Commission. This commission aims to empower communities affected by the “war on drugs” by allowing them to reinvest a portion of cannabis sales revenue into programs and resources that will benefit them. You can find more information about the commission's formation and recruitment process here.
Furthermore, I am proud to have co-led the passage of Expedited Bill 23-24 with Council VP Jawando. This bill extends the County's Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned Business Purchasing Program for five more years, underscoring our dedication to supporting entrepreneurs who have been historically overlooked. I urge all interested vendors to visit the Office of Procurement’s website and seize the opportunity to collaborate with the County.
Meeting with constituents throughout the County to gather feedback (above) and kick off the Safe and Vibrant Communities Workgroup (below)
I organized five Community Conversations in July to engage residents and County representatives across Montgomery County. These discussions proved valuable, as we identified three key themes: enhancing community safety, building stronger business-community partnerships, and addressing the needs of our youth.
After these conversations, many residents and stakeholders enthusiastically joined my Safe and Vibrant Communities Workgroup. This collaborative effort aims to turn our insights into practical policies. After a productive kickoff meeting in the fall, I'm excited to continue working together to create a safer, more vibrant community for everyone. I appreciate all who are actively participating in this important initiative! Stay tuned.
Engaging with residents and collaborating with fellow Councilmembers to evaluate potential areas for future housing developments
Montgomery County is addressing the ongoing housing crisis by exploring various proposals for affordable housing and has allocated over $79 million to the Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA) for this fiscal year. These resources will enable DHCA to enhance the availability of affordable housing, improve living conditions, and safeguard tenants' rights. Despite facing fiscal challenges, there is a strong commitment to advancing safe and affordable housing solutions.
Reflecting our County’s shared commitment with the state of Maryland to revitalize disinvested communities, Governor Moore just announced that the state will be awarding nearly $130 million in community revitalization projects, including $9.2 million for projects in Montgomery County. This money will be used by organizations like the Safe and Healthy Homes Program and Habitat for Humanity to provide free, critical home repairs and weatherization, as well as to update aging housing infrastructure to ensure structural integrity, redevelop shopping centers, and construct new affordable housing units. These comprehensive initiatives are vital to my S.M.A.R.T. agenda, which is designed to make Montgomery County more affordable for residents.
Mountain Manor Treatment Center is a state-of-the-art treatment facility helping young people recover from addiction
Young people are our future, and this year, Montgomery County partnered with the Maryland Department of Health to open the Mountain Manor Treatment Center, the first high-intensity residential program in Maryland for young people with substance and opioid use disorders.
This center, funded by state and county opioid restitution, will serve youth under 21 statewide, providing essential services to address addiction and prevent relapses. As a County Council’s Health and Human Services Committee member and the Lead on Eliminating Disparities in Public Health, I hope this center will support Maryland's adolescents and young adults who need care.
Hosting Montgomery County agricultural leaders for the annual National Farmers’ Day luncheon and proclamation commemorating their contributions to our community
Our county’s 93,000-acre Agricultural Reserve is an invaluable resource managed by our dedicated farmers and farm workers. It supports their livelihoods and provides food for our residents and our initiative to End Childhood Hunger. This year, in honor of National Farmers’ Day, I hosted our second annual luncheon to celebrate the agricultural sector of Montgomery County—our farmers. Our agricultural producers are instrumental in ensuring our nation's food security. By sharing knowledge, we can discover sustainable ways for local agriculture to thrive, which aligns with the “A” in my S.M.A.R.T. agenda. I was pleased to have my colleagues, Councilmembers Balcombe and Luedtke, along with County Executive Marc Elrich, join me in celebrating our farmers, who are vital to our economy and communities.
Speaking at a press conference for the MOVE Grant Program alongside fellow ECON Committee members Councilmembers Fani-Gonzalez (Chair), Glass, and Balcombe (L-R)
Montgomery County is home to the nation’s 3rd largest biotech hub, characterized by substantial economic prosperity fueled by innovation and equitable growth. To adapt to the changing financial landscape, I have advocated for impactful programs that enhance opportunities for businesses and employees.
The MOVE (Make Office Vacancy Extinct) Grant Program is a key initiative that attracts new businesses and supports existing ones with significant financial incentives for leasing office space. With an office vacancy rate of 18.1%, this program revitalizes underutilized spaces, drives business expansion, and fosters vibrant economic centers. Businesses that lease or expand by at least 500 square feet for 36 months can receive grants of up to $150,000.
The Montgomery County J.O.B.S. (Jobs, Opportunities, and Business Support) Initiative is a robust commitment to economic growth and equity. I endorsed a $20 million investment in the County’s Economic Development Fund, aiming to create up to 1,000 high-paying jobs and support historically under-resourced businesses. This funding is divided into a $10 million Job Creation Fund, a $7 million Innovation Fund, and a $3 million Founders Equity Fund. These strategic investments position Montgomery County as a leader in equitable economic development. Click here to learn more and apply.
Celebrating the grand opening of the BioHub Maryland Training and Education Center
What an incredible year 2024 has been! I’ve supported passionate entrepreneurs and visionary community leaders as they launched dozens of local businesses and programs in our county. As a proud member of the Council’s Economic Development Committee, I am grateful for the various organizations that have chosen Montgomery County as their launching pad for economic success.
Revitalizing our economy as we recover from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic is the “R” in my S.M.A.R.T. agenda, and it’s a vital part of ensuring our region thrives for years to come. I’m excited to share the grand openings and ribbon-cutting ceremonies I attended — take a look and see if your favorite new community space, park, restaurant, fitness center, or business made the list! Let’s celebrate the vibrant growth happening in our neighborhood!
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Speaking at a press conference about our expanding public transit infrastructure in Montgomery County
Tackling climate change through significant enhancements to our transportation systems is a top priority in my S.M.A.R.T. agenda. This year, I proudly attended the groundbreaking for Montgomery County’s new zero-emission bus depot—the largest nationwide. By 2035, this facility will provide electric charging and hydrogen for up to 200 zero-emission buses, representing a significant leap forward for our county's transit system.
Initiatives like this are essential in reducing our dependence on fossil fuel vehicles and reducing air pollution and health risks. Additionally, we have made impressive strides this year by planting over 4,000 trees, initiating multimillion-dollar grants for electrification and zero-emission transportation, and enabling nearly 1,500 homes to transition to solar power. By aggressively expanding our clean energy programs, we are decisively forging a greener future for all residents!
Commemorating the members of our armed forces at a Veteran’s Day event
As the cost of living rises, supporting veterans who honorably served our country and returned home is vital. Many are close to retirement and face housing affordability challenges. I am proud to have co-sponsored Bill 6-24, which provides a property tax credit for honorably discharged, disabled veterans in Montgomery County. This initiative supports our commitment to making life in Montgomery County more accessible.
Over the past year, we have made significant progress in advancing legislation and engaging with diverse communities to understand their needs. It’s an honor to serve as an At-Large Councilmember, and our team remains dedicated to creating a welcoming and prosperous environment for everyone. By reducing the property tax burden on veterans, we are taking essential steps toward equitable housing in our community.
Honoring the 2024 inductees into the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame
Montgomery County's Office of Human Rights honored six new inductees into the Human Rights Hall of Fame during a ceremony earlier this month at the BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown. Established in 2001, the Human Rights Hall of Fame has now inducted 108 individuals and celebrates those who have made a lasting impact on social justice in Montgomery County.
The 2024 inductees, Douglas M. Duncan, Catherine S. Leggett, Sherlene Lucas, Constance A. Morella, Rev. Dr. Gareth E. Murray, and Carl A. Prather, Sr., were recognized for their significant contributions to advancing human and civil rights in the county. Their achievements include implementing the first local Earned Income Tax Credit, raising awareness of historical injustices, and advocating for marginalized communities, among other significant initiatives.
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