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February 27, 2025
Resources for Federal Workers
Every day I continue to hear from neighbors who have been impacted by the administration’s sweeping cuts to the federal workforce and from those who want to help their friends and families. I recently added a resources guide to my website to assist those who may have lost their jobs or are concerned about their future. I will continue to share more information and resources to help us navigate these uncertain times.
We are fortunate to live in a community so dedicated to supporting civil servants and those who work with the federal government. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to me so my team and I can get you the support you need.
 Councilmember Glass and Congressman Jamie Raskin
Making Buildings Greener
Despite President Donald Trump withdrawing the United States from the Paris Climate Accord, Montgomery County will remain on the forefront of addressing the climate crisis we are experiencing globally and locally.
On Tuesday, the Council took a big step toward achieving our ambitious climate goals by passing new regulations to implement Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS), which became law in 2022. This regulation establishes energy performance benchmarks for large buildings within the county, recognizing that 52% of greenhouse gas emissions come from our building sector. BEPS is a significant way to make our existing infrastructure more energy efficient and reduce our carbon footprint.
This regulation is the result of extensive discussions and community input. Over the past year, I led seven work sessions of the Transportation & Environment Committee and heard from hospitals, affordable housing providers, houses of worship, life sciences companies, HOAs, condo associations and property owners to hear their thoughts about the proposal. These discussions resulted in revised rules by the Department of Environmental Protection and a financial commitment from the Montgomery County Green Bank, which is committed to using funding received from the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund to assist homeowner associations and property owners invest in greener infrastructure.
I am proud of the detailed work undertaken by the Transportation & Environment Committee and am eager to continue making progress to meet our ambitious climate goals.
 Councilmember Glass and members of the Transportation & Environment Committee with environmental leaders
Honoring Ike Leggett
Ike Leggett has exemplified leadership in his decades of public service to Montgomery County. From his time on the Human Rights Commission to serving on the County Council to his three terms as County Executive, he has always led with compassion and has championed our community’s values. It is only fitting that the Executive Office Building in Rockville be renamed in his honor. Congratulations, Ike, and thank you for your service to our community.
 Ike Leggett delivers remarks during the ceremony.
Purple Line Business Grants
Applications are currently open for the Purple Line Small Business Grant Program. While the project is 75% complete, I know that the ongoing construction has had a significant impact on nearby businesses and neighborhoods. Eligible small businesses can apply for a grant of up to $50,000 from the Maryland Department of Transportation to offset the impact of Purple Line construction.
Round 1 applications are due by March 14. You can find more details about the grants on the program’s webpage.
On February 10 the Transportation & Environment Committee received an update on the progress of the Purple Line. You can watch that hearing here.
 A graphic from the Maryland Transit Administration advertising the Purple Line Small Business Grant Program
U.S. Chess Center
I had a great time visiting the U.S. Chess Center in Silver Spring! The Chess Center offers classes for both children and adults who want to learn to play, which is a great way to sharpen your critical thinking skills and meet new people. When the center was unable to find a space to continue its weekend Chess Kids program, my office connected them with the county and they were able to find space in the Silver Spring Aquatic and Recreation Center.
If you or someone you know enjoys chess, make sure to check(mate) them out.
 Councilmember Glass encouraging students in the Chess Kids program
Constituent Corner
A Wheaton resident was walking her dog near Brookside Gardens when she saw a fence that had been damaged by a fallen tree. She emailed me to flag the situation, and my office contacted the Parks Department, which promptly repaired the fence.
If you need help with a local government agency, please fill out this service request form and my team and I will work to assist you.
Did You Know?
MCPS is hosting a forum for students and families on mental health and substance use prevention. In partnership with DHHS and Montgomery Goes Purple, the event will feature a resource fair and opportunities to connect with school-based mental health providers in both English and Spanish. Students can also earn 4 SSL hours for attending.
The forum will be held at Gaithersburg High School on Saturday, March 1. You can find more information about the event and RSVP online.
Please do not reply to this email. To contact my office, email me at Councilmember.Glass@montgomerycountymd.gov.
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