Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Thursday, August 7, 2025

"Sweet Release" Offering Real Hope, Opportunity

Councilmember Luedtke participating in the bakery training program at the Montgomery County Pre-Release Center.

Last week, I took part in the “Sweet Release” bakery training program at the Montgomery County Pre-Release Center. These returning residents are inspiring and it was a privilege to join them for a morning as they prepare for successful reentry by honing their culinary skills.

“Sweet Release” is just one of several workforce development and life skills programs offered by the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation (DOCR). These programs are a critical investment in public safety, economic opportunity, and human dignity. When we support returning neighbors with tools, training, and real pathways to quality employment, we reduce recidivism and strengthen our entire community. 

I’m proud that Montgomery County continues to fund and expand reentry programs like this, recognizing that rehabilitation doesn’t end at release. It requires meaningful preparation for life beyond incarceration. These are the kinds of evidence-based programs that give people a second chance and give our community its greatest strength: hope.

Affordable Housing Innovation in District 7

Councilmember Luedtke touring The Laureate apartment building.

I was proud to join the Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) this week with Councilmember Kristin Mink and partners from builder EYA to welcome elected officials and housing leaders from Hawaii and California for a tour of The Laureate, the beautiful, accessible, and truly innovative mixed-income community in Shady Grove, right here in District 7. 

The Laureate is drawing attention from jurisdictions across the United States because it's a model of what’s possible when bold policy, innovative financing, and public-private partnership come together. Thanks to the County’s Housing Production Fund, initiated by the prior County Council, HOC and their private developer partners were able to bridge the financial gap that often prevents middle-income housing near transit from becoming a reality. Because the project is majority owned by HOC and County funds were used to support its financing, 30 percent of the building's 268 units are income-restricted affordable. The building also features more three-bedroom units better suited for families than is typical in new construction of this type. It also has an HOC Service Center where residents and HOC clients from across the County can get support.

As I shared with our guests, Montgomery County, like so many jurisdictions, faces a growing housing crisis. We’ve lost 26,000 middle-income residents over the past 20 years. The Laureate shows that with the right tools and political will, we can build beautiful, livable, and inclusive communities that reflect our values. 

We must continue investing in solutions like the Housing Production Fund. I'm looking forward to the start of construction on The Sage, the next project also in Shady Grove that will provide more units priced for middle-income earners and space for a master-planned County Libraries facility to serve the entire Derwood community.

Another Successful National Night Out

Councilmember Luedtke presenting Olney Chamber of Commerce a certificate celebrating Olney's 30th Annual National Night Out.

I was proud to join neighbors and public safety professionals across District 7 to celebrate National Night out this year – a great tradition that builds trust, promotes safety, and strengthens community.

I attended events in Flower Hill, Westside Shady Grove, Cider Mill and Olney, which marked its 30th anniversary of hosting one of the country's biggest National Night Out celebrations!

Thank you to the dedicated organizers, volunteers, and public safety teams who made these gatherings possible. From resource tables to music, games, and meaningful conversations, the spirit of community was on full display.

In The Community...

Councilmember Luedtke and staff visit Rep. Jamie Raskin’s District Office to discuss how to best serve shared constituents.

Montgomery County Agricultural Fair!

The Montgomery County Agricultural Fair returns to Gaithersburg from Friday, August 8 through Saturday, August 16, at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds. Visit Montgomery has put together an Insider’s Guide to help you put together a plan, with tips on transportation, parking, and can’t-miss carnival food. Come out and support agriculture in Montgomery County! 

Maryland Tax-Free Shopping

Maryland’s annual Tax-Free Week runs from Sunday, August 10 through Saturday, August 16. During this week, qualifying clothing and footwear items priced at $100 or less are exempt from the state’s 6% sales tax. The first $40 of each backpack or bookbag purchase is also tax-free. This is a great time to stock up on back-to-school essentials. Make sure to check that your items qualify and your purchase is completed during the tax-free period. 

Montgomery County Back to School Fair 

The Montgomery County Back to School Fair will take place on Friday, August 23, from 10 AM to 1 PM at Westfield Wheaton Mall. This free, family-friendly event offers resources, giveaways, and fun activities to help students and families prepare for a successful school year. 

Sign up for Fall Rec Programs

Registration for Montgomery County Recreation’s fall programs will begin on Tuesday, August 12. Registration for senior programs will open later that morning. To prepare, residents are encouraged to explore the Fall GUIDE, a comprehensive digital catalog featuring hundreds of programs, classes, sports leagues, trips, events, and other activities. 

Improving Pedestrian Safety 

The County Department of Transportation is currently working on the Vision Zero MC Pedestrian Safety Improvement project along Watkins Mill Road, which includes installation of approximately 1,350 linear feet of sidewalk right here in District 7. Find out more and provide your feedback.

Free Shade Trees 

Montgomery Planning’s free shade tree program aims to increase tree canopy in urban and urbanizing areas of Montgomery County. The application deadline to get free trees on your property from Reforest Montgomery for the spring 2026 planting season is Friday, August 8. 

Neighbors and Responders: Building Safer Communities Together 

Come join a conversation with Fire and Rescue Services Chief Corey Smedley and Upcounty Regional Services Center Director Ruben Rosario. Learn how to save a life with CPR, gain insight into emergency operations, and find out more about community resources at the Upcounty Regional Services Center on Tuesday, August 19 at 6:30 PM. If you can’t make it in person, join on YouTube! 

If you would like to get in touch with me, please email us at Councilmember.Luedtke@montgomerycountymd.gov or call my office at 240-777-7860.

If you were forwarded this email and would like to subscribe to my newsletter, click the button below. I look forward to remaining in touch with you!