4th of July
 Celebrating the 4th of July with residents of Leisure World in Silver Spring.
On the Fourth of July, I had the pleasure of celebrating with communities across Montgomery County, each reflecting the unity, resilience, and profound civic pride that characterize our region. At Leisure World, I was honored to serve as the keynote speaker for an impressive gathering of over 5,600 residents aged 55 and older during their annual Independence Day parade and patriotic program. I took this opportunity to express my commitment to safeguarding and uplifting our seniors during these challenging times after observing the numerous clubs participating in the parade.
Team Sayles also joined in the beloved Fourth of July Parade in Takoma Park, where this year's theme, “Takoma Park: United We Stand,” beautifully brought neighbors together in a rich celebration of diversity, creativity, and our shared values. I concluded the weekend at the Village of Friendship Heights in Chevy Chase, a cherished tradition that reflects the strength of our community. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mayor Roy Schaeffer and the rest of the newly elected Village Council for their collaboration and dedicated leadership.
These inspiring celebrations stand as a powerful testament that "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" will lead us through challenging times.
S.M.A.R.T. Updates Around the County
Strengthen 21st Century Learning from Cradle to Career and Beyond
NACo S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council Award
 NACo's 90th Annual Conference and Exposition in Philadelphia, PA.
I am excited to announce that our S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council has received the 2025 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo). Additionally, I was appointed to the NACo Board of Directors.
This month, I had the honor of attending the NACo annual summer conference in Philadelphia to accept this prestigious award. This award recognizes innovative programs that contribute to strengthening local communities.
Since the launch of the S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council in 2023, we engaged and empowered over 100 MCPS students from grades 7-12 to embody leadership roles with vision and purpose. Together, they have worked diligently to propose policy solutions to current local challenges, including education outcomes, food insecurity, climate change, affordable housing, and economic revitalization.
It is wonderful to see their efforts recognized on a national scale, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement and the critical role our next generation plays in creating a better future. This fall, we will temporarily pause the program to reflect on feedback from previous cohorts. Our goal is to enhance the experience and make it even more enriching. Please stay tuned for updates about the next cohort in upcoming editions of the Sayles Sentinel and on our website!
MCCPTA Central Summer Area Advocacy Meeting
The Montgomery County Council of Parent Teacher Associations (MCCPTA) represents over 200 PTAs across Montgomery County Public Schools and plays a vital role in advocating for students, families, and school communities. This month, they hosted the Central Summer Area Advocacy Meeting, allowing students, caregivers, educators, and community members to voice their priorities for the upcoming school year.
As a former MCPS parent and education advocate, I value open dialogue for meaningful change. While my daughter attended MCPS, I served on the PTA and the NAACP Parent Council, viewing the PTA as a key hub for engagement and advocacy. I will continue elevating the concerns shared in these meetings to advocate for policies and investments that ensure every child in Montgomery County has access to a safe, equitable, and high-quality education.
 MCCPTA Central Summer Area Advocacy Meeting.
Summer RISE Internship
 Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles Office Summer RISE interns.
On July 25, my team and I had the opportunity to attend the 2025 Summer RISE (Reimagining an Innovative Student Experience) Closing Ceremony at the Bethesda North Marriott Conference Center, celebrating the achievement of MCPS high school students completing internships that helped them gain hands-on career exploration opportunities that connect them with local businesses, nonprofits, and government offices, including my own.
Our talented Summer Rise students included:
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Reemey Ghermay: a rising junior at Walter Johnson High School, presenting her innovative project “Stay Sharp, Drive Smart.”
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Martina Beringar: a rising junior at Northwest High School, whose project titled “Be Aware, Stay Aware” was inspiring.
In addition to our Summer RISE Interns, we also welcomed two college Interns interested in learning more about how their local government works.
Our College Interns included:
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Princess Uzor: a recent graduate and MPH candidate from the University of Maryland, College Park, whose insightful project was “Bills to Burden.”
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Trevor Whitaker: a senior at Hampton University, who presented on “Bridging the Gap.”
The interns collaborated with our staff, gaining valuable skills through community engagement and council session participation. They attended events, connected with constituents, and contributed to communication efforts for critical projects. Their involvement in council sessions and real-time planning equipped them with essential skills for their future careers.
Congratulations to all the students for their hard work, and thank you to MCPS and the Department of Partnerships for another successful year! Here’s to a bright future filled with possibilities!
48th Student Member of the Board (SMOB) Installation Ceremony
 Left: 2025 Youth Advisory Council Meeting with Peter Boyko and SMOB Anuva Maloo; Center: SMOB Installation Ceremony swearing-in of SMOB #48 Anuva Maloo with SMOB #47 Praneel Suvarna; Right: 2025-26 SMOB Anuva Maloo.
Team Sayles attended the 48th Student Member of the Board (SMOB) Installation Ceremony, swearing in Anuva Maloo as the new SMOB while honoring outgoing SMOB Praneel Suvarna.
The SMOB is a voting member of the Montgomery County Board of Education, with the power to vote on collective bargaining, budgets, and school closures, but not on negative personnel actions. Montgomery County is one of two counties in Maryland that grant this position full voting rights. The SMOB receives a $25,000 college scholarship, Student Service Learning hours, and one honors-level social studies credit.
Congratulations to these dedicated student leaders for their commitment to Montgomery County Public Schools!
Make Living in Montgomery County More Affordable
ZTA 25-02: Delivering On Our Promise to Current and Future Residents
 Montgomery County Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 25-02 Press Conference.
On July 22nd, I joined my colleagues to pass Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 25-02, which focuses on Workforce Housing Development Standards. This amendment is an essential step towards addressing our housing crisis, which has contributed to an alarming 80% increase in family homelessness this year.
ZTA 25-02 is a key component of the More Housing N.O.W. initiative. It facilitates the development of multi-unit housing along transit corridors, including 15% of units that must satisfy the definition of workforce housing, with a minimum of one workforce housing unit for structures that have three or more units. After taking into account the valuable input from residents, I proposed an amendment that requires our Planning Department to monitor crucial metrics such as housing production and traffic congestion. These findings will be reported biennially over the next decade to ensure we remain accountable and responsive to our community’s needs.
Thank you to my colleagues for supporting this amendment. Together, we can drive meaningful change by advancing housing equity while maintaining the character of our community, which is an essential priority for our neighborhoods across the county.
Capital Region Housing Seminar
 Left: From L to R: MD Delegate David Moon (D20), CM Sayles, CE Elrich, Secretary Day; Right: MD Secretary of Housing Jake Day speaking with Councilmember Sayles during his Tour of Montgomery County, MD Residential Communities.
To celebrate the 5th Anniversary of the Maryland Inclusive Housing Corporation, the University of Maryland Extension and the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development came together to host a fantastic Housing Seminar and Financial Expo at the beautiful Newton White Mansion in Mitchellville under the inspiring theme, “Educating Ourselves to Educate Our Communities on Affordable and Sustainable Housing in Maryland,” this event united passionate stakeholders for a day filled with valuable insights and connections. Impactful leaders, including the Maryland Secretary of Housing, Jacob R. Day, energized attendees.
The discussions were rich and focused on uplifting our communities by supporting first-time homebuyers, addressing foreclosures, and preventing evictions. Together, we are making strides toward a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone!
Harvesting Connections: Join Us for the Inaugural Farm-to-Table Symposium!
If you’ve been following my newsletters, you may have seen my announcement about the inaugural Farm-to-Table Restaurant Week I was planning with Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) and Visit Montgomery this fall. I’m excited to announce that we’re transforming this event into a Farm-to-Table Symposium!
This new format will connect local farmers, restaurant owners, and food system stakeholders to discuss building a resilient, local food economy in Montgomery County. We’ll explore challenges and opportunities in connecting local agriculture with the culinary world, covering topics like seasonal sourcing, crop diversification, and market demand.
Stay tuned for details about panels, guest speakers, and engagement opportunities. Whether you’re a farmer, restaurant owner, or food enthusiast, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable celebration of sustainable dining - rsvp here!
In the meantime, please feel free to share any ideas with my office via email: councilmember.sayles@montgomerycountymd.gov to help us ensure this event is a success.
Montgomery County's Commitment to Economic Growth
Montgomery County’s economy is not just strong; it is thriving, even in the face of federal challenges. As of March 2025, our unemployment rate stands at an impressive 3.1%, which is 1.1% lower than the national average, demonstrating the resilience of our community and our unwavering commitment to protecting residents from job losses and budget cuts.
As a dedicated member of the Council’s Economic Development and Health & Human Services Committees, I am proud to highlight the exceptional growth of our BioTech corridor, the 3rd largest in the nation, which grew by 0.7% in the fourth quarter of 2024 while national trends experienced a decline. We now account for nearly half of Maryland’s life sciences jobs, solidifying our leadership in this vital industry.
These achievements result from strategic policies like the Make Office Vacancy Extinct (M.O.V.E.) Act, which has successfully attracted over 27 new or expanding businesses to our area. I am firmly committed to ensuring fair housing and economic justice for all, regardless of race, income, or background. I appreciate your support as we strive for a future that is both equitable and prosperous for everyone.
Bill 10-25: Federal Workers Hiring Preference Becomes Law
 Signing of Expedited Bill 10-25 with County Executive Marc Elrich.
I was excited to join the County Executive and colleagues, advocates, and labor leaders. I impacted federal workers at a press conference to officially sign Expedited Bill 10-25 to Create a Hiring Preference for Federal Workers that I cosponsored, into law! The Montgomery County Council unanimously passed this critical legislation, and County Executive Marc Elrich signed it into law on July 24.
This new law establishes a hiring preference within Montgomery County for recently displaced federal workers, underscoring our commitment to addressing the significant disruptions in our economy, following the staffing reductions from the Trump administration.
As these cuts have led to chaos and uncertainty, we must support our dedicated public servants. Our federal workforce is essential to Montgomery County’s economy, and this bill is a testament to our dedication to valuing their experience and honoring their service. With Montgomery County accounting for the highest concentration of federal workers, their job loss will significantly impact our revenue, as highlighted during Comptroller Lierman’s recent briefing. We aim to ensure they can continue making a positive impact in our community during these challenging times.
Ribbon Cutting for AeroVironment in Germantown
 Governor Wes Moore, County Executive Marc Elrich, and members of the District 39 MD delegation at the ribbon-cutting of AeroVironment.
Team Sayles proudly joined leaders from across the state, including Governor Wes Moore, County Executive Marc Elrich, and members of the District 39 MD delegation, to celebrate the unveiling of AeroVironment’s cutting-edge facility. The state-of-the-art development will unlock incredible opportunities for workforce development. It will significantly bolster Montgomery County’s innovation economy by attracting top-tier research and development, regardless of federal uncertainties.
The grand opening of AeroVironment’s impressive $12.5 million research and manufacturing facility is poised to create over 200 high-tech jobs! Governor Wes Moore emphasized the facility's pivotal role in advancing defense technology, and we are excited to witness the substantial benefits this investment will bring to our residents and the regional economy, as our biotech corridor continues to thrive and attract new opportunities for growth and innovation!
Harbor Bank of MD Expands to Montgomery County
 Left: MCB Real Estate's Senior Managing Director Carlos Bonner and NFP's Brian Mack; Top Right: Maryland Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins, Harbor Bank Manager Jerry Sanford and builder of the bank, Corenic Construction's Brunson Cooper (not pictured - visit our Flickr for additional photos); Bottom Right: Harbor Bank of Maryland President and CEO John Lewis interviewing artist George Clinton whose artwork was placed on display within the location.
I was honored to attend the grand opening celebration of the Harbor Bank of Maryland’s newest branch in Silver Spring! The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured elected officials, business owners, and special guests, including the legendary George Clinton, who showcased his original artwork, the Thangularity Mothership, followed by an inspiring conversation with CEO John Lewis.
Located at 1010 Wayne Avenue, this new branch exemplifies Harbor Bank’s steadfast commitment to our community and its mission to empower minority-owned businesses and support first-time homebuyers. This landmark event embodies their dedication to driving economic growth and providing essential financial services. We proudly welcome this financial institution to our county, where it will spark progress, nurture culture, and strengthen community investments for years to come!
Holy Cross Robotics Program
 Da Vinci 5 Robotic Surgical System, the first of its kind in Montgomery County, located at Holy Cross Health.
Team Sayles recently attended an exclusive event at Holy Cross Health, where we explored the groundbreaking Da Vinci 5 Robotic Surgical System, the first of its kind in Montgomery County. We engaged with the expert robotics team and learned how this technology enhances precision, reduces recovery time, and aids in surgeon training, including potential remote operations.
We also had hands-on experience with the simulator, reinforcing our belief in this transformative technology. We thank Holy Cross Health for leading surgical innovation and championing equity in patient care.
Key highlights of the Da Vinci 5 system include:
- Superior ergonomics and enhanced visual clarity for surgeons.
- More responsive instrument control for precision in delicate procedures.
- Advanced data integration for training and research support.
We look forward to seeing how this revolutionary technology will improve surgical solutions in patient care.
Celebrating the Makers and Doers of Lyttonsville
 Discover Lyttonsville Week Celebration, July 11 event.
We had an incredible time participating in Discover Lyttonsville Week, a celebration of the fantastic businesses and nonprofits that make our community shine with creativity and innovation! From July 11 to 18, we engaged with residents and visitors alike, exploring over 20 fantastic local spots—from custom kitchens and fitness studios to tire shops, wineries, and arts organizations. Participants enjoyed exclusive tours, exciting giveaways, and connecting with the inspiring entrepreneurs who fuel Lyttonsville’s success.
A heartfelt thank you to all the businesses that showcased our community’s vibrant talent and diversity. Here’s to many more celebrations together!
Maryland Task Force on Blockchain & Innovative Technology
 Maryland Blockchain & Innovative Technology Task Force Inaugural Meeting
Our office was honored to join the inaugural meeting of the Maryland Blockchain & Innovative Technology Task Force, organized by the Maryland Blockchain Association and the Maryland Tech Council. It was truly inspiring to see passionate leaders from state agencies, local governments, industry, academia, and nonprofits come together with a shared vision!
The Task Force is committed to exploring new possibilities, addressing challenges, and creating valuable resources to benefit Marylanders. Together, we have a unique opportunity to leverage blockchain and other innovative technologies to improve our community and foster meaningful progress.
Bill 19-25 Leaf Blower Phase-Out
 The County Council is currently reviewing Bill 19-25, which would amend the existing Bill 18-22 that bans gas-powered leaf blowers, effective on July 1, 2025.
If passed, this amendment would allow landscaping companies to use gas-powered leaf blowers on weekdays from October 1 to December 31 during their busiest season, with the exemption lasting three years after its passage.
To ensure this amendment takes effect by fall, the Council must vote before October 1, so you need to contact your Councilmembers to express your views on this proposal. Your voice is vital in influencing the decision-making process!
Beat the Heat!
Montgomery County is experiencing some of the hottest days on record, highlighting the importance of staying safe during extreme heat. Let’s take this opportunity to care for our community by checking in on vulnerable neighbors—particularly seniors, young children, and pets.
To protect ourselves and each other, we can plan outdoor activities for early mornings or later in the evening when it’s cooler. Staying hydrated is key, so let's make a habit of drinking plenty of water, seeking shade, or visiting cooling centers if needed. Remember, it's crucial never to leave anyone in a parked car.
For helpful resources on staying safe during extreme heat, please visit the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security webpage. As we face more frequent and intense heat events, we can work together to be climate smart and foster a resilient and sustainable Montgomery County for everyone.
Groundbreaking for MD 650 PSAP Safety Project
 Groundbreaking of Maryland's first-ever Pedestrian Safety Action Plan (PSAP)
Team Sayles was honored to join fellow elected officials and the Maryland Department of Transportation to celebrate the groundbreaking of Maryland’s first-ever Pedestrian Safety Action Plan (PSAP) project! This groundbreaking initiative is set to significantly enhance the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and multi-modal transportation along nearly 2.5 miles of MD 650 (New Hampshire Avenue), stretching from University Boulevard in Prince George’s County to Powder Mill Road in Montgomery County.
These vital improvements align perfectly with MDOT’s Complete Streets policy and the Serious About Safety campaign, highlighting our shared commitment to creating safer, more accessible communities for everyone. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter and safer future for all!
Food Resilience with Manna Food and Coca Cola Consolidated
 Middle Left: Tuskegee Airman Inc.'s Andrew Holloway USAF (Ret); Top Right: Manna Director of Development and Communications' Mardia Dennis, Delegate Greg Wims, and Manna CEO Craig Rice.
As summer comes to a close, we are proud to showcase the positive impact of our efforts. Today, we partnered with fellow elected officials from the state, Delegates Greg Wims and Bernice Mireku-North, Manna Food Center, and Coca-Cola Consolidated, for a Weekend Bag-Packing Event to address the nutrition gap for students and families in Montgomery County Public Schools.
We are especially pleased to see local businesses and non-profit organizations engaging in public-private partnerships like this one. Such collaborations ensure that essential support reaches our residents when they need it most.
Regardless of the federal cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), we are committed to ensuring no child goes hungry in Montgomery County.
PVAC Fund Lobster Bake
 PVAC Fund, Inc. Lobster Bake. Center: PVAC leaders; Right: SMART Youth Advisory Council alumni.
I was honored to attend the annual Lobster Bake hosted by the PVAC Fund, Inc. on Sunday, July 27, at Smokey Glen Farm in Gaithersburg. This critical fundraiser supports the PVAC Fund’s mission of assisting under-resourced residents in Montgomery County through community grants and scholarships. Given recent challenges, such as the elimination of the Department of Education, organizations like the PVAC Fund have become more essential than ever.
The PVAC Fund provides scholarships to students pursuing higher education, helping to cultivate the leaders of tomorrow and break down barriers. The generous support received from attendees enabled the PVAC to award $60,000 last year, recognize our students’ achievements, and create new opportunities for local youth.
Primary Care Coalition, Passing the Torch Luncheon
 Left: Incoming President and CEO, Annice Cody and PCC's Veronica Vela; Center: Previous President Leslie Graham and MPA CEO Crystal Townsend; Right: Rev. Mansfeld "Kasey" Kaseman.
As the Council’s Lead for Eliminating Disparities in Public Health and a member of the Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee, I was honored to attend the Primary Care Coalition’s “Passing the Torch” event. We celebrated Leslie Graham for her remarkable decade of leadership and welcomed Annice Cody, former Holy Cross President, as PCC’s new President and CEO.
Leslie’s visionary guidance has transformed healthcare access for our most vulnerable neighbors, and we are truly grateful for her profound contributions. President Cody brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for community health. Together, we are excited to support PCC in its vital mission to create a healthier and more accessible multidisciplinary healthcare delivery system for low-income residents. To learn more about the incredible resources and services offered by PCC, please visit their website here.
Chamber Coffee & Cards with Cops
 Chamber Coffee & Cards with Cops, led by MCM Media and the Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce, and members of the Silver Spring 3rd District Station.
Thank you to the Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce for hosting a successful morning of networking during their Chamber Coffee & Cards with Cops event that took place on July 30 at Montgomery Community Media’s Office in Silver Spring. Community members, local business leaders, and Montgomery County Police officers gathered for a productive morning of coffee and conversation. This event highlighted our shared commitment to building stronger connections and enhancing public safety. Initiatives like this truly showcase the importance of community partnerships in fostering trust, collaboration, and a safer Montgomery County for everyone.
DHHS 30th Anniversary
 30th anniversary of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) - pictured left: Kenneth Nelson, center: Council President Kate Stewart, and DHHS Director Dr. James Bridgers.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), a significant milestone for a fully integrated, multidisciplinary one-stop service center for residents. The celebration was held at the DHHS headquarters on Hungerford Drive and highlighted the department's evolution from several separate agencies into a unified system that is dedicated to providing equitable and comprehensive care. Councilmembers joined County Executive Marc Elrich, Dr. James Bridgers (DHHS Director), Dr. Kisha Davis (Public Health Officer), and other leaders to reflect on the legacy of DHHS and reaffirm their commitment to our shared goals.
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