Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles and Housing Leaders Selected for NACo’s National Housing Solutions Program
 I am eager to share some exciting news, just one month after my appointment to the National Association of Counties (NACo) Board of Directors! Our office recently applied for NACo’s Counties for Housing Solutions Technical Assistance Program, and I am proud to announce that Montgomery County is one of only six counties nationwide selected to drive data-informed and community-based policymaking to increase our affordable housing supply!
Our team consists of Montgomery Planning Director Jason Sartori, Department of Housing and Community Affairs Program Manager Robert Love, Housing Opportunities Commission President and CEO, Chelsea Andrews, and Councilmember Sayles’ Legislative Aide for Planning and Housing, Joseph Gelula.
By partnering with the National Association of Counties (NACo), Smart Growth America, Results for America, the Urban Institute, and Opportunity Insights, our dynamic team will spend the next 12 weeks working to update our zoning regulations. We recognize that housing plays a crucial role in economic mobility, and we are committed to making housing more affordable for our residents. I look forward to this journey and will share more updates as this process unfolds! Stay tuned!
NACo Regional Monthly Meeting
During the August NACo Northeast Region Monthly Meeting, members discussed timely legislative updates affecting counties, particularly focusing on the Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act – H.R. 4669. NACo highlighted several advocacy successes included in the bill, such as improved access to disaster assistance and streamlined application processes.
The meeting also highlighted rising concerns about The Big Ugly Bill - H.R. 1, which proposes significant cuts to federal programs like SNAP and Medicaid. These reductions will likely increase pressure on county governments, forcing them to manage a greater demand for local social services and public health support. I look forward to collaborating with our NACo partners and federal representatives to prepare our county to assist vulnerable residents as these legislative changes unfold.
National Black Business Month
 August is National Black Business Month, a time dedicated to honoring and uplifting Black-owned businesses that contribute vibrancy, creativity, and strength to our community. Black entrepreneurs play a vital role in our local and national economy by creating jobs, fostering innovation, and enriching our neighborhoods.
As of 2022, Montgomery County, MD had 1,459 Black owned employer firms, who in total employ 14,943 employees, according to the US Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey.
In Montgomery County, we understand the importance of sustaining this momentum beyond just one month. We encourage everyone to shop local, support Black-owned businesses, and engage in initiatives that promote equitable access to capital, contracts, and opportunities for all entrepreneurs. When Black-owned businesses thrive, our entire county benefits. Explore the Montgomery County Black Business Database and discover a business we may not yet know about.
Women’s Equality Day Proclamation
 Celebrating the 105th Anniversary of Women’s Equality Day in Montgomery County at World of Beer in Rockville, MD.
On August 26, I had the honor of joining the Montgomery County National Organization for Women, Montgomery County Business and Professional Women, the League of Women Voters, the Montgomery County Commission for Women, County Executive Elrich, my colleagues on the Council, members of the Rockville City Council, and fellow advocates and allies to celebrate the 105th Anniversary of Women’s Equality Day in Montgomery County. Organized by Susan Horst and Jeanette Feldner, this day commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in 1920.
The proclamation paid tribute to the trailblazing Maryland women whose leadership has shaped both our nation and our state. In Montgomery County, women continue to lead the way, including the six women currently serving on the County Council, which represents a historic majority of our legislative body.
Women’s Equality Day is not only a celebration of past victories but also a call to action. It reminds us to continue dismantling barriers, advancing justice, and ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to thrive in our community. This milestone highlights the progress we’ve made and reignites our commitment to the work that remains to achieve gender equality.
National Night Out
 National Night Out celebrations across Montgomery County.
Team Sayles proudly participated in the annual National Night Out event, typically held on the first Tuesday of August, designed to strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the community while promoting public safety and neighborhood unity.
This year, our team had the honor of attending gatherings countywide hosted by Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, the Olney Chamber of Commerce, the McKinney Hills-Carl Knowles Civic Association, Montgomery Meadows, Cider Mill Apartments, Montgomery College Germantown, the City of Gaithersburg, Leisure World, and the East County Regional Services Center.
These celebrations highlighted the power of community, bringing together residents, volunteers, and public safety officials to foster trust, connection, and collaboration, and promoting community-police partnerships and enhancing neighborhood camaraderie. Thank you to everyone who helped foster community spirit and raise awareness about crime prevention.
 Community events, including right: National Night Out in Olney, MD with Chief of Police Marc Yamada and Assitant Chief of Police Willie Parker-Loan.
Honoring Our Elders
 Celebrating National Senior Citizen's Day with an official proclamation and celebration for 107-year old Catherine Gaines.
Every year on August 21, we celebrate National Senior Citizens Day, honoring the 180,000 older adults in Montgomery County, who represent nearly 18% of our community. Their wisdom and resilience enrich our lives. National Senior Citizens Day recognizes seniors’ invaluable contributions and the challenges they face, related to access to affordable housing, healthcare, financial stability, and social isolation.
Montgomery County is committed to ensuring that seniors can age in place with dignity. We collaborate with state and local agencies and nonprofits to improve access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing and services to offer programs like the Home Accessibility Rehabilitation Program (HARP), Home Sharing, Design for Life Property Tax Incentives, and the Rental Assistance Program.
Older adults play a vital role in our community as mentors, role models, and foundational pillars. I was honored to join my colleagues, Council President Stewart and Councilmember Mink, in recognizing our seniors as we reaffirm our commitment to maintaining a community where every generation can thrive.
National Breast Feeding Month
 |
|
In August, we celebrate National Breastfeeding Month, highlighting the benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers. This year’s theme, “Forward Together,” emphasizes the need for collaboration to promote breastfeeding equity and support for all families.
In 2019, 83.2% of infants received some breast milk, but only 55.8% were still breastfeeding at six months. Many families fall short of their breastfeeding goals, and disparities based on race and ethnicity persist, indicating a need for stronger support systems.
|
Resources available to families include:
● The Breastfeeding Center of Maryland (Rockville & Silver Spring): Services include home visits, in‑office consultations, phone support, classes, support groups, and access to pumps and supplies.
Lastly, we are fortunate that our County Council has opened a breastfeeding room to normalize and support working mothers who need to pump while breastfeeding their babies.
“House Call Interview with Dr. David Doman”
 On-set with Dr. David Doman and Kensington Mayor Tracey Furman.
I recently appeared on MCC’s “House Call with Dr. David Doman” to discuss the urgent crisis of Black maternal health in Montgomery County. As the Council’s Lead on Eliminating Health Disparities, I shared findings from the 2025 OLO Black Maternal Health Report I commissioned in 2022, which show:
- Black individuals, representing less than 20% of the county’s population, account for nearly 40% of cesarean deliveries.
- Black women are 3.5 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women.
- Black infants are five times more likely to die before their first birthday.
- White pregnant individuals use doulas at twice the rate of Black pregnant individuals.
Recent federal rollbacks on diversity and health initiatives threaten to leave 10 to 15 million people uninsured, worsening disparities for Black women who predominantly rely on Medicaid for reproductive care. Local solutions, such as SMILE, Babies Born Healthy, and the Montgomery Perinatal Program, along with the new Maryland Maternal Health Act, establish a statewide maternal health dashboard, which is vital for supporting expectant and new mothers. The OLO recommends:
- Establishing a consistent data collection protocol for home visiting programs.
- Increasing staffing in Babies Born Healthy and SMILE.
- Leveraging Medicaid for additional maternal health initiatives.
- Expanding culturally appropriate midwifery care.
- Creating a birth center led by BIPOC midwives.
Watch the full interview here.
S.M.A.R.T. Updates Around the County
Strengthen 21st Century Learning from Cradle to Career and Beyond
Welcome Back to School
 Back to School Tour across Montgomery County with MCPS Superintendent Dr. Thomas W. Taylor.
Team Sayles kicked off the school year by joining families, students, and educators at community events, including a tour with Superintendent Dr. Thomas W. Taylor to welcome everyone back to school.
At the Lemou Bafou event, I spoke about the resilience of Montgomery County’s youth and encouraged students to embrace their heritage as they pursue their education. I emphasized that “If your dreams don’t scare you, you’re not dreaming big enough,” highlighting our community’s commitment to supporting every student in reaching their greatest potential.
Lastly, I shared a virtual message with alumni during the Lincoln High School Reunion, where we celebrated the school’s legacy and a new partnership focused on preserving its history. It was heartwarming to learn that one alumnus is now 101 years old! We extend our congratulations to all the alumni and look forward to supporting the Lincoln High School Development Corporation as they embark on the next chapter in preserving their legacy.
 Lincoln High School Reunion Address by Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles.
Make Living in Montgomery County More Affordable
Montgomery Community Demographic Study Update
In late July, Montgomery Planning’s Research & Strategic Projects Division presented an updated overview of demographic, economic, and housing trends to Councilmembers and Council Staff, emphasizing equity. The presentation revealed that over 60% of our residents identify as people of color, and more than one-third are foreign-born, highlighting our diversity as a jurisdiction.
The report also pointed out ongoing disparities in income, education, and housing access that disproportionately affect our Black and Latino communities. We announced an upcoming Community Trends Report to support equity-focused planning and decision-making.
Access to high-quality data is essential for understanding our communities and making informed policy decisions. I appreciate the commitment of Planning and all county departments to eliminate racial disparities and build a more equitable Montgomery County.
HOC and Habitat for Humanity Ribbon-Cutting Event
 Ribbon-cutting celebration hosted by the Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) and Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland (HFHMM) in Montgomery Village.
Councilmember Sayles attended the ribbon-cutting celebration hosted by the Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) and Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland (HFHMM) in Montgomery Village.
During the event, attendees celebrated Habitat for Humanity’s purchase of 20 properties from HOC, made possible through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds provided by Montgomery County’s Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA). Habitat for Humanity is transforming these homes into affordable homeownership opportunities for low-income families, helping residents achieve stability and build generational wealth.
She enjoyed meeting the builders and stakeholders who made this affordable homeownership opportunity possible, along with one of the residents who will move into one of the properties. This partnership demonstrates how collaboration between government agencies and nonprofits can expand housing opportunities and strengthen communities across our county. I look forward to cutting more ribbons in the future!
Montgomery Parks Seeks Public Input for Capital Improvement Program
Montgomery Parks is seeking public input for its Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the fiscal years 2027 to 2032 (FY27-32). Community suggestions for the upcoming CIP can be submitted online, via email to mcp-chair@mncppc-mc.org, by U.S. mail (address provided below), or in person at the public forum. The survey will close on September 9, 2025. More details about the upcoming forum are below.
WHAT: Capital Improvements Program 2027-2032 Forum
WHEN: Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 7 p.m.
WHERE: The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), 2425 Reedie Drive, Wheaton, MD, 20902
Montgomery Parks develops its CIP request every two years to fund new parks, park amenities, environmental restoration projects, and rehabilitation efforts that extend the life of existing properties over six years.
2025 Montgomery County Farm-to-Table Symposium
 I have some exciting news to share! If you’ve been keeping up with my newsletters, you might have caught wind of the Farm-to-Table Restaurant Week I was planning in partnership with Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) and Visit Montgomery. After much discussion with stakeholders, we are transforming the event into an incredible Farm-to-Table Symposium!
The Symposium is more than just an event about table crops; it’s a chance to connect with local farmers, restaurant owners, and food system enthusiasts to dive into discussions about creating a vibrant and resilient food economy right here in Montgomery County. And guess what? We’re absolutely thrilled to announce that MD Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks will be our keynote speaker!
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience on Monday, November 10, 2025! Make sure to register here to secure your spot! Stay tuned for more exciting details coming your way. Thank you for being a vital part of Montgomery County’s thriving local food scene! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at councilmember.sayles@montgomerycountymd.gov.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Annual Montgomery County Agricultural Fair Leaders’ Luncheon
 Agricultural Leaders’ Luncheon at the 74th Annual Montgomery County Agricultural Fair.
Team Sayles attended the Agricultural Leaders’ Luncheon during the 74th Annual Montgomery County Agricultural Fair, which took place in the Garden Room of the Heritage Building. This annual event brought together farmers, agricultural leaders, and community stakeholders to celebrate the successes of our county’s essential agrarian economy while also addressing ongoing challenges.
The luncheon emphasized the vital role agriculture plays in Montgomery County. It not only supports our local economy but also advances food security, preserves open space, and strengthens our community. Team Sayles is proud to stand alongside our farmers and agricultural partners to ensure that the Agricultural Reserve continues to thrive for generations to come.
Kiddie Academy Celebrates 10 Years!
 10th anniversary of Kiddie Academy of Gaithersburg and launch of its Annual Children’s Art & Charity Auction.
Councilmember Sayles joined owner Namita Shah to joyfully celebrate the 10th anniversary of Kiddie Academy of Gaithersburg and the launch of their Annual Children’s Art & Charity Auction, hosted by the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce!
A heartfelt thanks goes to the Shah family for their unwavering dedication to early childhood education and community service. Congratulations, Kiddie Academy, on reaching this impressive milestone! We genuinely appreciate your commitment to delivering exceptional education for our young learners as they prepare to enter MCPS!
Burnt Hill Ribbon Cutting
  Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks, Secretary of Commerce Harry Coker, and local leaders at the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Burnt Hill Farm in Clarksburg
I was honored to join the Baker siblings, Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks, Secretary of Commerce Harry Coker, and local leaders for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Burnt Hill Farm in Clarksburg.
This 117-acre farm, cultivated for nearly a decade by the Old Westminster Winery family, showcases regenerative agriculture through the integration of vineyards, woodland pigs, longwool sheep, honeybees, heritage grains, and orchards.
The event celebrated the opening of Burnt Hill’s new tasting room, which offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. Guests enjoyed the farm’s estate wines, locally sourced hors d’oeuvres, and a raw bar featuring True Chesapeake Oysters.
Burnt Hill Farm exemplifies sustainable gastronomy and agricultural innovation in Montgomery County’s Agricultural Reserve, demonstrating how stewardship and creativity can strengthen our local economy while preserving natural resources.
Revive Life Ribbon Cutting
 Ribbon-cutting ceremony for Revive Life with Gaithersburg Mayor Jud Ashman
Team Sayles attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Revive Life in Gaithersburg, located at 316 East Diamond Avenue. This new mental health and rehabilitation clinic focuses on providing comprehensive care for individuals and families in Montgomery County.
Revive Life offers treatments for various mental health conditions and substance use disorders, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Services include individual and group therapy, intensive outpatient programs, and holistic approaches like yoga and meditation. The clinic is Joint Commission-accredited, ensuring high standards of quality and patient safety.
Revive Life improves access to essential health services, aiding the community’s healing journey.
X-energy Consolidates Its Headquarters in Montgomery County, Maryland
 X-energy's new headquarters will be located at 9801 Washingtonian Blvd. Gaithersburg, Maryland.
Photo Credit: X-energy.
Montgomery County proudly welcomes X-energy’s new headquarters at the Washingtonian Center in Gaithersburg. The clean energy company is consolidating its two Rockville offices into a new 125,000-square-foot facility, retaining 260 full-time employees and creating over 525 new jobs in the next six years.
X-energy’s decision to expand here reflects strong collaboration with the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) and state leaders, supported by programs like the MOVE Grant and the Job Creation Fund. The company is also opening a new 90,000-square-foot facility in Frederick for advanced testing and prototyping.
This expansion reinforces Montgomery County’s position as a leader in clean energy and provides high-quality job opportunities for our diverse workforce.
Classic Bakery Ribbon Cutting
 Grand opening of Classic Bakery's new Olney location.
Team Sayles joined the ribbon-cutting of Classic Bakery’s new Olney location on Thursday, August 28. A beloved family-owned business with roots dating back more than 50 years to Tehran, Iran, Classic Bakery has become a local favorite in the Washington, DC region for its handcrafted pastries, custom cakes, and multicultural baked goods.
Classic Bakery’s legacy continues with its new shop in Olney, following established locations in Gaithersburg and Tysons Corner. Founded in 1991 by Rubic Movsessian and his father, Souren, Rubic and his son, Areen, are the next generation of owners. Customers can enjoy wedding and birthday cakes, pastries, gelato, and café offerings, all made with an artisanal touch.
We welcome Classic Bakery’s expansion to Olney and look forward to its delicious contributions to our community!
Farewell Director Monger
 Thank you, Director Monger for your dedicated service to Montgomery County!
Team Sayles extends our gratitude to Adam Monger, the outgoing Director of the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), as he concludes his service to our county. Director Monger dedicated himself to advancing our Climate Action Plan, promoting sustainable development initiatives, and advocating for environmental justice. His leadership has positioned Montgomery County as a model for climate-smart innovation and stewardship.
Under his guidance, we strengthened community partnerships, expanded clean energy and waste reduction programs, and reaffirmed our commitment to protecting our natural resources for future generations.
We thank Director Monger for his dedicated service, and we wish him the very best in his next chapter. His legacy will continue to inspire our efforts to achieve a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Montgomery County.
Recycling Batteries Safely
 Did you know that tossing household batteries, even common alkaline ones, in regular trash or recycling bins can spark fires? Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reminds residents to recycle all types of household batteries, including alkaline and rechargeable, to keep our community safe.
Here’s how you can help:
-
Drop off batteries safely: Visit the Household Hazardous Waste station at the Shady Grove Processing Facility & Transfer Station. You can bring them in free of charge, with no limits on quantity.
-
Prepare batteries carefully: Wrap terminals with non-metallic tape or place each battery in a separate plastic bag to prevent sparks before recycling.
-
Schedule curbside pick-up: If you live in a neighborhood with county curbside recycling services, call MC311 to arrange on-call electronic and battery collections. The county plans to implement this service countywide by the end of 2025.
When you keep batteries out of regular waste streams, you reduce fire risks, protect collection workers, and safely reclaim valuable materials to keep Montgomery County sustainable and safe!
Team Sayles participated in the 2025 MACo Summer Conference in Ocean City
 Team Sayles at the 2025 MACo National Conference in Ocean City, MD.
Team Sayles had an incredible experience at the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Summer Conference 2025 in Ocean City! The theme, “Funding the Future: The Evolving Role of Local Government,” facilitated a productive gathering of leaders from across Maryland to share innovative ideas, exchange best practices, and enhance partnerships.
During the conference, we discussed smart growth, sustainable funding, public safety, and innovative approaches to local governance. These conversations are essential as we confront fiscal challenges while working diligently to deliver vital services and plan for a resilient future.
We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with our colleagues across Maryland and bring back valuable insights that will help us better support the residents of Montgomery County.
Montgomery County’s Mobile Health Services
 Launch of Montgomery County's Mobile Health Clinic at Harvest Intercontinental Church in Olney.
I was happy to join elected colleagues and community leaders at Harvest Intercontinental Church in Olney to celebrate the launch of the Mid-County Hub and Mobile Health Clinic. Thanks to the church’s generous support and strong community partnerships, this initiative will expand access to essential resources, including food assistance, health screenings, and comprehensive services for families in the mid-county region.
The launch is a powerful example of what we can achieve when local government, faith institutions, and nonprofits collaborate to support our residents in ensuring that every Montgomery County resident has the resources they need.
Montgomery County Police Department Partners with University of MD Global Campus
 Press conference held at the MCPD's new Public Safety Training Academy. Left: Assistant Chief of Police Willie Parker-Loan; and Right: Chief of Patrol, Darren Francke.
The Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD) has partnered with the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) to offer discounted undergraduate and graduate tuition rates for MCPD officers, their spouses, and dependents.
Officers who complete the police academy and field training can earn up to 60 college credits, with an additional 30 credits available for prior learning, such as military training and certifications. UMGC will also waive application fees for MCPD personnel.
This partnership provides an additional incentive to attract more officers to the workforce. It enhances the professional development of our officers, strengthens the department, and fosters a safer, more informed community by addressing the ongoing need for qualified law enforcement personnel.
Regional Services Center - What’s Happening in East County… and elsewhere in Montgomery County
The East County Regional Office connects Montgomery County government with citizens and businesses in the eastern areas of the county, including Burtonsville, Briggs Chaney, Burnt Mills, Calverton, Colesville, Cloverly, Fairland, Hillandale, Ashton/Sandy Spring (partially), Spencerville, and White Oak.
Subscribe to the Regional Services Newsletter here to stay informed about everything happening in East County.
Federal Food Assistance Changes and Their Effects on Montgomery County
 Tour of Manna Food with Office of Food Systems Resilience (OFSR).
On July 3, 2025, Congress passed the One Big Ugly Bill Act, which overhauls federal nutrition programs. This law tightens SNAP eligibility and reduces support for many low-income families, while proposed budget cuts threaten WIC, Head Start, and school meal programs, significantly affecting Montgomery County.
Over 68,000 residents rely on SNAP monthly, with 8,000 families facing potential benefit cuts of $25 to $150. Schools expect reduced enrollment in free meal programs, and the end of SNAP-Ed funding will eliminate $690,000 for nutrition education.
The Office of Food Systems Resilience (OFSR) is working to mitigate these impacts by expanding assistance navigation, providing grocery benefits, and increasing funding for local food programs.
Despite the challenges, I remain dedicated to ensuring families in Montgomery County have access to healthy meals and resources. I will share updates this fall as we develop new strategies.
|
