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Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Security Grants for Nonprofit and Faith-Based Organizations

I'm proud to represent a community that stands up to hate by taking action.

Montgomery County's Nonprofit Security Grant Program has supported numerous religious organizations and nonprofits at high risk of experiencing hate crimes to procure critical safety and security equipment and fund on-site security personnel.

This investment in the safety of our communities comes at a critical time, and we highly encourage you to see if your faith community or nonprofit organization may be eligible for the next round of grants.

The County's Office of Grants Management is accepting applications until November 4 (recently extended from the original October 28 deadline). Please take advantage of this opportunity, and thank you to all who continue to build up our community through their faiths and through nonprofit advocacy and support of marginalized communities.

The Importance of the "Sequential Intercept Model"

How we respond to individuals facing mental or substance abuse disorders matters. Montgomery County has been a leader in this area, and on October 10 I was proud to convene health and human services providers, law enforcement, judiciary, and other stakeholders to think through how we can do better.  The Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) is a proven concept to more effectively divert those with mental or substance abuse disorders from the criminal justice system into treatment. Our half-day SIM Conference identified the successes and gaps in this model in Montgomery County, and how we can expand and strengthen our systems so someone in crisis is truly receiving the support they need to improve their lives. Clinicians who respond to someone in crisis, police officers called to someone experiencing crisis, our diversion programs in the court system, and outpatient treatment resources all play critical roles. Thank you to all who attended!

Continuing the Conversation on Public Safety

Some of the speakers and participants in the Montgomery VIllage Public Safety Town Hall

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Montgomery Village Public Safety Town Hall. It was an engaging evening of open conversation and collaboration with residents, MCPD 6D Commander Dillman, MCFRS Chief Jay Blakes, Beth Anne Nesselt, Jim Resnick, and representatives from the Montgomery Village Foundation. We discussed community safety priorities, heard directly from residents, and reaffirmed our shared commitment to ensuring everyone feels heard, represented, and safe in their neighborhoods.

These town halls help us understand what's going on in your community, and we've been able to address important constituent issues both small and large thanks to your engagement.

Join Us in Olney on November 12!

We hope you’ll join us for our next Public Safety Town Hall - this time in Olney and co-hosted by the Olney Chamber of Commerce. November 12, 2025 | 7 PM William H. Farquhar Middle School Cafeteria 17017 Batchellors Forest Road, Olney, MD 20832 This will be another opportunity to hear updates, ask questions, and share your concerns directly with the professionals working to keep our communities safe. All are welcome — and stay tuned for details on an upcoming Damascus Public Safety Town Hall in the coming weeks.

Supporting Our Federal Workers During the Shutdown

Montgomery County stands with our friends and neighbors affected by the federal government shutdown. So many in our community serve our nation every day, and we want you to know that your county, state, and local partners are here to support you. Whether you’re a federal employee, a contractor, or part of a family impacted by the shutdown, help is available. 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with specific questions: 

• Gov. Wes Moore's Office and the State of Maryland - Unemployment insurance, info on specific available protections for furloughed workers, and more.
• Montgomery County - County food, childcare, eviction prevention, and housing support options, and County Government job openings.
• WSSC Water – Waiving late fees and offering flexible payment plans through the Get Current program for federal workers and contractors. 
• Pepco Payment Support  – Payment support programs available for customers experiencing hardship. 
• Resource pages and information on frequently asked questions from federal representatives Sen. Chris Van Hollen, Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, Rep. Jamie Raskin, and Rep. April McClain Delaney. 
• BGE payment support - BGE customers can also call 1-800-685-0123.
• Federal Workers Resource Hub from WorkSource Montgomery.
• Community Support – Local restaurants are stepping up to help: free lunches at participating José Andrés restaurants, discounts at &pizza, Taco Bamba, The Dish & Dram, Duke’s Grocery, and more for federal workers showing government ID.

For more information and links to these resources, visit the County’s Federal Shutdown Resource Hub from WorkSource Montgomery. 

In The Community...

Councilmember Luedtke (costumed), Councilmember Friedson, and Delegate Wims at the Montgomery Village Pumpkin Race.

MCPD is Hiring 

The Montgomery County Police Department has opened applications for Session 81 police officer candidates. This recruitment cycle includes a key update to the department’s minimum qualifications, aimed at expanding the applicant pool while upholding high standards. In an effort to make a career in policing more accessible, without compromising on educational or professional expectations, applicants are no longer required to have 60 college credits at the time of application. Apply today.

Calling MoCo Students 

Register to join the County Council’s Youth Town Hall on November 5 at 7pm to share your views and help shape local policy. Come early for free pizza at 6:15 PM – and earn 2 SSL hours for advocacy! Virtual participation is also available.

Unsung Hero Sports Award 

Know a coach, player, or volunteer who goes above and beyond for MoCo sports? Nominate them for the Unsung Hero Sports Awards, created by the County Council's Sports Advisory Committee! Submit nominations by October 31. 

National Teen Driver Safety Week 

Teen Driver Safety week serves as an opportunity for parents to have a conversation with teens about safe driving habits. In honor of this, the United States Department of Transportation is offering free resources for parents on teen driving. 

Get a Free Ride on Halloween! 

MCDOT is reminding drivers to use extra caution when traveling during evening hours and consider staying off the roads during trick or treating hours. SoberRide is offering free Lyft rides for Halloween Celebrations from 4 PM Friday, October 31 until 4 AM Saturday, November 1. The codes will be released to the public on their website at 3 PM on Friday, October 31. 

Donate Coats to Children in Head Start/Pre-K! 

The MCPS Pre-kindergarten and Head Start programs are requesting donations of new coats for students. Hats, gloves, and boots for young children are also welcome. Donations of boys’ and girls’ coats in sizes 4, 5, and  6 are most ended. Suggested items may be found on the Head Start/Pre-K Amazon wish list. For questions, email Lisa Conlon. 

Don’t Trash Your Pumpkin

After the trick-or-treaters have gone home, your pumpkin can be recycled into something useful – compost! Your pumpkin will result in nutrient-rich compost used in gardens, farms, and landscaping projects. DEP operates three food scraps recycling drop-offs at local farmers markets. Find one that works for you! 

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

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