|
February 12, 2026
Rising Utility Costs
Residents write to me every day about their rising utility bills. From electric to water to gas, monthly charges continue to increase.
Last week I held a hearing with our local utility companies to demand answers about the increasing monthly bills. When I pressed on why electric costs are rising, the answer was clear: data centers.
There is more demand on the grid, but most of that demand is coming from elsewhere. The panelists made it clear that we are footing the bill for data centers opening in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Pepco’s delivery charges have increased by 33% since 2020 – and due to the proliferation of data centers, we have experienced a dramatic rise in energy costs.
I am committed to partnering with our federal and state lawmakers to find solutions ensuring that Montgomery County residents are not left paying for data centers in other states in other parts of the country.
You can watch this FOX 5 story with more information.
 Councilmember Glass speaking to FOX 5 about rising utility costs.
Winter Storm Recap
It was a tough winter storm. My office received hundreds of calls and emails from neighbors waiting for their streets to be plowed, despite the online system showing 100% completion for most areas. Families couldn’t get to work. Seniors missed critical medical appointments. Students stayed home for more than a week. When schools finally re-opened, unsafe sidewalks forced some students to wait for buses in the middle of busy streets. That is unacceptable – no student should have to compromise their safety because basic snow removal standards were not met.
The Council held a briefing last Tuesday on the storm response with representatives from the County Executive’s team and the school system. I pressed agency leaders on the lack of coordination and inaccurate reporting that left neighborhoods unplowed for days.
I will continue holding agencies accountable and pushing for stronger coordination, accurate reporting, and better preparation so we are ready for the next storm.
You can watch this WUSA9 story with a recap of the briefing.
Point-in-Time Count
Housing is a human right. It’s why I have been working during my two terms on the Council to ensure homelessness is rare, brief and nonrecurring.
Last Wednesday night, I joined the Department of Health and Human Services for its annual Point-in-Time Count, an important effort to get a comprehensive snapshot of the individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Montgomery County.
With Donald Trump’s inhumane cuts to HUD and permanent supportive housing, our unhoused population is increasing. These harmful reductions are placing additional strain on our local resources, making it more urgent than ever to strengthen our efforts at the county level.
I remain committed to working with community partners to advocate for the resources necessary to ensure every resident has access to safe and stable housing.
 Councilmember Glass addressing volunteers at Montgomery County’s Annual Point-in-Time Count.
Celebrating Black History Month
The Council recently held our annual commemoration of Black History Month to celebrate the contributions, achievements and legacy of African Americans in our community and across the country.
There are many more opportunities to continue to celebrate Black History Month in our area, including learning about Black history here in Montgomery County. Our friends at Visit Montgomery, Montgomery County Public Libraries and Bethesda Magazine have put together lists of events throughout the month. Make sure to check them out!
Lunar New Year
Happy year of the Fire Horse! The Fire Horse symbolizes ambition, courage and confidence — admirable traits for all of us to embody this year.
My appreciation to the Maryland Vietnamese Mutual Association for the wonderful Tet celebration in Germantown.
 Councilmember Glass with Tet attendees.
Constituent Corner: Thank You Neighbors
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our neighbors who stepped up during the aftermath of the snowstorm. From clearing sidewalks for neighbors to checking in on seniors, your actions kept our community safe and connected. Your resilience and generosity reminds us that even in challenging times, Montgomery County’s strength lies in its people.
If you need help navigating Montgomery County government, fill out this form and my team and I will assist you.
 Parents in Long Branch lifted students over snow mounds so their children could board the school bus.
Did You Know?
Winter weather conditions can frequently delay the delivery of life-saving blood to our local medical facilities. Maintaining a strong local reserve is essential to ensuring our healthcare network remains prepared throughout the winter months.
All eligible residents are encouraged to schedule a donation. Your contribution helps provide a critical safety net for our community during times when transportation and logistics may be impacted by the elements.
Schedule your appointment today.
Please do not reply to this email. To contact my office, email me at Councilmember.Glass@montgomerycountymd.gov.
|
