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Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Seeking Affordability in Next Year's Budget

Right now, families across Montgomery County are already feeling the strain of rising property assessments, higher utility bills, increasing childcare costs, and continued inflation on everyday essentials. I have significant concerns about the County Executive's recommended budget for next fiscal year that would increase property taxes, the local income tax, and a host of other fees - further increasing the cost of living for all residents.

My priority on the Council has always been clear: We must deliver the services our residents rely on — strong schools, effective public safety, and a robust social safety net — while being responsible stewards of your tax dollars. Over the past three years, we have made substantial investments in these critical areas. We need to take a hard look at how we can find efficiencies, reduce costs, and spend smarter.

I will continue to advocate for a budget that reflects what our community can realistically afford. As we move through the Fiscal Year 2027 budget process, your voice is essential. I encourage you to participate in the Council’s public hearings on April 7, 8, and 9 and share your perspective.

Together, we can ensure our budget reflects both our values and the realities facing our residents.

Delivering Real Climate Solutions for Montgomery County

Montgomery County Green Bank

This week, the Council passed legislation I was proud to sponsor to strengthen Montgomery County’s response to climate change by better protecting our communities from its real and growing impacts.

Across our county, we are already seeing more frequent flooding, extreme heat, and severe weather events. In District 7, that means flooded roadways, stressed infrastructure, and risks to homes, businesses, and our agricultural community.

This legislation builds on the work of the Montgomery County Green Bank by allowing it to support climate resiliency and adaptation projects such as stormwater management, protecting key utilities and infrastructure from flood damage, building back-up power generation through clean sources, and expanding tree canopy to reduce heat.

The bill makes better and more flexible use of existing resources to invest in solutions that will save money and prevent damage in the long run. If we don’t invest now, the costs — to our infrastructure, our economy, and our quality of life — will only grow.

I am grateful to my colleagues, Councilmember Friedson and Councilmember Glass, for their partnership in advancing this legislation and to the many community members and advocates who continue to push for meaningful climate action.

2025 Crime & Safety Report

Councilmember Luedtke speaking at a press conference.

Montgomery County’s 2025 Crime & Safety Report shows encouraging progress for our community. Overall, crime declined 9 percent last year, with significant reductions in property crimes including motor vehicle theft, burglary, and robbery.

Our Montgomery County Police Department is also continuing to expand technology that helps officers respond more effectively and keep residents safe. Tools like Drone as First Responder, Real-Time Intelligence Center, and expanded camera integration — investments we shepherded on the Council — are helping strengthen operations while the department continues working through ongoing staffing shortages.

There is still important work ahead, particularly to reduce gun violence and improve response times. But the progress in this report reflects the impact of smart investments and strong partnerships. I look forward to continuing to work with MCPD, Montgomery County Health and Human Services, and our many public safety professionals to build on this momentum and keep our communities safe.

In The Community...

Top: Councilmember Luedtke participates in Read Accross America! Middle: Councilmember Luedtke participates in a bike ride with police to address concerns of pedestrian safety. Bottom: The Hornet's Nest in Damascus celebrates 10 years on Main Street!

Caring Matters 

CaringMatters is now accepting registrations for its grief support programs for children and families, offering compassionate, no-cost services for those experiencing serious illness, caregiving, trauma, loss, or grief. 

Help Montgomery Parks Improve Park Restrooms!

Access to restrooms is an important part of making our parks welcoming and usable for everyone. Montgomery Parks is currently collecting feedback through a countywide survey open through April 19. I encourage you to share your experience and help shape improvements.

Senior Deduction

New for 2026, Marylanders aged 65 and older can take advantage of a $6,000 “senior deduction” on their 2025 tax returns ($12,000 for qualifying couples). The benefit is applied automatically when you check the “65 or older” box, and free tax assistance is available through local libraries and AARP Tax-Aide.

Vaccination Clinics 

Montgomery County will offer free student vaccination clinics during Spring Break (March 30–April 6) to help families meet school immunization requirements. Vaccines are available at no cost to all MCPS students, regardless of insurance status.

Working Parents Assistance 

Montgomery County has expanded access to its Working Parents Assistance (WPA) Program, eliminating the waitlist and opening support to more families,including those impacted by the State’s Child Care Scholarship waitlist. Families with children ages 0–12 are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Airpark Community Advisory Committee

Have thoughts about the Montgomery County Airpark? The Airpark Community Advisory Committee is hosting a town hall on March 24 (6:30–9:00 p.m.) to hear from residents on safety, noise, and accountability. Your input is important to shape the Committee's work and recommendations.

#EarnedIt

This tax season, Maryland is encouraging residents to take advantage of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) through the #EarnedIt campaign. Many working Marylanders may qualify for up to $4,000, but you must file your tax return to claim it.

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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