The Sayles Sentinel

The Sayles Sentinel: Women Leading the Way (The Fashionably Late Edition)

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

What does leadership in action look like? In March, I witnessed it everywhere in our classrooms, our communities, and in the women driving change across Montgomery County.

And yes, you may notice this newsletter is arriving on April 1 instead of March 31. Let’s just call it a very intentional April Fools Day extension of Women’s History Month because good things and good updates are always worth the wait.

During Read Across America Week, I engaged in meaningful conversations with students and educators. I also met with frontline healthcare providers who continue to ensure that real voices are reflected in our policy and budget decisions. This Women’s History Month, I was proud to honor women leading in clean energy, advocacy, and innovation, all helping to shape a more sustainable and equitable future.

At the same time, we are advancing major legislation and entering a critical budget season that will determine how we allocate your tax dollars. My focus remains clear: to make smart and responsible choices that support working families and move our County forward.

From Iftar, Passover, and Easter celebrations to honoring the legacy of the Emory Grove community, I am continually reminded of how the diverse residents of this County make it such a joyful place to represent and serve.

There is much more to share, and I invite you to read on and stay engaged.

In Service,

Laurie-Anne Sayles
Councilmember At-Large

Women’s History Month

Inspiring women leaders at my 4th Annual Women’s History Month Celebration.

In addition to celebrating Women’s History Month at the Montgomery County Council with local women leaders from the community, I had the honor of hosting my 4th Annual Women’s History Month Celebration at the BlackRock Center for the Arts, in alignment with the National Women’s History Alliance’s theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” 

The event convened inspiring women and girls at the forefront of environmental stewardship and resilience across Montgomery County, whose leadership is driving real progress in our community. 

I am thankful to Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller and Representative McClain Delaney for delivering inspiring keynote speeches. I am grateful to Mrs. LaTisha Gasaway-Paul and Ms. Jordan Lindsay for serving as dynamic co-emcees. I was also proud to have my Council colleagues, including two powerful environmental advocacy and business panels moderated by Climate Change Officer Sarah Kogel Smucker and President and CEO Angela Franco of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. Their insights sparked meaningful conversation about the sustainable, equitable future we are building together.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating and uplifting the women leading the way in Montgomery County. Please enjoy a few pictures from the event here and here.

Highlights from the Health & Human Services Chair

American Diversity Group’s Free Medical Clinic Tour

I met with staff and patients at the ADG CARES Clinic to learn about their vital work eliminating access barriers to healthcare in our community.

As Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, I recently toured the American Diversity Group CARES Clinic. This specialty clinic offers free and low-cost healthcare, along with a senior center that provides nutrition education, recreational activities, and social engagement for our uninsured and underinsured residents.

During my visit, I had the chance to observe how integrated services, such as medical care, preventive education, and community programming, work together to enhance residents’ health and overall well-being. I also met with staff who are dedicated to coordinating care and linking individuals with additional safety-net resources throughout the County.

The tour highlighted both the urgency and the impact of this vital work, especially as more residents encounter barriers to care due to recent federal cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. It reinforced the significance of sustaining our nonprofit infrastructure with reliable funding and coordinated service delivery to continue strengthening Montgomery County’s health and human services network.

March HHS Committee Re-Cap

I was honored to chair several Health and Human Services Committee meetings this month, where we focused on health disparities, affordable housing, and workforce development.

In our recent HHS Committee meetings, I was reminded of how significantly these issues affect our residents’ lives. During the March 5th briefing on Minority Health Initiatives, we witnessed the dedication of teams working to address racial health disparities, which is saving lives and building trust in overlooked communities.

A week later, as we reviewed the health-related capital projects in the FY27–32 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), the importance of our decisions became clear: these facilities will determine whether residents in crisis find safety, dignity, and a true path forward.

In our triple-committee discussion on the early care and education workforce, we acknowledged the challenges faced by those caring for our youngest children. Throughout these meetings, one key theme emerged: our investments, oversight, and willingness to act boldly will determine whether Montgomery County remains a place where every resident can thrive.

CARE Reproductive Health Open House

I appreciated the opportunity to tour CARE Reproductive Health’s new Chevy Chase clinic and learn more about the critical healthcare services they are providing in our community.

I stopped by CARE Reproductive Health’s open house to tour their new Chevy Chase clinic and meet the staff expanding access to reproductive healthcare in our County. The visit provided an opportunity to see their care environment firsthand and learn more about how they support patients through a full spectrum of services delivered with compassion, privacy, and clinical care.

This is deeply sensitive and complex work, and it is clear that the team approaches it with a strong commitment to patient dignity, safety, and individualized medical needs. At the same time, it also underscores the broader, often difficult conversations our community continues to have about reproductive healthcare and access at every stage.

I was glad to present a certificate of recognition and offer brief remarks acknowledging their efforts to expand healthcare access in Montgomery County. I also appreciated the opportunity to connect with staff and learn more about the services they are providing in this part of the County.

Legislative Highlights 

The County Executives’ FY27 Recommended Operating Budget 

Entering the Council’s FY27 budget review, I’m committed to thoughtful, responsible decisions that balance community priorities with the realities residents are facing.

As we close out March, we are entering one of the most important phases of Council work, the review of the County Executive’s Recommended FY2027 Operating Budget. This is where priorities turn into decisions, and where resident voices matter most.

I have carefully reviewed the County Executive’s proposal and recognize the intent to sustain core services and invest in education, housing, public safety, and human services. At the same time, I have serious concerns about the proposed property and income tax increases. Families are already facing rising costs, economic uncertainty, federal workforce instability, and reductions in critical supports like SNAP and Medicaid. We must be thoughtful about how we ask residents to carry an additional burden.

We need to be disciplined in our spending and more intentional in identifying efficiencies and alternative revenue options that protect working families while still funding what our community needs. I remain committed to advancing my S.M.A.R.T. Agenda by investing in closing educational achievement gaps, addressing housing instability and displacement, supporting local food systems, removing barriers for small businesses and innovators, and advancing our climate goals.

As the Council begins its review, I encourage residents to stay engaged, review the budget, and sign up to testify on the priorities that matter most to you. Your lived experiences should help shape how we invest every public dollar.

For my full preliminary thoughts on the FY2027 Operating Budget, please see my public statement.

Accelerating Housing and Innovation in Montgomery County

I was proud to celebrate the passage of ZTA 26-04, which I introduced alongside Councilmember Friedson, and ZTA 26-03, which I also co-sponsored, to accelerate affordable housing and job creation.

I was proud to co-introduce ZTA 26-04 with Councilmember Friedson. This measure removes barriers and creates stronger incentives for the development of deeply affordable housing. By expediting the approval process for projects that exceed our affordability requirements, this legislation builds on our 2023 O.P.E.N. ZTA. Further, it advances our goal of delivering more housing at the levels our residents need.

At the same time, the Council unanimously passed ZTA 26-03, which I co-sponsored. This measure streamlines approvals for biohealth projects, supporting innovation, job growth, and reinforcing our County’s position as a global leader in biotech.

Together, these measures reflect a balanced approach to growth that expands opportunity, strengthens our economy, and ensures that more residents can afford to call Montgomery County.

In the News: Shaping Thoughtful Data Center Policy

I listened closely to residents’ perspectives on data centers, which shaped my responses to the questions posed to me in two interviews on Data Centers from AFRO News and BisNow.

This month, I spoke with BisNow and AFRO news about the growing demand for data centers and the legislation I introduced with the Council President and Vice President to establish clear, responsible guidelines for where and how these facilities can operate in Montgomery County.

These conversations reflect a broader national challenge: how to balance economic opportunity with environmental protection, infrastructure capacity, and community impact as the data center industry expands rapidly. I emphasized that while data centers are an emerging part of our economic landscape, we have a responsibility to get it right from the start by putting strong guardrails in place and learning from the experiences of neighboring jurisdictions.

Our goal is to be proactive, not reactive, ensuring that any future development aligns with our climate goals, protects our communities, and delivers real benefits to residents. I encourage you to read the full coverage and share your thoughts as we continue shaping this important policy conversation.

Standing with Our Immigrant Communities

Proud to stand with community advocates in support of Bill 13‑26, the ICE Out Act, to ensure Montgomery County remains a place of dignity and safety for all.

At a time when fear and uncertainty are rising for immigrant families in our County, I was proud to stand in support of Bill 13-26, the ICE Out Act, introduced by Councilmember Glass.

This legislation uses our local zoning authority to prohibit privately run immigration detention centers in Montgomery County. It is a clear statement about who we are and what we stand for. Our County will not be a place that enables systems that undermine dignity, due process, and basic human rights.

As the daughter of immigrants, this issue is deeply personal to me. I stood alongside community organizations and advocates who are on the front lines every day, providing support, protection, and reassurance to families who are feeling targeted and vulnerable.

In moments like this, leadership means being clear and compassionate. We must continue working to ensure that every resident, regardless of status, feels safe, valued, and supported in Montgomery County.

Councilmember Sayles’ S.M.A.R.T. Updates Around the County

In each newsletter, I will spotlight key events, legislative priorities, and policy achievements that advance the goals of my SMART Agenda.

• (S) Strengthen 21st Century Learning and Education.
• (M) Make life more affordable in Montgomery County.
• (A) Advance Sustainable Local Food Production in the Ag Reserve.
• (R) Revitalize the Economy.
• (T) Tackle Climate Change.

(S) Strengthen 21st Century Learning and Education

Read Across America Week

I loved spending Read Across America Week reading with students in elementary schools across the County and meeting with principals about their campuses’ needs.

As technology increasingly influences young people and literacy rates decline, it’s crucial to inspire students to return to reading. That’s why I led a weeklong Read Across America Week initiative in Montgomery County’s highest-need schools. I visited nearly ten schools, including an early learning center, and read with students to foster their love for books.

During the week, I shared stories of trailblazing women in U.S. history, encouraging students to explore new worlds through literature. We also provided S.M.A.R.T. Agenda bookmarks as reminders to read nightly and stay engaged with learning. I also met with teachers and school leaders to discuss their capital budget needs and the challenges of aging infrastructure, which informs my work on the County’s budget and capital investments.

I invite you to watch a short video from one of my visits and join me in supporting literacy and our next generation of leaders in Montgomery County.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Empowerment Night

I was grateful to attend the SEL Empowerment Night at Flowers High School and connect with so many bright young women leaders.

I was honored to attend the Social Emotional Learning Empowerment Night at Charles H. Flowers High School, hosted by Keishia Thorpe and Jah’Kei Thorpe-Randolph. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with PGCPS girls in grades 9–12 during Women’s History Month. I shared my journey in public service and encouraged them to lead with purpose, empathy, and courage. 

The evening featured student performances and emphasized the importance of mentorship and community. I was inspired by their curiosity and commitment to shaping the future and grateful to be part of this celebration of young women’s leadership.

Latino Child Care Association of Maryland, Inc. 

Joined the Latino Child Care Association of Maryland for an inspiring International Women’s Day event with Latina educators, caregivers, and business owners.

I was honored to join the Latino Child Care Association of Maryland at the Montgomery College East County Education Center for their International Women’s Day gathering. Speaking with early childhood education leaders from our community was a privilege. Being surrounded by dedicated Latina business owners, educators, and caregivers was truly inspiring. It was a joy to celebrate their vital contributions to Maryland’s children and working families.

In my speech, I reflected on women’s leadership, equity, and the importance of investing in early childhood education and the workforce that lays the foundation for its success. The real inspiration, however, came from the remarkable women shaping young minds every day. I left filled with gratitude for their resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child gets a strong start in life.

EveryMind Tour

Grateful and energized after visiting EveryMind—our frontline partners are delivering hope, stability, and lifesaving support across Montgomery County

My visit to EveryMind was an eye-opening experience that deeply reminded me of the humanity and urgency surrounding our behavioral health system. Listening to the dedicated team that operates the County’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, along with those from our school-based Wellness Centers and Linkages to Learning, and Upcounty homeless services, revealed the profound impact that compassionate, knowledgeable non-profit partners have on our community. The presentation and tour offered a heartfelt glimpse into both the strengths of our crisis response network and the immense pressures faced by the staff who commit themselves to this vital work every day. 

I walked away feeling a deep sense of gratitude for their unwavering dedication and an even stronger commitment to enhancing the continuum of care, from prevention and crisis intervention to long-term support. Together, we can foster a Montgomery County where every resident feels empowered to reach out, be heard, and find the help they need in their toughest moments.

Elite Soccer Youth Development Academy, Inc. (ESYDA) Ribbon Cutting

Congratulations to ESYDA on the opening of their new office in Silver Spring!

I had a wonderful time attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening of the new Elite Soccer Youth Development Academy (ESYDA) Clubhouse! It was great to join Maryland House of Delegates Chair of Ways & Means Jheanelle Wilkins, County Executive Marc Elrich, Councilmember Kristin Mink, Board of Education Member Karla Silvestre, Joseph Eyong on behalf of Congressman Raskin, Mumin Barre with Delegate Greg Wims, and Dave Kunes on behalf of CM Jawando, and a host of community leaders to celebrate this exciting new Chapter. 

The event truly showcased ESYDA’s dedication to being “More Than Soccer.” It’s all about creating a space that encourages youth development, mentorship, and community involvement. I felt so welcomed by Executive Director Coach Fofo and loved getting a tour of the new facility, which is set to be an amazing hub for young athletes and their families. I left feeling inspired by the academy’s vision and absolutely proud to support organizations that invest in leadership, growth, and opportunities for our youth across Montgomery County!

(M) Make Life More Affordable in Montgomery County

Makom Community Living

I appreciated the opportunity to meet with the Executive Directors of several JCRC-affiliated organizations providing essential services to our residents.

I had the opportunity to meet with the leadership of JCRC, Makom, and the Jewish Social Services Agency (JSSA). They provided valuable insights into their critical work in delivering health and human services, particularly for adolescents and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our discussions shed light on the resources necessary for them to continue providing essential wrap-around services. I sincerely appreciated the chance to tour JCRC’s office in Rockville and gain a deeper understanding of their impactful contributions to the community. These discussions will inform my efforts to advocate for the Health and Human Services budget, ensuring we prioritize support for our most vulnerable residents.

(A)Advance Sustainable Local Food Production in the Ag Reserve

Local Food Procurement Challenge

Advancing local food production in our Agricultural Reserve remains a core priority of my SMART Agenda because strengthening our local food economy means supporting our farmers, protecting our land, and building long-term sustainability.

I was proud to cosponsor a resolution introduced by Councilmember Friedson committing our County to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments regional local food procurement challenge. This bold step moves us toward purchasing more locally grown food across County operations, while establishing a dedicated point person to help departments overcome procurement barriers. It’s not an easy shift. It requires coordination, innovation, and a long-term lens, essential to building a resilient, sustainable food system that uplifts our local producers.

At the same time, I am continuously working to strengthen the ecosystem that connects our farms to our tables and regularly convene key partners, including Visit Montgomery, Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services, and collaborators from my inaugural Farm-to-Table Symposium, for strategic conversations with small business stakeholders like the Restaurant Association of Maryland and the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. Together, we explored ways to increase restaurant procurement of locally grown foods and deepen partnerships through events and initiatives that celebrate and elevate our local food economy.

When we align policy, partnerships, and procurement to advance local food production, we ensure our Agricultural Reserve continues to thrive for generations to come.

(R) Revitalize the Economy

Olney Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards

Team Sayles was pleased to attend the Greater Olney Community Awards Ceremony, with Joseph proudly representing our office in his hometown of Olney.

We were honored to join the Greater Olney Civic Association, the Olney Chamber of Commerce, and the Olney Civic Fund in celebrating the community. These organizations play a vital role in connecting residents, businesses, and public safety partners. This year’s award recipients included Da’ Roofers as the Rising Star, James Creek Lawn & Landscape as the Business of the Year, and Dan Peddicord as the Business Leader of the Year. We also recognized Fire Chief Brendan Bonita and Officer Aleks Goldschmidt for their exemplary leadership in public safety. Their dedication reflects the strength and spirit of Olney, and Team Sayles left inspired by those who work to uplift this remarkable community.

The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders Ribbon Cutting

I was proud to join the Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce in marking the grand reopening of The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders.

Congratulations to The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders and Dr. Ralph Boccia on 25 years of service! As Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, I found it especially meaningful to participate in the ribbon-cutting for the grand reopening. It was gratifying to witness how this investment enhances community-based cancer and blood disorder care in our county.

Hearing from both clinicians and families highlighted the importance of comprehensive, patient-centered care models like CCBD. They provide advanced treatment options, clinical trials, timely diagnostics, and supportive services that address the needs of the whole person. Their work aligns perfectly with the priorities we aim to promote through policy.

I left the event feeling inspired by CCBD’s commitment to excellence, equity, and compassionate care.

Richardson School of Music Ribbon Cutting Celebration

Celebrating the grand opening of the Richardson School of Music’s new home alongside Governor Wes Moore and Secretary Jacob Day, we marked a powerful investment in Takoma Park’s arts and small business community.

I had the honor to attend the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new location of the Richardson School of Music. We were honored by the presence of Governor Wes Moore and his Housing Secretary Jacob Day, who all underscored the importance of supporting small businesses like this one.

The Richardson School of Music, owned by Vincent Richardson, son of the renowned Rev. Dr. Bernard L. Richardson, the Dean of Howard University Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel, has made a significant leap from leasing a space in the Takoma Park business district to owning its permanent home. This transformation was made possible by a $150,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), funded via the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

This achievement not only ensures the continued growth of the school but also represents a substantial investment in the Takoma Park Arts and Business community. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating this momentous occasion!

(T) Tackle Climate Change

Little Falls Watershed Alliance Annual Party

Team Sayles attended the Little Falls Watershed celebration to honor 18 years of stewardship, advocacy, and community connection.

Team Sayles was pleased to attend the Little Falls Watershed celebration at Westmoreland Congregational Church, marking 18 years of stewardship and community connection. We appreciated the chance to engage with dedicated volunteers and neighbors who protect and restore our vital parks and natural areas.

The program highlighted grassroots leadership with a presentation on saving native bees, recognition of the volunteer Salt-Monitoring team, and a performance by the Dave Batson Band. We are thankful for the Little Falls Watershed Alliance’s ongoing efforts to protect and restore the Bethesda-Chevy Chase area and are proud to celebrate this milestone.

Restoring the Potomac, Restoring Trust

The recreational advisory for most portions of the Potomac River in our County has been lifted. Residents are welcome to return to recreating near the river while continuing to avoid direct contact.

DC Water has made significant progress by completing emergency repairs on the Potomac Interceptor. As a result, the Department of Health and Human Services has lifted the recreational advisory for most areas of the Potomac River in our county, marking a positive step forward, allowing residents to enjoy the river again, while still encouraging them to avoid direct contact with the water. 

We recognize that there is still work ahead of us to restore the health of the Potomac and to rebuild trust within the community. I remain committed to ensuring accountability in this situation. I also wholeheartedly supported the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission’s request for $5 million in federal funding, which will be crucial for our environmental cleanup efforts. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for both the river and our community.

Adapting to Climate Change

Energized to support Bill 2‑26—an innovative, no‑new‑tax approach that strengthens our Green Bank and accelerates Montgomery County’s climate resilience.

As a co-sponsor of Bill 2-26, Taxation – Fuel-energy tax – Green Bank – Amendments,  I supported a smart approach to climate change by strengthening local revenue for the County’s Green Bank. This legislation allows more flexible use of existing fuel-energy tax revenues to fund climate resilience projects like flood mitigation and infrastructure protection, alongside clean energy initiatives. 

Importantly, this is not a new tax but a strategic reallocation of resources in alignment with my S.M.A.R.T. Agenda, maximizing funding to protect residents and support businesses while moving Montgomery County toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

Councilmember in the Community Highlights

Maryland’s Top 100 Women

I am deeply honored to have been named to the 2026 Maryland’s Top 100 Women list by The Maryland Daily Record. This recognition celebrates outstanding women leaders across the state for their professional excellence, community leadership, and mentorship. I would also like to congratulate the other honorees. This is the second time I have received this recognition, having been first named to the list in 2018. Ultimately, the true reward lies in the opportunity to serve our residents and create pathways for others to succeed. As the daughter of Jamaican immigrants and a Montgomery County Councilmember, I am committed to building a stronger and more inclusive community for everyone.

City of Gaithersburg St. Patrick’s Day Parade

My team and I had a blast celebrating community spirit with families across Montgomery County at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Rio.

I was proud to march alongside my team and supporters in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg. The morning was filled with energy, music, and a strong sense of community as we connected with families and celebrated alongside local organizations, performers, and neighbors from across the region. The enthusiasm along the parade route was truly contagious, with residents showing up in full spirit to make the day special. I am deeply grateful to my team for their dedication in helping make the event a success, and I am already looking forward to returning next year for another incredible celebration.

Honoring the Legacy of Johnson’s Park with the Emory Grove Community

Honored to attend the unveiling of the new interpretive sign at Johnson’s Local Park and stand with original Emory Grove residents in recognizing this community’s history and committing to its future.

I was deeply moved to attend the ceremony at Johnson’s Local Park, which marked the unveiling of a new interpretive sign highlighting the site’s key historical significance to the county, especially regarding its original Black community. It was an honor to stand alongside original residents of this community, including State Delegate Wims, who grew up here and delivered a powerful speech, along with many others who have carried this history forward.

The gathering celebrated a legacy built through strength and faith, but it also highlighted that a sign alone cannot fully capture what this community has endured and achieved. If we truly want to honor this history, we need to make meaningful investments in the park that has been its cornerstone for generations. That is why I will advocate for full funding in the upcoming budget to rebuild the baseball field facilities and complete other long-awaited improvements. This will help ensure that Johnson’s Local Park can once again become a regional destination and a proud symbol of Emory Grove’s enduring spirit.

Celebrating Ramadan Across Montgomery County 

Team Sayles was grateful to attend three Ramadan gatherings celebrating unity, community, and the rich diversity of Montgomery County.

Team Sayles felt truly grateful to participate in three heartfelt Ramadan gatherings this month, each offering us a profound and inspiring glimpse into the strength and diversity of our county’s communities. 

At the Annual County Iftar Dinner, we joined partners, faith leaders, and neighbors in a beautiful celebration of unity and shared purpose. The MARTI Home Iftar was especially touching, as the Kumas family welcomed me with their generous hospitality, allowing for deep conversations and meaningful cultural connections. At the Middle Eastern American Advisory Group’s Ramadan Celebration, we were inspired by the community advocates and residents devoted to amplifying Middle Eastern voices and enhancing our county’s partnerships.

These gatherings truly embodied the spirit of fellowship, inclusion, and community-building that define Ramadan and Montgomery County. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who welcomed us so warmly; your kindness and openness made these events even more special.

JUFJ’s Until All of Us Are Free: Labor and Social Justice Seder 

We were honored to celebrate Passover with Jews United for Justice at their inspiring and meaningful “Until All of Us Are Free” Labor Seder.

Team Sayles was grateful to join Jews United for Justice in Washington, D.C., for their “Until All of Us Are Free” Labor Seder. Passover is a time when the Jewish community reflects on the Exodus story of liberation from bondage in Egypt through a ceremonial meal known as a seder, filled with symbolism and song. 

I greatly appreciated the theme of JUFJ’s seder, which connected the ancient struggle for freedom faced by the Jewish people to contemporary battles for racial equity and social justice in our community, including addressing disparities in academic and disciplinary outcomes for Black students in our schools and standing against ICE’s racial profiling and misconduct. Initiatives like these foster solidarity across our diverse communities, making Montgomery County a wonderful place to serve as a councilmember.

JCRC’s Annual MoCo Advocacy Day 

I was grateful for the opportunity to meet with the JCRC and hear directly from students, advocates, and service providers about their priorities and lived experiences.

I appreciated the opportunity to meet with the Jewish Community Relations Council to discuss their legislative and budget priorities during a critical time in our county’s budget deliberations. Our conversation highlighted the importance of ensuring safety for all faith-based institutions, strengthening social service agencies that many residents rely on, and protecting vulnerable communities facing rising hate, displacement, and inequities. 

I reflected on the progress we made together last year, including expanding nonprofit security grants and increasing access to housing, food assistance, early childhood education, and mental health services. I reaffirmed my commitment to collaborating to address the challenges we face ahead. 

It was valuable to hear directly from students, advocates, and service providers about their lived experiences and the priorities that motivate them. I remain committed to supporting policies that foster a sense of belonging, protect democracy, and ensure dignity and opportunity for every resident in Montgomery County.

Montgomery County Public Safety Awards 

My office attended the 51st Annual Public Safety Awards to honor the dedication, professionalism, and courage of our county’s public safety teams.

I was honored to attend the 51st Annual Public Safety Awards at the Music Center at Strathmore, a heartfelt event celebrating the bravery and dedication of Montgomery County’s public safety personnel. The ceremony featured a poignant Pipes and Drums procession, community service honors, unit citations, and valor awards, showcasing the selflessness of those who protect our residents.

Being among colleagues, partners, and community members as we recognized these remarkable individuals was humbling. I extend my gratitude to the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, our public safety agencies, and the County Executive’s Office for organizing this meaningful tribute. Our Officers' courage and commitment are truly appreciated.

Respect Fest

Team Sayles attended RespectFest 2026 to connect with young volunteers dedicated to promoting healthy relationships and youth empowerment.

Team Sayles had the privilege of attending Montgomery County’s RespectFest 2026 at the Wheaton Community Recreation Center. This event allowed us to connect with enthusiastic young volunteers who are actively promoting healthy relationships. We were truly impressed by their creativity and leadership, which sparked productive discussions about our youth-focused policy priorities, including the important goal of advocating for a nationwide resolution on gun violence.

 The emphasis on youth empowerment made our experience especially rewarding. We appreciate the opportunity to listen to and support the next generation of advocates and feel inspired by their dedication. Together, we can continue to foster a safer and more respectful Montgomery County for all.

Upcoming Events & Ways to Engage

Prioritize Your Health at Congresswoman Delaney’s Free Health Fair

Become a Food Recovery Volunteer with the Montgomery County Food Council

This month, the Office of Food Systems Resilience is excited to start recruiting for Food Recovery Volunteers! As the recently designated Montgomery County Food Recovery Network Coordinator, the office has launched its Food Recovery Collaborative, working with grocery stores, restaurants, institutions, and community partners to rescue edible food before it is lost and redirect it to families facing hunger. Sign up and join the effort to strengthen food recovery in our county as a Volunteer Food Runner. All you need is a vehicle, a good driving record, and a few extra hours to make sure good food reaches families who need it instead of going to waste.

Grant Opportunity: Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge

Wells Fargo has launched the 2026 Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge, a national competition managed by Enterprise Community Partners to identify scalable housing innovations. The initiative will award $10 million in grants across five organizations, along with technical assistance, mentorship, and peer‑learning opportunities. The challenge will offer five $2 million grants to support innovative solutions in the areas of:

• Design and construction
• Finance
• Service delivery and programs,

This year’s competition focuses on innovations in design and construction, finance, and service delivery, with applications open from April 1 to May 15, 2026. Enterprise leaders note that the challenge helps accelerate proven models that expand affordability and opportunity in rural, urban, and tribal communities.

For more information on how to apply for the grant, check this link.

Internship/Volunteer Summer 2026 Positions with the Office of Legislative Oversight

The Montgomery County Council’s Office of Legislative Oversight (OLO) is pleased to announce a summer internship/volunteer program. This program is intended to give undergraduate college students hands-on experience conducting policy analysis on a range of topics. OLO is seeking several interns who will be assigned to a policy topic aligned with their specific area of study. The number of hours, length of internship, and place of work (home or in the office) are flexible.

The Office of Legislative Oversight is a Legislative Branch Office serving the Montgomery County (MD) Council. OLO’s mission is to provide the County Council with accurate information, analysis, and independent findings and recommendations that help the Council fulfill its legislative oversight function. The two primary products OLO produces are: 1) research reports on topics requested by the Council; and 2) economic, racial equity, and environmental impact statements for bills introduced by the Council. OLO volunteer interns will assist staff in conducting program evaluations, research, and other special studies.

To apply, please send your resume and policy topic (s) of interest, along with a proposed work schedule that includes the number of hours per week and start and end dates. The internship is a volunteer program, and positions will be awarded to those first to apply whose policy interests intersect with specific OLO projects or areas of oversight. Please send applications to Karen Pecoraro at karen.pecoraro@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Resources You Can Use 

Montgomery County is home to thousands of federal workers, contractors, and businesses affected by federal budget cuts. In response, Montgomery County government officials and key partners have launched Mobilize Montgomery, a strategic collaboration designed to support these individuals and businesses. The initiative aims to provide resources, enhance outreach efforts from the Montgomery County government, create toolkits for affected companies, and develop new programs, including weekly webinars and events tailored for employees and employers. The Mobilize Montgomery coalition includes the Montgomery County Government, Maryland Department of Labor, WorkSource Montgomery, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, the City of Gaithersburg, Rockville Chamber of Commerce, the Maryland Women’s Business Center, Rockville Economic Development, Inc., as well as additional local chambers.

Montgomery County is Hiring

• Deputy Sheriff Candidate

• Facilities and Maintenance Equipment Coordinator

• Latino Health Initiative Principal Administrative Aide

• Public Service Worker III

  To review and apply for other open positions, visit the Montgomery County Career website.

Stay Connected & Get Involved 

Your health and well-being are my top priorities.

Please share your concerns and ideas with me via phone or email, attend community events, join local advisory boards, or speak at County Council public hearings. Your input is vital in shaping better policies for our community.

Council Office Building: 100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, MD 20850

Phone:   (240) 777-7964

Email:     Councilmember.Sayles@montgomerycountymd.gov

Website: montgomerycountymd.gov/sayles/

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