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June 18, 2026
I’m pleased that we implemented a six-month pause on data center development, as I had proposed earlier this year. However, that is only the first step toward protecting our environment and utility ratepayers. Our job is not yet finished. We need to use this pause to establish a Data Center Task Force composed of diverse stakeholders and subject matter experts.
We need to get this right because the stakes are too high to get it wrong.
In January, I introduced legislation (Bill 4-26) to create a Data Center Task Force, which would study the potential impact of data center development in Montgomery County. Despite failing to receive any cosponsors and being rejected in committee, I strongly believe this legislation must be revisited for consideration by the Council.
I am calling for immediate action: create the task force as originally proposed to provide a clear, community engaged process during the moratorium. The task force will include fifteen members, stakeholders from a diverse range of sectors, including environmental groups, civic organizations, the data center industry, utility companies, trade unions and more. For 12 months, these stakeholders will develop recommendations for the County, ensuring the most responsible, sustainable and equitable path forward for data center development within Montgomery County.
Time is of the essence. We must use this moratorium to put strong guardrails in place to protect our environment, our residents and future generations from irresponsible data center development. The task force is exactly the structure we need to guide us at this time.
Here is an article with a timeline and series of policy proposals regarding data centers.
 The Bethesda Today article documents Councilmember Glass' legislative action on data centers
It has been a busy Pride Month this year!
As we approach the halfway point, I want to reflect on all the amazing ways we have come together in celebration of our LGBTQ+ community. As the first openly LGBTQ+ Montgomery County Councilmember, this is always a deeply meaningful time for me.
This year, I attended Bethesda Big Train’s Sixth Annual Pride Night and visited Pride celebrations all across the county from Poolesville, Rockville, Glen Echo and Takoma Park. It is wonderful living in a community where we celebrate our neighbors for who they are.
 Clockwise: Council commemorating Pride Month, Councilmember Glass with LGBTQ+ community leaders, Councilmember Glass speaking at the Pride Flag Raising, Councilmember Glass at Bethesda Big Train's Pride Night
Welcome to Silver Spring, Emma’s Torch!
Emma’s Torch is a nonprofit enterprise that supports refugees by providing in-depth workforce development. This program is paired with employment, equity and empowerment training to ensure that our refugee community is equipped with the skills needed to successfully get a job here in Montgomery County.
Emma’s Torch is a perfect example of what makes our community so welcoming. Looking forward to countless delicious meals here!
 Councilmember Glass with Kerry Brodie, Founder and Executive Director of Emma's Torch
I joined volunteers from Moms Demand Action in Rockville to demand an end to gun violence for National Gun Violence Awareness Week. Gun violence is a health crisis and a clear policy failure. It is imperative that every elected official speak out and pave the way forward for common sense gun safety measures.
This is a fight I have taken with me to the County Council. It is precisely why I introduced and passed the Suicide Awareness and Firearm Education Act. I will never stop speaking out until this preventable tragedy is finally ended in America.
 Councilmember Glass with Moms Demand Action
Taste of Riverworks was terrific!
This year was the fourth annual Taste of Riverworks, an outdoor Poolesville festival celebrating food, art and more. As a longtime supporter of the performing arts, I always enjoy being able to support and experience them whenever I get the chance. Perfect weather for a perfect event.
 Councilmember Glass at Riverworks Art Center
Tomorrow is Juneteenth, and there are celebrations all across Montgomery County. It is more important now than ever to ensure we remember our history and properly celebrate the end of slavery in the United States. Please take a look at all the opportunities available in our community this weekend here.
 The Josiah Henson Museum in North Bethesda is hosting activities for all ages on Juneteenth
A Friendship Heights resident wrote to me requesting assistance to repair a water fountain along the Capital Crescent Trail that had been out of order for a year. My team flagged this issue with the Parks Department given growing Summer heat. Parks dispatched its plumbing crews to repair the fountain within a couple of weeks. Now we can make sure we all stay hydrated while out on the trail!
 The water fountain at the Capital Crescent Trailhead in Downtown Bethesda is back in service
Please do not reply to this email. To contact my office, email me at Councilmember.Glass@montgomerycountymd.gov.
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