Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

Dear Friends,

These have been two very difficult weeks for our community. Frustration with this once-in-a-century “snowcrete” event was a major headache for residents in Montgomery County and across the region.

Our County’s weather expert, Matt Miziorko, from the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, testified before the County Council this week that if this storm had been entirely snow, we would have likely gotten over 20 inches. But if this were just snow, even over 20 inches, our job of clearing the roads would have been a lot easier. Instead, we got a layer of ice 3 to 4 inches thick, which changed the nature of our response and proved a frustrating challenge.

That much sustained sleet changed the whole nature of this storm. I have never seen the weather do this before, and I have lived here my entire life. Regular snow shovels didn't work on this mess. I’ve had people text me pics of mangled snow shovels caused by using them to try to break the ice.

The County treated this storm as a serious problem from the start. We pre-treated all the streets the day before the storm, knowing the potential for ice and the forecasted temperatures. We mobilized every resource we had and could access.

On the first pass, plow drivers pushed the snow to the side. That snow then turned to ice, and people couldn't shovel their way out. If it hadn't iced, people would have shoveled and been fine. But the theory of plowing one side so people can dig out and move their cars to the other side failed because people couldn't dig themselves out, so we couldn't plow the other side of the street.

We were paralyzed, not by lack of planning or lack of effort, but because we are not equipped for storms like this. Why would we be? This was a historic freeze that affected our entire region. It is unreasonable to expect us to keep heavy-duty ice-removal trucks standing by for years in the event of something like this. It would cost tens of millions of dollars to have had the front-end loaders, dump trucks, and small bulldozers, not to mention probably another 500 employees ready to deal with this ice storm.



Not only did our equipment struggle, but so did our residents. Our sidewalks were not shoveled when required, and we extended the deadline because we recognized the challenges people faced with the ice. I was also reluctant to expect people to shovel in single-digit temperatures with wind chills below zero. I was very concerned about the potential health impacts or risks we might be subjecting people to. Some patience on our part, I felt, was necessary. I wish everyone could see and appreciate the way our transportation crews continue working through the difficulties to get us all moving again.



This week, we resumed our responsibility in holding property owners responsible for sidewalks. Inspectors checked nearly 400 complaints in the first two days and gave home and property owners proper notice to clear their sidewalks within 24 hours. I’m glad those notices weren’t given when temperatures were closer to zero because that would have put more of our residents at risk of serious injury. Still, clearing sidewalks is essential to making it safer for kids and adults to get to school and work.

I want to thank our employees and contractors who worked tirelessly in the days after the storm to re-open our transportation network and County facilities, moving and lifting tons of snow and ice to get our community back to normal as quickly as we could, and in close communication with the State, municipalities, and private properties to target areas needed for children to safely get to school.

I don’t think people understand what a tough job this work is in the best of conditions, and these last 10 days have really put our incredible professionals to the test. Things will continue to improve the longer we go without snow and with warmer temperatures, because crews are still working on moving ice out of the way.

Listening to Residents About Data Centers



I want to thank everyone who participated in our community forum about data centers on Tuesday. I was joined by Council President Natali Fani-González, Council Vice President Marilyn Balcombe, and Councilmember Will Jawando. You can watch the entire presentation and the questions raised on the County’s YouTube page.

This meeting drew more than 100 people to the Leggett Executive Office Building (photos), and others joined online. We want to ensure that lessons learned from previous studies and openings elsewhere are applied here. So, my team and I developed a list of considerations and recommendations, which is available on the County’s website. We’ve also shared these recommendations with Council and stakeholders to gather feedback that can inform legislation as it's being formed. It was a pretty long list, but it’s not everything. It’s a good starting point, but it shouldn’t be treated as covering everything.

I hope there’s a serious effort in the legislation to ensure that we do this right. Data centers, I believe, can be done right. It’s possible to deal with emissions. It’s possible to deal with water.

I expect the County will lay down some ground rules by the end of spring to prepare for the next step. Even if it’s not 100% comprehensive, I do think that if the Council does not feel they can get all this done in a reasonably short period of time, then we need to put a moratorium on data centers—one as short as six months, possibly a little bit less, is feasible.

But that requires putting together comprehensive, effective legislation. I don’t want to see legislation passing quickly, with a few easy-to-agree-on items that leave larger issues untouched. If the Council can work on that while we’re in the budget process, that would be good.

It’s worth the effort to get this right. In fact, we must get it right.

There is already a lot of good data available, and I don’t feel a task force to gather more is necessary. Multiple jurisdictions have hashed through the issues, and there’s nothing unique about locating in Montgomery County. We already know the risks, like the threat to our power grid if we don't require companies to help provide more electricity supply. I was intrigued by a project in Pennsylvania using small natural gas turbines that they say can address power supply and emissions questions. Once I get the data and the substance of their proposal, I will share it. That example shows that companies are beginning to consider how to address public concerns, further underscoring the point that there is no need for a task force to work for a year or more on this. Also, learning about which counties have regulated the centers would be informative, since they’re tackling the same problem.



There are some must-haves that I think are important, and other things we all need to think about:

• Data centers should be required to bring their own power. This may be one of the most important things we can do, if not the most important. If they don’t bring their own power, they will put a massive strain on the grid and continue to fuel already exploding energy prices. The supply problem needs to be fixed, but not with coal or diesel.
• Ensure data centers are only built in areas intended for industrial use.
• There should be significant buffers between any residential and community uses.
• First preference for backup power should be batteries, because they minimize the need for backups.
• After that, if that’s not feasible, prefer the use of natural gas generators over diesel generators, require strict emission controls, especially carbon capture and capturing unburned gases, and limit their use to emergencies.
• Preference for closed-loop cooling systems that don’t use water.
• Develop stormwater management plans for data centers for the large impervious surfaces created.
• Require that water usage results in the water being returned to the environment clean and at the temperature at which it was withdrawn from the water source.
• Require buffer zones for noise. And revisit the noise ordinance to ensure data centers comply with the acceptable limits.

Some who shared their feedback this week asked why we would allow data centers in Montgomery County? We’ve seen the frustration that data centers have caused in other communities, but they were approved without the kind of community protection we’re discussing. It’s crucial to start this discussion now and bring in as many viewpoints as possible to create a clear vision of what we, as a community, want. We have the power to control many things to protect our environment and try to keep our electricity bills from skyrocketing.

Here's another important component: no tax breaks. There is no reason for us to subsidize data centers if the whole point of bringing them here is to make them central revenue generators.

I still believe there’s a way to do this, but I am glad I heard so many legitimate concerns from our public. Residents can also provide written comments by emailing climate@montgomerycountymd.gov. I’m looking forward to seeing what the Council does with my recommendations.

County Council Bond Limit Vote

I am really disappointed by Tuesday’s decision by a majority of the County Council not to adopt my recommendation to raise the debt limit ceiling for capital expenditures (CIP) soon. I will continue to argue for restoring the County's purchasing power that was lost following the 2009 recession.

Our school system is finally being honest about its needs, and this is the best way to support the improvements the community has been waiting for. We received a record-high request from the Board of Education totaling $2.8 billion, which is more than $1 billion above the last CIP.





The County’s ability to address its infrastructure needs has been severely hampered by the fact that General Obligation (GO) bond limits have not kept pace with inflation, as you can see from the chart above. Issuances have been capped at just $280 million annually for the past four years. To sustain the same purchasing power as the $300 million spent before the recession, it would need to issue more than $550 million annually today.

There is no way that school repairs and construction match the prices of 2009. We will probably do half the work for the same price. It happened because they were never honest about their needs and only asked for what could be done within the parameters of our GO bond limits. They focused on expansion, but now the far greater need is in repairs.

While the Council recently voted to raise the guideline to $300 million, it is insufficient to sustain even existing projects, such as road resurfacing and building system replacements, let alone new initiatives.

We have done this to ourselves through chronic underinvestment, forcing the County to use older infrastructure longer, which increases long-term maintenance costs. A higher debt limit is also fiscally viable due to years of restraint. The argument is aided by the fact that we continue to see revenue growth even as our economic growth lags.

I’ve recommended issuing $340 million in bonds in FY27 and increasing that amount by $10 million each year to $390 million in FY32. This would keep debt service at a modest 10.3% over the six years, well below the County's average over the last decade.



This is the first time in 15 years that the County's debt service-to-General Fund revenues ratio has fallen near the self-imposed 10% policy guideline. In other words, we have sufficient cushion to make this investment now.

The state has raised its revenue outlook, driven by personal income tax collections, since our December estimates were released. The same pattern will hold. If the council insists on the $300 million bond limit, County facilities will go another year without critical improvements totaling $390 million over the six years. I wish the County Council could see this as the opportunity that it is to increase the debt limit without compromising the County’s AAA credit rating.

Our regional competitiveness relies on a stellar education system. We have a crown jewel of a school system, but it is aging. It’s time to consider how much we stand to lose if we fail to make the necessary financial commitment to education in our County.

Black History Month Kick-Off Event



I want to thank everyone who turned out for this week’s kick-off to Black History Month, put on by the African American Advisory Group.

Those who attended were in the audience for a live podcast taping with former County Executive Ike Leggett. We also presented our inaugural Good Trouble Awards for outstanding community involvement.



The Legacy in Leadership Award went to Dr. Winston Anderson, a scholar, community pillar, and founder of the Sandy Spring Slave Museum & African Art Gallery. Because of his work, African American history, culture, and global influence are preserved and will be interpreted and honored for generations to come. He was also instrumental in the restoration of Odd Fellows Lodge, a sacred space that shows resilience and is a source of pride. His work embodies sustained commitment, trusted leadership, and a belief that knowing our history is essential to shaping our future.

The Advocate for Justice Award honored those who refuse to stand still in the face of injustice. We proudly recognized LaTisha Gasaway-Paul, Teresa Gasaway-Gleaton, and LaTrice Gasaway-Johnson: the Gasaway Sisters. Their work to elevate the Scotland neighborhood and launch the annual Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival helps all of us understand the hardships Black families went through throughout most of the 20th century.

The Freedom Forward Award was shared with Nigel Duberry. Nigel has committed his life to uplifting young people and helping them see the possibility in themselves. Besides his work as a mentor, the Montgomery County native launched the 480club to help provide guidance and support for students navigating challenges both in and out of the classroom. Some of his greatest strengths are honesty, compassion, and accountability, and he is an asset to the community.

This event was a big success thanks to the people who showed up and supported this important cause. Now more than ever it is important to uplift each other and inspire our youth to take the lessons of the past to create a better tomorrow.

Point in Time Count and Homelessness

I want to thank our County employees and community partners who were out Wednesday night and early Thursday morning conducting the annual homeless Point-In-Time Count.

This is a legal requirement to qualify for federal funding for programs that work to end homelessness and serve those who are currently unhoused. And on that note, I want to thank Congress for extending the Continuum of Care funding for another year. The money is essential to our permanent supportive housing programs, which help keep hundreds of people housed and provide essential support services. The PIT Count is also an opportunity to better understand how homelessness affects residents across Montgomery County.

After a week's delay due to bitterly cold temperatures, volunteers were out across the County, both counting the people they found living outside and conducting a brief survey. This face-to-face interaction allows us to share essentials with them and connect people experiencing homelessness with resources that could help them regain stability in their lives.

During the recent winter storm, we made overflow shelter space available for individuals and families through our Services to End and Prevent Homelessness program. We served 500 people with space indoors and out of the elements. That’s on top of more than 400 beds we usually have open. Our community partners, like the Coalition for the Homeless, Interfaith Works, Rainbow Place, and the Salvation Army, were essential in helping us keep everyone fed. Thanks to the American Red Cross for providing cots and our shelter partners like Interfaith Works for showing immense patience during trying times.

If we are genuinely going to treat everyone in our County equally, then we must show compassion and be there for everyone. Some people criticize this approach, but in Montgomery County, everyone is treated with respect. The government will continue to help individuals and families make homelessness a brief, one-time occurrence through strong social network support

Finally, I encourage everyone to check out the many events around the County to commemorate Black History Month. There are active efforts right now to erase or rewrite the history of Black and Brown people. Black History Month exists because people had to fight to be recognized as full contributors to our society.

There is a national movement to eliminate Black History Month, but that will not happen in Montgomery County. Montgomery County will continue to recognize, celebrate and support the contributions of the Black community.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,



Marc Elrich

County Executive

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

 

Dear Friends,

It has been several years since we had a storm like this. Making our streets and sidewalks passable has been a grueling process that isn’t completely over yet. It is not from a lack of trying. We have gotten very used to just brushing light snow off the road, but this storm did not disappear so easily. And the sunshine we’ve seen since is little help. It’s just too cold for much of the snow to melt. This persistent cold will continue to stick around, making this job and all our lives more difficult.

In response, we extended the moratorium on sidewalk-clearing enforcement until Monday, Feb. 2. Normally, we would expect residents to clear their sidewalks within 24 hours of the last snowfall, but these are far from normal circumstances. Problems keep piling up, like the fact that the light metal used in many snow shovels won’t break through the ice. I had to use a garden shovel to crack the top three inches of ice, toss the mini-icebergs aside, and then use the regular snow shovel to move the nice fluffy snow underneath. It is not my idea of fun, and I’m sure many of you can relate.

I want to extend my gratitude to the County employees who undertook this enormous challenge to keep our community safe during and following the storm. This includes our emergency responders, transportation crews, and snowplow operators, Health and Human Services outreach teams working to shelter close to 1,000 unhoused residents, and MC 311 staff handling high call volumes. I also want to recognize the municipal governments, nonprofits, faith organizations, community groups, volunteers, and elected officials at every level who have stepped up to help neighbors and strangers alike. They have delivered supplies, checked on older adults, and supported people who need assistance.

Our transportation team is actively addressing MC311 requests. MC311 received over 12,000 calls this week, double the usual number. We appreciate residents' patience in reporting their requests, issues, and concerns.

We acknowledge the frustration and feedback from our residents regarding the accuracy of our plow tracker. It inaccurately said the job was 100% complete when there were still streets that needed attention. Some of the streets marked as completed were inaccessible to our crew because cars were stopped, stranded, or parked, blocking the road. Mechanical failures and other factors were not considered when the system marked the route as completed, simply after crews were dispatched, whether or not they were successful.

There were several instances in which our ability to complete entire routes was disrupted, but this was not accurately reflected in the reporting system. I want to thank MCDOT Director Chris Conklin for detailing these issues extensively during my weekly media briefing.

You can follow all related updates on our Winter Storm Information Portal at montgomerycountymd.gov/snow and on our social media channels.

Staying Safe in the Cold

I want to remind residents of some tips shared by County Health Officer Dr. Kisha Davis to help deal with this bitter cold. The drop in temperature and physical exertion from snow removal can create a "perfect storm" for medical emergencies, including heart attacks, hypothermia, and frostbite.

Remember these things:

• Protect Your Heart: Cold weather constricts blood vessels, raising blood pressure and straining the heart. If you have heart disease or risk factors, please do not shovel snow yourself. If you must shovel, pace yourself, take breaks, stay hydrated, and call 9-1-1 immediately if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.
• Alcohol/Drug Risks: Alcohol and drugs can impair judgment and alter temperature perception, increasing risk during extreme cold.
• Practice Heating Safety: The majority of house and apartment fires occur during the winter when individuals use dangerous methods to heat their homes. Please keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable and never use a stove or oven to heat your home.
• Check Your Neighbors: If you see someone who is unhoused and in need of shelter, call our 24-hour Homeless Resource Line at 240-907-2688. During the winter storm, we provided shelter to nearly 1,000 people.

Because of the frigid cold and the desire to get people inside, the County has postponed the annual Point-in-Time Count of unhoused individuals. It will now be done on Wednesday night, Feb. 4, and in the early morning hours of Thursday, Feb. 5. The call for volunteers in both downcounty and upcounty has been met. I want to thank everyone for their willingness to help.

Also, be aware that hypothermia can set in quickly. Dress in layers and cover your skin, especially your extremities. If you or a family member starts shivering uncontrollably, feels exhausted, or has slurred speech, get to a warm place immediately. Check on your elderly neighbors to make sure they keep warm and have enough food.

You can find more information about winter safety at montgomerycountymd.gov/hypothermia. Let’s continue to look out for one another and stay safe as this cold continues to haunt us.

Standing in Solidarity with Minneapolis

What has occurred in Minneapolis with the loss of two innocent lives this month is tragic. Beyond that, the federal occupation and lawless manner of federal agents nationwide, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has eroded public trust and violated fundamental constitutional rights.

This ugly national disgrace called our immigration policy started when the current President was campaigning and asserted that he was going to remove the criminal element. For years, even local ICE officials affirmed that they were not after all immigrants. They focused instead on people who had committed serious crimes. From the moment this madness started, however, it has spiraled into removing everyone – people who’ve been here for decades, who built lives and businesses here, and were successful and contributing residents of our communities.

These actions demonize entire nationalities. Our president has even suggested revoking citizenship and turning our backs on Afghans who supported the U.S.'s failed war there. These allies would be prime targets of the Taliban if they’re forced to return there. The brutality and inhumanity of this man are staggering, and instead of calling on our better angels, he’s raising the specter of elevating our worst instincts and inciting blind hatred. And inside our own house, he’s erasing Black History and the long history of slavery and discrimination. He and his cronies apparently don’t think slavery was such a bad thing. None of this is good.

Since the start of the Trump administration, there have been 16 confirmed shootings involving U.S. immigration agents. Communities across the country, as well as here in Montgomery County, are living with the reality that federal activity has intensified in ways that increase fear, heighten tensions, and risk serious harm. When federal immigration enforcement looks and feels like a military occupation, trust collapses and violence escalates.

I took part in a peaceful protest in Silver Spring following the Rachel Good killing. We have many people here in our own community with the strength and compassion to take a stand on behalf of minority communities that are being persecuted. The cameras reveal the truth amid the lies coming out of the White House.

Finally, after the brutal execution of Alex Pretti by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents, we are starting to see some sort of rationality take root within Congress. Even the NRA is questioning the actions of federal agents. It is sad that elected officials listen more to the gun lobby than common sense, but in this case, the Second Amendment advocates staying true to their principles made a difference in beginning to de-escalate the tensions in Minneapolis.

No neighborhood should feel like a battlefield. No family should fear that routine encounters with federal government officials will end in violence. Montgomery County stands in solidarity with Minneapolis. We share their concern, their grief, and their demand for accountability and transparency.

Bruce Springsteen released a new song this week called "Streets of Minneapolis." I encourage you to listen. As always, Bruce (aka “The Boss) captures the voice, thoughts, and emotions many of us are experiencing during these tough times.

We know ICE activity is likely to increase even more in our region. We are seeing increased staffing at the local offices and more ICE vehicles in the area. We are coordinating with the governor’s office and local justice partners to share information and prepare. There is little doubt that the nature of what we’re experiencing from ICE now will begin to reflect what we’ve seen elsewhere unless Congress forces a change in ICE's behavior as a condition of passing the budget. Holding up the budget to prevent more murders would be worth it.

In the meantime, I urge people to:

• Do not engage or interfere with federal agents because some of them have no regard for the law.
• Attend ‘Know Your Rights’ presentations or watch them online to better understand constitutional protections and legal options.
• Seek out training for those who want to help document enforcement activity safely.
• Families who may be impacted by immigration statutes should create a comprehensive family preparedness plan.
• The community should continue to support established organizations standing with and serving immigrant needs by donating time, money, or resources. The Amica Center for Immigrant Rights, Catholic Charities, CARECEN, CASA, and Identity are just a few.

Further support can be found through the County's Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center.

Remember, physically interfering with or failing to comply with an order to back up can put you in danger and risk your arrest. Arresting officers can’t prohibit your ability to record them as long as you’re not interfering with an arrest.

We need elected leaders and the public to get behind these efforts to stop these illegal federal immigration enforcement activities within neighborhoods. We cannot allow the Trump administration to move forward with this reckless approach to community safety. It is a matter of protecting lives and preventing a miscarriage of justice, embodied in their disregard for the Constitution.

Data Center Conversation Next Tuesday, Feb. 3

I want to remind you that I am holding a community forum to discuss the future of data centers in our County at 7 p.m. next Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Leggett Executive Office Building in Rockville, with a virtual option available.

Data centers offer economic benefits through investment, job creation, and personal property tax revenue, yet they can also place significant demands on power grids, water systems, and surrounding communities. The County cannot control state energy policy, or regional grid planning, but we can set strong local standards.

I recently developed draft Legislative and Policy Recommendations for Data Centers; I encourage you to read them and share feedback with us.

We have crucial decisions and policies to consider regarding data centers, and your input is essential. Please attend in person or virtually. I look forward to getting your feedback. You can email comments and questions to climate@montgomerycountymd.gov.

February is Black History Month

Black History Month begins on Sunday, giving all of us an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of Black Americans in Montgomery County and across the country. I'll continue to stress the importance of being honest about the history that shaped where we are today. We've seen those in charge literally try to whitewash events from Smithsonian exhibitions or rewrite parts of our history they don't agree with. More than 50 years after Black History Month was first recognized, it remains as important as ever.

I believe strongly that this country cannot heal or move forward unless we confront its full history. For too long, we avoided meaningful conversations about racism and inequality. Here's what I lived through: for generations, policies helped promote racism in housing, schools, and society. It is deeply concerning that even today, there are efforts to deny that racist policies ever existed or to dismiss the lasting harm they caused. Ignoring history guarantees that inequities persist.

Our County was a bastion of racism and segregation – when D.C. integrated its schools, many white federal workers left the city, fearful of integration (not a surprise since racism was the norm at the time). When they looked at Montgomery County, they saw a place that promoted itself as still segregated in 1960. The racial covenants that created those conditions were eliminated in 1967.

In Montgomery County, we use Black History Month to educate, reflect, and engage. Our libraries, recreation centers, and cultural institutions offer programs that highlight Black history and its connection to our community. The Underground Railroad ran through Montgomery County, helping enslaved people escape to freedom in the North. That history should not be forgotten: It happened here, and it matters.

Next Wednesday, Feb. 4, the County's African American Advisory Group will present the inaugural Good Trouble Awards during a ceremony featuring speakers, music, and food. It marks the kickoff to Black History Month and is being held at the Isiah "Ike" Leggett Executive Office Building.

Feb. 4 is also Rosa Parks’ birthday and national “Transit Equity Day”. To honor Rosa Parks' life and legacy, our fleet of nearly 400 Ride On buses will display interior commemorative posters that educate the public about Parks' bravery and the importance of the movement she ignited.

On Sunday, Feb. 22, the African American Health Program will highlight the ongoing impact of HIV and AIDS on the Black community in Montgomery County. The public is invited to join National Black AIDS/HIV Day at the Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza. This government is committed to removing barriers so Black communities, but especially Black women, can make healthy choices.

I encourage residents to take advantage of our many community resources spotlighting Black History Month, including the Gaithersburg Community Museum, Oakley Cabin African American Museum, Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park’s Black History Month Family Day, and performances at BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown. You can find a comprehensive list of Montgomery County's historic sites and heritage museums on visitmontgomery.com.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,

Marc Elrich

County Executive

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

Dear Friends,

Montgomery County rarely sees large snowfalls. The last time snow exceeded 10 inches was seven years ago, and it's been a decade since we had a major winter storm hit Montgomery County. Watch the County’s winter storm preparedness press conference on the County’s YouTube page.

Our emergency management, transportation, and public safety teams have prepared. Forecasts helped them work together to determine where to stage our snow removal equipment, and coordination has already taken place so we can step in quickly if power outages force us to set up emergency shelters. You can sign up for real-time alerts and emergency notifications at alert.montgomerycountymd.gov.

Another resource to consider is 311. You can call 311 in the County or 240-777-0311, starting at noon on Sunday. Extended hours on Monday will stretch from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. During weather emergencies, MC311 provides emergency response support as needed. Do not call 911 unless you have a medical emergency or require police.

During every snowstorm, plowing begins once there is 3 inches of snow on the streets. Plows are responsible for 5,300 lane miles in Montgomery County, and their main job is to make roads passable by emergency vehicles and cars, so residents are unlikely to see bare pavement for a while after a significant snowstorm. Our plows need room to work, so for your safety and ours, please stay off the roads during the storm unless you absolutely have to travel. Bookmark montgomerycountymd.gov/snow to reach the County’s Snow Portal so you can request help getting your street plowed.

Winter storm announcements and alert messages are updated frequently during a storm. Our Alert Montgomery system can help everyone stay up to date on changes, like when offices and roads are closed. Sign up at alert.montgomerycountymd.gov.

Please take time to prepare — check on neighbors, especially seniors, stock up on essentials, and make sure emergency kits are ready. Emergency shelters are open to those without a home, and residents concerned about the well-being of someone who is unhoused can call the 24-hour Homeless Information Line at 240-907-2688. Outreach partners will attempt to locate the individual and urge them to come indoors to a shelter. If someone is seeking shelter, call the 24 Hour Crisis Center at 240-777-4000.

The County’s Public Health Officer, Dr. Kisha Davis, also warns residents to take it easy during this weather event. You can help avoid frostbite by dressing in warm, loose, waterproof layers and covering your head, hands, and feet from the snow and ice. Limit how long you and your family stay outside and watch for numbness or changes to skin color. Removing wet clothes promptly can help prevent frostbite. If you already deal with chronic issues like heart trouble or back pain, don't overdo it when you're out. Shovel in stages and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

As many of us stay inside for long periods, space heaters need space to avoid a house fire. You’ll also want to properly ventilate generators that may be heating your home in an emergency to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Having smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can help keep your family safe.

Animals should not be left outside unattended. The Animal Services team is enforcing all laws protecting pets. If you see an animal left outside that appears to be in danger, call 301-279-8000.

Our Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service shared these links that could also help you prepare:

• Home Safety: montgomerycountymd.gov/mcfrs-info/tips/citizens/homesafetytips.html
• Car Safety: montgomerycountymd.gov/mcfrs-info/tips/citizens/wintercar.html
• Ice, Cold Weather Safety: montgomerycountymd.gov/mcfrs-info/tips/citizens/winter.html

Please be patient on the roads if you must leave home and try to enjoy what should be quite an event.

Main Street Honor for Long Branch

There is some fantastic news to share about the Long Branch neighborhood. We are officially celebrating Long Branch’s designation as a Main Street Maryland Community. This is a major milestone in the revitalization of one of the most culturally vibrant commercial districts in Montgomery County.

Long Branch lies between downtown Silver Spring and Takoma Park, and is defined by its strong neighborhood identity. Visitors and residents can enjoy incredible international restaurants, support family-owned businesses, or enjoy local public art. Community leaders are on a mission to improve Long Branch to help create more jobs, greater opportunities, more cultural events, public art, and public places.

This Main Street designation will help bring more attention to Long Branch. It is now the 35th Main Street Maryland community in the state and only the second in our County, joining Old Takoma, which received the honor back in 1998. This is the highest tier in the program, meaning we have the full support of the state to help this area reach its full potential as a thriving, lovable place for every resident and entrepreneur.

The upcoming Purple Line stations will take people right to Long Branch, which will certainly help increase foot traffic and new economic opportunities. Many people are going to want to experience the unique character of this neighborhood.

Achievements like this don't happen in a vacuum. I want to thank Governor Wes Moore and Housing Secretary Jake Day for their partnership. I also want to congratulate the Montgomery Housing Partnership for their leadership, along with Councilmember Kate Stewart, our District 20 Delegation, and our dedicated county teams at DHCA, M-NCPPC, the Long Branch Business League, and the Silver Spring Regional Services Center. But most importantly, this designation belongs to Long Branch. Your commitment to fostering an inclusive, vibrant community is what made this possible. Let’s continue to invest in our future, together.

1st Year of President Trump

This week marks one year since the start of Donald Trump’s second term.

I said then that his return to the White House would not change how we govern in Montgomery County, and that remains true. But there’s no denying that the decisions coming out of Washington over the last year have had real and damaging consequences here at home.

What we’ve seen over the past twelve months follows a clear pattern: incompetence, corruption, and cruelty. Montgomery County felt all three.

We’ve watched unqualified people placed in charge of critical federal agencies. We’ve seen chaos created by reckless decisions, watchdogs removed, and public office treated like a personal business venture. And we’ve witnessed cruelty aimed directly at federal workers, immigrants, working families, and people struggling to stay housed, fed, and healthy.

Here in Montgomery County, those impacts are not abstract.

In just the first few months of this administration, we experienced more federal-related job losses than we saw in the previous two years combined. Thousands of residents who dedicated their careers to public service were suddenly out of work, without warning and without stability.

Immigrant families began living with daily fear. Mental health providers, supportive housing programs, and homeless shelters faced uncertainty just as need increased. And during the most extended federal shutdown in our nation’s history, families who rely on SNAP benefits were left waiting while food banks struggled to keep up. Our court system helped delay the implementation of some of the administration’s most damaging actions, or else the impact on the County could have been far worse.

Those choices tell you a lot about priorities. At the same time, we’ve also seen something else over the past year — and it matters in a good way.

We’ve seen what strong partnerships and competent, values-driven government can do, even in the face of federal disruption. When federal workers were laid off, Montgomery County didn’t wait. We partnered with Gov. Wes Moore’s administration, our Congressional Delegation, our County Council, WorkSource Montgomery, and community partners to respond quickly and decisively.

Together, we launched Mobilize Montgomery and opened the Federal Workforce Career Center, creating a coordinated, one-stop response for displaced federal workers and contractors.

The scale of the federal job losses in our state and region is becoming clearer. As of the end of November, Montgomery County’s unemployment rate was 4.5 percent. As you can see from the chart above, this is up from 2.5 percent in January when Trump took office.

The Washington Post released a chart illustrating federal job losses in Maryland, Virginia, and the District. Since last January, Maryland has been hit hardest, with 24,900 federal employees losing their jobs in 2025.

We are absorbing more federal job losses than anywhere else in the country. Still, we continue to diversify our economies and add jobs in biotech and even manufacturing to offset these job losses. But we can’t fool ourselves either; many federal employees and contractors are in specialized positions, such as scientists, researchers, and policy experts.

Last year, my administration, in partnership with the County Council, passed a $700,000 supplemental appropriation for WorkSource Montgomery to create the Federal Workforce Career Center. Since opening in October, the center has served over 1,100 former federal workers and contractors. WorkSource Montgomery Executive Director Anthony Featherstone was my guest on this week’s media briefing to discuss the center’s impact.

Data Center Conversation Set for Tuesday, Feb. 3

Data centers have been in the news a lot recently and are the topic of many conversations. To help shape the conversation around government policy, my staff and I have compiled a list of recommendations based on best practices, research, and many discussions. We have sent these recommendations to the County Council and many stakeholders, including industry, utilities, civic associations, and environmental advocates, and we have asked for their comments.

On Tuesday, Feb. 3, I am holding a public meeting to hear from people. The meeting will be at 7 p.m. at the Leggett Executive Office Building, with an online option.

I have offered these recommendations to help guide the development of local legislation and policy as the Council begins its deliberations.

DC Water Works on Sewer Overflow Impacting County and Region

A primary DC Water sewer line collapsed along Clara Barton Parkway, causing a significant sanitary sewer overflow into the C&O Canal area.

DC Water crews and contractors are on-site and working around the clock to construct a temporary bypass to contain the overflow and prevent further impact to the Potomac River. That work is critical, and it will allow engineers to fully assess the damage and determine the safest path to permanent repairs. You can follow updates on that work through the DC Water media page.

I want to be clear about a few things. Our drinking water is safe. Water service has not been disrupted. The wastewater system involved here is separate, and DC Water has taken protective steps in coordination with regional and federal partners. There are traffic impacts near the Clara Barton Parkway, and residents nearby may notice odors.

If you believe you have come into contact with the overflow:

• Leave the area immediately.
• Wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and clean water.
• Disinfect any affected areas or items.
• Do not consume food or water that may have been exposed.
• Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
• Report exposure to DC Water at (202) 612-3400.

This incident underscores why infrastructure maintenance matters—and why regional cooperation matters. We are working closely with DC Water, state and federal agencies, and our neighboring jurisdictions to protect public health, the environment, and the communities we serve.

No Place for Hate in Montgomery County

I was deeply disturbed by the anti-Muslim, anti-Arab, and anti-Palestinian graffiti recently discovered at Walt Whitman High School. Targeting Palestine impacts multiple faiths (not just Muslim), including Christianity. It does not reflect who we are as a County.

Montgomery County is proud to be home to people of many different faiths, cultures, and backgrounds. We are proud of our Muslim community and thankful for all of their positive contributions to the County. We will not tolerate hate towards them or any other religious community.

We recognize that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths. When acts of hate occur—whether they are directed at Muslims, Jews, Christians, or any other community—they undermine the safety and dignity of all our neighbors.

I stand in solidarity with everyone who feels targeted or threatened by this incident. Hate has no home in Montgomery County, and we will continue to speak out against bigotry in all its forms. We remain committed to being a community where every resident is respected, protected, and valued.

An investigation involving the Montgomery County Police Department, Montgomery County Public Schools and the Whitman High School community is underway to find those responsible for this act. Furthermore, we should ensure we educate our community about the significant harm that divisive language causes.

I ask for your help in keeping our community safe. If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the MCPD non-emergency number. If you witness or are a victim of a hate or bias incident, please use the resources below:

• MCPD Non-Emergency: 301-279-8000
• Report Hate/Bias Incidents: Call 311 or Visit montgomerycountymd.gov/report-hate
• Emergencies: Always Call 911

We will not allow hate to divide us. Together, we can ensure Montgomery County remains a safe and welcoming place for all.

Volunteers Needed in Upcounty for Annual Homeless Count

This Wednesday, Jan. 28, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments will conduct its annual Point-in-Time homeless count with the help of volunteers and partner agencies here in Montgomery County. This survey informs funding decisions, service planning, and long-term housing strategies. We cannot solve what we do not measure, and the Point-in-Time count is a vital tool in our mission to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.

Last fall, we pushed back against a federal proposal that would have dismantled permanent supportive housing — one of the most effective tools we have to reduce homelessness. Thanks to advocacy from our State Attorney General and regional partners, that proposal was stopped.

To conduct this year’s overnight count, we need more volunteers, particularly in Upcounty, beginning at 8:30 p.m. at Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg. You can help us identify our most vulnerable neighbors so we can connect them with the permanent housing and supportive services they deserve. I encourage you to volunteer and join this effort to ensure every person in Montgomery County is seen and supported. Register to volunteer through montgomerycountymd.gov/homelessness.

Governor Moore Supports Large Capital Improvements in Montgomery County

I’m encouraged to share an update from Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s office on his proposed capital budget for fiscal year 2027. It includes several projects that help our schools and community resources.

The largest proposal is a $25 million investment in water-quality improvement projects across the County. With cutbacks at the EPA and other federal environmental programs, this money will help keep our waterways safe. Another project focused on drinking water protection would deliver $5 million for the Poolesville Emerging Contaminants Treatment facility. Nearly $5 million is also slated to help build a new Clarksburg library.

Our schools stand to benefit from State support as well. More than $11 million will help finish Crown High School, more than $20 million will be spread across the school district to help with heating and cooling systems at Sherwood and Springbrook high schools, Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School, and Strawberry Knoll Elementary School, to name a few.

State funding improves our quality of life by supporting a wide array of community improvements, from affordable housing projects to bike trail construction. Nearly every facet of government, including recreation, public safety, and emergency services, will benefit from the $105 million earmarked for Montgomery County in the governor’s proposed capital budget. I want to thank the governor for his support and hope his proposals move easily through the budget process.

MLK Tributes

This week began with the County’s annual birthday tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Day of Service event benefiting dozens of our community partners. I want to thank everyone who volunteered or attended the concert at Strathmore.

I also had the opportunity to share my thoughts on Dr. King’s impact at an event hosted by the Renters Alliance, focusing on the role of civil rights in housing reform from the 1950s onward. It is a time I lived through and saw blockbusting firsthand. Like many places, Montgomery County’s history can’t be told without acknowledging racism. We are still living with disparities created by biased policies. My address to the crowd at the Strathmore addressed some of this. Watch the livestream now on our Facebook page, featuring the wonderful performances captured during this year’s ceremony.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,



Marc Elrich

County Executive

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

 

Dear Friends,

Today, I participated in an interview on WAMU's Politics Hour, hosted by Kojo Nnamdi and resident analyst Tom Sherwood. We discussed several key topics, including immigration issues, the impact on our federal workforce, and the fiscal challenges facing our County. Additionally, I had the opportunity to respond to constituent calls.

Thank you to WAMU, The Politics Hour, and Kojo Nnamdi for the conversation, which you can listen to by clicking here.

Public broadcasting stations nationwide are currently facing challenges posed by the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans. In these trying times, the role of public broadcasting and non-profit media is more crucial than ever. I encourage you to listen to these broadcasters and urge Congress to advocate for their preservation.

FY27-32 Recommended CIP Budget

I released my recommended Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) Capital Budget and the FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) budget this week. You can watch that presentation on our YouTube page. The CIP covers six years and builds on historic investments in education, climate change, transportation, public safety, and affordable housing. The proposal includes $6.6 billion in spending, an increase of 10.6%. This is needed because we continue to see a growing demand for County services and have an obligation to improve our schools through major projects.

When developing this CIP, I responded to a request from the school board that included a $1 billion increase in capital funding. While we do not have the capacity to fully fund the request, we were able to fund a substantial amount, prioritizing HVAC repairs and health and safety issues in schools throughout the County, as well as other necessary repairs.

I want to put this in context. For a couple of decades now, County funding for our schools’ capital needs has been inadequate. Historically, school enrollment growth was the major issue we faced, so most of the funding went to capacity expansion rather than renovation. The result is neglected buildings with serious heating and cooling deficiencies, plumbing and water issues, and general deterioration. Now, we are seeing a decline in enrollment, so while capacity isn’t the same issue, the building needs are real, and the backlog of capital needs exceed $2 billion.

We clearly are in no position to address this quickly, nor to address it fully over the six years covered by this CIP budget, but this budget reflects a major investment in fixing our schools. We will recommend increases in bond funding because, without raising those limits on our bonding capacity, we will not be able to pay for any new capital projects. This has come about, in part, because the school system was not straightforward about all the needs in the past. Additionally, the bond levels have not been adjusted for inflation, and for some number of years, were reduced. Currently, our bond spending is lower than it was 16 years ago.

In the past, the Council would not allow increases to address inflation or rising needs. I do appreciate their having raised the bond limits this year to $300 million – the same as we spent in 2009, but unfortunately, it is not enough. We cannot continue to refuse to increase bond funding and expect to address the needs in the school system, let alone pay for the additional infrastructure needed to make this County economically competitive. It is unrealistic to think that the same dollar amount spent in 2009 could meet today's needs without accounting for inflation.

We need to advance economic development by investing in infrastructure, and so this recommended budget also includes $265 million to advance three of our Bus Rapid Transit lines. These routes link neighborhoods to job centers throughout the County. Again, our investments compared to the capital investments made across the river in Virginia for transportation are strictly minor league. We won’t grow if we continue to ignore our transportation shortcomings.

County roads, bridges, and sidewalk improvements are also funded across the community. We’re also investing in electric and hydrogen fuel cell alternatives to replace all our gas-powered buses.

Affordable housing remains one of my top priorities. This plan invests more than $160 million over the next six years to preserve, protect, and produce affordable housing. Since FY19, the County and our partners have created or preserved over 9,200 affordable housing units.

There are several major projects funded through this CIP aimed at improving our economy. My administration worked aggressively to create the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing (IHC) along with our partners at the University of Maryland College Park, the University of Maryland Baltimore, and the University of Maryland Medical System. This innovative research facility, the first graduate-level institution in the county, has already begun using big data to help transform life sciences research, leading to life-saving advances in medicine and health care worldwide. The institute has gone from concept to now over 130 employees. This institute is also important for retaining and attracting life science and tech companies to Montgomery County.

This recommended capital budget invests $50 million in County funding to support a new IHC anchor building, matching an anticipated $100 million capital commitment from the University System of Maryland and the State. This investment demonstrates our commitment to making Montgomery County a world leader in life sciences.

Redevelopment of the East County is another important project supported in this budget as we move forward with the first-ever Tax Increment Financing (TIF) proposal to support a $2.8 billion transformative mixed-use development in VIVA White Oak developed by MCB Real Estate, that will bring thousands of jobs, housing units, and new infrastructure to East County. And, for the most part, it does not rely on taxpayer dollars.

Money is also earmarked to improve our environment and the services we provide residents. We’re planning more net-zero facilities as we build a new fire station in White Flint, a new 4th district MCPD and Park Police station in Wheaton, and a Western County Recreation Center in Poolesville, new libraries in Clarksburg and Shady Grove, and a new Justice Center in Rockville. Our Comprehensive Flood Management Plan will benefit from an $81 million investment in watershed improvements.

We need to make strategic investments that are crucial for economic development and help our residents. This budget demonstrates that, despite our constraints, we remain committed to implementing significant changes to maintain and enhance the quality of life across Montgomery County. To view all my recommendations for the CIP, please visit montgomerycountymd.gov/omb.

2026 Maryland General Assembly Begins

We’re off to another start in Annapolis with representation from Montgomery County spread out across many State offices. I always enjoy being there for opening day and sharing my thoughts with our elected leaders on how to improve and move Montgomery County forward.

Let’s be honest, there’s no blank check to meet all our needs, but that doesn’t mean we’re going to allow the federal government to dictate how we operate our County or State. We are leaning on State leaders to be creative and bold in developing new revenue sources to help us address our transportation needs and continue the groundwork for bolstering economic development. Our economy has not grown as quickly out of the pandemic as our neighbors, but there are reasons for that and a roadmap we can follow for better fortunes.

Some things I would argue we do lead the way in are unity, compassion, and rallying behind those in need. That can be seen through our Office of Food Systems Resilience and the launch of its next phase of the Food Recovery Network strategy. We are not shrinking away from the growing need in our community for better collaboration to address hunger. You can see it on display at the Federal Workforce Career Center. There are thousands of former federal workers and contractors who are finding a path forward with the help of private businesses and community partners coming together to help find solutions to this crisis.

I believe our State lawmakers will move us forward as well. They know, as we do, how important Montgomery County is to the State. Our success benefits all of Maryland, so here’s to a successful General Assembly.

$1 Million DHHS Supplemental

This week, I joined the Council’s Health and Human Services Committee Chair Laurie-Anne Sayles in introducing a supplemental appropriation to our current budget that would enable us to spend an additional $1 million and help bring relief to the people and community partners most impacted by federal cuts to our social safety net.

This money would keep essential services running— services that are critical for our most vulnerable residents. Here’s how it breaks down:  

• $450,000 to make sure older adults have access to healthy meals through the Senior Nutrition Program. 
• $350,000 to help residents age safely in their homes, through the Home Care Program. 
• $250,000 to give family caregivers the break they deserve through the Respite Program. 

None of this seems unreasonable, does it? And yet we are forced to scramble to make up for shortcomings you can blame squarely on Trump.

This request from Councilmember Sayles is a team effort with Council President Natali González and Councilmembers Sidney Katz and Kristin Mink as cosponsors of the bill. I appreciate their collaboration to aid our residents most in need of assistance.

This week, in another stunning, unbelievable move, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the agency that oversees mental health and addiction treatment, announced it would send hundreds of termination letters for $2 billion in federal grants supporting mental health services. Thankfully, this plan was quickly scrapped following national outrage. These are cuts that should not have been considered in the first place. They are indicative of the haphazard and chaotic nature of health care policy under Trump.

In what world does cutting services to the most vulnerable make sense? Couple that with what he is already doing to the system of services for people experiencing homelessness, and there is no other way to think about this than this president is cruel and suffering from mental illness himself. The recurring theme of “we’re going to hurt people” and his blatant actions to target blue states for inflicting the most pain are unforgivable for a president of all the American people. That would be like me cutting services to parts of the County where people vote Republican – something I would never conceive of doing. 

County Council Hearing on Viva White Oak

After years of delay, last summer the Viva White Oak project was announced with MCB Real Estate, and it will launch the most significant development in the history of East County.

This week, the County Council held a public hearing for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for the Viva White Oak Development District.

The TIF is crucial to the addition of infrastructure to support the development of nearly 300 acres for the project, which, at full buildout, will create more than 9,000 permanent jobs and an estimated $62 million in annual revenue for the County. Without this kind of support from the County government, no developer will have the means or incentive to commit to such a large project that will create this level of housing, jobs, and a new center for commerce in our County.

This is the kind of project that comes along once in a generation and results from creative problem-solving. We must establish that special funds are dedicated specifically to this project. It takes bold steps to stimulate intensive economic growth and community investment, in cooperation with a private-sector developer like MCB Real Estate. I will continue to champion this project and hope to see it advance quickly for approval.

Immigrant Protections

We are living in this nation under the rule of Donald Trump, where civil liberties are being eroded, and the free press is being attacked and shut down when they can get away with it. They are defunding scientific research, destroying health care, embarking on totally racist policies that seek to roll back the gains of the civil rights movement, and so much more. Whether the targets are science, climate, regulations, the federal workforce, DEI, or immigrants, we are being led by a man who is a fascist, a racist, an authoritarian, and, most concerning, a nihilist.

Regardless of political affiliation, presidents have historically provided solace and comfort during times of tragedy and turmoil. However, this President and his supporters seem to exacerbate tensions rather than ease them.

A glaring example is the administration's response to the recent murder of Renee Good in Minneapolis. The administration labeled Ms. Good a "criminal" and "domestic terrorist," which is quite ironic given that they pardoned hundreds of January 6th insurrectionists who attacked law enforcement in 2021 with the support of the president.

What is most frightening is the lack of a unified response to the shooting, and the total lies told by Trump. I watched the video, and I’m sure many of you did. At no point did the victim run over the ICE agent, yet Donald Trump, to justify the murder, has said that she ran over the agent. Any fool can see that the agent wasn't run over; he wasn’t even hit, as the driver attempted to turn to the side and drive away. It’s one thing to be mad about the demonstration, but quite another thing, and quite an evil thing, to say that Renee Good ran over the ICE agent.

If you haven’t seen the video, you should. If you don’t know who to believe, watch the video. If you saw it and thought you watched the ICE agent get run over, get your eyes examined, or stop hallucinating.

The idea that the president can lie with impunity about something that is visibly false, and that so many people can’t bring themselves to say that this is a bridge too far, is a sad commentary on the state of our society. And if the president thinks that killing protesters in Iran is an unacceptable evil, then he needs to acknowledge that it’s evil when it happens in America.

These kinds of events reach across the globe and especially here in Montgomery County, because we are so diverse. This week’s County Council meeting helped raise awareness about the concerns and fears of the immigrant community as the Trust Act legislation was introduced. I was proud to have Abel Nunez, executive director from the Central American Resource Center, join me for my weekly media briefing. You can watch that here. He discussed what advocates are seeing and how the nation’s immigration policies are negatively affecting communities across the country, including here in Montgomery County.

The Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center is here to offer reliable information, legal referrals, language assistance, and support, helping residents protect themselves and their families.

Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend Events

Don’t forget that Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday, Jan. 19. I hope you join me at the Music Center at Strathmore on Sunday, Jan. 18, for our annual birthday tribute. That concert is free and begins at 4 p.m. You can learn more about each artist later in this newsletter.

While our annual volunteer event is full and not accepting any more participants, check around, as there are also events happening in neighborhoods and through nonprofit organizations.

 
As always, my appreciation for all of you,



Marc Elrich
County Executive

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

Dear Friends,

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season. I took a break and visited friends in downtown Los Angeles. During the trip, I was struck by how many people experiencing homelessness I saw wandering the streets in need of help. We are a far cry from the position that downtown LA is in, and I couldn't help but compare how we treat people here in Montgomery County. We have worked hard to build a strong network through our Department of Health and Human Services to help our residents with services, so they don’t become homeless in the first place. Still, we see people in crisis every day. I hate to think how our nation would be without the services we have worked hard to coordinate for our residents in need. It was painful to see little kids sleeping out in the streets, without a home.

And why would places like LA see that? I think you know the answer is this federal administration. Its impact is being felt everywhere. Maryland lost nearly 25,000 jobs last year, according to newly released data from the State’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. An analysis of our region's economy by the Washington Economy Watch, conducted through George Mason University's Stephen S. Fuller Institute, found that federal employment decreased by nearly 6% from September 2024 to September 2025. That dwarfs the decline in federal jobs seen nationwide, which decreased by 3.7%. The group estimates that the region lost roughly 41,500 federal jobs in 2025.

Our State absorbed the most job losses in the nation, including more than 10,000 in October and November, when deferred resignations were finally realized. Decisions made by the federal government make it challenging to maintain the compassionate and thoughtful programs that support our residents.

One of the worst and most inhumane examples of what the Trump administration is planning is a $7.5 million cut to our permanent supportive housing program – a program that gets people off the streets and into housing with supportive services. Some of these clients cannot manage their lives and need help, and yet, the administration's approach is to eliminate the funding, put them back on the streets, and provide no housing or other support unless they get a job and go into treatment. It would leave people with serious mental health issues without the tools to help them find jobs and force them into mandatory programs they’ve resisted taking part in because of the issues they deal with. It is a vicious cycle.

We don’t have enough mental health workers or facilities to treat people, and the federal government has no intention of providing the funding to build the facilities we would need. And so, we anticipate losing housing for over 800 families and individuals if we lose this funding entirely. Imagine 800 more people on our streets, in the blink of an eye, with no food, shelter, or medicine. This is the president’s plan to end homelessness, and it is insane. Cutbacks to social service programs—Medicaid, SNAP, and others—limit the effectiveness of the help we can provide.

These challenges lay the groundwork for State lawmakers in the 2026 General Assembly, which convenes next Wednesday, Jan. 14.

Montgomery County is well represented, with many of our own elected leaders holding new leadership positions:

• Ways and Means Committee, Chair: Del. Jheanelle Wilkins
• Appropriations Committee, Vice Chair: Del. Anne Kaiser
• Economic Matters Committee, Vice Chair: Del. Lorig Charkoudian
• Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics, Chair: Del. Bonnie Cullison
• Deputy Majority Whip: Del. Chao Wu
• Deputy Majority Whip: Del. Greg Wims
• Deputy Majority Whip: Del. Joe Vogel
• Deputy Majority Whip: Del. Teresa Woorman
• Appropriations Committee, Public Safety and Administration Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Gabe Acevero
• Appropriations Committee, Education and Economic Development Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Sarah Wolek
• Government, Labor, and Elections Committee, Corrections Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Charlotte Crutchfield
• Government, Labor, and Elections Committee, Oversight Subcommittee on Personnel, Chair: Del. Jared Solomon
• Environment, Transportation Committee, Energy Subcommittee, Chair: Del. David Fraser- Hidalgo
• Environment, Transportation Committee, Non-Energy Utility Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Linda Foley
• Environment, Transportation Committee, Agriculture and Aquaculture Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Natalie Ziegler
• Ways and Means Committee, Revenue Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Julie Palakovich Carr
• Ways and Means Committee, Childcare Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Bernice Mireku-North
• Health Committee, Elder and Long-Term Care Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Lesley Lopez
• Economic Matters Committee, Economic Development Subcommittee, Chair: Del. Lily Qi

Congratulations to them and best wishes to everyone representing us in Annapolis. On the Senate side, Sen. Nancy King serves as majority leader. Sen. Brian Feldman is chair, and Sen. Cheryl Kagan is vice chair of the Education, Energy, and Environment Committee. Sen. Will Smith and Sen. Jeff Waldstreicher are chair and vice chairs of the Judicial Proceedings Committee.

I was pleased to welcome Del. Palakovich Carr to my media briefing this week to discuss the upcoming legislative session. You can watch that on the County’s YouTube channel.

I am optimistic that, working with our delegation and other elected leaders, we can modernize our economy and the way we collect revenue. Northern Virginia has demonstrated that infrastructure improvements help attract business. We’ll also work with the State to help fund the new North Bethesda Metro entrance, renovations to the Lakeforest Transit Center, and continued support for our transition to a zero-emission bus fleet.

The State is a key partner in advancing school construction, business development, and aiding small businesses impacted by Purple Line construction. Our residents who are at risk of being priced out of their homes need protection, and our historic efforts to build affordable housing will also continue to benefit from State support.

Although we will work toward meaningful change for our community, we also recognize that the President is opposed to diversity, equality, and supporting those who are less fortunate. He has no respect for human life and has no regard for people in the community. He is focused on making his rich friends richer and dismantling the kind of social safety net that has given people hope and opportunities for decades. These protections were in place to undo centuries of discrimination and segregation. Failing those communities now, while the impacts of those policies remain, is not who we are as a country.

Trump is the worst leader we've seen in the White House in nearly a century. Richard Nixon was more progressive in some of his actions than Donald Trump – that's a frightening thought. It’s why our work on the local and State level is so important. Our focus must remain on how to best help people within our limited means.

Climate Action Plan Update



On a brighter note, I would like to share some exciting progress we’ve made toward our climate goals and why it matters to all of us. This week, we went to the National Capital Trolley Museum in Colesville to announce the latest Climate Action Plan Annual Report and to showcase our climate resilience efforts. The museum is home to one of three local weather stations set up in partnership with the University of Maryland and its Maryland Mesonet network.

Mesonet stations measure air and soil temperatures, humidity, soil moisture, wind speed, atmospheric pressure, precipitation, and other environmental factors. The stations provide emergency management officials with real-time local weather information, increasing the lead time of extreme weather warnings. In the case of emergencies like tornadoes and flash floods, an increase in warning lead time of just a few minutes can potentially save lives and property. Soil temperature gauges can help predict when snow and ice are likely to accumulate. The data provides a better understanding of changing weather patterns in more places across the County, which helps us prepare more effectively for emergencies.

Especially as weather events become more extreme, being unprepared and without the right information puts lives in danger. Over the next year, we will add a fourth station to the network, and we plan to install similar versions in two of our more densely populated urban areas.

We are also continuing our work to fulfill our bold commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2027 and reach 100% by 2035. We all deserve cleaner air, healthier communities, and a sustainable future for our children.

We’re transitioning our entire bus fleet to zero-emission vehicles. Today, 52 electric buses are already on the road, and by 2035, every bus will be clean and quiet. We made Ride On fare-free for everyone because public transit should be accessible to all. We passed Building Energy Performance Standards to make our buildings more efficient and reduce emissions. When considering the impact of buildings and transportation, they account for more than 90% of the greenhouse gas emissions created in Montgomery County.

We’re also investing in clean energy, planting thousands of trees, and building microgrids to ensure critical services continue to run during emergencies. We're also committed to justice. For too long, policies have favored wealthier communities and forced minority communities, with the least resources, to deal with the consequences of pollution or environmental negligence. That's a past that we will not repeat. We are ensuring the benefits reach every community by improving energy efficiency in low-income housing, expanding outreach, and creating programs that give everyone a chance to participate.

We know that achieving our goals is not as simple as the government stepping in and solving the problem. There’s a lot we can do with our buildings, our vehicles, our policies, and incentives. However, and this is the crux of the problem, unless changes occur at the individual level, that is, by you and me, we won’t achieve our goals. We all need to be part of the change by reducing our energy use and adopting cleaner energy sources. What the government does with its own buildings and vehicles will not get us where we need to go. I know that most of you know that climate change is both real and a threat to our quality of life. The threat will persist unless we act decisively and help keep our children from suffering the consequences.

When I was a kid, I saw the Smokey the Bear public information campaign – “Only you can prevent forest fires.” Today, we’re in the same position on whether we create a climate change disaster, and our approach should be the same: Only you can prevent a climate change disaster.



Think of climate action like renovating our home. We started with a plan to implement 80 recommendations and have either made significant progress or completed 63 of those actions. That's more than 75% of what we set out to accomplish, but there's more to do. We’re not just making minor cosmetic changes; we’re rewiring the entire system to make it stronger, cleaner, and fairer. Together, we can build a future where every resident thrives, and we all benefit from a starting place that's greener than it was before.

CDC Makes Major Changes to Childhood Immunization Schedule

This week, the Centers for Disease Control made major changes to the Childhood Immunization Schedule, a series of recommendations for parents regarding childhood vaccines. This is something I first discussed in December, when rolling back the vaccine schedule for children to align with standards set by Denmark seemed imminent. A few weeks passed without any changes, but the Trump administration still managed to get its way.

To now only recommend 11 vaccines for children, down from 17 recommendations, represents a significant dismantling of evidence-based public health policy. The agency no longer recommends vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, meningitis, RSV, and rotavirus except for “high-risk” children. We are disregarding results that have been effective for 30 years and aligning with the standards of a country that is not like ours.

We’re setting up a dangerous situation that will fall on our emergency rooms and hospitals to fix, with children’s lives at risk.

And how did we arrive here? Not by following the science or the studies that have been done into the effectiveness of childhood vaccines over many years. We are relying on political appointees, a tainted board overseeing the process, and Secretary Kennedy, who is both an anti-vaxxer and completely unqualified to fill any job with a public health responsibility. He serves to please the President, not the public good.



Not surprisingly, many doctors and professional associations, like the American Academy of Pediatrics, strongly oppose these changes. The Maryland Department of Health agrees and will continue to recommend the same vaccination schedule that has proven to be effective for many years. Gov. Wes Moore has announced he’s backing legislative action to ensure vaccine access statewide and encourage trust in vaccine science. Our Department of Health and Human Services will adopt the same approach, recommending the full spectrum of vaccinations for children in place before these unnecessary changes.

County Supports New Year’s Resolutions with Free and Low-Cost Programs



Montgomery County is helping residents start the New Year on a healthy and affordable note by once again allowing free access to fitness. This initiative began in 2023, and I’m pleased to see more people taking advantage of this community resource.

County residents can continue to use the fitness rooms at our 22 recreation centers at no cost. The free access applies to gym facilities but does not include aquatic centers. Sign up in person by bringing your ID and a current utility bill to prove your residency before getting started.

Montgomery Recreation offers free and low-cost classes and activities for all ages, providing opportunities to stay active, learn new skills, and connect with others. Residents can view offerings and register through Active Montgomery. It can all be found at montgomerycountymd.gov/rec.

New Laws in Place as 2026 Begins



I would like to remind all residents that a ban on one-time-use plastic bags is now in effect. It’s an update to the Bring Your Own Bag law, and most retailers will no longer provide plastic carryout bags, with some exceptions made for businesses such as restaurants and dry cleaners. Paper bags can be offered to customers, but they will cost 10 cents each, with half of the cost going to the retailer and the other half supporting the County’s Clean Water Montgomery programs.

The goal is to reduce plastic waste, protect our streams, and encourage the use of reusable bags that you take with you to the store. Learn more at montgomerycountymd.gov/bag.

Additionally, several Maryland state laws are now in place, including one that requires barbers, hairstylists, and other related professionals to complete a one-hour training program on domestic violence awareness. This training helps them identify signs of domestic violence and connect victims to support services more effectively. Children in need of specialized care will face fewer bureaucratic delays, and health insurers will be required to cover additional tests to detect early signs of heart disease. Uber and Lyft drivers now have better tools to track and understand their earnings. Additionally, families living in inherited homes will receive new tax protection to help them remain in those homes.

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day



The County is preparing to celebrate and honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a series of events that highlight service and community. The County will hold its annual birthday tribute and celebration on Sunday, Jan.18, at the Music Center at Strathmore starting at 4 p.m. The theme for this year is “Every Kind of People… A Blueprint to Unity.” Free tickets are available at strathmore.org.

On Monday, Jan. 19, a federal holiday, we welcome everyone to sign up for the MLK Day of Service. This year, the County is partnering with the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority to host a volunteer fair from 9:30 a.m. to noon in Silver Spring. The latest podcast episode of ‘Make A Difference’ featured Faith McNeill, manager of the County’s Volunteer Center, talking about the MLK Day efforts. Volunteer spots are filling up quickly. Visit montgomeryserves.org if you are interested in volunteering on this day or looking for other volunteer opportunities.

Deadly ICE Shooting in Minneapolis

I cannot close without mentioning the tragic killing of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. The death is bad enough, and it is made worse by the venom coming from Trump and his administration. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called Good part of a “mob of agitators” attempting to justify the killing.

Thomas Manger, who served in my administration as Montgomery County Police Chief before going on to lead U.S Capitol Police, told WTOP, “I’ve been responsible for dozens of investigations into law enforcement’s use of deadly force,” he said. “I don’t know how anyone within an hour, two hours, even five or six hours, can say definitively this shooting was justified... Frankly, it shows that they really don’t care about the facts.” He went on to explain that good law enforcement training emphasizes that officers should not take positions in areas of danger, like standing in front of a vehicle.standing in front of a vehicle. Montgomery County police officers have been trained on how to deal with similar situations to minimize potential violence. In a recent incident here in Montgomery County, a young man intentionally tried to hit a police officer, but the police officer did not shoot him, and the young man was apprehended.

We know there are right ways to handle difficult situations, and unfortunately, Trump and his administration continue to insist on more damage and mayhem rather than helping move this country forward. Our federal government may be heading in some terrible directions, but at least, Montgomery County residents understand the importance of decency, honesty, and justice.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,



Marc Elrich
County Executive