December 17, 2020

Message from County Executive Marc Elrich



Dear Friends,

The first people in Montgomery County, the State and the country have received COVID-19 vaccines. It has been quite moving to see the photos and reports of the vaccinations in progress, and it is a reminder of the incredible work that our frontline workers have been doing.

We are all excited about the advent of the vaccines, and here in the County, we are in active conversations about our role in the distribution of the vaccines. As was announced earlier this week, the State is setting the priorities based on guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control.

As pleased as all of us are to see a vaccine, I do want to remind people that it will still be some time—perhaps four to six months—before the vaccine is widely available. And even after it is available, it is highly likely that many of the guidelines will remain relevant and appropriate, including mask wearing.

And for now, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of our own actions. Please—avoid gatherings throughout this holiday season. I regretfully had to reimpose a prohibition on indoor dining and extend the 10-person limit on indoor gatherings to indoor sports events through my Executive Order, which the Council approved earlier this week.

Climate Action Plan

On a brighter note, I want to be sure you are aware of some major environmental milestones this week. We all know that we have to address climate change. I was proud to sponsor a resolution in 2017 pushing the County to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 (and to eliminate 80 percent of them by 2027). Now we are doing the work to get there.

Earlier this week, we released our Draft Climate Action Plan for public review. This plan gives us a roadmap of real actions to get the County to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It also goes beyond greenhouse gas emission reductions, covering climate adaptation and carbon sequestration strategies. We are already feeling the impacts of climate change—hotter summers, increased flooding events and more extreme storms.

The strategies outlined in this plan prioritize those in our community who are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and identify opportunities and co-benefits to enhance racial equity while reducing emissions.

Many Montgomery County residents have tremendous expertise in climate and energy issues and have provided enormous help. Hundreds of ideas generated by our residents, businesses and other organizations are reflected throughout the plan. I am grateful to everyone who participated in its development.

The Climate Action Plan was developed in the midst of the COVID-19 health crisis. The pandemic has highlighted the existing inequities in our own community, as well as exacerbating the County’s fiscal constraints.

We must—and we should—address COVID-19, climate change, economic disruption and racial inequity simultaneously. These issues are fundamentally intertwined and require integrated strategies that cut across sectors. We cannot address climate change without recognizing its disproportionate impacts on certain segments of our population. We cannot mobilize community members to reduce emissions if they are overwhelmed by COVID-19, and we cannot rebuild our economy without considering both racial equity and climate change.

The recommendations outlined in the plan reflect a future reimagined, one in which our buildings, transportation system, government processes, consumption patterns and community engagement efforts are all realigned to meet this enormous challenge.

Although the path ahead will not be easy, it will be a path of opportunity—a path to improve our quality of life while reducing emissions. It will address racial and public health disparities while implementing climate solutions and will strengthen the bonds of community as we collaboratively forge a brighter future.

We need to do everything we can, and we need all-hands-on-deck. Please take the time to review this plan and offer your thoughts before the plan is finalized.

Solar Energy

As part of our work to eliminate greenhouse gases, earlier this week I announced an innovative partnership to put solar panels on the site of a former landfill. The clean energy generated will be for low-to-moderate income households and County Government. We are using what should be priority solar siting areas—brownfields—to produce new clean energy for residents who cannot install solar on their own property. You can read more here.

Winter Bright Spots

You have one more day to submit photos of your favorite holiday decorations. You can do that here.

Also, check out the photos that have already been submitted. They offer a bit of respite from the challenges we are all facing. You can find all of these great photos here.

As you prepare for the holidays, I hope you are able to find alternate ways to celebrate and connect to families, friends and neighbors.

Warmly,



Marc Elrich
County Executive


December 16, 2020

New COVID-19 Safety Restrictions on Dining and Retail in Effect




Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich has issued new Executive Order 139-20AM2 that tightens safety restrictions as the County tries to get better control of the spreading COVID-19 virus. The new order, which was approved unanimously by the County Council, suspends indoor dining, reduces indoor sports gatherings to no more than 10 people and reduces the maximum capacity of retail establishments. The new restrictions went into effect on Tuesday.

The provisions of the new order include the following:
  • Restricts restaurant service to outdoor dining. No indoor dining is permitted. Carryout, delivery and drive-through service may continue. Outdoor dining is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., per an existing Executive Order from Maryland Governor Larry Hogan.
  • Indoor sports gatherings will be limited to a maximum of 10 people total.
  • Maximum capacity for retail establishments is reduced to one person per 200 square feet of retail space—not to exceed a maximum of 150 people. Large retail establishments have until Dec. 23 to obtain a letter of approval to continue to have more than 150 people in their retail space. Businesses that request a letter of approval must submit a business plan that details how they will monitor the number of people in the building at any given time. The plan also must provide information on how social distancing will be ensured at the entrance, exit and check-out lines. Businesses must also provide detailed modified staffing strategies to reduce employee exposure. In order to be approved by Dec. 23, requests for a letter of approval must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 21. Requests can be submitted on the COVID-19 website under the Executive Order portal. Effective at 5 p.m. on Dec. 23, businesses that do not have a letter of approval to exceed 150 people will be limited to one person per 200 square feet of retail space up to a maximum of 150 people.
Religious institutions remain capped at 25 percent of capacity indoors. A County letter of approval must be obtained for outdoor services of more than 25 participants. Previously a letter of approval was needed for outdoor services of more than 150 persons.

Montgomery County Schedule Changes for Christmas Day, Dec. 25, and New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2021

Montgomery County Government will have the following schedules for the Christmas holiday on Friday, Dec. 25, and New Year’s Day, Friday Jan 1, 2021:
  • County Offices—Closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
  • State offices and courts—Closed Dec. 24, Dec. 25 and Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.
  • Libraries—Close at 6 p.m. on Dec. 24 and 31. Closed Dec. 25 and 26 and Jan. 1 and 2.
  • Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—Stores closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
  • Recreation—Aquatic facilities will be closed on Dec. 24, 25 and 31 and on Jan. 1. All other Recreation facilities remain closed for COVID-19 safety precautions. Virtual programs are available on the Montgomery County Recreation website.
  • Montgomery Parks—Open parkways hours extended. Details on all programs available at www.MontgomeryParks.org.
  • Ride On/ Ride On extRa / Flash Service—Operates from the route endpoints until 10 p.m.; Runs starting from the endpoints after 10 p.m. will not operate on Dec. 24. Operates on a Sunday schedule on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 (click on a route number). View holiday brochure.
  • Ride On Flex—Currently not in operation due to COVID-19 health crisis.
  • Metrorail and Metrobus – Information available at wmata.com/service/status.
  • MARC Train and Commuter Bus--Information available at mta.maryland.gov/marc-holiday-service.
  • TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center—Closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
  • TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store—Closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
  • Parking at Montgomery County public garages, lots and curbside meters—Normal parking fees and regulations in effect on Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. Parking will be Free on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
  • MCDOT Shared Street’s program—Arlington Road will be open to vehicles.
  • Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station—Closes at 3 p.m. on Dec. 24; closed Dec. 25. Closes at 3 p.m. on Dec. 31. Closed Jan. 1.
  • County-provided refuse/recycling pickup—County-provided trash and recycling collection will not occur on Dec. 25. After the holiday, County-provided recycling and trash collections will slide by one day later than normal, with last collection on Saturday, Dec. 28. County-provided trash and recycling collection will not occur on Jan. 1. After the holiday, County-provided recycling and trash collections will slide one day later than normal, with the last collection on Saturday, Jan. 2.

Montgomery County Executive Elrich Releases Draft Climate Action Plan That Lays Path to Meet County’s Climate Goals


Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich has released the Draft Climate Action Plan for public review. The Climate Action Plan is the County’s strategic plan to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 80 percent by 2027 and by 100 percent by 2035. 

The actions and technical analyses presented in the plan build upon the work of more than 200 volunteer members of the Climate Technical Workgroups, community groups, County employees and technical consultants—as well as input from the public. The 87 actions outlined in the plan lay the path to meet the County’s ambitious climate goals while building a healthy, equitable and resilient community.

The Draft Climate Action Plan is open for public review and comment through the end of February. The complete list of recommended actions is available at https://montgomerycountymd.gov/climate. The plan will be finalized in the spring of 2021.

The Climate Action Plan was spurred by the County Council’s Emergency Climate Mobilization Resolution that accelerated the County’s communitywide GHG emission reduction goals that were established in 2008. The resolution recognized the existential threat that climate change poses to society and natural ecosystems and called for the County to take a leadership role in modeling strategies.

“We are already feeling the impacts of climate change in our County—hotter summers, increased flooding events and more extreme storms,” said County Executive Elrich. “The strategies outlined in this plan address these impacts, prioritize those in our community who are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and identify opportunities to enhance racial equity and improve our quality of life, all while reducing emissions. I want to thank all members of our community who worked so hard and who carved out so many hours to establish the foundation for this important plan. The hundreds of ideas generated by our residents, businesses and other local organizations are reflected throughout this plan.”

The Draft Climate Action Plan identifies the County’s major GHG emissions sectors, including energy supply, buildings and transportation, and proposes actions to directly reduce GHG emissions in these sectors. The plan also includes actions related to climate adaptation, carbon sequestration, climate governance and public engagement, partnerships and education.

The County will host virtual sessions on the Draft Climate Action Plan during the public comment period. For upcoming sessions, go to Upcoming Climate Events.

For more information about the Draft Climate Action Plan and to provide feedback on the Draft Plan, visit https://montgomerycountymd.gov/climate

Former Oaks Landfill in Gaithersburg Will Serve as Solar Energy Project


Montgomery County will move another step closer toward meeting the ambitious goal of eliminating greenhouse emissions by 2035 with an innovative partnership that will provide reliable clean energy for low-to-moderate income households and County Government. In the partnership, Ameresco, an energy efficiency and renewable energy company, will build three solar arrays on approximately 16 acres of underutilized County-owned land at the former Oaks Landfill at 6010 Riggs Road in Gaithersburg.

The project will be six megawatts (MW) total, divided into three 2 MW arrays, and will generate 11.4 million kilowatt hours annually. Array 1 is for use by the County, and under a power purchase agreement, will provide the County Government with clean, renewable energy at no upfront cost. Arrays 2 and 3, each with two MW, will combine to be a community solar project with 100 percent of the generated electricity going to low-to-moderate income subscribers. Ameresco will finance, design, construct, own and operate all of the facilities.

"This public-private energy-saving initiative prioritizes renewable energy and wisely leverages underutilized public land to benefit a number of County interests,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “This agreement accelerates our environmental goals, lowers energy costs for hard-working families and places solar panels on brownfields, which should be the priority siting areas. The project provides residents unable to install solar on their own property with an opportunity to directly benefit from a shared solar power source.”

This project is the result of a 2019 Request for Energy Proposals issued by the County. Ameresco’s proposal was selected in large part due to the rate provided for low-to-moderate households, offering a 25 percent discount off the tariff rate to these subscribers. As of Sept. 30, Ameresco has 17 solar photovoltaic landfill projects in operation, with more in development, and has developed more than 230 megawatts of solar photovoltaic projects.

The project will add to the County’s other solar photovoltaic initiatives including microgrids at the County’s Public Safety Headquarters in Gaithersburg and the correctional facility in Clarksburg.

Since taking office, County Executive Elrich has outlined significant priorities to reduce the County’s carbon footprint including prioritizing clean energy, energy efficiency, enhancing building design, reducing waste and developing an improved transit system.

The County’s Department of General Services is implementing initiatives to reduce the environmental impact across all County departments to ensure Montgomery leads by example. Installing solar canopies and rooftop panels on libraries, recreation and aquatics centers, police and fire stations and offices will maximize the generation of clean energy. The department is developing a microgrid to support electric bus charging at the Silver Spring Transit Depot in support of the County’s commitment to convert its fleet to electric vehicles.

To learn more about Montgomery County’s initiatives to green government operations, visit the Department of General Services’ Office of Energy and Sustainability webpage

Renovated Martin Luther King Jr. Swim Center Reopens

Montgomery County’s Martin Luther King Jr. Swim Center has reopened with a new and improved look. The updated facility, located at 1201 Jackson Rd. in Silver Spring, has been a long-standing favorite spot for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

MLK Swim Center had operated for more than 35 years without any revitalization, and many of the building components and systems were in dire need of replacement and repair.

“The holiday season is the perfect time to reopen the MLK Jr. Swim Center, right in time for folks to start their New Year resolutions and fitness plans,” said Montgomery County Recreation Director Robin Riley. “I appreciate the patience of our enthusiastic aquatics community and know users will enjoy the extensive improvements that have given this first-rate facility a sharp fresh look.”

Visitors can see the updates before they enter the facility, starting with a new sign above the entrance. The front entrance driveway and parking areas have been reconstructed. Outside lighting has been improved throughout the grounds. The brick has been cleaned and the sloped roof has been replaced. A new bike rack has been installed. Improvements were made to the indoor and outdoor security systems.

Renovations inside include new carpeting and refurbished restrooms. New furniture, fresh paint and eye-catching signs can be seen throughout the building. The lower lobby double door to the pool, the vestibule unit ventilator and bleacher railings have been replaced. There are new doors and flooring throughout the facility. Some of the upgrades were made to make the swim center compliant with American with Disabilities regulations.

The facility is now operating with new safety restrictions to better protect public safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pool is open to County residents and pool pass holders only. Reservations are encouraged as patrons with reservations will have priority admission. The number of available walkup daily admission slots will depend on the number of reservations and pool capacity.

For more information about the pool, visit the website.

Recycle Unwanted Electronics at Shady Grove Processing Facility


A lot of electronic items are being purchased as gifts during the holiday season. That means that many older or no longer usable electronics will be on their way out. However, when their lifespan is over, those electronic items should not be thrown out. Montgomery County makes it easy for residents and businesses to recycle them.

Unwanted electronics should not be placed in household blue recycling bins. They can be recycled at the County’s Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station located at 16101 Frederick Rd. in Derwood.

Electronic items that can be recycled include computers and related items; printers and printer drums; TVs; VCR/DVR/DVD or Blu-ray players and discs; cell phones; portable chargers; video cameras and holiday string lights. A complete list of electronic items that can be recycled can be found at https://tinyurl.com/y7wszund.

The electronics drop-off is open daily and is located in the recycling area of the transfer station. The facility is open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday (both entrances) and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday (Route 355 entrance only).

Some retail stores also have drop off locations for electronics recycling.

For more information on electronics recycling, go to https://mygreenmontgomery.org/2020/out-with-the-old-electronics-learn-how-to-recycle-them-here/

COVID-19 Information Portal Has Statistics on How the Virus Has Impacted the County, Including Infections by Zip Codes

COVID-19 Deaths by Zip Code Montgomery County, MD

Montgomery County’s COVID-19 Information Portal provides a variety of breakdowns on how the virus has impacted the County. The statistics are regularly updated to reflect the most recent reports during the health crisis.

Among the information available is how many positive cases have been reported in each zip code in the County. That information can be found at https://montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/data/case-counts.html#cases-zip.

Other breakdowns on the COVID-19 Information Portal include:

Where to Get Tested for COVID-19



There are numerous ways to get tested for COVID-19 in Montgomery County. The County operates dozens of clinics most weeks and rotates the locations to make testing easily accessible for residents in all parts of the County. In addition, there are many privately operating testing programs.

Testing at County-operated clinics is free, does not require a doctor’s referral and is available by making advance appointments or on a walk-up basis. Reservations can be made online at www.MoCoCOVIDtesting.org.

There may be a fee at privately operated sites. Residents should check in advance on any possible cost and available times at privately operated sites.

To view the schedule of upcoming County-operated test clinics, go to https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/testing.html


County Libraries Launches Mobile Hotspot Lending Program for the Public



Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) has launched "Internet to Go," a mobile hotspot lending program for the public. MCPL has a collection of 250 Verizon MiFi Mobile hotspots that will be available at all MCPL locations currently providing public service.

"We know that the digital divide affects many of our County residents each day, and we are very pleased to begin this program,” said MCPL Director Anita Vassallo. "This will make it possible for us to support County residents who may be working remotely, helping their children navigate online learning, applying online for jobs and benefits and completing other important and necessary tasks online."

Library cardholders in good standing who are 14 and older are eligible to check out a mobile hotspot. Hotspots may be borrowed for two weeks with no renewals.

Residents can place a hold on a hotspot via MCPL's webpage or by calling Ask-A-Librarian at 240-777-0001 to schedule a pickup at a choice of library branches.

County Sharing Residents’ Winter and Holiday Decorations

Winter Holiday Decoration Display  

In a year dominated by the COVID-19 virus, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich wants the sharing of spirit and joy to be celebrated together. He is inviting residents to submit photos of winter and holiday decorations that will then be displayed on the County’s website so all can see them.

Residents can share efforts that decorate their homes and neighborhoods by sending photos to https://forms.montgomerycountymd.gov/f/holiday.Some photos will be displayed on the home page of the County website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov. All photos submitted will be displayed on a special website that can be found at https://flic.kr/s/aHsmSDKswF. Residents can now submit photos. All submissions must be made by Dec. 18.

“I know this year has been extremely difficult for so many of us—for our friends, families and neighbors,” said County Executive Elrich. “As we head toward the shortest day of the year on Dec. 21, I ask you to take a moment and look around your house and your neighborhood and submit a photo of a decoration ​or display that makes you smile or brightens your day, or literally, your night. It can be a drawing, decorations on a house or houses, a winter plant​ display or something else that makes you smile or gives you a moment of respite. If it is bringing you and your neighbors some joy, we hope you will share it with others.”

Residents must submit photos with their names, the section of the County in which they live (neighborhood name if one exists) and their contact information. If they submit a photo of a neighbor’s home, they must have the permission of that homeowner and submit the homeowner’s name along with their name. A photo of a public display must contain a description of the site and its location.

The County display of photos is not a contest. No awards are at stake.

All photos submitted will become the property of the County and may be used in other ways to celebrate the many views of Montgomery County.

Procurement Virtual Fair Now Viewable Online

 

The Montgomery County Office of Procurement hosted a Virtual Procurement Fair on Dec. 9 at which representatives from more than 10 County departments shared best practices and general advice for contractors who may want to obtain future County contracts. The fair addressed some of the upcoming solicitations the County will be offering. Hundreds of local vendors participated in the virtual fair, asking questions and offering suggestions. 

Among the speakers at the fair were County Executive Marc Elrich, County Chief Equity Officer Tiffany Ward, County Director of Procurement Ash Shetty and representatives of local Chambers of Commerce. The event featured four industry-specific sessions, focusing on IT, construction, equipment/supplies and professional services. 

The full-day fair was recorded so vendors who were unable to participate, or those who did participate and wanted to review the information, could see the event. The fair, including PowerPoint presentations that were made during the fair, can now be viewed on the Procurement website

“During a time of increased caution and alarm brought on by the uptick in COVID cases across the region and the nation, it was gratifying to see hundreds of vendors engage with County Procurement in our virtual trade fair, “ said Department Director Shetty. “The optimism and positive outlook that these vendors seem to have for business prospects with the County over the next 12 to 18 months should give us all tremendous hope for the future.”

QIAGEN Life Sciences to Expand Its Research and Development Facilities in Germantown to Accommodate Growth of Testing for COVID-19 and Other Diseases

QIAGEN North American Holdings, the American division of the global life sciences company that is a leader in providing molecular sample and assay technologies, is expanding its United States headquarters and research and development manufacturing facility in Germantown. It also will be leasing additional space in the area. 

QIAGEN plans to renovate its 146,000-square foot manufacturing facility in Germantown to accommodate expanded production of testing products for COVID-19 and other diseases. As part of the expansion, the company has already added about 80 contracted staff and invested more than $7 million in building renovations and equipment. QIAGEN is planning to further increase investments and to add additional jobs to its current more than 300 employees over the next five years.

Headquartered in the Netherlands, QIAGEN provides sample to insight solutions that help achieve scientific breakthroughs and improve healthcare to more than 500,000 customers around the world. The company recently added several new products to make COVID-19 testing quicker and more efficient. QIAGEN employs more than 5,300 people in over 35 locations worldwide.

“Montgomery County and Maryland continue to be wonderful to work with,” said Sean D. Augerson, QIAGEN’s vice president and head of operations Americas and Asia Pacific. “We needed assistance in moving forward quickly with clean room construction and getting equipment in, and they gave us that ability. We are delighted to continue expanding our presence here in Germantown.”

Since April, QIAGEN has provided the Institute for Genome Sciences (IGS) at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) with the reagent kits necessary for its Large-Scale COVID-19 Testing Program. QIAGEN leveraged its pre-existing relationship with IGS to quickly understand and meet the needs of Maryland’s testing community. IGS and the UMSOM Department of Pathology now analyze thousands of tests daily.

“QIAGEN has a 20-year history of producing diagnostic tests in Germantown and contributing to the full spectrum of life science capabilities we have in Montgomery County,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “This company evaluated its options across its global footprint, and we are so pleased that it recognized that our quality workforce and proximity to FDA made this the ideal expansion site.”

Benjamin H. Wu, president and CEO of the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, said: “The infectious disease work that QIAGEN is doing in Germantown has made them a key global player in the production of molecular testing kits and the development of epidemic responses. QIAGEN’s expansion reinforces Montgomery County’s strength as the immunology capital next to the nation’s capital.”

December 10, 2020

Message from the County Executive



Dear Friends,

Recently, we received encouraging news – vaccines will soon start to be delivered in Montgomery County and around the nation. However, they will not be available for the general population right away. The quantity is limited and the State will be prioritizing the distribution, but it is certainly a promising step.

While we wait for the vaccine, the number of new cases of COVID-19 continues an alarming rise, as you can see from this chart below and on our website. https://montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/data/
Seven-day average number of new confirmed cases per 100k residents

Until the vaccine is widely available, the only power we have is to control our own behavior. That is why yesterday, I sent a new Executive Order to the County Council that prohibits indoor dining, limits indoor sports to 10 people and restricts capacity at retail establishments of one person per 200 square feet up to 150 people. If approved by the Council, the order will take effect at 5 p.m. on Tuesday.

Even as we increase restrictions in Montgomery County, COVID knows no boundaries. That is why yesterday I joined the county executives of the seven largest counties in Maryland and the mayor of the City of Baltimore to call for a united effort to stop the spread. We have been in regular contact throughout this pandemic as we work to protect the health of all our residents.

I know these increased restrictions are especially hard on our businesses, and I urge you to support them as much as possible. Even though indoor dining is not allowed, outdoor dining, carryout and delivery are still permitted. And I can’t emphasize enough that these restrictions are the only tools we have to keep us all safe until the vaccines are widely available.

Amidst these very difficult times, and as we head toward the shortest day of the year, I wanted to offer a chance for you to share a photo of winter decorations that have made you smile or brightened your day. We have set up a website for you to submit your photos. Go to https://forms.montgomerycountymd.gov/f/holiday and we will be accepting them through Dec. 18.

Today is International Human Rights Day and it is a reminder to recommit ourselves to ensuring basic human rights right here and elsewhere: a right to a roof over our heads, to have food for our families, access to health care, freedom from persecution and the right to our own beliefs. I wanted to share this quote from Eleanor Roosevelt, who chaired the committee drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights:

“Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home—so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. [...] Unless these rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere. Without concerted citizen action to uphold them close to home, we shall look in vain for progress in the larger world."

Warmly,






Marc Elrich
County Executive

December 9, 2020

County Executive Elrich Announces Additional Safety Restrictions as COVID-19 Cases Continue Dramatic Increase

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich has announced further safety restrictions in order to slow the dramatic increase in COVID-19 cases in the County and throughout the Washington region. The restrictions will begin at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 15.

The new Executive Order 139-20 will restrict restaurant service to outdoor dining. Carry-out, delivery and drive-through service will be allowed to continue. The order also limits indoor sports gatherings to a maximum of 10 people total. (Outdoor dining will be prohibited between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., per an existing Executive Order from Maryland Governor Larry Hogan.) The maximum capacity for retail establishments has been changed to one person per 200 square feet of retail space—not to exceed a maximum of 150 persons.

The Executive Order has been sent to the County Council for its review. The Council can approve or disapprove the order but cannot change it.

“We have been experiencing weeks with our daily case counts up dramatically,” said County Executive Elrich. “Our cases per 100,000 are now at 41, and 78 percent of our hospital beds are full. All the data and trends indicate that we are heading toward more difficult times and it is imperative that we take action now. We cannot wait for our hospitals to be overflowing. This was a difficult decision, and I know that it is hard on our businesses. I encourage everyone to support our local businesses. We must take steps to slow the spread of this virus.”

Travis Gayles, the County health officer, said: “We are currently seeing unprecedented numbers of new daily cases of COVID-19 and everybody needs to understand the severity of this matter and the negative impacts it can have. It is imperative that every one of us living in Montgomery County does everything we can to slow the spread of this virus. We are seeing widespread community transmission and we will all need to sacrifice aspects of our lives in order to bring this under control.”

The number of new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Montgomery County, as reported today by the Maryland Department of Health, showed an increase of more than 2,000 in the past week. The County has had more than 37,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 956 deaths.

County officials continue to remind residents that wearing a mask is the law in the County and throughout Maryland. This includes outdoors. Wearing a plastic face shield does not satisfy the face covering mandate, nor does wearing a face covering with a valve. Those examples have been shown to be ineffective at protecting the spread of the aerosol droplets that can cause COVID-19.

COVID-19 Information Portal Has Statistics on How the Virus Has Impacted the County, Including Infections by Zip Codes



Montgomery County’s COVID-19 Information Portal provides a variety of breakdowns on how the virus has impacted the County. The statistics are regularly updated to reflect the most recent reports during the health crisis.

Among the information available is how many positive cases have been reported in each zip code in the County. That information can be found at https://montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/data/case-counts.html#cases-zip.

Other breakdowns on the COVID-19 Information Portal include:

Where to Get Tested for COVID-19



There are numerous ways to get tested for COVID-19 in Montgomery County. The County operates dozens of clinics most weeks and rotates the locations to make testing easily accessible for residents in all parts of the County. In addition, there are many privately operating testing programs.

Testing at County-operated clinics is free, does not require a doctor’s referral and is available by making advance appointments or on a walk-up basis. Reservations can be made online at www.MoCoCOVIDtesting.org.

There may be a fee at privately operated sites. Residents should check in advance on any possible cost and available times at privately operated sites.

To view the schedule of upcoming County-operated test clinics, go to https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/testing.html




‘Tourism Anchor Institution Grants’ Expanded to Impacted For-Profits and Nonprofits that Focus on Arts, Culture, Agriculture and/or Recreation; Deadline Extended

Montgomery County has expanded its “Tourism Anchor Institution Grant Program” so for-profit and nonprofit organizations that are tourist-oriented and focus on arts, culture, agriculture and/or recreation—and have been hard-hit by the COVID-19 health crisis—are eligible to apply for this form of financial assistance.

In addition to expansion of the program to include eligible for-profit and nonprofit organizations, the deadline to submit completed applications has been extended to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13.

The program has the strong support of County Executive Marc Elrich and the County Council. It is funded with a $5 million special appropriation the Council approved under Resolution 19-493.

“We continue to develop programs to help as many organizations in the County as possible,” said County Executive Elrich. “The entities that will be assisted through this grant program are the heart and soul of our community.”

Details on the Tourism Anchor Institution grant program and application information—in English and Spanish—can be found at https://montgomerycountymd.gov/biz-resources/covid19/.

The program was created as a result of the severe impact of COVID-19 on Montgomery County’s hospitality industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics/Center Employment Statistics, Montgomery and Frederick counties experienced a 44 percent decline in leisure and hospitality jobs from April 2019 to April 2020. There was an 11 percent employment decline in all job losses during the same period. Montgomery County’s tourism anchor institutions—facilities that attract many visitors—are critical to maintaining the County’s leisure and hospitality industry and the outstanding quality of life for residents.

Grants can be used for general operating purposes. However, the funds cannot be used for the same expenditures for which organizations have received grants from other Federal, State or County grant programs. County Executive staff will review all applications to determine if grant eligibility requirements have been met.

Questions about the Tourism Anchor Institution Grant Program can be emailed to TourismGrant@montgomerycountymd.gov.

County Celebrates International Human Rights Day



Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and the County Council joined in the celebration of International Human Rights Day on Thursday, Dec. 10.

This year’s Human Rights Day theme, Recover Better - Stand up for Human Rights, relates to the COVID-19 health crisis and focuses on the need to build back better by ensuring human rights are central to recovery efforts.

“Montgomery County stands united with many others across the globe to affirm that every person is entitled to basic human rights,” said County Executive Elrich. “In this worldwide pandemic, we are especially focused on the human rights of housing and food as so many people have lost jobs and their loved ones. This pandemic has highlighted some of the deep inequities in our society that we must work to correct so that all should be guaranteed dignity and respect.”

Beyond the actual one day of celebration, County residents are asked to participate in the important work being done to preserve and protect human rights in our County.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted long-standing and wide-ranging inequities in our own community and across the country," said Council President Tom Hucker. "In Montgomery County, we have been steadfast in our efforts to reach the most vulnerable in our communities and ensure they have the resources and support they need. On International Human Rights Day, we recommit ourselves to protecting and promoting the rights of vulnerable populations, particularly those who have been hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic."


County to Host Free Series of Online Mental Health and Community Wellness Conversations Beginning Wed., Dec. 16



Montgomery County will offer residents an opportunity to join free conversations with mental health experts and community partners in a series about mental health and wellness issues affecting the community as the COVID-19 health crisis continues. The virtual series “Wellness Community Events: Healing and Holding On” will begin on Wednesday, Dec. 16, and will continue every Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m.

Each conversation will feature a panel of mental health professionals discussing the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health and well-being of residents of all ages. The conversations can be joined on Microsoft Teams and the series will be live streamed on County Cable Montgomery (cable channel CCM) and on the County’s Facebook page.

Topics in the series will include:
  • Health tips for children during the pandemic.
  • Stress management.
  • Self-care for teleworkers.
  • Mental health first aid.
  • Family relationships during a pandemic.
  • Substance use disorder peer services.
  • Signs and symptoms of addiction.
  • Destigmatizing mental health in the Latinx community.
The first session will open with a welcome from Rolando Santiago, chief of behavioral health and crisis services in the County's Department of Health and Human Services. The panel in the first session will include Raymond Crowel, director of the county's Department of Health and Human Services; Kiran Dixit, director of the Jewish Social Services Agency’s Training Institute; and Joe Wilson, clinical director at JSSA. The discussion will be followed by a question and answer session.

No registration is required to join the sessions. The first conversation can be accessed on Microsoft Teams at https://bit.ly/wellness-community-1 It can be accessed live on County Cable Montgomery and the County’s Facebook page.

For more information, visit the County’s COVID-19 website and click on mental health resources or email hhsmail@montgomerycountymd.gov.




Montgomery County Will Share Residents’ Winter and Holiday Decorations on Its Website



In a year dominated by the COVID-19 virus, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich wants the sharing of spirit and joy to be celebrated together. He is inviting residents to submit photos of winter and holiday decorations that will then be displayed on the County’s website so all can see them.

Residents can share efforts that decorate their homes and neighborhoods by sending photos to https://forms.montgomerycountymd.gov/f/holiday. Some photos will be displayed on the home page of the County website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov. All photos submitted will be displayed on a special website that can be found at https://flic.kr/s/aHsmSDKswF. Residents can now submit photos. All submissions must be made by Dec. 18.

“I know this year has been extremely difficult for so many of us—for our friends, families and neighbors,” said County Executive Elrich. “As we head toward the shortest day of the year on Dec. 21, I ask you to take a moment and look around your house and your neighborhood and submit a photo of a decoration or display that makes you smile or brightens your day, or literally, your night. It can be a drawing, decorations on a house or houses, a winter plant display or something else that makes you smile or gives you a moment of respite. If it is bringing you and your neighbors some joy, we hope you will share it with others.”

Residents’ photo submission must include their name, email address and the area of the County where the photo was taken. If you are submitting a photo of someone else’s home, get their permission before submitting the photo.

The County display of photos is not a contest. No awards are at stake.

All photos submitted will become the property of the County and may be used in other ways to celebrate the many views of Montgomery County.

County Executive Elrich Pushes for COVID-19 Outreach to African American and Latino Communities and Food Security

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich’s request for a special appropriation of $20.7 million to extend support to communities in the County that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 has been approved by the County Council.

The special appropriations will provide additional funding for food insecurity, as well as the outreach efforts for the Latino Health Initiative’s (LHI) Por Nuestra Salud y Bienestar program and the African American Health Program’s (AAHP) Targeted COVID Response program. These programs have been providing COVID-19 testing and other services to underserved communities. Current funding for these efforts was set to end on Dec. 30.

The County Executive’s request was made as the deadline for Federal funding nears. Earlier during the pandemic, the County implemented a number of programs to help residents endure hardships that resulted from COVID-19. The additional funding will enable the County to continue the programs and assist residents.

“As the cases mount in our County and around the State, I am recommending these special appropriations to address food insecurity, as well as the disproportionate impact COVID is having on two of the County’s racial and ethnic populations—the Latino and African American communities,” said County Executive Elrich. “These efforts have largely been funded using Federal Coronavirus Relief Fund dollars, and now I am requesting that the County use its reserves to continue these vital programs. The County will pursue FEMA reimbursement for all costs that are eligible for reimbursement and we are confident that most of our expenses will be reimbursed.”

County Executive Elrich recommended a special appropriation to the COVID-19 Human Services and Community Assistance Non-Departmental Account for $12,803,250. This will continue to fund the County’s efforts to address the significant food insecurity issues impacting residents and enable the County’s Food Security Task Force to provide services through the end of the fiscal year (June 30). Residents will continue to be connected to food assistance in the short-term and the funding will allow investments in systems, programs and partnerships that will extend beyond the crisis.

The Task Force has developed the “COVID-19 Pandemic Food Security Strategic Plan” that identifies actionable strategies to address:
  • Critical needs to increase the volume of food in the food assistance system.
  • Improve the food delivery system.
  • Communicate to and connect residents with resources.
  • Foster a permanently resilient and equitable food system in Montgomery County.
To date, the program has been paid for with general fund dollars. The County’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is confident that FEMA will accept most of the costs associated with this program and will reimburse the County for the expenditures.

County Executive Elrich also has recommended $4,620,997 to extend funding for LHI’s Por Nuestra Salud y Bienestar program. In partnership with seven preeminent Latino-serving community-based organizations, the program provides a targeted emergency response related to the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on Latinos. Data shows that Latinos have higher COVID positivity rates compared with those of non-Hispanics. The program provides a culturally and linguistically competent health and wellness system that addresses critical needs for outreach, education, testing, clinical follow-up and case management.

Like the Por Nuestra Salud y Bienestar Program, the AAHP Executive Committee will receive an additional $3,341,444 to fund a COVID-19 Response Strategy. The strategy provides a targeted emergency response related to African American and Black residents who have significant disparities in death rates for COVID-19. The additional funding will allow the continuation of implementation strategies that address critical needs for community outreach, communications, education, mental health supports and services, support of a Black Physician Partnership as well as food insecurity.

County’s Department of Environmental Protection Encourages Greener Gifting This Holiday Season with a ‘Gift Outside the Box’



Much of the holiday season will be different this year, including gift giving. Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and partners are encouraging people to gift greener this holiday season by supporting local businesses and reducing their carbon footprint with the annual “Gift Outside the Box” campaign.

For the fourth consecutive year, the Gift Outside the Box campaign brings together County agencies and community organizations to promote environmentally friendly gift giving. The holiday campaign again will focus on five areas:
  • Buy Local: Help support County and State businesses by purchasing locally made products. Look for the “MoCo Made” label at Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) or other retail stores.
  • Gift Experiences: No need for a box when the gift features event tickets, Montgomery Recreation classes, music lessons and time in nature and at parks.
  • Gift Greener: If you want to purchase brand new items, make sure that they encourage green living and, when possible, help people lower their utility bills. Consider LED lightbulbs, smart thermostats and reusable materials such as water bottles, metal straws and cloth napkins.
  • Give Back: Among the most appreciated gifts are donations to local charities in the name of a family member or friend. Also, consider setting aside time to spend with friends and family by volunteering together.
  • Reduce, Reuse and Recycle: Reduce waste by buying gifts made from recycled or reused materials, regift items not used from last year and recycle all of paper (minimize wrapping all together by using reusable gift bags and cloth).
“The difficult times created by this pandemic gives us an opportunity to think about supporting our local businesses as a way to give greener this holiday season,” said DEP Director Adam Ortiz. “DEP and our partners are challenging residents to reduce waste by thinking differently about how they shop for and give gifts. Together, we can reduce waste, save energy and build a strong local economy.”

As a result of the COVID-19 health crisis, DEP has been hosting a series of virtual events to highlight ways residents can gift outside the box this holiday season. One more event will be held from 5-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 16. The theme of that event is “Give Back and Give Thanks.”

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, household waste in the U.S. increases an average of 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. Wrapping paper, decorations, packaging and leftover food (and sometimes even gifts) often do not last long and end up in the waste stream.

More information about the most sustainable ways to give for the holidays is available at the Gift Outside the Box website at https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dep/gift-greener.html.


County’s Commission for Women to Host Free Workshop on Writing Better Resumes



Montgomery County’s Commission for Women (CFW) will host a free virtual career workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 15, to help job seekers write better resumes. “Creating Your Best Resume” will be held from 7-8:30 p.m.

In today's competitive job market, it is important to stand out with targeted resumes and have skills to successfully interview virtually. The CFW workshop will provide strategies on resume building to help job seekers develop strategies to move from applicant to employment.

Registration for the workshop is available here. After registering, a Zoom link will be emailed to the forum participant.


December 3, 2020

Message from the County Executive


Dear Friends,

I hope your Thanksgiving celebration went well, even though it likely was quite different from previous years. 

Unfortunately, as we head into the winter and holidays, our numbers are not looking good, and the situation will likely get much worse. Our hospitals are in jeopardy of experiencing significant increases in COVID-19 cases that will put a strain on their capacity and staffing. You can see from our data dashboard that the percentage of hospital beds that are occupied by patients with COVID-19 is worrisome. 

Percentage of hospital inpatient beds in the community that are occupied by patients with COVID-19

The upward trend of the line of positive cases is concerning, as is the number of new confirmed cases per 100,000 residents. 

Seven-day average number of new confirmed cases per 100k residents

We are in regular contact with our hospitals to understand how we can assist them and we are monitoring how this surge is impacting the number of beds available for patients. Our focus is to keep people as healthy as possible. The best tools we have are to follow the guidelines of physical distancing, wearing a mask and limiting the size of social gatherings.

In fact, a private White House coronavirus task force report published by the Center for Public Integrity includes the statement that “the COVID risk to all Americans is at a historic high” and that “we are in a very dangerous place.” The report said, “improved public observance of social distancing measures is urgently needed to limit overrunning hospital capacity and additional preventable deaths.” 

Many people are getting tested, which is important and necessary, but the high volume of testing is causing delays in getting results. These delays are not just in Montgomery County. There are delays throughout the State and the country, at least partly because people were testing before and after holiday travel. Our labs are working seven days a week, so please be patient as you await results.

I am excited and hopeful about recent news regarding the coming vaccines, but they will become available slowly and it will be quite some time until they are widely available. Until then, we have only our actions to slow the spread.

In other news, earlier this week I vetoed Bill 38-20 that would reduce revenues available for infrastructure – schools and transportation – that are needed to accompany development. Those revenues come from impact taxes paid by developers of new projects. The projected revenue loss from this bill is estimated to be between $12.5 million and $20 million per year. These losses come at a time when we know we don’t have sufficient funding to address current needs, make the investments to grow our economy and maintain our high-quality schools. We must make sure that we have the resources needed to provide the infrastructure for a growing community. If new development does not pay its fair share of the costs of infrastructure, then residents pay a disproportionate share. I could not support that approach. You can read my veto message HERE.

Please stay well, stay home as much as possible and wear a mask.

With appreciation,



Marc Elrich
County Executive

P.S. Even though Small Business Saturday has come and gone, I urge you to “shop local” as much as possible as you go about your holiday shopping. Our businesses are hit hard by this pandemic and these restrictions. While we have programs to try to help them, I know they need and appreciate support from all of us. 

December 2, 2020

Amended Health Directive Includes Guidance on Wearing Face Coverings



Montgomery County Health Officer Travis Gayles has issued an Amended Health Directive that limits indoor gatherings to 10 people and updates the County’s face coverings guidelines.

The directive states that when residents leave their homes, they are required to wear a face covering if they are likely to come in contact with others who are not members of their household. Residents are advised to always carry a face covering with them in case they unexpectedly come in close contact with others.

The directive states that face coverings must be worn in businesses, office buildings and other establishments open to the public.

The directive also clarifies that a face covering is not required if a person is:
  • Actively eating or drinking.
  • Receiving dental services, shaving, facial treatments or other services requiring access to the individual’s face, mouth or head.
  • Swimming or engaged in another physical activity where the use of a face covering would pose a bona fide safety risk.
  • Under the age of 18 and is engaged in vigorous sports—as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
  • Unable to wear a face covering due to a medical condition or disability or is physically unable to remove a mask.
  • Unable to wear a face covering because it impedes communication by, or with, persons who have a hearing impairment or other disability where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication.
  • At work and the equipment required for the job does not enable wearing a mask or wearing a mask would endanger public safety.
  • Alone in an office or vehicle.
The new face covering guidelines outlined in the health directive are designed to help protect residents and reduce the spread of COVID-19. Residents are strongly urged to wear a mask whenever they are in public places and may encounter others. Whether out walking or jogging, wearing a mask is required when a person likely will be within six feet of someone, even if it is solely in passing.

County Executive Elrich Vetoes Bill 38-20 Regarding Development Impact Taxes for Transportation and Public School Improvements

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich has notified the County Council that he has vetoed Bill 38-20 that amends the newly renamed “Growth and Infrastructure Policy” (formerly the County Growth Policy). The amendment would reduce the funding available to provide necessary County infrastructure.

In his memo to the Council explaining why he vetoed the legislation, County Executive Elrich wrote: “With new development comes increased infrastructure needs; the newly renamed “Growth and Infrastructure Policy” (Growth Policy) reduces the funding available to provide the necessary infrastructure while the need to provide infrastructure is more critical to our success than ever. While I have long been concerned with how impact taxes work and I believe that there are alternatives that should be implemented, I cannot support simply reducing the necessary revenues without an appropriate replacement. Therefore, I am vetoing Bill 38-20.”

The Council approved Bill 38-20 in November by a unanimous vote. It will now consider whether to uphold or override the County Executive’s veto.

The complete text of County Executive Elrich’s memo to the Council can be found here.

County Government to Distribute Thousands of COVID Kits to Disproportionately Impacted Neighborhoods



Nearly 4,000 COVID-19 kits packed with personal protective equipment (PPE) to try to prevent the spread of coronavirus will be distributed in several sections of Montgomery County that have been hardest hit by the virus. The kits will be distributed in areas of zip codes 20902, 20904 and 20906.

The kits include hand sanitizer, alcohol wipes, gloves, tissues, masks, non-contact infrared thermometers and batteries.

The scheduled distribution plan:
  • Tuesday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Hughes United Methodist, 10700 Georgia Ave., Wheaton,
  • Thursday, Dec. 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oak Chapel United Methodist Church, 14500 Layhill Rd., Silver Spring.
  • Saturday, Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-noon. East County HUB at East County Community Recreation Center, 3310 Gateshead Manor Way, Silver Spring.
Similar kits were distributed in the Wheaton area in November. More than 1,000 kits were distributed in that effort.

Funding for the distributed items was secured through the Office of Minority Health at the Maryland Department of Health.


COVID-19 Information Portal Has Statistics on How the Virus Has Impacted the County, Including Infections by Zip Codes


Montgomery County’s COVID-19 Information Portal provides a variety of breakdowns on how the virus has impacted the County. The statistics are regularly updated to reflect the most recent reports during the health crisis.

Among the information available is how many positive cases have been reported in each zip code in the County. That information can be found at https://montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/data/case-counts.html#cases-zip.

Other breakdowns on the COVID-19 Information Portal include:

Where to Get Tested for COVID-19



There are numerous ways to get tested for COVID-19 in Montgomery County. The County operates dozens of clinics most weeks and rotates the locations to make testing easily accessible for residents in all parts of the County. In addition, there are many privately operating testing programs.

Testing at County-operated clinics is free, does not require a doctor’s referral and is available by making advance appointments or on a walk-up basis. Reservations can be made online at www.MoCoCOVIDtesting.org.

There may be a fee at privately operated sites. Residents should check in advance on any possible cost and available times at privately operated sites.

To view the schedule of upcoming County-operated test clinics, go to https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/testing.html


City of Gaithersburg’s ‘Winter Lights Festival’ Now Open at Seneca Creek State Park


In 2020, a year like no other in our lifetimes because the COVID-19 health crisis has changed or cancelled so many programs and traditions, one sign of the holiday season is continuing. The 25th annual City of Gaithersburg’s “Winter Lights Festival” is now open nightly at Seneca Creek State Park and will continue through Dec. 31. 

The Winter Lights Festival is a 3.5-mile drive filled with 450 illuminated displays and decorated trees that light up the night. The park is located at 11950 Clopper Road, conveniently accessible from I-270. The Winter Lights Festival will be closed on Dec. 25.

Admission for cars, SUV’s, mini-vans and limos is $12 with an advance online purchase and $15 at the admission booth Mondays through Thursdays (open 6-9 p.m.) Admission is $17 online and $20 at the booth Fridays through Sundays (6-9:30 p.m.)

To purchase tickets online, go to https://tinyurl.com/y6h4bs3j.


Before Sending a Check as a Donation Around the Holidays, County’s Office of Consumer Protection Advises Residents to Check on the Charity

The holiday season sees an increase in charitable donation drives. It also sees an increase in scammers pretending to be charities. This year, the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) advises residents to follow warnings issued by the Maryland Secretary of State and the State Attorney General that the COVID-19 health crisis is adding an extra layer of complexity.

As the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) noted, because of COVID-19, many charitable organizations are faced with greater demand for their services this year, but have received less in donations as people have less to give. Charities—and scammers—are focusing their efforts on donations toward coronavirus-related response programs, such as aid to the unemployed, families of those ill with COVID-19 or toward care packages to thank healthcare workers. It is important for residents to make sure that donations will be used wisely and well.

Charity fraud schemes either seek money for non-existent nonprofits or take money for organizations that do little or no work, siphoning donations to the charity’s creator. Whether donating at the cash register, responding to unsolicited inquiries (through email, social media, crowdfunding, calls or mail) or donating in the spirit of National Giving Month, OCP wants residents to reach out for more information on whether a charity is legitimate before they reach for their wallets.

There are some regular tricks and scripts that scammers use. A resident may receive a mailer thanking them for a donation or pledge that they never made. The resident may feel obligated to return the pledge card with a donation. Criminals can manipulate the phone number a resident sees on caller ID to make a call look like it is from a local area code if the scammer is pitching itself as a local charity, trying to make the resident feel more comfortable about accepting the call and listening to a pitch. Some scammers use the names of legitimate organizations or names similar to reputable organizations. Scammers also make many vague and sentimental claims and leave the resident to fill in the blanks about how their donation will be used. Residents then assume that the donation they will make will address those situations.

Scammers may also try to entice a resident into making a donation by claiming that the donation will be tax deductible, but for many taxpayers, that is not the case. And a payment to a bogus charity is never tax deductible.

Montgomery County’s OCP has recently investigated two types of charity scams.

After a complaint regarding donation boxes on counters at local retailers, OCP discovered a company that made Lucite boxes and sold route information to donation hustlers. The company also provided scripts on how to advertise as a charity and escape prosecution for false advertising. The schemes often claim to support charities that help find missing children and pets or say the funds will go toward research on cancer and other diseases. Consumers see the boxes near the cash registers at restaurants, nail salons and other local shops and believe the endeavors had been vetted by the retailer. They drop in loose change (sometimes in exchange for candy of dubious quality or age). OCP engaged in outreach to business owners to warn that their goodwill was being misused and worked with the local disseminator of the boxes to have its boxes removed.

OCP also investigated a complaint from a local volunteer firefighter and uncovered a scam political action committee (Heroes United PAC) that claimed to be collecting charitable donations on behalf of “Volunteer Firefighters Associations.” The PAC reported to the Federal Election Commission that it collected $4.6 million nationwide in 2018. It used telemarketing vendors, caller ID spoofing and three local maildrops to mislead consumers into thinking that their donations would be used locally for volunteer firefighters. Instead, more than 90 percent of the donations were retained by third-party vendors and less than 10 percent were used for so-called “political action.” OCP entered into a settlement agreement for refunds to be offered to County residents who made donations to the Heroes United PAC.

The following tips can help residents avoid these schemes:
  1. Check with the Maryland Secretary of State’s Office at 410-974-5521 or https://sos.maryland.gov/Charity to be sure the charity is registered.
  2. Give to established charities or groups whose work you know and trust.
  3. Use trusted research sites like Charity Navigator, Guidestar, Charity Watch or Give.org to get backgrounds on the charity, its financing and use of funds. In addition, search its name plus “complaint,” “review,” “rating” or “scam.”
  4. Be wary of new organizations that claim to aid victims of recent high-profile disasters.
  5. Never agree to give money over the phone or to a door-to-door solicitor. Ask for written information about the charity and read it before deciding on whether to donate.
  6. Give using a check or credit card. If a charity or organization asks for a donation through cash, gift card, virtual currency or wire transfer, it is probably a scam. Review checking and credit card statements closely to make sure you were only charged the amount you agreed to donate – and that you are not signed up to make a recurring donation.
  7. Practice good cyber hygiene:
    • Do not click on links or open email attachments from someone who is unknown.
    • Manually type out links instead of clicking on them.
    • Do not provide personal information in response to an email, robocall or robotext.
    • Check the website's address—most legitimate charity organization websites use “.org” rather than “com.”
    • Be skeptical of social media posts.

  8. Before making a donation, be sure to know:
    • The full name, address and phone number of the charity.
    • If the charity (and paid fundraiser, if one is used) is registered with the Maryland Secretary of State.
    • How much of the donation will go to the charity and how much goes to the fundraiser who contacted you.
    • For what purpose will the contribution be used.
    • If the contribution is tax deductible.