Message from the County Executive Marc Elirch

Dear Friends,

Montgomery County hit an unhappy milestone today of having the highest number of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 (seven-day average) since the pandemic began in March.  As you can see from the charts below, the trend line is not headed in a good direction either in the County or across Maryland.

7 Day average number of new confirmed cases per 100k residents

7 Day moving average case rate per 100k by jurisdiction

We have to reduce contacts and follow guidelines. That is why additional restrictions have been imposed by Governor Hogan this week and by me last week.

Even amidst this worsening pandemic, other County business continues. Last week, I testified (virtually of course) before the Montgomery County State delegation at the annual public hearing where the County presents it priorities for the 2021 State legislative session, which will convene in January. Together with County Council President Sidney Katz, we explained the County’s joint top priorities for the 2021 Maryland legislative session that begins in January. Those priorities cover a number of topics, and of course, recovery from this pandemic was first. In my brief remarks (limited to five minutes), I emphasized the need for State support for essential transit, including the County’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, the Corridor Cities Transitway (CCT) and the Purple Line. I also urged our State representatives to support efforts to address climate change, most importantly the Community Choice Energy Act. And we fervently hope that the legislature will override Governor Hogan’s veto of the “Blueprint for Maryland’s Future,” which is critically important to education in the coming years.

As you may have heard, the County Council approved a new Subdivision Staging Policy, which has been renamed the “Growth and Infrastructure Policy.” As the new title explains, this policy is supposed to identify the process and funding to make sure that adequate infrastructure—especially schools and transportation—are in place when new development occurs. I am disappointed that the Council did not address the questions I raised in a letter to the Councilmembers. Councilmember Will Jawando expressed concern about the significant decrease in revenues that will result from this new policy. I share those concerns. The Office of Management and Budget estimates that the changes will reduce revenues by somewhere between $12.5 million and $20 million a year. The Council has stated that it will consider an increase in the recordation tax to meet the need, but that discussion is not currently scheduled. One of the problems with increasing the recordation tax is that it shifts the costs from the developers of the infrastructure projects to residents. The need for this infrastructure will not disappear, although the revenue from new development will be greatly reduced. Either the funds will have to come from somewhere else or we will have to forgo important infrastructure improvements. That has me worried.

Next week is Thanksgiving and we are imploring you not to gather in the traditional large groups this year. If we all maintain our distance and connect via Zoom or other virtual platforms, then, hopefully, next year we will be able to celebrate with family and friends in person.

Please see our guidance regarding Thanksgiving: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/covid19/reopening/requirements/thanksgiving.html

I am thankful for the many wonderful residents, businesses and organizations that are here in Montgomery County. Please stay safe, maintain physical distance and #MaskUpMoCo.

Marc Elrich
County Executive

Montgomery County Announces Schedule Changes for Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 26

The Montgomery County Government will observe the following holiday schedule for Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 26:

• County offices – Closed.
• State offices and courts – Closed.
• Libraries – Closed.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) – Closed.
• Recreation – All facilities closed. No programs held.
• Montgomery Parks—From information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.
• Ride On/ Ride On extRa / Flash – Operate on a Sunday schedule. For more information, visit https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html.
• Metrorail and Metrobus – Information is available at wmata.com/service/status.
• MARC Train and Commuter Bus – Information is available at mta.maryland.gov.
• TRiPS Commuter Store at Silver Spring Transit Center – Closed.
• TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store – Closed.
• Ride On Flex – Not in operation due to health crisis.
• Maryland Transit Administration: Information available at https://www.mta.maryland.gov/thanksgiving-day-service.
• County-provided refuse/recycling pickup – County-provided trash and recycling collection will not be done on Thursday, Nov. 26. After the holiday, County-provided recycling and trash collections will slide to be done one day later than normal. Last collections will be on Saturday, Nov. 28.
• Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station – Closes at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25. Closed on Thursday, Nov. 26.
• Parking at public County garages, lots and curbside meters – Free.

County Police, Along with City and State Agencies, Kick Off Annual ‘Click It or Ticket’ Seat Belt Enforcement Mobilization and Holiday Driving Task Force

Not wearing a seat belt and impairment from alcohol or drugs are leading causes of traffic fatalities in Montgomery County. To keep roadways safer this upcoming holiday season, Montgomery County Police, along with respective city and State police agency partners, are teaming up for dedicated enforcement of seatbelt and driving under the influence laws.

“Since the pandemic began, we have seen a ‘triple threat’ of excessive speeds, impaired driving and not wearing a seatbelt that have resulted in people losing their lives on our roads,” said Captain David McBain of the traffic division of County Police. “People driving above the speed limit and impaired are dangers to themselves and everyone on the road. We want everyone to get home safe and these mobilizations are a reminder about the responsibilities we all have to keep our roads safe.”

The “Click It or Ticket” campaign will continue through the end of November. In addition to enforcement efforts, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration supports an $8 million public awareness advertising campaign.

The County Police Alcohol Holiday Task Force, comprised of specifically assigned officers from the Alcohol Initiatives Section and patrol officers from the six police districts, as well as officers from the Gaithersburg Police Department, the Rockville City Police Department, the Maryland-National Capital Park Police Department (Montgomery County Division), the Takoma Park Police Department, troopers from Maryland State Police and sheriff deputies from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, will be devoting their full attention to detecting alcohol-related offenses during the special enforcement campaign.

County Police will have seven full-time Alcohol Initiatives Unit officers and 20 additional officers assigned to the task force. Other departments and agencies will have various numbers of officers participating in enforcement efforts. Among the actions of the task force partners will be to stop suspected drunk drivers and to work with the County’s Department of Alcohol and Beverage Services inspectors on retail compliance with ID and legal age laws.

The task force will continue through Jan. 9. Over the past two years, the Holiday Task Force has removed more than 600 impaired drivers from local roads. The task force’s work will once again be dedicated to County Police Officer Noah Leotta, who was killed by a drunk driver while on duty as part of the 2015 task force.

Anyone who believes that they are observing a driver impaired by alcohol or drugs should:

• Call 911.
• If possible, and without putting themselves in danger, safely obtain the license plate number of the vehicle, note its direction of travel and try to identify a description of the vehicle (make, model, color).

Education and enforcement campaign mobilizations to curb dangerous driving behaviors are part of Montgomery County’s Vision Zero Initiative to eliminate serious and fatal injuries from roadways by 2030. For more information on the County’s Vision Zero Initiative, go to https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/visionzero 

County Officials Offer Guidance on Celebrating Upcoming Holidays Safely

Montgomery County officials are urging residents to plan for upcoming holiday celebrations with consideration for family and friends as positive cases of COVID-19 continue to increase around Maryland and throughout the nation.

“We understand that everyone is growing weary of the pandemic and the associated restrictions, but we have worked hard as a community to address COVID-19 and we need to continue to be vigilant in order to keep our families, friends and others safe,” said County Executive Marc Elrich.

When planning to host or attend a holiday celebration, residents need to consider the current COVID-19 levels of the community. Areas throughout the United States are experiencing a rise in the number of new COVID-19 cases. No age group is immune and as young people get COVID-19, infections can rise among older adults including grandparents and parents. Infections in older people are much more likely to lead to hospitalizations and even death.

For Thanksgiving plans, County health officials are urging everyone to consider the most vulnerable family members when making plans. Celebrating virtually or with members of your own households pose the lowest risk for spread.

• Health officials strongly recommend that residents not hold large family gatherings. Any type of gathering must include mask wearing by everyone, maintaining physical distancing of at least six feet and regular hand washing and sanitizing of high-touch surfaces.
• Reconsider travel during the holiday season and consider holding virtual gatherings or small gatherings at home. If gathering in person, consider asking everyone who is attending to get tested for COVID-19 beforehand and to limit activities outside of essential things, such as work and grocery shopping, in order to significantly minimize exposure to others before the celebration.
• The Maryland Department of Health’s website includes information on what to do while waiting for test results. Montgomery County offers dozens of testing clinics weekly. They are free and no doctor’s order is needed. Since there are people with COVID-19 who do not show symptoms, knowing that you are not positive for COVID-19 is one way to provide family and friends with important information and keep everyone safe.
• Montgomery County, as well as many other areas of the country, is experiencing increased numbers of new cases and testing is important to track community spread.
• In-person gatherings pose varying levels of risk.
• Things to consider in planning celebrations:
• What is the level of COVID-19 in the community where you will be celebrating?
• Indoor gatherings generally pose more risk than outdoor gatherings. Indoor gatherings with poor ventilation pose more risk than those with good ventilation, such as open doors and windows.
• Gatherings that last longer pose more risk than shorter gatherings.
• How many people are attending? The size of a gathering should be determined based on how to reduce or limit contact between attendees and the risk of spread.
• Where are people traveling from? What are the levels of COVID-19 in those communities?
• Are guests practicing social distancing and mask wearing in their day-to-day lives? Each person’s habits have an impact on everyone at the gathering, especially older adults who may be especially vulnerable to serious complications from COVID-19.
• Gatherings with strong preventive measures, such as mask wearing, social distancing and hand washing, in place pose less risk than gatherings where few or no preventive measures are implemented. Remind guests to wear masks.
• Be sure that guests understand expectations and agree to those expectations.
• Do not attend or host a gathering if you or anyone in your household:
• Has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and has not met the criteria for when it is safe to be around others.
• Has symptoms of COVID-19.
• Is waiting for COVID-19 test results.
• May have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.
• Is at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

County Will Hold 51 Free COVID-19 Test Clinics on Upcoming Schedule

Montgomery County’s COVID-19 testing program will include 51 free County-operated clinics over the next nine days. Those clinics will be in addition to more than 45 private providers who are continuing to operate testing clinics. There will be no County clinics on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 26.

The upcoming schedule of County-operated clinics includes sites that previously never had testing operations.

Testing at County 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.

The upcoming County-operated clinics will be at the following:

• Friday, Nov. 20. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Germantown Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Rd., Germantown.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. White Oak Community Recreation Center, 1700 April Lane, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mary's Center, 344 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Poolesville Presbyterian Church, 17800 Elgin Rd., Poolesville.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Lincoln Park Community Center, 357 Frederick Ave., Rockville.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Good Hope Community Center, 14715 Good Hope Rd., Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 20. Noon-4 p.m. Rockville Methodist Church, 112 West Montgomery Ave., Rockville.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 1-5 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 21. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 21. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hughes United Methodist Church, 10700 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 21. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Chinese Bible Church of Maryland, 4414 Muncaster Mill Rd., Rockville.
• Saturday, Nov. 21. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Rockville Methodist Church, 112 West Montgomery Ave., Rockville.
• Sunday, Nov. 22. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Sunday, Nov. 22. 1:30-4 p.m. St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church, 11801 Claridge Rd., Silver Spring.
• Sunday, Nov. 22. Noon-4 p.m. Westfield Wheaton Mall (parking lot by JC Penney—outdoor drive-up clinic with walk-ups welcome), 11160 Veirs Mill Rd., Wheaton.
• Monday, Nov. 23. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Monday, Nov. 23. 8-11 a.m. St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 201 South Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg.
• Monday, Nov. 23. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Germantown Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Rd., Germantown.
• Monday, Nov. 23. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wheaton Library and Community Recreation Center, 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton.
• Monday, Nov. 23. Noon-5 p.m. CDC Mobile Trailer, Lakeforest Mall. Outdoor drive-up clinic (walk-ups welcome). Parking lot near food court entrance, directly in front of Ride On transfer station, 701 Russell Ave., Gaithersburg.
• Monday, Nov. 23. Noon-6 p.m. Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring.
• Monday, Nov. 23. 1-4 p.m. Oakfield Apartments, 2217 Georgian Way, Wheaton.
• Monday, Nov. 23. 1 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 24. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 24. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. White Oak Community Recreation Center, 1700 April Lane, Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 24. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Germantown Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Rd., Germantown.
• Tuesday, Nov. 24. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater, 603 Edmonston Dr., Rockville.
• Tuesday, Nov. 24. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Great Hope Estates, 1140 Good Hope Dr. Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 24. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Wisconsin Place Community Center, 5311 Friendship Blvd., Chevy Chase.
• Tuesday, Nov. 24. 1 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25. 9 a.m.-Noon. Wheaton Library and Community Recreation Center, 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sligo Adventist Church, 7700 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Poolesville Presbyterian Church, 17800 Elgin Rd., Poolesville.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25. 1-4 p.m. Mary's Center, 344 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25. 1-5 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Wednesday, Nov. 25. 1-4 p.m. Crystal Spring Apartments, 14301 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 27. 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 27. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Germantown Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Rd., Germantown.
• Friday, Nov. 27. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mary's Center, 344 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 27. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Good Hope Community Center, 14715 Good Hope Rd., Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 27. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Department of Health and Human Services-Hungerford Office Building, 401 Hungerford Dr., Rockville.
• Friday, Nov. 27. 1-5 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 28. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. East County Community Center, 3310 Gateshead Manor Way, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 28. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 28. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 28. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Stedwick Community Center, 10401 Stedwick Rd., Montgomery Village.
• Sunday, Nov. 29. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Sunday, Nov. 29. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. Camillus Catholic Church, 1600 St. Camillus Dr., Silver Spring.

Free County-operated Clinic for Those 18-and-Under to be Held Saturday, Nov. 21

Montgomery County health officials are urging all residents to get a flu vaccination and there will be one more County-operated clinic providing shots specifically for children ages 6 months to 18. That clinic will be held from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Dennis Avenue Health Center in Silver Spring.

The Dennis Avenue Health Center is located at 2000 Dennis Ave. in Silver Spring. The County will offer flu shots only. High-dose flu vaccine and FluMist will not be available.

Appointments for the clinic can be made on the Maryland Vax website. There will be no walk-ups for the clinic. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

In addition to the County-operated clinics, flu vaccinations are available through private health providers, as well as at retail locations throughout the community.

More information on how to prevent getting or spreading the flu is available on the County’s flu website.

Grants of Up To $10,000 Will be Available to Assist County Food and Beverage Service Businesses That Have Been Impacted by COVID-19 Health Crisis

The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) will administer and award grants of up to $10,000 to cover a variety of expenses for eligible food and beverage service businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 health crisis. Applications can be submitted starting Friday, Nov. 20, and must be submitted to the Restaurant Relief Grant Program by Friday, Dec. 4.

The restaurant industry has been severely impacted by the pandemic, losing revenue and customers due to public health-related concerns, closures and restrictions. In response, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan allocated $50 million in direct relief for restaurants, sending approximately $8 million to Montgomery County to aid its restaurants.

Working with County Executive Marc Elrich, the County Council on Nov. 17 voted to approve the Restaurant Relief Grant Program. MCEDC will administer and award the grants to eligible restaurants and other entities such as food trucks, caterers, wineries and breweries that directly provide food service. The grants will be distributed before the end of the year.

Eligible program grant expenses include working capital, such as rent, payroll and job training; purchase of equipment and services to expand outdoor dining, such as tents, heaters, warmers and carts; infrastructure improvements, such as HVAC system upgrades; technology to support carryout and delivery; purchase of PPE and disposable food containers and utensils; and sanitation services.

To apply for a grant, read FAQs and download flyers about the program, visit https://thinkmoco.com/covid-19-resources/restaurant-relief-grant. Email questions to restaurantrelief@thinkmoco.com.

Local restaurants also have been able to access support from health crisis-inflicted expenses from other existing complementary Montgomery County programs. One of those programs is the Reopen Montgomery Grant Program, which covers certain expenses incurred to comply with State and County reopening requirements (as long as they are different expenditures from those in the Restaurant Relief Grant). More information on the Reopen Montgomery Grant Program is available at https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/biz-resources/reopen/.

County ‘Tourism Anchor Institution Grants’ Available to Nonprofits that Focus on Arts, Culture, Agriculture and/or Recreation

Montgomery County has created a “Tourism Anchor Institution Grant Program” that will provide financial assistance to nonprofit entities that are tourist-oriented and focus on arts, culture, agriculture and/or recreation that have been hard-hit by the COVID-19 health crisis. Eligible organizations can apply for grants starting Thursday, Nov. 19.

The program has the strong support of County Executive Marc Elrich and the County Council. The program is funded with a $5 million special appropriation that was approved by the Council. The deadline for receiving completed applications is 5 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 30.

“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.

Grants will be awarded to eligible applicants based on the organization’s annual operating budget and operating losses incurred due to the pandemic.

Organizations that are required to register with the State of Maryland must be in “Good Standing” with the State to be eligible for the Tourism Anchor Institution Grant Program. These entities can check their “standing” through the business entity search on Maryland Business Express at https://egov.maryland.gov/businessexpress/entitysearch.

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

Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection Offers Advice When Considering Roof Replacement—Tips from Top to Bottom

The cause might have been damage from recent high wind and powerful rainstorms. Perhaps age has just caught up with it. It all means that replacing a roof is eventually an obligation for homeowners. Although most roofing replacements have common elements, each job has its individual aspects. Regardless of the complications of the job, the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) wants homeowners to be aware of certain aspects of the roofing industry so they can buy knowledgably and avoid scams that have become common in the business.

Most roofing companies have good reputations. Their work can be—and should be—checked on consumer websites that offer customer reviews. However, prices can vary greatly even among honest companies, so it is highly advisable to get several estimates. Lurking in the industry are dishonest companies. OCP wants consumers to be able to recognize those companies to lessen the chance they will get taken in an expensive scam.

“Many roofing companies were unable to work in Maryland for almost two months this spring due to restrictions from the COVID-19 health crisis,” said OCP Director Eric Friedman. “That has led to a backup in roofing jobs, with most companies continuing to be busy even with the approach of winter—traditionally a slower season in the roofing business. That time crunch has led to added high pressure sales techniques by some companies. It also has led to more unlicensed companies surfacing and preying on homeowners who think they are hearing about one-time great deals. Replacing a roof is one of the largest investments a homeowner will make in their house. Homeowners need to be patient, must do some checking and should follow our tips to help avoid being taken by a roofing scammer.”

Among the types of companies that OCP is warning about are those known as Woodchucks. They are unlicensed contractors who typically come door-to-door or engage in a job to trim trees, pick up debris or do basic landscaping. They also may place flyers in neighborhoods and solicit landscaping work. While working on trees, they will undoubtedly find wind damage to roofs, siding or gutters. They also may talk homeowners into undertaking improvement projects to occur inside the home. They will take the deposit, and if they return at all, they will do an incomplete or shoddy job. The bottom line: do not hire unlicensed contractors.

“Storm chasers” pay attention when there has been hail, high winds and rain because they know that insurance companies are more likely to grant a damage claim after such weather. In this type of scam, storm chasing contractors will blanket an area hit by hail or wind damage and look for unsuspecting homeowners in need of roof (or siding and gutter) repairs—especially those looking to have work done quickly. They will pass out leaflets and even show up unannounced or offer a free inspection. Based on the square footage of the roof, they can figure out how much it will cost to put on a cheap new roof. The homeowner gets burned because the storm chaser only does the bare minimum to replace the roof and does not address any other problems or restore the roof to its original condition. The homeowner is left with a poorly constructed roof, lasting perhaps five-to-seven years. The installing company that was once so ready to help has vanished—along with that long warranty it promised.

Another variant of the storm chaser is the company that gets the homeowner to sign an “agreement to agree.” The roofer offers to work with the insurance company to save the homeowner the effort. However, the agreement to agree says that if the roofer does get the insurance company to pay on a claim, the homeowner must use that roofer—and not any other roofer—even if the homeowner changes their mind about needing a repair or finds a cheaper roofer. Consumers have been contacted by lawyers making demands for the full contract price even though the roof has been replaced by another company and paid for by the insurance company.

OCP offers the following tips on avoiding woodchucks, storm chasers and other bad roofing experiences:

• Estimates: Get more than one estimate and let the companies know you are shopping the job to competitors. On its website, OCP provides a list of questions you can ask. When choosing shingles and other materials, ask the optimal temperature for your new roof and shingles to “cure” or lay flat. Many consumers file complaints due to rippling shingles that require summer heat to cure.
• Licenses: Ask to see the contractor’s Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) license and verify that it belongs to the company making the bid. If the company is coming door-to-door, ask for its door-to-door vendor license issued by the County’s Department of Permitting Services.
• Research: Search for the business online and specifically find reviews from past customers. Check into the complaint history with consumer agencies like OCP or the Better Business Bureau.
• Contract: Get a signed contract that specifies the scope of work, the exact materials to be used, start and end date and the payment terms. That way there will be no surprise add-ons later. The contract must have certain other details such as contact information, MHIC contact information and license number.
• Color: Shingles come in many colors. During the COVID-19 health crisis, some manufacturers have only been producing shingles in colors in primary demand. If a certain shingle color is important, the homeowner should ask in advance if a contractor has access to the color they want—or how long a delay may be incurred to get that color.
• Warranty: Get the warranty in writing to understand if it is a workmanship and/or a materials warranty. The roofer may not be around in 20 years, but the materials manufacturer may be. One problem with current roofing materials: companies offer materials that are guaranteed for 40 or 50 years. How many contractors—or materials manufacturers—can be expected to be around four or five decades later to make good on those warranties?
• Cancellation: If the contract is signed at home, the homeowner has the right to cancel within five days (seven days for seniors).
• Payment: In the case of work to be done due to damage covered by their insurance policy, homeowners should directly work with the insurance company. That way, they will understand the impact of the claim on coverage and possible increases on future premiums. If the homeowner pays directly, using a credit card can help if a contract dispute arises. One note: some contractors may increase the price by two to four percent to cover the cost they must pay the credit card company. Be sure this is clear. In Maryland, a contractor can only request a 25 percent deposit for work to be performed.

County Rolls Out Multiyear Early Care and Education Action Plan

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, County Councilmember Nancy Navarro, Montgomery College President DeRionne Pollard and Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent Jack Smith recently highlighted the gains achieved in the first year of the Early Care and Education (ECE) Initiative. They also presented a detailed action plan for the next three years.

The ECE action plan is aimed at significantly increasing access and affordability to quality early care and education for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. The initiative, a partnership with the County Council, MCPS and Montgomery College, received $7 million in County funding for the first year.

“Prior to the severe hardships that COVID-19 created for parents and providers alike, we were able to make great strides in expanding the number of available seats and creating critical partnerships,” said County Executive Elrich. “The Action Plan, developed by the initiative workgroups and stakeholders, is meant to provide a blueprint for continuing to move this agenda forward over the next three years. However, given the impact of the pandemic, we will focus our efforts first on recovery for existing early childhood programs. We will follow with an emphasis on the development and sustainability of a system of early care and education and on access to high-quality, affordable childcare for families.”

The goal of the first year was to increase the number of quality early care and education seats in a variety of settings (family childcare, center-based childcare and schools) by recruiting additional family childcare providers and identifying partnership opportunities with MCPS and Montgomery College. This would make quality childcare more accessible to more families. The initiative focused its year one efforts in: 

• Expansion of early childhood education seats.
• Increased access to and affordability of quality early childhood education.
• Sustainability of existing early childhood education programs.
• Alignment of partnerships to identify and knock down barriers.
• Monitoring Kirwan Commission recommendations to ensure alignment with potential statewide imperatives.
• Developing an action plan for the next three years.

“As the author of the framework that created the ECE Initiative, I’m thrilled of its progress as it affirms my belief that high quality, accessible and affordable early care and education opportunities can be available to all parents in our County, especially underserved populations whose children are not being adequately prepared for kindergarten and who are economically impacted by a lack of access to opportunities,” said Councilmember Navarro. “This is both an economic imperative and a racial equity and social justice issue”

Moving forward, the County government and its partners at MCPS and Montgomery College will focus on key ECE Initiative priorities along with continued support for recovery efforts to: 

• Provide new and ongoing resources to sustain partnerships and high-quality early childhood education across settings.
• Provide ease of access and affordable options for families with children infants through age five.
• Create partnerships and alignment of services for ease of access for families of young children, early educators and the public.
• Expand the supply and options for high quality early education programs in multiple settings.
• Examine and advise on potential revenue sources to sustain and expand childcare access.

“The pandemic has reinforced the urgent need to expand early childhood education opportunities for all our students,” said Dr. Smith. “We must focus on children who may not have resources to access early learning independently.”

According to the Montgomery County Early Child Care and Education Strategic Plan 2017, the County is home to more than 76,000 children under age six. About 30,000 (roughly 40 percent) of the County’s youngest children are economically vulnerable, which means they live below 300 percent of the Federal poverty level (below $71,550 for a family of four).  

“Montgomery College provides a variety of early childhood programs, including degrees, certificates, and credentialing programs – both in English and Spanish,” said Dr. Pollard. “I am proud of our contributions to expand access to childhood education and care, as well as promoting a more sustainable system. These are especially critical as we strengthen the local economy in the wake of COVID-19.”

For more information about the ECE Initiative and to view the full report, visit the Early Care and Education Policy website.

County Executive Elrich, Senator Van Hollen, Council President Katz, Councilmember Navarro to Lead Dedication of ‘Marian Fryer Plaza’ on Sunday, Nov. 22, as Wheaton Revitalization Evolves

Montgomery County will take another step in the revitalization of Downtown Wheaton at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 22, as it dedicates its new public gathering and entertainment space that will be known as “Marian Fryer Town Plaza.” County Executive Marc Elrich, County Council President Sidney Katz, Councilmember Nancy Navarro and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen will be among those leading the dedication ceremonies.

The elected officials will join family members and friends of Marian Fryer, a longtime Wheaton resident and community activist who passed away in 2017 at age 79. The ceremonies, which will include the unveiling of a plaque for Ms. Fryer and a ribbon cutting, will be livestreamed on Facebook at www.faceboook.com/wheatonmd. Due to the gathering restrictions imposed because of the COVID-19 health crisis, residents are encouraged to observe the event virtually.

The Montgomery County Guest (MCGuest) free Wi-Fi service is available around the plaza.

The first major achievement of the Wheaton Revitalization Project was completion in July of a 14-story County office building in the middle of what is known as the Wheaton Triangle Business District. The building, which will include ground floor retail, is surrounded by Reedie Drive, Grandview Avenue and Triangle Lane. The plaza is along Reedie Drive across from the building’s main entrance and near the entrance to the Wheaton Metro Station.

The owner and main tenant of the 308,000 square-foot office building is the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. The building, which includes a four-level below-grade public parking structure, also is home to the County’s Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Permitting Services, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Recreation, the Office of Community Use of Public Facilities and the Mid-County Regional Services Office.

Ms. Fryer was a resident of Wheaton for more than 45 years, She worked as an administrative officer with several agencies of the Washington, D.C. and Federal governments for more than 34 years. In 1996, she started her home-based business, Marian’s Connections, a consignment boutique specializing in new and pre-owned clothing and accessories for women.

In 1996, she became active in the Wheaton community. She went on to become a member and chair of the Wheaton Urban District Advisory Committee, president of the Wheaton Citizens Coalition and a member of the Wheaton Redevelopment Advisory Committee. She was inducted into the Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame for Community Service.

“I knew Marian Fryer well and had great respect for her,” said County Executive Elrich. “She was tireless and she was truly committed to the Wheaton community. She was an outspoken advocate on behalf of the community and she always spoke her mind. It is fitting that her name will be in the center of Wheaton because Wheaton was always center in her efforts. We are all fortunate to have had her in our lives.”

One Montgomery Green in 2018 named its community service award after her. A strong advocate for the arts, she was instrumental in assisting with the County’s application to the Maryland State Arts Council for Wheaton to be designated as an Arts and Entertainment District.

“I am so pleased to be here today to represent the Council as we dedicate Marian Fryer Plaza,” said Council President Katz. “This special space will serve as a constant reminder of the vibrancy that Marian Fryer brought to Wheaton and to everything she did for the residents of Montgomery County.”

Councilmember Navarro said: “Marian Fryer served as a tireless advocate for her community, and as the unofficial Mayor of Wheaton she deserves this recognition. This community space will now be the first thing many will see when they visit Wheaton, and I am proud that it is Marian Fryer’s name that will be greeting everyone. She was a champion for this redevelopment project and her invaluable advocacy will forever be implanted in Wheaton’s civic memory and urban life.”

County to Hold Virtual ‘Procurement Fair’ on Wednesday, Dec. 9, to Assist Those Who Want to Do Business with the County

The Montgomery County Office of Procurement will hold a virtual “Procurement Fair” on Wednesday, Dec. 9, to assist those who want to do business with the County. The fair will be hosted by the County’s Office of Procurement from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. via Microsoft Teams.

The event will provide local businesses with relevant and timely opportunities. More than 10 County departments will join the discussions on projected solicitations and will interact with the vendor community. After each session, there will be time for questions and answers.

The scheduled sessions:

• 9:30-11 a.m. Welcome remarks from County Executive Marc Elrich and Chief Equity Officer Tiffany Ward; and IT commodities and services
• 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Construction and facility maintenance services
• 12:30-1:30 p.m. Equipment/supplies
• 1:45-2:45 p.m. Administrative/professional services

Any business that is interested in obtaining a future contract with County Government can benefit from the fair. Vendors can register for the fair at https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/PRO/DBRC/VirtualPROFair.html

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, DEP will host a series of new virtual events to highlight ways residents can gift outside the box this holiday season. 

• Gift Greener: Thursday, Dec. 3, 5:30-7 p.m.
• Gift Experiences: Monday, Dec. 7, 4-5 p.m.
• Buy Local: Tuesday, Dec. 8, 5:30-7 p.m.
• Give Back and Give Thanks: Wednesday, Dec. 16, 5-6 p.m.

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.

Civic Associations in Glenmont and Silver Spring Team Up to Establish ‘Little Free Libraries’

The COVID-19 health crisis that has dominated 2020 has led to people throughout the world changing their life patterns. In Montgomery County, those changes have impacted work routines, schools, activities and free time. For residents in the Wheaton-Silver Spring area, two award-winning civic associations have been working hard to make some parts of living during a pandemic a bit easier.

The Glenmont Forest Neighbors Civic Association (GFNCA) and the Greater Silver Spring Civitans club (GSSC) have teamed up to create and maintain two “Little Free Libraries” to benefit the community. One was launched in November 2019 at Judson Road and Lindell Street, and a second will be installed in a new community park beside Glenmont Fire Station 18, which is at 12210 Georgia Ave. GFNCA previously established little libraries on Livingston Street; at the Lindell and Randolph Streets juncture; at the intersection of Henderson Street and Grandview Avenue; and at Judson Road and Newton Street. Though installed on private property, the “lend-a-book-take-a-book” libraries are open to all members of the community.

The collaboration between the organizations is part of an effort to include additional amenities for the new park. In addition to a playground, pavilion and the library, GFNCA has been awarded a grant for a public art installation there.

The Little Free Library program was started in 2009 by Todd Bol of Hudson, Wi. He filled a structure with books and put it on a post in his front yard. His neighbors and friends loved it, so he built several more and gave them away. The program evolved into a nonprofit organization as Little Free Libraries continued to grow annually. In 2020, the organization surpassed 100,000 registered Little Free Libraries in more than 100 countries worldwide.

In addition to be a place where community members can donate books for others to pick up and read, many Little Free Libraries are placed in areas that also provide settings that inspire readers to enjoy their books. For example, the library at the Judson/Lindell median is a gathering place with natural seating and a community bulletin board.

Little Free Libraries have been especially important during the health crisis of 2020 as many public buildings and services have not been available. The buildings of Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) have remained closed and there was a considerable time after the health crisis began in which MCPL was unable to lend materials even under safe, specialized procedures.

Even in the best of times, Little Free Libraries enhanced public libraries in unique ways, including that they are created and maintained by their respective communities. GSSC, which has provided funding for the two community libraries that the organizations have worked on jointly, will maintain those little libraries.

“We will keep it going, look after them and refurbish them as needed,” said GSSC Vice-President Mirza Donegan.

GFNCA President Jim Epstein credited the Montgomery Housing Partnership for getting the local library program off to a solid start by sending four GFNCA board members to training by NeighborWorks America, which granted GFNCA $2,000 for community projects. The Mid-County Regional Services Center provided additional startup funds through its “Neighborhood Event Matching Funds” program. Others have contributed in a variety of ways. The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection recycled tree stumps for seating at one location and FAsMarketplace member Tychelle Mosely Art painted the little library for the new park location with original art.

Community members who seek more information or would like to join these civic organizations can contact glenmontforestnca@gmail.com or silverspringcivitans@gmail.com.

County Is Collecting Leaves: Here Is Information on How to Assemble Then Correctly and Safely—and on Where They Go

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has started its annual leaf vacuuming, with two collections taking place on each leaf collection district street. This year, residents can more easily find the collection schedule online by simply entering a street address. 

However, not all homeowners are assembling their leaves correctly and safely. And many are asking what happens to the leaves once they are collected. MCDOT has created two videos that can help.

Residents are asked to pile leaves near the street, but off the road. Avoid placing leaves on road shoulders, bike lanes and rain gardens as leaves in these areas can disrupt traffic, negatively impact stormwater drainage, hamper snow removal operations and become a fire hazard for automobiles parked over them. Leaf piles also limit the availability of residential parking and, especially when wet, can pose a hazard for cyclists and pedestrians.

The leaf collection program is restricted to leaves only. Tree branches, coarse garden debris and sticks branches should be placed in containers or tied in bundles no more than four feet long and set out for yard trim recycling pick up.

A video on how to correctly and safely assemble leaves for collection can be viewed at https://youtu.be/Qe7BIRyA7iI

The collected leaves go into a locally produced product called “Leafgro” that will help homeowners have greener lawns next spring. Leafgro is sold at many retailers throughout the area. A video about the production of Leafgro can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDSLvI1epqk

The leaf vacuum collection district is bounded by I-495; I-270; the Rockville City limits; Norbeck, Bel Pre and Bonifant roads; Northwest Branch Park; and the District of Columbia and Prince George’s County lines.

Residents who miss the two scheduled vacuum collections or who do not live within the leaf vacuuming area can still have their leaves collected by placing them in paper yard trim bags or reusable containers for pick up on their regular recycling and yard trim collection day. Leaves placed in plastic bags will not be accepted. Residents also can bring properly bagged leaves to the Shady Grove Transfer Station. Another option is to mow fallen leaves into the yard to allow them to compost naturally.

To determine if a property is within the boundaries of the leaf vacuum collection district or to view the collection schedule, visit MCDOT’s website or contact the Montgomery County Call Center online or by calling 311 from inside the County, calling 240-777-0311 from outside the County or calling TTY at 301-251-4850. The number for MD Relay is 711 or use the toll free/out of state number 1-800-735-2258.

A Message from County Executive Marc Elrich

Dear Friends,

Each week continues to be filled with news and changes. In my letter this week, I address the ongoing issues with COVID-19, the elections, economic development, transportation policy and a recent report from the County’s Office of the Inspector General.

As you likely know, the COVID-19 numbers are climbing in our County, across the country and around the world. Today, the number of positive cases per 100,000 (seven-day average) in Maryland was the highest it has been during the entire pandemic, as is documented here. Here in Montgomery County, the number of positive cases was higher than it has been since June 4, as our data show.

In an attempt to stem the increase, I issued, and the County Council approved, an Executive Order re-imposing certain restrictions, including limiting gatherings to 25 or fewer and limiting dining, religious institutions and other establishments to 25 percent of capacity. After I announced our Executive Order, Governor Larry Hogan also re-imposed restrictions for the entire State, as did our neighbors in Prince George’s and Anne Arundel counties.

I know these renewed restrictions are really difficult on businesses, but the public health experts looking at the data and science have advised us that we need to take these steps. What we really need is action from the Federal government that would allow us to control the spread of the virus and would allow our businesses to survive. It is not the fault of the businesses that we are in this situation. We look forward to working with our new President to address these issues. And we are proud that the President’s newly named chief of staff, Ron Klain, is a resident of Montgomery County.

Earlier today, the County’s Economic Advisory Group (EAG) that I convened released its recommendations for a roadmap for economic recovery and long-term success. An impressive and diverse group of business leaders contributed their time and wisdom to develop this report. I appreciate their work, which was led so ably by the EAG Chair Doug Firstenberg. The report included some clear and helpful recommendations, including a recommendation to replace impact taxes with development districts and creating a postgraduate research center at White Flint, which we have already started to work on. The report also acknowledged that the greatest housing needs are for people earning below the median income. I appreciated the report’s short-term, upcoming action of a four-week “Bio Boot Camp” to help retrain out-of-work residents and provide businesses with the workforce they need. You can read the EAG report here.

I also wanted to provide a link to my statement regarding the recently released report from the Office of the Inspector General. I hope that it provides some context for this matter. You can read my statement here.

Earlier this week, the Council and I submitted a joint letter with our comments on Governor Hogan’s managed lane proposal for I-270 and I-495. We all agree that congestion issues on I-495, I-270 and nearby roadways need attention and improvement. However, we have serious and widespread concerns with the plan proposed by the Governor. In our letter, we explain the concerns and offer some effective solutions that should be considered and ultimately adopted, including an emphasis on transit, reversible lanes, working within the existing footprint and listening to the people who will be directly affected by this project. I also have concerns about a possible public-private partnership (“P3”). This is an enormous project with so many unknowns.

Thanksgiving is only two weeks ago. In my video this week, I discuss precautions as we head into the holiday season. If you have college students returning home, please follow physical distancing and frequent testing before they leave the college campus and after they arrive home.

Take care,



Marc Elrich
County Executive


P.S. The CDC has recently updated its guidance and made clear that wearing masks is even more important than previously understood. You can read more about that here. 

Montgomery County Revises Capacity Limits for Businesses Amid Rising COVID-19 Cases

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, after consultation with County Health Officer Travis Gayles and based on data, has issued Executive Order 122-20 that reduced capacity limits for businesses, including restaurants and retail establishments. Among the changes in the order are those preventing gatherings from having more than 25 people and limiting certain businesses to 25 percent of capacity. The order was put in place after the number of new COVID-19 cases continued to increase in the County. 

The provisions of the order went into effect on Nov. 10, after the County Council approved the order.

“We have been watching the daily number of new cases go up for more than two weeks and it’s unfortunately time to roll back some of our reopening steps in order to decrease the spike we are seeing,” said County Executive Elrich. “Like you, I am experiencing ‘COVID fatigue’ and want things to go back to normal, but we have to stay at this in order to protect the health of our community.”

• The provisions of the new executive order include:
• Gatherings of more than 25 people are prohibited at locations including parties, receptions, parades, festivals and fundraisers. Large events that are planned must be cancelled or postponed.
• Capacity is reduced to a maximum of 25 percent for:
• Fitness centers.
• Food service establishments (indoors).
• Museums and art galleries.
• Retail establishments.
• Religious facilities.
• Capacity is reduced to 25 percent or 25 people—whichever is lower—for bowling venues and for personal services establishments (including hair salons, barbershops, massage and nail salons).
• Childcare programs must continue to operate at Phase 2 levels currently in effect for providers in Montgomery County.
• Outdoor playgrounds are exempt from hourly cleaning requirements, as defined in the general operating requirements.
• Escape room businesses may reopen at a capacity limit of six people.

Restaurants are now required to maintain a record of all indoor and outdoor patrons for at least 30 days. That will assist with contact tracing. Information collected must include date, time, name of each patron and contact information.

The County’s late-night alcohol program was suspended on Friday, Nov. 6. The program allowed qualifying food establishments to serve alcohol between 10 p.m. and midnight after a prior executive order prohibited serving alcohol after 10 p.m. When the late-night alcohol program began, provisions stipulated that it would automatically be suspended if the three-day average of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the county exceeded 100 or if the three-day test positivity average exceeded 3.25 percent. The latest three-day average for new confirmed cases is 183 and test positivity is 4.4 percent.

Follow County Executive Marc Elrich on Twitter

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich is now sharing insight to County Government, updates on County programs and making residents aware of upcoming community events on his new official Twitter account. His account also will provide video highlights of events he attends.

Follow the County Executive @MontCoExec.

County Executive Elrich and County Council Reiterate Support for MD-200 Diversion Alternative for I-495 and I-270 Congestion Relief

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and the County Council sent a joint letter on Nov. 9 to the Maryland Department of Transportation that again raises concerns about proposals in the State’s I-495 and I-270 Managed Lanes Study Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). County Executive Elrich and the Council reaffirmed the County's support for using the MD-200 Diversion Alternative (the Intercounty Connector) as its preferred alternative for reducing congestion on the eastern portion of I-495. The letter also expressed support for managed lanes on I-270 and the western portion of I-495, where the existing right-of-way is much wider.

The DEIS includes traffic, environmental, engineering and financial analyses of the build alternatives and the no-build alternatives. Some of the concerns detailed in the letter include insufficient alternatives analyses; the impacts on natural resources, adjacent property and parkland; uncertainty about the transportation impacts and the benefits of the project; changing travel patterns; and environmental impacts and mitigation measures.

The letter also raises significant concerns about the proposed public-private partnership (P3) model and the financial viability of the proposal. The P3 model would have a private entity build the project in exchange for toll revenues that would be generated. The joint letter can be viewed here.

“We all agree that congestion issues on I-495, I-270 and nearby roadways need attention and improvement. However, we have serious and widespread concerns with the plan that is currently under consideration,” said County Executive Elrich. “The recommendations that we have put forward provide the State with some very effective solutions that should be considered and ultimately adopted. They address the concerns raised by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Transportation Planning Board and they provide the State with an opportunity to include input from the people who will be directly affected by this project.”

Council President Sidney Katz said: “What the State has presented thus far is inadequate. We are calling for them to go back and reevaluate the alternatives, the environmental impacts and the cost/benefit analysis. Congestion reduction remains a top priority for us, but we must be certain that we are accomplishing this in the best way possible.”

Council Vice President Tom Hucker, who chairs the Transportation and Environment Committee, said: “Our County's position on the I-495 and I-270 DEIS is an important roadmap for the State. However, if the State continues to choose to ignore the best consensus opinion of the elected officials, planners and transportation officials of Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, taxpayers will be on the hook for potentially billions of dollars. As currently planned, this project has up to $2 billion in unexpected utility costs, enormous negative impacts on our environment and our parklands, and it is unlikely to meaningfully address our changing transportation needs. I urge the State to embrace our roadmap for a more effective and less costly alternative plan to address our transportation challenges.”

‘Montgomery County Primary Care and Dental Grant’ Program Will Provide Up to $60,000 in Assistance to Eligible Practices That Have Been Impacted by COVID-19 Health Crisis

Montgomery County has created a program that will provide grants for independent primary care medical and general dentistry practices that have lost revenue and have incurred re-opening costs related to the COVID-19 health crisis. The “Montgomery County Primary Care and Dental Grant Program,” which was created by the County Council and is strongly supported by County Executive Marc Elrich, will be funded with $2.5 million from Federal CARES Act funds.

The program will provide a maximum grant of up to $60,000 to an eligible practice. The ranking and review system for the grants will include consideration of whether the practice is serving patients from communities and neighborhoods disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 or if the practice fills specific needs.

The program application and instructions will be posted on Wednesday, Nov. 18 here. All applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 29. That link will take potential applicants to the site where they can pre-register, learn more details about the program and access Frequently Asked Questions. Questions about the program or portal access can be emailed to grants@primarycarecoalition.org.

To be eligible for a grant, an applicant must:

• Be a primary care medical or general dentistry practice that is not financially supported or owned by a commercial organization or large anchor organization. Practice clinicians must own a majority of the practice and retain key decision-making authority.
• Have at least one location in Montgomery County primarily used for treating patients.
• Have experienced a decrease in operating income attributable to the COVID-19 public health crisis that has not been previously reimbursed via another local, State or Federal program.
• Be in good standing with the State of Maryland. All providers must also be in good standing with the appropriate state licensing agency.
• Preference will be given to practices that serve a high percentage of patients that:
• Reside in the 10 County zip codes most impacted by COVID-19 (20850, 20874, 20877, 20878 20886, 20901, 20902, 20903, 20904, 20906).
• Are of a racial or ethnic minority disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.
• Experience health care access challenges due to disability or language barriers.
• Are uninsured or eligible for Medicaid.
• Are over the age of 60.

County Will Hold 61 Free COVID-19 Test Clinics on Upcoming Schedule

Montgomery County’s COVID-19 testing program will include 61 free County-operated clinics over the next nine days. Those clinics will be in addition to more than 45 private providers who are continuing to operate testing clinics.

The upcoming schedule of County-operated clinics includes sites that previously never had testing operations.

Testing at County 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.

The upcoming County-operated clinics will be at the following:

• Friday, Nov. 13. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 13. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Germantown Outdoor drive-up clinic (parking garage behind Regal Cinema), 20002 Century Boulevard, Germantown.
• Friday, Nov. 13. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Mary's Center, 344 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 13. Noon-4 p.m. CDC Mobile Testing Trailer Outdoor drive-up clinic (walk-ups welcome), Montgomery County Recreation Department Administrative Building, 4010 Randolph Road, Silver Spring. Enter from Bushey Drive.
• Friday, Nov. 13. 1-5 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Rockville Civic Center, 603 Edmonston Dr., Rockville.
• Friday, Nov. 13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Good Hope Community Recreation Center, 14715 Good Hope Rd, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 13. Noon-4 p.m. Rockville Methodist Church, 112 W Montgomery Ave., Rockville.
• Saturday, Nov. 14. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 14. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 14. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Bohrer Park, 506 South Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg.
• Saturday, Nov. 14. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Rockville Methodist Church, 112 West Montgomery Ave., Rockville.
• Sunday, Nov. 15. 9 a.m. -4 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Sunday, Nov. 15. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 201 South Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg.
• Sunday, Nov. 15. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. St. Camillus Catholic Church, 1600 St. Camillus Dr., Silver Spring.
• Sunday, Nov. 15. Noon-4 p.m. Westfield Wheaton Mall (parking lot by JC Penney). Outdoor drive-up clinic; walk-ups welcome, 11160 Veirs Mill Rd., Wheaton.
• Monday, Nov. 16. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Monday, Nov. 16. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Germantown Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Dr., Germantown.
• Monday, Nov. 16. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wheaton Library and Community Recreation Center, 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton.
• Monday, Nov. 16. Noon-5 p.m. CDC Mobile Trailer, Lakeforest Mall. Outdoor drive-up clinic (walk-ups welcome). Parking lot near food court entrance, directly in front of Ride On transfer station, 701 Russell Ave., Gaithersburg.
• Monday, Nov. 16. Noon-6 p.m. Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring.
• Monday, Nov. 16. 1-8:30 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. White Oak Community Recreation Center, 1700 April Lane, Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Germantown Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Road, Germantown.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mary's Center, 344 University Blvd West, Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater, 603 Edmonston Dr., Rockville.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. White Oak Gardens Apartments, 11600 Lockwood Dr., Silver Spring.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Wisconsin Place Community Center, 5311 Friendship Blvd., Chevy Chase.
• Tuesday, Nov. 17. 1-8:30 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Wheaton Library and Community Recreation Center, 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Upper County Community Center, 8201 Emory Grove Rd., Gaithersburg.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sligo Adventist Church, 7700 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18. 2-5 p.m. Mary's Center, 344 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18. Noon-3 p.m. Pembridge Square/Amherst Square/Amherst Garden Apartments, 2315 Blueridge Ave., Wheaton.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18. 1-5 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18. 2-5 p.m. St. Matthew Presbyterian Church, 4001 Bel Pre Rd., Silver Spring.
• Thursday, Nov. 19. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Thursday Nov. 19. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Germantown Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Rd., Germantown.
• Thursday Nov. 19. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Department of Health and Human Services Hungerford Office Building, 401 Hungerford Dr., Rockville.
• Thursday, Nov. 19. Noon-6 p.m. Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring.
• Thursday, Nov. 19. 1-4 p.m. Glenville Apartments, 8800 Glenville Rd., Silver Spring.
• Thursday Nov. 19. 1-5 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd. No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Thursday, Nov. 19. 3-5 p.m. Middlebrook Garden Mobile Homes, 19515 Frederick Rd., Germantown.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 7-9:30 a.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Germantown Recreation Center, 18905 Kingsview Rd., Germantown.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. White Oak Community Recreation Center, 1700 April Lane, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mary's Center, 344 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Poolesville Presbyterian Church, 17800 Elgin Rd., Poolesville.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Lincoln Park Community Center, 357 Frederick Ave., Rockville.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Good Hope Community Center, 14715 Good Hope Rd., Silver Spring.
• Friday, Nov. 20. Noon-4 p.m. Rockville Methodist Church, 112 West Montgomery Ave, Rockville.
• Friday, Nov. 20. 1-5 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 21. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd. No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 21. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Angarai Testing Center, 12210 Plum Orchard Dr., No. 214, Silver Spring.
• Saturday, Nov. 21. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Chinese Bible Church of Maryland, 4414 Muncaster Mill Rd., Rockville.
• Saturday, Nov. 21. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Rockville Methodist Church, 112 West Montgomery Ave., Rockville.
• Sunday, Nov. 22. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Proyecto Salud Clinic, 11002 Veirs Mill Rd., No. 700, Silver Spring.
• Sunday, Nov. 22. 1:30-4 p.m. St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church, 11801 Claridge Rd., Wheaton.
• Sunday, Nov. 22. Noon-4 p.m. Westfield Wheaton Mall (parking lot by JC Penney). Outdoor drive-up clinic; walk-ups welcome, 11160 Veirs Mill Rd., Wheaton.

Free County-operated Flu Shot Clinic for Those 18-and-Under to be Held Saturday, Nov. 21

Montgomery County health officials are urging all residents to get a flu vaccination, with one more County-operated clinic providing shots specifically for children ages 6 months to 18. That clinic will be held from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Dennis Avenue Health Center in Silver Spring.

The Dennis Avenue Health Center is located at 2000 Dennis Ave. in Silver Spring. The County will offer flu shots only. High-dose flu vaccine and FluMist will not be available.

Appointments for the clinic can be made on the Maryland Vax website. There will be no walk-ups for the clinic. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

In addition to the County-operated clinics, flu vaccinations are available through private health providers, as well as at retail locations throughout the community.

More information on how to prevent getting or spreading the flu is available on the County’s flu website.

County Asks for Community Input about Public Safety

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich is asking residents to answer a survey designed to gauge their assessment of the Montgomery County Police Department, its structure, services and funding. The survey is located online at www.RPSsurvey.com.

The survey will be open through Saturday, Nov. 14. The survey is available in the languages of English, Spanish, Vietnamese, French, Korean, Chinese, and Amharic.

The County has also entered a partnership with Effective Law Enforcement For All, Inc. (ELE4A) – the consultant supporting the Elrich administration’s Reimagining Public Safety work. ELE4A is facilitating and organizing the work of the Reimagining Public Safety Task Force and will conduct an independent audit of the County’s Police Department.

“We, need and want our community partners to help us reform policing in the County and reimagine public safety,” said County Executive Elrich. “In order to have a thoughtful discussion and review of our public safety efforts, I formed the Reimagining Public Safety Task Force, which includes a diverse group of residents. However, I want to hear from more community members and I invite you to participate in this community input survey.”

Information gathered from the survey, in conjunction with the work of the Reimagining Public Safety Task Force and guidance from ELE4A, will be used to advise the Elrich administration on how the County Government may rebalance spending priorities, invest more in communities and reimagine public safety while working toward a safer and more equitable County.

Survey takers will be asked to rate how they feel about the County police department. The data collected will be presented at a community forum to discuss the results with County Executive Elrich on Thursday, Dec. 3.

For more information about the County’s Reimagining Public Safety initiative, please visit https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rps/.