Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

Greetings,

As we approach the upcoming holidays and new year, I encourage all of us to reflect on those in our community who are less fortunate – the poor, the hungry and those without stable housing. This time of year is also an opportunity to remember and support those who are incarcerated and their families.

My administration prioritizes reducing recidivism in Montgomery County because it is essential for building safer and more equitable communities. Facilities and support like our Pre-Release Center help the rehabilitation and reentry of individuals who have committed crimes and served their time in jail.

Our reopened "Sweet Release Bakery” was highlighted this week on Fox 5. This program focuses on rehabilitation and providing individuals with the tools and job skills to help rebuild their lives. “Sweet Release Bakery” program participant Jonathan Grimes said it best to Fox 5.

"I’m learning a lot here, not just about baking but about discipline and teamwork. This program is helping me see a future where I can do something productive."

Mr. Grimes’ words illustrate why I was determined to resurrect this program at our Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation after it was shuttered a number of years ago. I hope that we can continue to expand this program while creating other similar job training programs at the facility. Here is a video of my visit to this program earlier this year.

But we cannot do this work alone. For these programs to be successful, we need the support of our community. It is often challenging for someone who has been incarcerated to be given a second, or even a third chance.

Yet, we know that forgiveness and second chances can transform lives. That’s why we are asking businesses and organizations to partner with us in offering opportunities to these individuals. We are committed to working with any company or organization willing to hire these folks to provide them with opportunities to earn a living without having to run afoul of the law.

This Saturday, I will join the National Coalition of Prison Ministries for their annual gift-giving event at our Pre-Release Center in Rockville. This program reminds us that investing in family support, reform and rehabilitation helps build stronger communities. Our goal for everyone in our correctional system is the same: to prepare them for success and, hopefully, to never see them return.

This holiday season, I encourage you to think about how you and your organization might help provide a pathway forward for those working to turn their lives around.

For more information about all our re-entry services please click here.

13th Human Rights Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Last weekend, we held the 13th induction ceremony for the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame at the Blackrock Center for the Performing Arts.

Our Human Rights Hall of Fame is more than a celebration of individual achievements. It’s a testament to the values that make Montgomery County what it is: a place where diversity is celebrated, inclusivity is central to our culture and human rights are a priority.

This year, we welcomed six individuals into the Hall of Fame:

• Douglas M. Duncan served three consecutive terms as Montgomery County Executive starting in 1994, where he led transformative initiatives that improved the lives of residents, particularly those facing economic hardship. Under his leadership, Montgomery County became the first in the nation to implement a local Earned Income Tax Credit, offering targeted tax relief to working families. His administration expanded access to health care, provided a discount prescription drug card to all residents, increased transit subsidies and doubled spending on affordable housing. He also signed a living wage bill into law, demonstrating his deep commitment to economic justice and social equity.
• Catherine S. Leggett, a distinguished human resources attorney and wife of former Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett, has made lasting contributions to human rights through her community leadership. She served as campaign chair for the Josiah Henson Museum, raising awareness of his historic role in Montgomery County and American history. Ms. Leggett also co-chaired the Scotland Community’s 2nd Century Project, working to address historical injustices and uplift the church and community, furthering her legacy of equality and historic preservation.
• Sherlene Lucas is a dedicated leader. She serves as State chair and is an active member of several NAACP committees, including Women in the NAACP, ACT-SO and the Youth Committee. Her tireless work with the Montgomery County NAACP and organizations like Gap Busters, Black Women of Distinction and the Lincoln Park Historical Foundation demonstrates her commitment to advancing civil rights, empowering the community and supporting marginalized voices.
• Constance A. Morella has dedicated over six decades to public service, including her time as a teacher in Montgomery County Public Schools and Montgomery College. She served eight terms in the U.S. Congress and was a founding member and president of the Montgomery County Commission for Women. She also served as U.S. Ambassador to the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development in Paris. She championed civil rights, supported domestic violence victims, advocated for same-sex marriage and played a pivotal role in establishing the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. In 2018, Montgomery County honored her by naming the Bethesda Library after her.
• Rev. Dr. Gareth E. Murray has dedicated his life to advancing human and civil rights through transformative leadership and a commitment to his community. As one of the first African Americans elected to the Maryland General Assembly representing Montgomery County, he championed legislation addressing health disparities, supported minority-owned businesses and promoted cultural competence. He founded the People’s Wellness Clinic and strongly advocated for justice and unity while breaking barriers in the faith and entrepreneurial sectors.
• Carl A. Prather, Sr., born in historic Prathertown, a community in the Montgomery Village area founded by enslaved individuals in 1883, has steadfastly advocated for human and civil rights. His efforts to combat food insecurity, promote accessible transportation and support career development and living wages have significantly impacted the community. He served as a commissioner on the Montgomery County Commission on People with Disabilities, advocating for accessibility in local parks. In his community, he leads efforts to provide high-speed internet, free tech support and a private rideshare service to address transportation gaps.

Each of them has made remarkable contributions to our community – through governance, advocacy, community building, and lifting up those who need it most. Their work reminds us of the impact one person can have when they’re committed to advancing human rights and creating opportunities for others.

Our Hall of Fame inductees inspire us to continue the hard work of creating a better future for everyone. As I said at the event, our work to ensure human and civil rights for all is never done. We have flaws to address, and there’s more progress to be made. Together we’ll keep doing the work to build a more equitable and inclusive Montgomery County.

For more information about this year’s as well as past nominees, please click here.

Governor Moore Actions to Improve Maryland’s Economy

Last week at the Maryland Association of Counties conference, Governor Moore outlined two significant challenges: a $2.7 billion state budget shortfall and uncertainty about federal support with the upcoming change in administration.

He made it clear that economic growth is essential to addressing these challenges while protecting critical priorities like education, health care, child care, transportation, public safetyand housing.

The Governor highlighted Maryland’s economic growth of only 3 percent from 2017 to 2022, compared to 11 percent nationally. To address these challenges, the Governor made news this week focused on the State’s economic competitiveness.

He announced $129.5 million in Fiscal Year 2025 awards to support revitalization programs administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. These funds will go to 304 projects and activities that directly support local revitalization goals in Maryland’s disinvested communities.

Montgomery County is receiving $8.2 million from these funds to support 16 projects across the County. We were also included in the National Capital Strategic Economic Development Fund which provided $20.8 million in funding for 31 projects in communities in and around the Capital Beltway, which included:

• Construction of streetscaping and multi-modal improvements along a 1.3 mile segment of Russell Ave., between East Diamond Ave. and Montgomery Village Ave., converting an auto-centric road to shared-use.
• Rehabilitate Parkview Towers in Takoma Park, updating an aging 125-unit property to support the restoration of the structural integrity of the envelope of the building.

To view all the projects receiving these funds, please click here.

This week, Governor Moore also signed an executive order to deliver process improvements and efficiencies to Maryland’s procurement system, promote accountability and transparency, and strengthen the State’s commitment to its socioeconomic procurement programs.

In calendar year 2024, the Board of Public Works reviewed and approved more than $14.4 billion in new contract awards, renewal options, modifications and extensions. However, only $1.6 billion went to minority and disadvantaged firms. I believe Governor Moore’s Executive Order will greatly improve these figures, and these actions will help County minority businesses gain more access to State procurement dollars.

I am grateful to Governor Moore and state leaders for these needed investments and reforms. Montgomery County is well-positioned to help the Governor lead on these economic issues. Governor Moore knows this; he has been here, and it's been a world of difference working with him compared to his predecessor.

I look forward to supporting his efforts to improve the state’s economy.

Federal Funding Needed for American Legion Bridge Construction to Begin

Last week, Fairfax County, Virginia Supervisor Jeff McKay said the following about transportation infrastructure in Maryland–

“They’re not going to say this publicly, but I think they believe that if people can't get across the two bridges, they'll stop coming to Virginia to work. And ultimately, they'll take jobs in Maryland, and that will help their economic development. To me that is the most absurd economic development vision of all time."

I have a great deal of respect for Supervisor McKay. I have enjoyed working with him at the Council of Governments and talking to him about how Northern Virginia’s tax policies helped drive development. I am often the only Maryland elected official in the room at various economic development events and meetings in Northern Virginia to learn how they operate.

While Supervisor McKay’s suggestion that Maryland intentionally doesn’t want to fix Beltway traffic is inaccurate, I do understand his frustration—because I’m frustrated too.

When former Gov. Hogan announced his plan for the Beltway and 270 in 2018 at the annual Committee for Montgomery breakfast, I spoke right after him and said, “If you’re serious about unclogging the Beltway, you need to start at the bridge.”

I said this because Governor Hogan wasn't talking about it at the time. I’ve repeatedly said that to both Governor Hogan and Governor Moore. When dealing with the American Legion Bridge, whatever we do on either side of the current structure is just speeding people to a chokepoint.

This bridge is essential to Montgomery County, Fairfax County and, frankly, a very large portion of the commercial traffic moving up and down the East coast. We know the work Virginia is completing on their side of the Beltway will soon reach the bridge.

With more federal employees returning to work and increasing traffic on our roads, we need a coordinated effort to address the bridge itself.

While the bridge is Maryland’s responsibility—as it has been since King Charles I’s decree that our state owns the Potomac River all the way to the Virginia shore—the impact of this structure extends far beyond state lines. It is a shared problem that we should address together.

Right now, we are hoping that the Federal Highway Administration approves the funding from Maryland’s Department of Transportation so we can begin work on this project with the assistance of Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and their congressional delegation. It would be wonderful if Fairfax County Supervisor McKay would be willing to help us in these efforts.

It’s time for everyone to come together and ensure this vital piece of infrastructure receives the attention and resources it deserves.

I hope the Federal Highway Administration will act urgently and approve Maryland’s application for these funds. Delays will only make the problem worse for everyone who depends on this bridge.

Hate Has No Home in MCPS

The recent racist incident at Wootton High School troubled me. The delay in acknowledging what happened and notifying parents was unacceptable. I appreciate Superintendent Taylor’s response and the actions taken, which have real consequences, but the initial response fell short of what was needed.

This incident follows similar situations at Lakelands Park and Ridgeview Middle Schools, where communication with parents was handled more promptly and with greater urgency. It’s disheartening that we continue to see incidents of hate speech targeting race, religion or identity in our schools and community. Let me be clear: hate speech is unacceptable anywhere in Montgomery County. It must be taken seriously, and there must be clear, swift consequences.

Earlier this month, we launched a new hate-bias complaint portal and telephone hotline to make it easier for residents to report hate-bias incidents to the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD). If you need to report an incident, visit montgomerycountymd.gov/report-hate or call the County’s 311 Call Center from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Even if an incident doesn’t rise to the level of a crime, reporting it helps us track trends and take action to address hate in our community. You can also report incidents anonymously, although anonymous reports won’t receive follow-up from MCPD. Let’s work together to ensure that Montgomery County remains a place where everyone feels safe, valued and respected.

WorkSource Montgomery Provides Training

One common New Year’s resolution is to improve professional skills, obtain a new job or increase income. WorkSource Montgomery may be able with those goals.

We don’t talk enough about WorkSource Montgomery, which provides employment and training services to local job seekers. They are “unsung heroes” in their work to change lives.

Last weekend, I attended the American Muslim Senior Society’s Certified Nursing Assistant Achievement Recognition and Networking Event. We recognized the achievements of Certified Nursing Assistants—often referred to as “CNAs,” Certified Medication Technicians and Geriatric Nursing Assistants—who have completed the CNA Scholarship and Employment Program.

These are the people who do some of the hardest and most important work in health care, and I was proud to celebrate them. This program empowers individuals in our County to pursue meaningful careers in health care.

Workforce training programs like this one, especially in high-demand industries, are critical for both our economy and for equity. They create pathways to good jobs.

According to WorkSource Montgomery, Registered Nurses and Nursing Assistants are the top two jobs in the health care industry, accounting for over 16 percent of industry jobs combined. These roles are projected to add more jobs than almost any other occupation in the coming years. That means these careers are a path to long-term economic stability for many individuals and families in our County.

It’s why programs like the CNA Scholarship and Employment Program are so important – they connect people to the training and opportunities they need to succeed. You can learn more about this program and more of WorkSource Montgomery’s job and career training opportunities at worksourcemontgomery.com.

County Nonprofits Need Your Support

The nonprofit organizations that serve and provide support to County residents need your support. The County budget is tight, the State is facing its own budget challenges and we don’t know what might happen at the federal level.

Private-sector and individual donor support for our nonprofit community is more important now than ever.

We know that the end of the year is a critical time for nonprofits. End-of-year giving represents a significant portion of annual fundraising for many organizations. A large percentage of donations often come in December, as people choose to give to charity and benefit from tax deductions.

If a person, business or organization is in a position to give, I encourage them to do so. Supporting our nonprofits helps strengthen the safety net for our neighbors and families.

Our nonprofits serve many of our community's most vulnerable members—they are doing work that is an extension of government, and we need to support them.

For more information on how to volunteer, assist, donate and support Montgomery County nonprofits, please visit https://www.nonprofitmoco.org/.

Happy Holidays! (but please celebrate responsibly)

Over the next week and a half, many of you will be celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, peace and time with loved ones.

The Montgomery County government offices will be closed on Wednesday, Dec. 25th and Wednesday, Jan. 1st.

This is a special time of year, and we want everyone to enjoy it responsibly. Over the last month, the Montgomery County Police Department’s “Alcohol Holiday Task Force” arrested 137 people for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. That number is just for the task force—DUI arrests overall are even higher.

The message is simple: if you’re going to drink or use cannabis to celebrate, don’t get behind the wheel. Make a plan to get home safely.

I also want to remind everyone that COVID-19, RSV and the flu are still circulating in our community. If you’re feeling unwell or planning to gather with immunocompromised people, please consider wearing a mask or staying home.

We hope you have a wonderful holiday season. Let’s all do our part to make it safe and healthy for everyone.

Happy Holidays!



Marc Elrich
County Executive

$10 Million in Grants Available to Support High-Growth Small Businesses

Two groundbreaking funding programs are available to support innovative early-stage businesses and underrepresented entrepreneurs: the Technology Innovation Fund and the Founders Fund. These programs offer a combined $10 million in commercialization grants to spur economic development and create equitable opportunities for growth and prosperity.

About the Technology Innovation Fund

The $7 million Technology Innovation Fund will provide grants of up to $200,000 to early-stage businesses developing proprietary technology with high growth potential. The funds will support commercialization projects that bring innovative products closer to market, helping businesses achieve significant milestones.

About the Founders Fund

The $3 million Founders Fund offers grants of up to $100,000 to early-stage entrepreneurs from historically underrepresented communities who face systemic barriers to accessing capital. Eligible applicants must demonstrate how their proposed commercialization project will drive their business growth.

Applications for both funds now are open and will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. To learn more about the Technology Innovation Fund and Founders Fund and to apply, visit: https://www.fedtech.io/accelerators/mcg.

Read the full press release here.

Holiday Giving Tips from the Office of Consumer Protection: Donate to Causes, Not Scams

The holiday season is the perfect time to give back, with countless worthy nonprofit organizations seeking support. Unfortunately, scammers are out there hoping to trick you into donating to fake charities. The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) offers the following tip to help you avoid falling victim to scams and ensure your donations truly make a difference.

1. Don’t Rush. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into donating, especially over the phone or through social media. Pause and verify the legitimacy of the request before giving, whether it’s a phone call, email, or a post shared online,
2. Do Your Research. Before donating to a new charity, investigate it. Use trusted resources like CharityWatch, Charity Navigator or Candid to vet charities. Be sure to check the charity's website to see that it includes clear details about its mission, programs, and how donations are used.
3. Don’t Trust Caller ID. Scammers can spoof caller ID to make it look like the call is from a local number or a legitimate charity. Always be cautious and verify the organization.
4. Be Mindful of Payment Methods. Scammers often ask for payment through risky methods like cryptocurrency, wire transfers, payment apps, or gift cards. These are hard to trace and are often irreversible. Stick to safer options like credit cards and checks, which offer more protection.

Your generosity can create meaningful change, but only if your donations reach trustworthy organizations. OCP is committed to helping you give safely this holiday season. By following these tips, you can confidently support the causes that matter most to you while avoiding scams.

Have you fallen victim to a scam? The Office of Consumer Protection wants to hear your story. Sharing your experience can help OCP better educate and protect others from similar schemes. The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection is located at 100 Maryland Ave., Suite 3600, in Rockville. Walk-in hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information or to file a consumer complaint, call MC 311 or 240-777-0311, or visit its website at www.montgomerymd.gov/ocp.

Stay connected with OCP on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and the Consumer Connection Podcast.

Message from County Executive Marc Elrich

  

Dear Friends,

The new year is just a couple of weeks away, and you may be thinking about your resolutions. One common resolution is to be fitter and healthier in 2025—that is a goal of mine as well.

If that is one of your goals, for the third year, Montgomery County residents get a free RecFit pass. You can do that by showing a current utility bill with a local address or your state Driver’s License at any rec center.

We want to remove the barrier of cost that may be keeping some people from joining a gym. The pass provides access to fully equipped fitness rooms, open gym activities and game rooms at any community recreation center. It also includes participation in drop-in activities like basketball and pickleball. The free RecFit pass does not apply to Recreation’s aquatic centers, which still require a fee.



Since adopting the free RecFit passes, we have seen a 70 percent increase in foot traffic year over year at our 22 recreation centers, accounting for more than 86,000 County residents taking advantage of the free program. Non-residents can buy a fitness pass for $20 a month or $150 annually. The picture above is from my visit to the Wheaton Community Recreation Center in February to tour the LEED-certified facility and meet with residents using the gym and fitness rooms.

Applications are also open for Rec Assist, the financial aid program that helps our residents afford to participate in year-round activities.

Families that qualify can receive up to $400 in a calendar year to pay for Recreation programs and services like swim classes, ballet or summer camp. Those currently receiving County assistance through the Department of Health and Human Services or Montgomery County Public Schools may also qualify for Rec Assist. The money pays for up to 80 percent of the cost of a single activity. For eligibility questions follow this link.

Equity is a core principle of this administration and when it comes to our Recreation offerings, we want to make sure that they are accessible to everyone, including those who need financial assistance. Visit the Recreation website to learn more about our programs, locations and how to sign up for classes and activities through Active Montgomery.

County Budget Projections

I would like to share some good news regarding the County’s fiscal outlook. Our budget forecasts are better than had been previously forecast. Here are some of the details:

• FY25 projected revenues are up by $132.1 million.
• FY26 project revenues are up by $127.7 million, and
• We will close out FY24 with 15.8 percent in reserves, and the current fiscal year (FY25) reserves are now projected to be 13.1 percent, well above the County’s 10 percent reserve policy.

These increases are driven by stronger than forecast income tax collections and property tax performance.

Despite the good news, we are also carefully watching and trying to plan for the potential impacts of a new Presidential administration and a Republican-controlled Congress.

If you would like to watch this week’s report on County financial projections to the County Council you can find that link here.

Honoring an American Hero – Brigadier General Charles McGee

Last week, I joined State and County officials and the Distinguished Flying Cross Society to unveil a memorial to the late combat veteran Brig. Gen. Charles E. McGee at our Downtown Silver Spring library, which we named in his honor in 2022.

Gen. McGee was a proud, 30-year resident of Montgomery County. The latest tribute was unveiled just a few days before what would have been his 104th birthday on Dec. 7th.

Gen. McGee was not only a hero in the skies as a Tuskegee Airman but also a hero in life, breaking barriers and inspiring generations.

When I first learned about the history of World War II, sadly, I was not taught nor did this nation actively recognize the role of black soldiers during that conflict.

World War II was a conflict against fascism that we, as a country still in the grips of Jim Crow, fought with a segregated military. Nearly 80 years later, this irony is still not lost on me.

I am glad that the heroic service of individuals like Gen. McGee and the thousands of other servicemen of color from this war continue to receive their long overdue credit and appreciation for their service. 

Their service is even more notable because black soldiers fought abroad to protect freedoms that would be denied to them when they returned to civilian life after the war. These men were good enough to fight, but not good enough to enjoy the same freedoms that other white Americans had.

I encourage all residents to stop by the Brigadier General Charles McGee Library in Silver Spring to learn more about this American hero and County native.

Focusing on State Priorities for 2025

This week I attended the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Winter Conference. It is always valuable to engage with my peers from across the state, and the recent elections and the state budget deficit were prominent topics of discussion. We need to address many important topics at the State level, including housing, transportation infrastructure, health, child care and education funding. These conversations are vital as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. You can read more about our County priorities for the 2025 Maryland General Assembly here.

The Governor addressed the group at winter MACo and outlined two major challenges facing Maryland: a historic $2.7 billion budget shortfall and uncertainty about federal support with an upcoming change in administration in Washington, D.C. He also talked about some of the tremendous strengths of our state and the need to capitalize on them to improve economic growth. Specifically, he noted the many assets in the state, including the University of Maryland system, the National Institutes of Health, the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST), the National Security Agency and more. 

To improve and grow our economy, he said we needed to capitalize on some core strengths: life sciences, IT/cyber security and aerospace/defense. Of course, Montgomery County has a huge life sciences presence as well as the National Cyber Security Center of Excellence affiliated with NIST. I appreciated the Governor’s clear articulation of the challenges and strengths, and I look forward to working with him on a path forward.

We also need to think about how to fund the infrastructure we need for growth.

Many of you have heard this from me before but it bears repeating: Virginia is beating us in economic development. It was recently named America’s Top State for Business by CNBC while Maryland ranked 31st. One key reason for the disparity can be seen in how Virginia continues to add infrastructure. In this CNBC report, Virginia once again earned a high mark, ranking third in the national survey. Maryland lags far behind in shovel-ready sites for development, ranking 34th.

And here is the big secret that no one mentions—businesses in Virginia are willing to pay more in taxes than they do here. Virginia made the decision to use the extra tax dollars they got from the businesses to invest in the infrastructure that helped grow the economy for everyone.

Here is what I think we need to do to invest in our infrastructure:

• Pass differential taxation authority for residential and commercial property for counties in Maryland. Municipalities in Maryland already have this authority. Virginia and the District tax this way; why aren’t we?
• We need to ensure a clear purpose for the money generated by differential taxation. Businesses want to know that the taxes they pay benefit them. This is why the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority was created from a bill that the Republican legislature passed, the Republican governor signed and it was supported by both the business community and Democratic leaders from Northern Virginia.
• We also need to examine other regulatory and tax issues seriously. Adopting combined reporting for corporate income tax filings and enacting Fair Share Taxing policies are also important.,

We cannot afford to maintain the status quo, and I hope that these ideas will continue to generate support and interest for the upcoming General Assembly Session.

Procurement Success

This week I attended the “Ready, Set, Grow” event, a procurement introduction and connections workshop held by the state of Maryland in Silver Spring to help connect vendors with State agencies. Maryland’s Special Secretary of Small, Minority and Women Business Affairs, Maria Martinez, joined us, and I shared some excellent news about our procurement efforts in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 with attendees.

• The County spent a record $248 million with Minority, Female and Disabled-Owned (MFD) businesses—an all-time high for the program. That is nearly a quarter of a billion dollars, the highest amount since the program’s inception, and represents 23.5 percent of the total eligible dollars for MFD participation.
• We awarded $130.5 million in contracts to Local Small Business Reserve businesses, reflecting a 30 percent increase in participation over the past decade and a 74 percent increase in spending. This is the highest percentage spent with local small businesses since the program began in 2009.

The annual report is available here. Our Office of Procurement's achievements are a testament to its continuous improvement efforts.

We must continue to break the monopolies of the “good ol’ boy” network and do what we can to ensure a level playing field of competition. I can only do so much in the private sector, but I can influence and control where and how our County money is being spent.

Equity will remain a key focus of our efforts. Our Office of Procurement annually participates in about 40 regional outreach events and co-hosts outreach events with local organizations. I encourage you to reach out to them by calling 240-777-9900 or visiting the Office of Procurement website to attend one of the open houses held online every month.

Ride On Ridership is Up

I have some good news about public transportation. According to the American Public Transportation Association’s latest report, Ride On saw a 20 percent increase in ridership over the past year, ranking second in the nation among transit systems of its size (15 to 50 million riders). The picture above is from the group’s social media post about the rankings. That is more than 18.5 million rides this year compared to 15.4 million the year before—a significant jump.

This progress is especially encouraging as transit systems across the country continue to recover from the pandemic's impacts.  

Right now, Ride On operates more than 80 bus routes. For FY24, we carried over 58,000 riders on an average weekday and 18.3 million riders for the year. With five months of data already in for FY25, we are on pace to reach 19.3 million rides, which is closing in on our FY19 pre-pandemic peak of 20.6 million rides.  

The bulk of our growth has been on our traditional fixed-route services. Our busiest buses are on Route 55—which connects Rockville to Germantown. Ridership between the two cities is up 23 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Flash service is also doing well, with an 8 percent increase over last year and a remarkable 56 percent growth since the limited stop line was launched.

Ridership on our Ride On Flex service is still modest, carrying just over 100 riders per day with limited service. Flex has no fixed stops or schedules and serves the public on demand within Rockville, Glenmont and Wheaton. We remain committed to adapting it to better meet the community’s needs. 

This success is a testament to the investments we have made to make Ride On more accessible and responsive to our community. Initiatives like zero-emission buses, Ride On extRa, and the expansion of our Flash Bus Rapid Transit give residents reliable, sustainable options to get to work, school, and other destinations. 

I want to thank our Department of Transportation, and everyone involved in these efforts for their hard work.

Let’s keep this momentum going, and I encourage you to download the Ride On Trip Planner app and get on board. Ride On is an affordable, reliable and sustainable way to move around our County.

Holiday Reminders

Speaking of buses, I hope you have been able to see the Flash Lights buses on the road for the holiday season. They are decked out with lights and will run on Colesville Road/U.S. 29 for the next few weeks.

It is also a popular time to shop for holiday gifts, which reminds us to support local businesses. More than 95 percent of businesses located here have fewer than 50 employees. I recently visited the Maryland Women’s Business Center retail business incubator and saw how much work entrepreneurs do to get their projects started. Incubators are a wonderful tool that create a supportive community for entrepreneurs. The Shop Local store is located in Rockville Town Square, open 7 days a week and features products from many different businesses in the collective.

You can follow the advice of our Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) by gifting outside the box. Consider gifting experiences when appropriate, gifting your time by giving back to a community organization and making a point to limit the amount of packing and wrapping paper you use. DEP staff will be giving away free reusable bags and offering lightbulb exchanges at the Westfield Montgomery Mall from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15. For more ideas, visit montgomerycountymd.gov/GiftGreener.

A puppy or new pet is not a perfect fit for every family, but if you do have room for a furry friend, you may want to take advantage of this weekend’s opportunity at the Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center. Adoption fees will be waived on animals of all sizes on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14 and 15. You can schedule your appointment through the Animal Services and Adoption Center website.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,

 

Marc Elrich
County Executive

A Reminder About Upcoming Property Tax Deadline

As the calendar year comes to a close, a reminder that the second installment of real property tax payments is due on Dec. 31.

If you need help making a payment, MC311 can guide you through the payment options, which include:

• Online
• By mail
• In person
• By phone

Call 311 today to learn more or submit an online service request.

Montgomery County Public Schools Summer RISE (Reimagining an Innovative Student Experience) Program Searching for 2025 Host Organizations

 

The Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Summer RISE Program is seeking businesses, nonprofits, higher education institutions and government agencies to host rising MCPS juniors and seniors this summer. Summer RISE provides students with valuable opportunities to explore careers aligned with their interests, helping them make informed decisions about their college or career paths.

Summer RISE requires a 50-hour commitment and offers in-person, virtual or hybrid options. The program runs over five weeks from June 23 to July 25, 2025, with hosts having the flexibility to choose the specific weeks and hours. Host registration is available until March 7, 2025. Find out more information about the program and becoming a host on the Summer RISE website.

Montgomery County Recreation Hosting Free Summer Camp Fairs

 

Montgomery County Recreation is hosting two free summer camp fairs in January to help families plan for their children’s summer activities. The first will take place on Sunday, Jan. 5 at Germantown Community Recreation Center, located at 18905 Kingsview Road. The East County Community Recreation Center, located at 3310 Gateshead Manor Way in Silver Spring, will host a fair on Saturday, Jan. 11. Both fairs will take place from 1 – 4 p.m.

Experience camp at the fairs with games and activities that you would see at summer camp! Make sure to stop by to check out the arts, crafts, games, snacks and more. At the fairs, families can also meet with recreation staff members and talk with instructors to ask questions and learn more about the offerings. You will also be able to register for Rec Assist, the department’s financial aid program, on site.

Montgomery County Recreation provides hundreds of healthy summer camp programs at locations across the County. Parents are encouraged to plan early for the summer months as many camps fill up quickly. Registration for summer camp programs will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 6:30 a.m. for County residents. You will be able to view camps online Friday, Dec. 20 and explore the digital program guide beginning Friday, Jan. 3.  

Montgomery County Recreation Accepting Applications for 2025 Financial Aid

Montgomery County Recreation is now accepting applications for 2025 Rec Assist, the department’s financial assistance program. Rec Assist provides County residents who receive eligible public assistance an opportunity to receive a scholarship to use toward most Recreation classes, activities and memberships that have a cost associated with them. 

“Every resident should have access to recreational activities,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “Rec Assist is a valuable program that helps alleviate financial hurdles. In 2024 County residents utilized more than $883,000 in Rec Assist funding to participate in the great programs offered by the Department. We hope to see County residents continue to take full advantage of this service in 2025 and I encourage everyone who is eligible for the funding to apply.” 

County residents who receive public assistance from any of these programs are eligible for Rec Assist: Care for Kids; Free and Reduced-Price Meal Services (FARMS); Heat and Eat (H-EAT), Housing Assistance from a Shelter; Maryland Energy Assistance; Maryland Medicaid; Montgomery County DHHS Rental Assistance Program; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP); Supplemental Social Security Income; Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) and WIC. Any student who attends a Montgomery County Public School participating in Community Eligibility Provision is eligible.  

Once approved, each eligible family member will receive $400 placed on the qualifying individual’s ActiveMONTGOMERY account for use. Rec Assist 2025 funds are available for use from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2025, or until the funds are depleted. Funds are available on a first come, first served basis.  

Rec Assist applications will be accepted online, by mail to Montgomery County Recreation Attention Rec Assist, 2425 Reedie Drive, 10th Floor, Wheaton, MD, 20902 or can be dropped off at that same address 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m Monday to Friday. Applications are available in English and Spanish. 

Once your application is approved, the amount of eligible assistance will be placed on your ActiveMONTGOMERY account within 10 business days. Funds will be available for use beginning Jan. 1, 2025.  

'The Montgomery County Poor Farm and Almshouse: Its History and People' Will Be Focus of Montgomery History Online Presentation on Tuesday, Dec. 17

For nearly 160 years, the Almshouse at the Montgomery County Poor Farm was the last resort for poor people who were unable to take care of themselves due to physical, mental and developmental disabilities. At 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 17, “The Montgomery County Poor Farm and Almshouse: Its History and People” will be the focus of a free online presentation of Montgomery History.

Writer, researcher and family historian Julianne Mangin will look at some of their stories, including how they lived and died, and shed light on conditions there. Despite the oversight of County officials and the efforts of reformers, the Almshouse was a place where the poor were neglected, abused and exposed to unsafe conditions until it closed in 1948.

To join the presentation, go to Webinar Registration - Zoom

Visit with Santa on a 'Holly Trolley Ride' at Capital Trolley Museum Dec. 14-22

 

Join the Capital Trolley Museum for a festive "Holiday Trolley Ride" from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15 and Friday-Sunday, Dec. 20-22. Visit with Santa on the mile-long woodland railroad, featuring a holiday ride on historic street cars. Enjoy a model railroad display in collaboration with the Washington, Virginia & Maryland Garden Railway Society, crafts for children, photo opportunities, hot chocolate and treats.

Tickets are $12.75 per person (ages 18-64) and $10.75 per person (ages 2-17). Purchase tickets online. Holly Trolley rides without Santa are also available each day. Purchase tickets online.

Free Fitness Passes Continue in 2025 for Montgomery County Residents

 

Montgomery County Recreation’s RecFit passes will continue to be free for County residents in 2025. The free RecFit pass provides access to fully equipped fitness rooms, open gym (drop-in) activities and game rooms at any community recreation center during regularly scheduled hours.

Current RecFit passes will be extended through June 30, 2025. During the first six months of 2025, residents will be able to renew their pass for a full year by visiting the front desk at any center. Proof of residency will need to be confirmed. With a valid pass residents can work out with equipment in the fitness rooms, as well as enjoy table tennis in the game rooms, drop-in pickleball, volleyball, basketball and more.

Residents can sign up for the pass in-person at any County community recreation center during regular business hours. The pass can then be used at any of the County’s recreation centers.

Proof of residency (a valid photo ID with an address or a photo ID with a current utility bill) must be provided by County residents to receive the free pass, and for annual renewal. Passholders must also have a photo on file.

Non-County residents can purchase a pass at a price of $20 for one month, $80 for six months and $150 for one year. Visit the website for more information.

The free RecFit pass does not include access to Recreation’s aquatic centers. For aquatic center pass information and prices, visit the website. 

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

Dear Friends,

This week, the County Council elected new leadership for 2025. I want to congratulate our new County Council President, Kate Stewart and Vice President, Will Jawando.

Since joining the Council in 2022, Kate has consistently demonstrated her commitment to fairness, honesty and results. We have built a productive working relationship rooted in shared goals. Her collaborative leadership style has been critical in addressing key issues such as improving public safety in downtown Silver Spring and the “Melanie Diaz Fire Safety Act” that strengthened tenant safety. I look forward to working with her in the year ahead as we navigate state budget concerns and the impacts of a new federal administration and Congress along with the opportunities the County has that will foster our work to continue growing our economy and affordable housing supply.  

I also want to congratulate Councilmember Will Jawando on his election as Vice President. Will’s steadfast commitment to progressive principles is evident in his work, and I’m proud of the work we did together last year to pass historic rent stabilization legislation, which provides critical protections for renters in Montgomery County.

I am optimistic about what we can achieve together as we work to meet the challenges and the opportunities ahead and continue building a stronger, more equitable County.

Honoring Ike Leggett

We announced this week that Montgomery County will honor former County Executive Ike Leggett by renaming the Executive Office Building in Rockville.

This renaming is a meaningful way to honor his extraordinary journey and accomplishments. His path was not an easy one, and yet he did not let the obstacles stop him; his successes are quite remarkable. It is incredible to think that he didn’t even put a photo of himself on his original campaign literature so that people would get to know him without preconceived ideas - he wanted people to have the opportunity to hear what he had to say before they judged him based on the color of his skin. We talked about his background and experience in government in this conversation from February of 2024.

Throughout his political career, Ike was intent on working with people every step of the way. His legacy is that of a leader who has shaped Montgomery County in profound ways. Ike has always been a champion for equity, inclusion and opportunity—principles that are core to who we are as a community.   

His unrelenting commitment to serve, his leadership during challenging times and his dedication to lifting up every resident left a legacy that will continue to inspire us. The County’s executive office building will now stand as a tribute to Ike’s remarkable service and the path he forged for future generations of leaders.  

We are planning an official ceremony in February during Black History Month and I will share those details when they are available.

Supporting Community Bridges

I was pleased to join the Community Bridges organization this week for its annual Girl Legacy event. For the last eight years, the group has celebrated the amazing work done to empower young ladies by instilling confidence and helping them develop life goals.

I want to thank the Community Bridges leadership for honoring me with a Building Bridges Award. In the picture above I am standing alongside Community Bridges’ executive director Shannon Babe-Thomas and Eun Yang, NBC Washington anchor and the night’s emcee.

The award reflects the work done by County employees every day to focus on helping each of our diverse communities, fostering inclusivity and creating opportunities for all.

Community Bridges helps 4th through 12th-grade girls fill the gaps through school and college mentoring, family assistance and helping women self-advocate. They believe in every girl’s chance to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.

As a former teacher, I applaud Community Bridges for helping more than 400 girls every year become better students and exceptional leaders. That guidance provides personal benefits and enriches our community. Every one of the program participants graduated from high school in 2023 and enrolled in college.

I extend my congratulations to Danielle Rice of Donohoe Companies for earning the Girl Legacy Award and Robin Salomon, an affordable housing developer and a member of the Housing Opportunities Commission for taking home the Empowerment Champion Award. They are just two of many in our community focused on helping girls improve themselves and the world around them.

Capital Area Economic Forum Focuses on the Future of Metro Funding

This week, I attended the Capital Area Economic Forum in Vienna, Virginia, hosted by George Mason University’s Center for Regional Analysis and the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance.

Some of the discussion about the regional economy focused on potential changes to the federal workforce and implications for all our local economies. One key takeaway was how interconnected our region is regarding transportation, housing and economic development. These issues do not stop at County or State lines, and collaboration is essential. 

The health of the Metro system and the necessity of ensuring that we can keep it operating and meeting the needs of our region were also discussed. Earlier this week, I attended a DMV Moves Task Force meeting, where we are working to find a strategy for sustainable funding for metro and other regional transit. This is an essential conversation and while we have a better idea of the magnitude of the problem, we are still working towards a solution that has regional support.

We need to find solutions for the long-term viability of Metro and transit in general. Metro needs funding for adequate ongoing maintenance and adequate service. The failure to provide adequate service for the Metro would impact the entire region: regional forecasts presented during the meetings showed that traffic would be 48 percent worse without the Metro than it is now—imagine where that number goes if the Metro is not able to function adequately. That will lead to more gridlock and extended rush hours. A nightmare scenario like that could harm our region’s competitiveness and impact our ability to improve our economy through job growth.

Decisions that impact Metro’s efficiency and capacity are in regional hands because Metro serves all of us. I find it encouraging that leaders all around the region are committed to taking the long view of how Metro can survive and improve.

New Hate-Bias Reporting Form Now Open

We continue to deal with the rise in anti-Semitic, Islamophobic, homophobic and racist hate incidents. An Anti-Hate Task Force convened last year noted that many residents do not know how to report an incident of hate or bias.

This week, we launched a new website portal to make it easy for the public to report these incidents. You can find the portal here. These reports can be made anonymously.

The form is the same whether you are a victim self-reporting or a witness. The drop-down menu at the top of the form page allows you to select dozens of languages. You can also call 311 from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday, to report an incident. 

While we already collect reports of incidents, many go unreported. This week, Captain Jordan Satinsky of the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), Assistant Chief Administrative Officer Earl Stoddard and the County’s Faith Liaison, Kate Chance, joined me on my weekly media briefing to discuss the impact these incidents have on our diverse community. You can watch that discussion here.

Monthly summary reporting is available on the MCPD website here.

The more people are aware of this new resource, the better we can accurately gauge hateful acts and biased activity impacting our residents.

Whether it is language, threats, or acts of vandalism these incidents have no place in Montgomery County, and I want everyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender or immigration status, to report these incidents so police can investigate.

Taking Care of Those Facing Housing Insecurity in Winter Months

Cold weather is back, and we are well below our average high temperatures for early December. In fact, we spent most of the week under an Extreme Cold Alert. When the weather gets this cold, we are most concerned about those staying outside without shelter.

During an Extreme Cold Alert, shelters remain open so individuals can get inside. Outreach workers work to urge those living outdoors to come to a shelter, and shelter capacity is expanded during the winter months.  

The Homeless Information Line is 240-907-2688 and is open 24/7. If you see someone you are concerned about, call the line, and an outreach person will follow up, try to find the person and urge them to go indoors.

Remember, the extreme cold puts people in danger if they don’t come in out of the cold. Sometimes, they won’t respond to our efforts to bring them inside. If you decide to try to help some of these individuals, please remember to speak kindly to them and encourage them to take advantage of the things the County does to help. For more details on those services, programs and the progress we have made, please visit montgomerycountymd.gov/homelessness.

Grant Funding to Community Food Assistance Programs

Our community partners who have been on the front lines of the fight to end hunger in Montgomery County are getting some help. Last week, our Office of Food Systems Resilience announced it has awarded more than $3.5 million in grant money to food assistance providers.

The money will support 48 groups which collectively serve nearly 165,000 people every month.

The partners and food providers we work with say demand is up. According to the Capital Area Food Bank’s 2024 Hunger Report, 34 percent of Montgomery County residents are considered food insecure, a seven percent increase from 2023.  

These grants are one way we help support Montgomery County’s Community Food Assistance Program, which helps maintain a solid foundation of assistance services for residents. All the available grants are listed here. More than 60 sites are currently tied to the School-Based Food Assistance program, while another grant focuses on improving community health through food. Collectively, this work closes service gaps and helps collect data on hunger issues in the County. 

Often around the holidays, many people are inclined to donate their food, money and time to help out those who are hungry, but as we can clearly see, this is a year-round issue for many families. As much as we think about those struggling during this time of year, I hope that people make it a New Year’s resolution to assist however they can. The Montgomery County Volunteer Center can help you find an organization making an impact in reducing hunger issues in our community.

Honoring Rosa Parks

This week bus riders were reminded of an important anniversary through signs announcing Rosa Parks Day. MCDOT also shared this online tribute.

Rosa Parks’ brave act of resistance against racist policies occurred on December 1, 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama. She refused to give up her seat for a White man and move to the back of the bus.

Every year our Ride On buses save space for her photo and share why her arrest was so important. It was one of the sparks that ignited a movement that led to protests across the nation in the fight for equal rights.

Civil rights reform did not come easily. When I was growing up in the 1950s, almost every major social and civil institution opposed civil rights. Every battle to provide freedom and the full rights that Americans were supposed to enjoy was hard fought. The truth is that the end of slavery did not make black people free and equal. Barriers to equal rights were erected throughout the country, including Maryland. The barriers and the consequences of past injustices still exist today.

A few years after the Montgomery Bus Boycotts, I attended the March on Washington. Later, when I went to the University of Maryland, I joined other students and faculty to fight for the desegregation of housing and employment in Prince George’s County as well as at the University itself. University recruiters told Black high school students that they should attend the other black schools in the university system and that they would not be welcome in College Park.

We often think of the civil rights struggle being a problem in states in the deep south – but Maryland’s, and even Montgomery County’s own history was just as bad. During the 1960s and 1970s, we watched White mobs object to integration, harassing black students in the ugliest of ways all over the country. It was hard to understand the intolerance that fueled the dehumanizing policies that made it so hard for Black families to find jobs, buy homes and build wealth.

Back then racism was taught, reinforced with bogus science, and that poisonous ideology was inflicted on many of the students I went to school with. I honestly do not think that many Americans and more recent immigrants witnessed or know about the racism that was so openly expressed, and, therefore, have no sense of what black people had to, and in some cases, still must endure.

I am glad to see how much has changed in our County and throughout our nation, but racial bigotry and inequity still exist. Although it has been nearly 70 years since Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, her life and actions remain an example of why it is important to speak up, demand change and stand your ground when challenged. She was right to break the law when the law was wrong.

Let me leave you this week with one of my favorite quotes from Rosa Parks:

"I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear. You must never be fearful about what you are doing when it is right.”

As always, my appreciation for all of you,


Marc Elrich

County Executive

New Podcasts from Montgomery County Permitting Services and Office of Consumer Protection Available Now

Two new podcast episodes are now available from the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) and the Office of Consumer Protection (OCP).

The newest episode of the DPS podcast, “Fire Pit Safety,” features the DPS Fire Code Compliance (FCC) team addressing the importance of safety when using a fire pit.

DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS FCC Program Manager Michael Marchesani for a conversation filled with practical advice and tips to know before planning a social gathering around a backyard fire pit.

Fire pits are popular this time of year when the temperatures are cooler. Dry weather and a lack of rain should always be considered when deciding if the conditions are right for lighting an outdoor fire.

For additional safety tips, visit the DPS website:

• Guidance for Use of Fire Pits, Fire Bowls and Chimineas
• Guidance for Outdoor Cooking and Recreational Fires near Multifamily Buildings

If you have questions, contact the DPS Fire Code Compliance Office at 240-777-0311.

The “Fire Pit Safety” episode of the Permitting Services Podcast is now available on the DPS website and various podcast platforms including Amazon, Apple and Spotify. It also is posted at https://permittingservicespodcast.buzzsprout.com/.

Subscribe to the podcast by tapping the “follow” sign on the podcast provider’s platform. In addition, it can be viewed on the County’s YouTube channel.

Residents can send questions about a current episode, or ideas for future podcast episodes, to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.

DPS is located at 2425 Reedie Drive, Seventh Floor, in Wheaton. The customer service lobby is open from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday. An appointment is not necessary. Customers may also reach out to DPS staff by calling MC 311 or 240-777-0311. For more permitting information, visit the DPS website at montgomerycountymd.gov/dps.