Message from County Executive Marc Elrich

 

Dear Friends,

Election night was exciting and a hopeful sign for our country, with big wins by many Democratic candidates in Virginia and throughout the country. The results should send a message to Republicans across the board and hopefully foreshadow next year’s midterms. Voters weighed in after nearly a year of bad and cruel policy decisions by the Trump administration and support from Republican leadership in Congress.

Sounding the Alarm on HUD Cuts

Meanwhile, we are bracing for the impact associated with one of those cruel policies that has been delayed so far by the shutdown. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is on the precipice of slashing funding for the County’s Permanent Supportive Housing and Rapid Rehousing programs by 70%. The Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless (MCCH) risks losing most of its current funding for a proven and successful program that helps clients exit homelessness.  

On Wednesday, I was proud to be part of the “Standing With Solutions” rally at the Seneca Heights Apartments in Gaithersburg, where we raised awareness about the financial cliff we are facing. You can hear my comments from the event on the County’s YouTube page. The facility is a converted hotel that MCCH, with the County’s support, purchased twenty years ago to provide transitional housing. Since then, it has housed families, older adults, and individuals with disabilities, and offers on-site support services.   

The programs funded through HUD money combine affordable housing with supportive services, such as case management. They are evidence-based, cost-effective, and they save lives.

Beyond those living at Seneca Heights, there are close to 1,300 residents experiencing homelessness. We work hard to help them make that a temporary situation by investing in permanent housing solutions. If these cuts are implemented, over 500 households—757 people—across the County could lose their homes.

It is beyond ironic that the Trump administration believes its plan will help address homelessness. Their cry to “clean up” encampments and reduce visible homelessness is meaningless when proven solutions to the problem he bemoans, like Seneca Heights, are abandoned.

Here is what is especially disturbing: in Trump’s initial attack on homelessness, he made statements that the unhoused need to be off the street and receiving services. That sounds sensible, but he followed it up with the threat of cutting off federal money for services. So, he wants people off the streets while cutting the programs that make it possible to actually do that.

HUD funding cuts would be a direct threat to the lives and stability of hundreds of our most vulnerable residents. This federal plan would dismantle much of the excellent work accomplished here in Montgomery County by denying support to our government and community partners through funding for permanent housing.

Montgomery County has always stepped up. We invest more than most local governments in housing and homelessness prevention. But we cannot do this alone. I wrote to our congressional delegation, outlining the devastating impact these cuts would have. We are supporting this request with stories that put a face on what this means to real families, whose futures will be in jeopardy if we turn our backs on those most in need of shelter and support.

Economic Mission to China and Japan

My economic mission to China and Japan, which spanned two weeks in October, was the sixth trip I’ve led in the last three years. I have traveled to Taiwan three times, twice to China, and to South Korea, as well as India, Vietnam, and Japan.   

This trip was scheduled to coincide with the 7th annual US–China Sister Cities conference in Hangzhou, where I was a keynote speaker. To make the most of this opportunity, we arranged meetings with dozens of business prospects not only in Hangzhou but also in Shanghai and Shenzhen, China, before traveling to Japan to introduce our County to innovation clusters there. 

The Japan visit was revealing because we learned how little they know about Montgomery County and its innovation cluster. In Japan, some companies are looking to expand the reach of their biomedical work into the U.S. We were able to explain why Montgomery County is a logical landing space for them since we are in the center of the third-largest biohealth cluster in the U.S. As a result, we are planning a trip where the County can present to a larger audience and showcase our assets.    

Strengthening our County’s global ties is essential work if we want to be considered a destination for companies looking to grow and expand into the U.S. markets. We continue to be a gateway to the Food and Drug Administration, and there is a real advantage to being located here.  

I was joined by Council Vice President Will Jawando and, as always, by Judy Costello, who directs our overseas efforts and serves as the County’s lead on special projects related to economic development. County councilmembers Andrew Friedson, Evan Glass, Kate Stewart, and Natali Fani-González have been part of our delegation on earlier trips. 

We discussed business expansion opportunities in the County with many industry and innovation hub leaders in both China and Japan.  We also met with leaders of organizations with a presence in our County and overseas – including Japan’s Nobelpharma and, in China, AstraZeneca - Shanghai, CBA, ISPE, and the DMV – Shenzhen Chamber of Commerce.

In China, we signed agreements with two organizations committed to establishing a U.S. presence in Montgomery County – a biotech consumables manufacturer and an equipment mold manufacturers association.    

Since this was our first visit to Japan, we focused on promoting the County’s strengths in biotech, cleantech, artificial intelligence, and space communications. Similar to events we hosted in the three cities in China, we invited business prospects to meet with us in Tokyo.  We also visited major innovation hubs in Osaka, Kanagawa, and Kyoto, and met with influential business organizations that represent thousands of Japanese companies.  Each of these meetings generated new awareness about our County and its talent and innovation resources and resulted in our agreeing to pursue further initiatives together.

We have done a good job developing relationships and building an environment that is safe and welcoming to people from all nations and cultures. People overseas recognize that, and I believe that will continue for years to come.  

SNAP Benefits Update  

I am grateful for the court decisions on Monday to protect SNAP users and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore's action to help families who will not receive SNAP assistance on time this month. The federal money they receive is crucial for thousands of families in Montgomery County and beyond, who rely on it to put food on the table each month.

We discussed some of the details on Tuesday when I joined Reps. Jamie Raskin and April McClain Delaney at one of our community’s major food provider partners, Manna Food Center. We heard from Manna executive director Craig Rice about residents who are receiving food donations for the first time, as well as those who have jobs but are in limbo due to the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.

The federal court’s action on SNAP benefits seemed to force the Trump administration to use $5 billion in USDA contingency funds to cover roughly half of November’s SNAP benefits nationwide, but the president is once again playing games with that money. Those games are impacting our local economy and affecting critical revenue for our food retailers and farm markets. It should never have taken a lawsuit to force the federal government to pay SNAP benefits because threatening to cut off food benefits to families, seniors, and children is cruel.  

Under normal circumstances, Maryland’s November benefits would have begun on Nov. 4. The Maryland Department of Human Services believes the benefits could be delayed a week or more, but that’s only if the Trump administration is forced to spend the money they’ve been ordered to spend.   

I appreciate Gov. Wes Moore for stepping up once again to prevent harm to the people we serve. The money the State is committing will cover the remaining half of November’s SNAP benefits. This crisis has been particularly disruptive for families who are already struggling to make ends meet. County and State leaders, along with our congressional delegation, will continue to push for the timely and reliable distribution of benefits every month.  

If Montgomery County residents need food while they wait for benefits to be issued — or for any other reason — help is available. Our nonprofit partners are continuing regular food distributions and stand ready to support households in need. Information on food distribution sites can be found at montgomerycountymd.gov/foodhelp.   

I know that many of our residents would like to help, and some may be buying food to donate. Manna leaders asked us to remind residents that they and other nonprofits receive food in bulk at lower prices. Donating the cash rather than using it to buy food yourselves can help feed more people more effectively. 

‘Age-Friendly Montgomery’ Turns 10 Years Old

In Montgomery County, our commitment to help residents thrive applies to all ages. Ten years ago, we launched the Age-Friendly Montgomery initiative, which enhances the County and ensures that we remain focused on helping older residents well past retirement.    

Data cited by AARP says that by 2030, more than one-quarter of Montgomery County residents will be 60 or older. It’s why we aligned with the World Health Organization and AARP to join the Age-Friendly Communities Network. In doing so, we committed to working across government and the private sector in a collaborative planning process.

Based on a community needs assessment conducted in 2015, the County and its partners created or modified a wide variety of public spaces, programs, and services. There are many examples of changes within our community that resulted from that work. Here are a few:

• Initiating and expanding new and refurbished affordable housing and introducing a home-sharing program.    
• Supporting the large and growing villages movement, a volunteer-led neighbor-helping-neighbor concept that helps older residents age in place and keeps generations of families together in the community. 
• Expanding low- and no-cost transportation options, including adding wheelchair-accessible vehicles, to help older people and people with disabilities participate fully in family, social, and community life.    
• Expanding safety education through outreach and in-home visits by police, fire, and rescue, and EMS staff.    
• Increasing volunteer participation.    
• Combating social isolation by expanding programming at our Senior Centers and supporting organizations serving our culturally diverse communities.    
• Promoting employment for older workers in partnership with Work Source Montgomery and the Jewish Council for the Aging’s Virtual 50+ Employment Expos and job training programs.   
• Updating area parks to include safety and accessibility features for people of all ages.    
• Distributing over 19,000 Chromebooks to residents living in senior housing and providing support and training through Senior Planet Montgomery.   
• Implementing changes in street design to increase safety and comfort for pedestrians.   
• Opening the Silver Spring Recreation and Aquatic Center, which includes the County’s eighth full-service senior center, and is co-located with affordable senior housing and a health center.

I would like to thank all the government leaders, businesses, and community partners who have contributed to this mission and extend my appreciation for their continued support. Aging should be viewed as something we prepare for together by creating communities that are safe, welcoming, and supportive. Staying focused on older adults through this initiative helps make Montgomery County a stronger and more inclusive community. 

Salute to Veterans

Tuesday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day. I’m proud to join with the Montgomery County Council in supporting Operation Green Light, a program sponsored by the National Association of Counties to honor those who have made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve freedom.  

You will notice displays of green light in our community starting this week. If you own a business or can change the hue of your outdoor lights to support veterans, it would be appreciated.

On Monday, Nov. 10, the County will honor veterans by unveiling the Operation Green Light Bus in downtown Rockville at 10:30 a.m. Keep an eye out for that on the road through the rest of the month. I hope you’re able to express your gratitude to a veteran for their service to our country and their dedication to everyone’s freedom. 

 
As always, my appreciation for all of you,

Marc Elrich

County Executive

Message from the County Executive

Dear Friends,

Unthinkable but true. With the federal government shut down, we are likely facing the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits beginning tomorrow (Nov. 1). Congress built in a contingency for this scenario and funded it. However, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are refusing to use those available funds to ensure that the most vulnerable among us have access to food.

On Friday afternoon, the courts attempted to intervene and compel the federal government to continue funding SNAP benefits, at least on a partial basis. We will likely not know if or how quickly the administration will comply with this ruling until next week. For the latest on the situation, follow the live news feed on CNN.

This week, Governor Moore declared a State of Emergency and allocated $10 million to help food banks and community organizations across the State. Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown announced that Maryland joined more than two dozen states and cities in suing the federal government to ensure these vital benefits continue.

The actions of our governor and attorney general are crucial in addressing this unprecedented national emergency that cuts off food to those most in need. While the Trump administration argues there is no money, the lawsuit correctly asserts a legal obligation to provide this essential help, regardless of a shutdown.

I also want to commend the County Council for working with our team to propose a $7.75 million special appropriation to help Montgomery County residents and nonprofits in navigating this crisis.

That funding will:

• Provide $3.5 million to the County’s Office of Food Systems Resilience to support food assistance efforts for residents impacted by the shutdown. We work closely with more than 60 food assistance providers to address hunger issues. 
• Direct $1 million to the Short-Term Housing and Resolution Program (SHARP) to help residents facing homelessness.
• Support nonprofits through $2.25 million in community grants to offset delayed or lost federal funds and build long-term capacity.
• Invest $500,000 in economic development through the MOVE program to help small businesses and entrepreneurs.
• Provide $500,000 to the Montgomery County Pride Center, which remains the County’s only comprehensive provider of LGBTQIA+ services.

The focus should be on helping SNAP participants right now. Here’s why:

• SNAP helps families buy the necessary food they cannot otherwise afford.
• The average family relying on SNAP receives less than $200 per month.
• The money helps mostly working families maintain their health by providing money for nutrition.
• Currently, more than 68,000 Montgomery County residents are enrolled in SNAP, including over 29,000 children.

Our local food infrastructure is already under immense pressure. Local partners, including Manna Food Center and the Capital Area Food Bank, distributed 12 million pounds of food in 2023. A September survey revealed a 15% increase in demand among local food providers, who are also facing rising operational costs.

We must be honest: there is simply no way for the County to supplant all the federal funding that we will lose if Congress or the courts do not intervene. However, Montgomery County provides a stronger social safety net than most other jurisdictions in our state and region.

Adding together grant assistance, direct funding to providers like Manna Food Center, support for food hubs, and school-based help, the County already provides more than $23 million to help our most vulnerable.

For help finding food assistance or other County services, please call 311. If you are facing emotional difficulties due to this crisis, you can call or text 988 or contact the County’s Crisis Center at 240-777-4000.

To support food assistance organizations that the County partners with, visit montgomerycountymd.gov/foodhelp. You can also visit the County’s Volunteer Center and search for opportunities to donate your time. Heather Bruskin, the director of OFSR, shared important information on Fox 5 this week. You can watch that segment with this link: fox5dc.com/video/1732100.

Montgomery County Earns ‘Triple-A’ Bond Rating for 53rd Consecutive Year




Despite numerous challenges we’ve faced this year due to federal government decisions, we have outstanding news regarding the County’s financial health. This week, Montgomery County received the highest possible bond ratings from all three major credit rating agencies. Moody’s Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, and Fitch Ratings have each reaffirmed our County’s top-tier Triple-A credit standing for 2025. This accomplishment continues Montgomery County's unmatched record of sound management and fiscal excellence.

Out of the over 3,000 counties in the United States, fewer than 2%—approximately 50 counties—earn this distinction for strong fiscal governance. In their analysis, the agencies commended our County’s:

• Broad and diverse economy with Moody’s Ratings noting, “Its 2024 reserve position of 28% of revenue is a record high and was generated through conservative budgeting and strong revenue performance.”
• Strong financial policies with S&P Global Ratings finding, “Robust financial planning that compares favorably with regional and national peers, along with a predictable revenue profile, [which creates] financial results that largely outperform the budget.”
• Commitment to long-term fiscal sustainability, with Fitch saying, “Montgomery County’s ‘AAA’ IDR and GO bond rating reflects the County’s ‘AAA’ financial resilience assessment. The assessment is based on the County’s ‘ample’ budgetary flexibility and Fitch’s expectation that it will maintain unrestricted general fund reserves equal to at least 7.5% of total spending.”

They cited our large and diverse tax base, our careful fiscal planning, and our proximity to the nation’s capital as key factors driving the continued Triple-A ratings. To read more about our Triple-A bond ratings, read the press release.

Saying Goodbye to a Dedicated Firefighter



The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service mourned the loss of a longtime member this week. Firefighter Christopher Kindel died earlier this month from cancer. Firefighter Kindel was a Marine before serving our community for 26 years. He was most recently stationed in Upper Montgomery, following stints in Gaithersburg, Rockville, and Silver Spring. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends. We thank Christopher and his family for the immense sacrifices they made to help keep our community safe.

Preparing for Leaf Season and Environmental Compliance



Fall is beautiful in Montgomery County, and we will be at peak foliage over the next two weeks. You can track the best places to view the changing leaves with the help of Visit Montgomery. As those leaves begin to fall, it is essential to review the best practices for leaves. Allowing leaves to stay where they fall can be a simple and more environmentally friendly way to manage fall cleanup.

Fallen leaves are a valuable resource for soil and wildlife. They naturally fertilize lawns and gardens, retain moisture, insulate roots, and provide winter shelter for many small creatures.

Property owners and renters can save time and money by following these tips to manage leaves in their lawns and gardens:

• Compost leaves at home to create free fertilizer for your garden.
• Mow leaves into lawns throughout the fall months to improve the soil.
• Rake leaves under trees and into garden beds for natural mulch and wildlife habitat.

This marks our first autumn operating under the ban on gas-powered leaf blowers. Since July 1, the use of handheld, backpack, and walk-behind gas-powered leaf removal equipment has been illegal in Montgomery County. While violations can result in a $500 ticket, our primary goal is to ensure that every resident understands this important law so that they can comply.

To learn more, visit the Department of Environmental Protection website to find a compost bin pickup location, and subscribe to My Green Montgomery for tips on "leaf-ing" a green life in Montgomery County.

If you are raking leaves, please take steps to keep leaves away from storm drains by not leaving them in the road. Leaves complicate storm runoff, especially during the winter, which can lead to clogged pipes and flooding issues. To help prevent frozen leaves from becoming a problem, the County collects leaves stored in reusable containers or paper lawn bags.

In certain areas, the County’s Department of Transportation runs the Vacuum Leaf Collection Program. You can search the program’s website with your zip code to learn when they are coming to your neighborhood. If you receive this service, please rake leaves to the curb, but always keep the piles out of the street.

Roadside leaf collection begins on Monday, Nov. 10, utilizing 15 crews, 60 leaf vacuum trucks, and 250 staff. Mailers detailing yard trim and leaf collection have already been sent out. This information can be reviewed on the attached flyer. 



Honoring Maryland Emancipation Day



This weekend, residents have several opportunities to help understand and pay tribute to Maryland Emancipation Day. The holiday commemorates the ratification of the Maryland Constitution of 1864 on Nov. 1. It was the day that Maryland officially ended the institution of slavery and emancipated all those still held in bondage.

The impact was profound, particularly in Southern Maryland, where over 33,000 enslaved people lived. Around the time of the Civil War, the four counties of Southern Maryland had a greater number of Black residents than white residents. When the war began in 1861, Maryland was designated a “free state” because it did not secede from the Union, unlike the other Confederate states. President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which took effect on Jan. 1, 1863, only applied to the seceding states. Consequently, Maryland landowners were able to continue the practice of enslavement well into the war.

Maryland’s enslaved people had several critical paths to freedom. Many fled to Washington, where slaves were freed in 1862, while others turned to federal troops stationed here to protect the Capitol. Maryland formed several regiments of Black soldiers as the war continued. A training center was established in Southern Maryland, at Camp Stanton in Benedict, which opened in October 1863.

You can find out about the various events planned on the Visit Montgomery website at Maryland Emancipation Day Celebrations - Visit Montgomery.

As we reflect on Nov. 1, 1864, let us honor the immense courage and determination of those who secured their freedom through resistance, flight, and ballot boxes. The fight now is for equity, reconciliation, and social justice because the impacts of slavery and racism continue to this day in Maryland and in Montgomery County.

Daylight Saving Time Safety Reminder

Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2. We will fall back an hour, adding an extra hour to the weekend.

As time changes, the critical issue is safety on our roads. It will now get darker earlier. Please remember to:

• Slow down.
• Increase your following distance.
• Turn your headlights on at dawn and dusk.

The evening rush hour will soon be in darkness, so everyone should exercise caution when moving around, as cyclists and pedestrians are more difficult to see at night. Typically, the time change brings an increase in traffic accidents on our roads, so please be extra cautious, whether you are biking, walking, or driving.

Finally, when you set your clocks back one hour, please take the opportunity to check your carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors and change them, too. Daylight Saving Time returns on March 8, 2026.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,



Marc Elrich

County Executive

Message from the County Executive

 

Dear Friends,

I am spending this week in Asia on an economic mission in Japan and China. I’ve also been to India, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam to highlight Montgomery County for businesses in those countries eager to find a hub in the United States to conduct business. These trips help show them that we are an excellent place to do business and access the U.S. market.

Fittingly, it is Economic Development Week in Maryland, which I acknowledge in this recent video. We have a lot to be proud of in Montgomery County, including four incubators now open to help small businesses grow their big ideas. In addition to innovation centers in Germantown focused on life sciences, Rockville catering to high-tech and medical startups, and Silver Spring for all industries, the AI Innovation Center is now as well. It provides office space, coworking and meeting space for businesses incorporating AI technology into their products and services. 

Our Business Center team collaborates with our Regional Service Centers to help companies find the right solutions when they need help expanding, complying with new regulations, or opening their doors.

We are also home to major companies that do business on a global scale. A good example is the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing, which has continued to grow with more than 100 employees and many partnerships already underway. The graduate-level research institution has been a significant topic of conversation among business prospects since before it launched. It is another way we stand out as a premier area for life sciences companies looking for a foothold in the U.S.

Montgomery County is fortunate to have a highly educated workforce, and a talent pipeline supporting the world's highest-growth industries like quantum computing, precision medicine, AI, and more. With the support of our State leadership and alongside partner organizations, we continue to invest in our future. We’ve seen many great projects come to fruition this year, including the Viva White Oak announcement in East County.

When I am on these economic development missions, I tout the diversity of our population, access to major institutions like NIH, and the breadth and depth of our businesses, all of which are of great interest to international companies. We will continue the work to strengthen our support for existing businesses and help those who want to come here.

Rep. Raskin Visit Highlights Forthcoming Increase in Health Exchange Premiums

I want to thank U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin for visiting our Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services office in Silver Spring this week. He was there to learn more about the assistance that navigators provide to residents looking for health coverage through the Maryland Health Connection and to discuss the impact of the continuing shutdown of the federal government. He held a roundtable discussion to talk about the impact residents will absorb if tax credits do not remain available for eligible people who buy coverage on Maryland’s health insurance exchange. You can watch this week’s County media briefing conducted by Chief Administrative Officer Rich Madaleno and featuring Rep. Raskin on our YouTube channel. You can also watch the roundtable discussion regarding health care coverage, featuring the Congressman; Vinny Demarco, president of Maryland Health Care for All; DHHS leaders, and an impacted County resident.

Unfortunately, health care will change dramatically in light of actions by the Trump administration and Republican Congressional leaders. They do not want to support the federal health care system that has helped Montgomery County lower its percentage of residents without medical insurance to just 6% in 2021, down from a high of 13%. This progress began with Obamacare and continued with the expansion of Medicaid. The current administration wants to end those benefits, and that is at the crux of this shutdown. So, we are bracing for the impact of tens of thousands of people suddenly facing higher medical premiums, which will likely push them out of affordable health care coverage. Not having health coverage means that uninsured individuals may put off preventative care and only get medical attention when it’s an emergency. Relying on hospitals and emergency rooms to carry the burden of health care by necessity will cost all taxpayers.

Gov. Wes Moore sounded the alarm earlier this month when he visited one of our enrollment sites, saying as many as 190,000 Marylanders could see their monthly premiums increase by an average of 68%. He heard from health and human services staff about the human costs of the shutdown and what hardship the health coverage changes will bring for some.

This is important because open enrollment for health care coverage through the Maryland Health Connection begins Nov. 1. People have already received notices of the monthly premium increases.

Remember, 2025 plans are still active through the end of the year, including plans purchased through the Maryland Health Connection. Now is a great time to schedule free annual wellness checkups or catch up on any delayed care. Maryland’s Advance Premium Tax Credits can help offset the higher premiums in 2026.

Gov. Moore Visits the Federal Workforce Career Center

On Thursday, Governor Wes Moore visited Wheaton to tour the new Federal Workforce Career Center we opened. He participated in a roundtable conversation with the team to learn how they are engaging with County residents who have lost their jobs due to the Trump Administration’s ongoing federal government shutdown and workforce reduction.

Since opening the Federal Workforce Career Center, hundreds of residents have signed up for assistance through mobilize-montgomery.com.

I would like to thank the governor for this site visit and for paying attention to the nation’s first center operated by a jurisdiction like ours, which supports displaced federal workers through personalized services and programs. Since the shutdown began, Gov. Moore has been working to help Marylanders who are impacted by providing loans and supporting social service programs, which the federal government usually funds. He’s right to point out that this shutdown has broken the trust many people put in this current federal administration to make their lives better.

We are witnessing an increase in demand for food assistance throughout Montgomery County. The federal government will more than likely remain shut down as we enter November, leaving SNAP benefit payments in limbo. We are looking to the State of Maryland for guidance on how to address that shortfall. Approximately 68,000 of our residents rely on this vital food assistance resource, and an average of $12 million is spent each month in our County’s grocery stores and farmers' markets through SNAP. Funds for the WIC program, which provides nutritious options for pregnant women, infants, and children, are also in jeopardy. Over 60 community organizations, with our support, continue to offer a variety of food assistance services to residents around the county each day. You can read more on the Office of Food Systems Resilience website about how the Trump cuts will affect important programs.

Our County Health Officer, Dr. Kisha Davis, pointed out this week that there are both financial and emotional struggles resulting from this shutdown. I encourage you to reach out for help if you need it. 988 is a resource for anyone nationwide struggling with thoughts of suicide. Help is available 24 hours/day through the County’s Crisis Center by calling 240-777-4000.

Gabe Albornoz Nominated to Once Again Lead Department of Recreation

On Monday, I announced the upcoming nomination of County Councilmember Gabe Albornoz to serve once again as the Director of our Recreation Department. If confirmed, he will return to the position he held before becoming a Councilmember.

He would succeed Robin Riley, who retired earlier this year.

Gabe is the best choice to lead Recreation for several reasons, including his previous tenure as director from 2007 to 2018. He has demonstrated experience, leadership, and dedication to the County. He helped to build, expand, and diversify our recreation programs even through the Great Recession of 2008. We anticipate similar burdens ahead with the changes initiated by the federal government, and I believe that Gabe will help us navigate those as best as possible.

As a Councilmember, Gabe is also well-suited to understand the financial considerations as we work on major improvements that benefit our residents. During his previous tenure as director, he oversaw 11 capital recreation projects totaling $280 million. He’s also committed to continuing the critical programming offered through our Recreation Department that promotes physical activity, mental health, and well-being.

The process of replacing Gabe’s position on the Council is already underway. The person who is selected by the Council will fill out the remaining year of Gabe’s term, which ends Dec. 1, 2026. The Council is providing details on how to apply and they are accepting applications through Wednesday, Nov. 5.

Park Montgomery Affordable Housing Opens in Silver Spring

Last week, I was excited to celebrate the grand opening of Park Montgomery West in Silver Spring's Long Branch neighborhood. This development is an excellent example of how we can simultaneously preserve and expand affordable housing. Our partner, Enterprise, renovated the existing 141 homes at Park Montgomery and added 76 brand-new affordable apartments right next door. That’s 217 homes where people can live, raise their families, and stay connected to this community.

It is not a project that resembles what was initially envisioned for this area. That plan would have allowed developers to replace existing high-rise buildings, leaving us with the minimum percentage of affordable housing units required by law and displacing many current residents. I am pleased the end result worked out better for existing and future residents.

Montgomery County invested $10.6 million, and we’re proud to see those dollars at work. The money creates long-term affordability for families earning at or below 60% of the area median income.

This location also shows the importance of protecting affordability near major transit investments. With the Purple Line coming to Long Branch, with a planned station on Piney Branch Road, we know development pressure will increase. We are making sure that working families aren’t pushed out of the very neighborhoods that are becoming more connected and vibrant.

Across the County, we’re seeing progress. Since the start of Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, we’ve created or preserved more than 2,200 affordable homes, with 18 more projects already in the FY26 pipeline and 26 others in planning. Each one represents a step toward meeting the need for housing that people can truly afford. You can read more about the County’s efforts to develop and preserve affordable housing in this press release focused on the latest Affordable Housing Pipeline Report.

This project embodies what we’re striving for: sustainable, equitable growth that gives everyone a chance to stay and thrive in Montgomery County. Investments like these strengthen our community. It also wouldn’t be possible without the work of our Department of Housing and Community Affairs and partners like Bank of America and the Housing Opportunities Commission. I want to again thank Enterprise for their remarkable work with this project and for being an invaluable partner in preserving the affordable housing still available in Montgomery County.

Let’s keep working together to ensure that affordability and opportunity go hand-in-hand in every part of our County.

AWS Outage and National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Computer networks keep our world moving. On Monday, we all saw what can happen when disruptions grind everything to a halt.

The nation’s leading authority on cybersecurity is the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, an arm of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is headquartered in Gaithersburg. The County is proud to partner with the Maryland Department of Commerce and the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation on quarterly cybersecurity events, though the one scheduled for this month had to be canceled due to the shutdown. I would like to thank the program leaders at NIST for organizing a networking opportunity in May during National Small Business Week to strengthen security within our small business community. These are a few ways we are seeing leadership and cooperation extend computer safety beyond company contractors.

Everyone has a part to play in cybersecurity. One of the most important steps is simply reporting unusual activity. Look for signs of trouble, such as phishing emails and attempts to obtain information without permission. Attacks can compromise critical information, leave your entire company vulnerable to further attacks, or put your family at risk of identity theft.

Thieves are smart, sometimes posing as authorities or cybersecurity experts to gain your trust. Never give anyone remote access to your computer unless you’ve initiated the help request through a verified and trusted source.

Consider the sensitive information you share online or over the phone, as caller ID can be easily spoofed. The Federal Trade Commission at consumer.ftc.gov is a good source for information on protecting yourself and responding to a scam. Victims of fraud involving a Social Security number should call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-269-0271. Online crimes can be reported to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov.

No Kings Day Rallies

No Kings Day rallies throughout Montgomery County and nationwide showed plenty of opposition to the draconian policies of the Trump administration and Republican Congressional leaders that would deny nutrition support to newborn mothers, aid to older adults, and support for many more people struggling with nowhere else to turn but our community partners.

I’m proud of our community for coming out (in 22 locations according to Rep. Raskin) to rallies in Silver Spring, Rockville, Olney, Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Kensington, Takoma Park, and Leisure World. We heard you speak out and vow to fight the injustice that is putting so many people out of work, creating fear within our immigrant community, and continues to make life difficult for many more residents.

Halloween Ahead

Finally, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Halloween. Although it may be another week away, many activities are happening this weekend, which you can read about later in this newsletter.

Please keep a few things in mind:

• Early sunsets at this time of year reduce visibility.
• Use extra caution when traveling during evening hours.
• Go slowly and be prepared to stop suddenly.
• Drivers should consider staying off neighborhood roads altogether during trick-or-treat hours.
• Children should carry glowsticks, flashlights, or some reflective material on dark costumes to ensure they are seen.
• If you see an impaired driver, dial 911 to report it.

Follow the County on our social media channels (Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and X) to learn about many community activities planned for your entire family. Stay safe and have fun.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,

Marc Elrich
County Executive

Message from the County Executive

Dear Friends,

This week, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor announced plans to request $2.7 billion, $949 million more than the last approved Capital Improvements Program (CIP) budget, to address needs the school district has put on the back burner for far too long. The request is 54% larger than the last approved CIP budget, translating to almost $160 million a year over six years. And, he reports that even that increase does not cover the entire backlog.

MCPS has been dealing with years of the school system not clearly outlining its needs, which has been complicated by the lack of funding for capital projects at the County level, potentially hindering their progress and preventing them from falling further behind. Not requesting money when it was needed was not a good policy, but I’m glad that we are finally getting real numbers from the school system.

As a teacher for 17 years, I am well aware of the importance of maintaining our schools and for too long, there has not been enough attention paid to regular maintenance, and now we’re facing a tremendous backlog.



The path forward involves increasing our capital spending caps, which have shrunk dramatically in purchasing power over the years because of inflation. The actual numbers have also shrunk – there used to be as much as $340 million in capital funding per year, but that amount was reduced to $280 million even as costs were rising. The chart above shows how the funding should have been increased each year just to keep up with inflation. Specifically, you can see that in FY2009 the capital spending/year was $300 million, which in inflation adjusted dollars would be $555 million today.

Over my seven years as County Executive, that’s more than $300 million that otherwise would have been available for needed capital projects like schools, recreation facilities, transportation, libraries, public safety improvements, and transportation projects. As a result, we’ve had to delay some of what we planned to do.

Earlier this month, the County Council approved $300 million of borrowing, which is $40 million less than I requested, or $240 million over the next six years. While the Council stated they are willing to revisit this limit early next year, it makes it more difficult now as we finalize our capital budget.

This is a problem that we must all work together to solve. I look forward to discussing these issues with Councilmembers, school leaders, and the public to find the best solution. Public feedback can be shared before the school board finalizes its proposed CIP budget on Nov. 20. What we cannot do is simply kick the can down the road and allow our situation to worsen.

Federal Government Shutdown Continues

We passed mid-October with little progress made on ending the federal government shutdown. What’s happening in Washington defies common sense. The Trump administration and congressional Republicans are refusing to negotiate with Democrats even though they don’t have the votes to reopen the government without them. That refusal has real consequences for families and communities nationwide, including in Montgomery County.

Federal workers at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institutes of Health, and other agencies are being told they will be out of a job during a shutdown. That action is both illegal and irrational. These are the same public servants who protect our health, monitor disease outbreaks, and conduct research that saves lives. Firing them weakens our national security and undermines public health. 

Last weekend, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sent out approximately 1,300 termination notices, only to rehire about half of those employees after realizing the error. That kind of whiplash reflects deep managerial failure and leaves the nation less prepared for the next public health emergency.

The Trump administration also engaged in a mass firing of the data workers at HHS – further crippling that agency. Trump understands perfectly well that killing the collection of data makes it hard to explain what problems exist and what is needed to address them. It is consistent with his attacks on research at NIH, the FDA, the National Weather Service, and climate change offices in the federal government.

It is Trump’s way of cutting Americans off from the truth, enabling him to lie at will while making it impossible to generate data that would undermine his arguments. He is deliberately blinding government agencies, and that extends to local governments that rely on some of this data, so that they can’t inform the public and policymakers about the repercussions of their actions. I guess his theory is that if you can’t see it, then the problem doesn’t exist. This is no way to govern.

This past Friday, every federal worker outside of the military missed a paycheck. We encourage those in need to access
the County’s network of food distribution sites and community resources which are available to help anyone. I also want to thank our residents who continue to donate food, money, and their time to help their neighbors get through this challenging time. Montgomery County’s strength has always come from the way our community takes care of one another.

Last week, we opened the Mobilize Montgomery Federal Workforce Career Center, the first of its kind in the country, to help displaced federal employees find new opportunities and navigate this uncertainty. Since last week’s press event, nearly 200 federal workers have signed up for services. You can learn more by visiting mobilize-montgomery.com and following the prompts to schedule an appointment for support.

Harmful Decisions at HUD Impact Montgomery County

The focus of my media briefing this week was on the drastic cuts the U.S. Department of Housing of Urban Development could make once the government shutdown is over. I have written letters to each member of our federal delegation, detailing some of the impacts of cuts in order to help them advocate for protecting HUD funding.

This loss of funding could jeopardize HUD-funded housing for nearly 800 people in our community, most of whom are people with disabilities, who live with children, or are over age 65. Without financial support through HUD, these essential services would suddenly stop for hundreds of people with disabilities and families with children in our County.

HUD Continuum of Care grants support numerous programs administered by our Services to End and Prevent Homelessness, part of the County’s Department of Health and Human Services. Those funds help community partners and landlords. Our County has done extraordinary work in planning and initiating a strategic response to homelessness, but without HUD funding, it remains more of an aspiration than an actionable plan.

The President is threatening to condition grants on passing legislation to outlaw camping outside or sleeping on the streets. We would love to provide decent shelter space to people who need it, but cutting off funding makes it even more difficult to address homelessness. It makes it harder to get people off the street.

In addition, Politico reported that HUD is considering cutting 70% of Continuum of Care funding for permanent housing, which provides stable housing for people with disabilities. As a County, we work every day to ensure that all people, including the most vulnerable, have a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home, which is why the threat of losing federal housing funds from HUD is so concerning. Hundreds of the most vulnerable people in Montgomery County could be forced back into homelessness if these funds were cut.

Also under attack is an arm of HUD, the Office of. Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. That office has been under attack since this administration took over. Work on behalf of single mothers, the disabled, and minority tenants denied housing has been severely impacted by the many firings and reassignments of lawyers within the department who worked on fair housing complaints.

A whistleblower's report focused on the Office of Fair Housing. A whistleblower’s report shed light on how the staff within the Office of Fair Housing was reduced from 31 to 11, and the number of staff attorneys was slashed from 22 to six. Over the last five years, HUD has collected between $4 million and $8 million in legal settlements for Americans who accused housing providers of discrimination. From January to July 2025, less than $200,000 was collected.

Trump appointees running HUD have ignored historic legal findings that helped end redlining practices, and they have dismissed landmark housing discrimination cases as artificial, arbitrary, and unnecessary. As they wrote in one of their memos reported by the New York Times, the cases are not a priority for this administration.

In fact, Trump’s grudge can be traced back to the 1970s, when he and his father were sued by the government for violations of the Fair Housing Act. Black people were told there were no units available for rent in Trump-owned buildings, while white tenants got those apartments. It gives you an idea of where his policies come from: he doesn’t believe in fair housing personally, and he’s using this opportunity now to change federal policy.

We all deserve better. Millions of Americans nationwide already face barriers to housing, so legitimizing these actions from the top will embolden bad actors. Enforcement of the Fair Housing Act is going extinct, and that breeds discrimination and allows intimidation to be used against families in vulnerable positions. It is yet another battle we must fight to keep this a free and fair nation.

The Montgomery County Office of Human Rights conducts investigations into complaints of discrimination and harassment impacting customers and tenants. If you feel you have been a victim of housing discrimination and would like to file a complaint, visit the Office of Human Rights website. You can find a tab labeled Claim and Intake Inquiry Form halfway down the page, or call 240-777-8450 for help.

October is National Fire Prevention Month

I joined the Montgomery County Council this week in recognizing October as Fire Prevention Month. Preventing fires from starting is the best way to keep our community safe and avoid property damage.

Our Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service works to protect over one million residents. Under the leadership of Chief Corey Smedley, it is committed to encouraging a prevention-first approach. Educating the public and encouraging preventive actions are two key components of that approach.



This year’s focus is on lithium batteries because, if not handled properly, they pose a serious fire risk. Lithium battery fires are much hotter and more difficult to extinguish. It’s essential to verify that the batteries are functioning properly without overheating. We are trying to increase awareness because of the extraordinary fire hazard that exists.

This month, we are also asking every family to ensure they have current, up-to-date, and working smoke alarms. If a smoke alarm is over ten years old, replace it. That's not just advice; it’s the law.

Family escape plans should also be made and practiced. This flyer explains escape planning. MCFRS offers complimentary home safety visits to residents who need assistance in developing an escape plan. Residents can call 311 to schedule an appointment or visit the Home Fire Safety Visit Request page.

The Park Goes Pink Highlights Breast Cancer Awareness Month



October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this Saturday, October 18th, Wheaton Regional Park will host the second annual The Park Goes Pink event.

Education is crucial for identifying cancer early and increasing the chances of survival. It is important to know how to screen and monitor yourself for breast cancer, which can be done through clinical breast examinations by a health care provider, annual mammograms, and self-examination.

Every year, breast cancer accounts for about 30% of all new cancer cases in the United States. African American women in our County face a 40% higher mortality rate from breast cancer and frequently receive diagnoses at later stages. That is why our African American Health Program works to eliminate health disparities through key efforts, including cancer prevention education and outreach, as well as providing free screenings and referrals.

I urge everyone to show their solidarity with Black women and everyone impacted by this disease. The Park Goes Pink runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Let’s continue to advocate for equitable care and improved health outcomes for every resident. Wear pink and participate.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month



October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The County continues to operate the Crisis Center hotline, which is available 24/7 for victims or to report abuse. The number is 240-777-4000.

We are committed to helping those in need. Our Family Justice Center, located near the courthouse in Rockville, is available free of charge, and information is provided in any language. Services include counseling, legal advice, career assistance, and help with basic needs. It is also a safe place to meet with police detectives or staff from the State’s Attorney’s Office to help anyone, including those seeking to file criminal charges.

Italian American Heritage Month 

I would like to take a moment to honor the valuable contributions and achievements of Italian immigrants and their descendants during Italian American Heritage Month, a yearly designation observed across our nation. It allows us to acknowledge the journey of millions of Italian immigrants who reached our shores in search of a better life, often facing discrimination and hardship there and here as well.  They are essential to our social fabric, producing politicians, artists, and leaders within our broader community. The Italian Cultural Society of Washington D.C., based in Bethesda since 1953, helps recent immigrants with language classes and provides a sense of home. The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America predates World War I and helped fight for the inclusion of Italians in our public school system.  

Their history in America parallels the experiences of most other immigrants who didn’t come from England – they faced discrimination, prejudice, segregation, and obstacles to employment. America is a country of immigrants, and the reality is that the experience of many immigrants from many countries is not unlike the discrimination faced by more recent immigrants. We would do well to remember that while we see ourselves as Americans today, there was a time when we were seen as outsiders and different than those who considered themselves Americans at that time.

This country has a long history of absorbing immigrants and seeing them become Americans. In a time when we’re seeing the demonization of people who are following the path that our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents took, we should remember that we’ve successfully integrated many cultures into this country before.

As we’ve grown into the most diverse jurisdiction in the nation, Italian Americans have been part of that evolution. The Montgomery College library is a good resource for those interested in materials documenting the immigrant experience. Their ‘Celebrate and Connect’ section highlights nearby resources to help you delve deeper into Italian American history and culture. I hope younger people see this as an opportunity to connect with their roots and for the wider society to appreciate Italian American traditions, art, and food this month and throughout the year. 

Hispanic Heritage Month Ends

This week marks the end of Hispanic Heritage Month, something the County is proud to acknowledge and celebrate. This year, we redirected funds that would normally be used for a community celebration into school-based cultural programs and events. This was not meant as a slight against families who wanted to attend or businesses that benefit from large gatherings. There is a lot of fear within the Hispanic community at the moment because of federal immigration activity.

We are proud to be home to multiple generations of immigrants from across Latin America. Hispanics are a critical and vibrant part of every neighborhood. They are also an important part of our workforce and economy; however, since President Trump took office, we've seen a decrease in participation in community events among Hispanic residents.



That was one of the things on my mind last week as I toured Hispanic-owned businesses. My first stop was at Peak Personal Training, owned and operated by Kevin Munoz. Kevin transitioned from playing soccer on our local high school fields to competing at Montgomery College, before launching his online business and subsequently establishing a gym in Gaithersburg. There are six trainers on staff and a good client list, but he admits his business has been impacted by federal job losses.



I stayed in Gaithersburg and met Ada Pineda, owner of Minuteman Press. Screen printing has continued to evolve since the business first opened, and even since she acquired the business seven years ago. She reminded me that this is also Women’s Small Business Month. The County has resources available for small, minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses. There are also opportunities to do business with the County through the Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned Business Program. Initiatives and community partnerships help provide access to resources, counseling, specialized workshops, and loan programs to support women entrepreneurs in starting, growing, and scaling their businesses.



Finally, I went down the road to La Casita Pupuseria and met with the managing partner, Iris Veronica Jimenez. I told her how I remember the location as a local favorite for sandwiches, and I also found their rebranding impressive. A significant amount of work has been invested in meeting the community's needs, establishing a strong brand that resonates with its customers, and expanding from its origins in Silver Spring, which date back more than 20 years.

I would like to thank everyone for taking the time to meet with me and my staff during our visits. It is wonderful to see businesses thrive in our community. The best way to do that is to serve their needs and make doing business in Montgomery County as easy as possible. That's the feedback I got during my first days on the job as County Executive, and I haven't forgotten it.

I also want to recognize and thank the men and women honored by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce during the Leadership Awards Gala I attended Thursday night.

• Juvenal Hernandez – CEO, Rocksolid General Contractors
• Sergio Polanco – State Public Engagement Officer, Comptroller of Maryland
• Luisa Cardona – Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, Montgomery County Government
• Nelson Ortiz-Cruz – Master Firefighter, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service
• Alicia Morales – Principal, Richard Montgomery High School

These are leaders who make Montgomery County stronger every day through their contributions and service to our community.

Diwali Celebrated on Monday, Oct. 20



We are approaching a very important day for the South Asian community that calls Montgomery County home. Monday, Oct. 20, is Diwali, one of the most popular holidays in India.

Diwali signifies the beginning of a new year and symbolizes the victory of light over darkness. Many people marking the holiday will be dressed in colorful, traditional clothing. They may light lamps outside their homes, gather to enjoy large feasts, and exchange gifts.

I would like to thank the South Asian community for inviting me to the opening of their beautiful temple last year in Potomac. It demonstrates the community's comfort here, and we are grateful for the numerous contributions to Montgomery County. I’m also looking forward to the County’s Diwali celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 5, here at the Leggett Executive Office Building in Rockville. To register for the event, please visit https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSewbLUH3k3s4i7HoUIrWbF4Us5ZhdbLGL5_fLGu2LH2zauYnA/viewform.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,



Marc Elrich

County Executive

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

Dear Friends,

I want to start off by expressing my sincere condolences to the family and friends of 11-year-old Summer Lin, who died Thursday after she was struck by a school bus while bicycling. This incident, and the pedestrian death last month of James Anderson, a 16-year-old Wheaton High School student, are a parent’s worst nightmare.

Federal Government Shutdown

We are now more than a week into the federal shutdown, a completely avoidable situation that Republicans continue to be disingenuous about. Dread, concern, and angst are apparent in the lives of many Montgomery County residents because of the lies being told by many of our federal leaders and the stress this shutdown brings.

Not only is there an effort on the Republican side to deny workers back pay, but there has also been no effort made to negotiate toward a solution that would save jobs or keep health care costs down for many Americans. I had the opportunity to discuss this issue and many more this week with Harold Fisher on The Daily Drum, hosted on WHUR radio. I always enjoy these long-form interviews because they allow me to discuss each topic in depth, rather than in soundbites. I encourage you to listen to our full conversation and provide your feedback directly to me. You can reach me through montgomerycountymd.gov/exec.

Federal Workforce Career Center Opens



This week, we opened the Mobilize Montgomery Federal Workforce Career Center (FWCC) to support workers affected by the shutdown and cuts to federal programs and departments. This new facility will serve displaced or former federal workers as well as those who may have worked for contractors, non-governmental organizations, nonprofits, or vendors who served the federal government.

To our knowledge, this is the first center in the nation operated by a jurisdiction like ours to support displaced federal workers through personalized services and programs. 

Setting up a center like this does not happen overnight. Earlier in the spring, we recognized the need to support our residents who were struggling under this Federal administration. I asked the County Council to allocate $700,000 to this project, and I would like to thank them for their support.  

Mobilize Montgomery was also launched to coordinate help for job seekers. It brings together an array of organizations, including the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, the Maryland Department of Labor, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, and the Maryland Women’s Business Center, to name a few, for this collaboration. Montgomery County is home to a substantial number of federal employees, more than 70,000 at the start of the year. This instability has significant repercussions for our community. 

The FWCC, located at 11510 Georgia Ave. in Wheaton, is operated by WorkSource Montgomery at its American Jobs Center. The center will support transitioning executives, senior managers, and highly skilled professionals. It offers tailored services, including executive career coaching, advanced resume and LinkedIn support, and programs like Federal-to-Private Sector Transition Support. Job seekers can also access guidance on launching into self-employment through our entrepreneurship support. 

This center symbolizes Montgomery County’s ongoing commitment to stand with federal workers and contractors, ensuring you don’t have to navigate these changes alone. 

This is all being necessitated because the President has decided to decimate access to health care and raise the cost at the same time, which will negatively impact millions of Americans. The sole reason to do this is to use the savings created by hurting Americans to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. Of course, this attack only pays part of the bill. Other savings come from dumping FEMA’s responsibilities on the states. NIH, NIST, and the FDA are targeted for more cuts that will severely curtail their research into causes of and cures for illnesses that take a tremendous toll each year on millions of Americans. Federal leaders want to pretend climate change doesn’t exist, that emissions aren’t harmful, and they’re stifling efforts to move towards wind and solar power and increasing our reliance on coal – a true destroyer of the environment.

None of this has anything to do with efficiency. No one announced how we’d have better ways of doing things that are faster and more efficient.  We are crippling scientific research and creating a free pass for industries that want to go back to pre-World War I America, where the environment, people’s lives, and workers’ rights counted for nothing and only the interests of millionaires and billionaires mattered. The only thought the President and his henchmen consider is whether a decision serves the interests of the wealthy and powerful. 

We remain committed to supporting our residents and workforce and ensuring Montgomery County’s economy remains strong and resilient. Interested job seekers should register on the Maryland Workforce Exchange and complete the FWCC intake form to begin the process. For help or general questions, call 240-283-1509 or email fwcc@worksourcemontgomery.com.

Affordable Housing Pipeline Report



A poll released several weeks ago by The Banner Montgomery found that the most pressing issue among our residents is the cost of housing, ahead of the economy and crime. More than 80% of those surveyed stated that the County’s lack of affordable housing is a problem.

Housing has been a long-standing challenge, and when I became County Executive, I knew that addressing the housing crisis was a pressing need for our community. That is why we have continued to spend record amounts on affordable housing in my operating budgets. The Affordable Housing Pipeline Report helps us track our progress.

The latest report, which revises Fiscal Year 2025 figures and covers the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), shows that the County has significantly increased the number of affordable housing units it supports through its financial investments. You can see the progress in the chart below. It demonstrates incredible progress, and I would like to acknowledge the work of our Department of Housing and Community Affairs in achieving this success. The director of the department, Dr. Scott Bruton, joined my media briefing this week to talk about what else you can learn from the Affordable Housing Pipeline reports.



In FY25, we invested $108.3 million in 25 projects that supported the creation or preservation of 1,827 affordable homes. The number of units created or preserved compared to 2024 increased by 61%. 

In the first three months of FY26, the County invested a total of $24.2 million across three projects to produce or preserve an additional 462 affordable housing units. The County has entered into or maintained existing Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements for two of these projects, with an estimated total annual value of nearly half a million dollars.

 

When you combine all our projects from the last three fiscal years, 58 projects were created or preserved, accounting for 4,397 affordable homes.  

We have seen that we cannot rely on the market alone to produce enough affordable housing. It simply does not create enough to meet the needs of our community, or any community, frankly. This is why we’ve committed more than $316 million since FY23 to preserve, protect, or produce affordable housing throughout the County. In just the last 15 months alone, that's more than 2,200 units.

These projects support older adults, people in mental health recovery, working families, and first-time homebuyers. We also ensured that affordable units are being built and preserved to help larger families and create opportunities for home ownership. We need to make these investments if we want to be a community where people aren’t priced out by rising costs.

I encourage you to read the FY25 Affordable Housing Pipeline Report and the FY26 First Quarter Affordable Housing Pipeline Report for more details. You can access earlier pipeline reports dating back to September 2022 on the DHCA website.

Department of Energy Grants Canceled

Last week, the Trump Administration canceled 12 Department of Energy (DOE) grants totaling nearly $88 million in Maryland. Nationwide, the DOE canceled $7.5 billion in grants to Democratic-leaning blue states. I’d like to explain some of what these cuts mean here in Maryland.

These cuts hit home, including funds for Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE) to enhance grid reliability and battery storage, research at the University of Maryland on cold-climate heat pumps and industrial emissions reductions, and a Maryland company working to improve building energy efficiency.

These cancellations ripple through our community. BGE investments in grid reliability, for instance, may be borne by our local BGE ratepayers in the form of higher electricity prices. In a time of rising electricity prices and economic uncertainty, local electric ratepayers cannot afford to subsidize partisan attacks on clean energy and innovation.

Our federal government should, instead, continue to support energy system upgrades and technological breakthroughs. You can read the reaction to these cuts from Maryland’s Congressional delegation here.

Active Aging Week



This week, we celebrated Active Aging Week, an opportunity to recognize and support older adults who continue to stay active, engaged, and connected in our community.

Our signature event, “Go, Grow, and Get Active,” took place on Monday, October 6, at the Nancy H. Dacek North Potomac Community Recreation Center. Photos from the event are shared on our Recreation Department’s Facebook page. It featured workshops, wellness activities, and a resource fair with local organizations that help older adults and caregivers stay healthy and connected.

I am proud to support these efforts because they reflect what Montgomery County stands for. We want to help people age in place. The cost of living, inflation, and other factors can make it difficult for older adults to remain in our community. Devoting resources to promoting inclusion, dignity, and opportunities for everyone at every age shows how much value we place in every resident. Find out more about services for older adults on our website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior.

We are committed to supporting older adults in Montgomery County by providing the resources they need to remain active, connected, and independent. Learn more about our activities through the Recreation Department and register for activities online through Active Montgomery.

I would like to thank everyone who participated, volunteered, and contributed to making Active Aging Week a success. You again showed the strength and vitality our older residents bring to this community every day.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day



Montgomery County is proud to recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day on the second Monday of October. We join a growing number of communities across the country in choosing to honor the people who lived on this land long before European explorers arrived—and in doing so, we move away from celebrating Columbus Day.

By now, I hope more people realize Christopher Columbus was not a hero. His arrival marked the beginning of centuries of violence, exploitation, and displacement of Indigenous peoples. That’s not something we should celebrate because these lands were not “discovered,” they were already home to thriving, complex societies with deep histories and cultures.

The truth is that the mistreatment of Indigenous communities didn’t end centuries ago. It persists today in many forms, and we have a responsibility to acknowledge this and strive to do better moving forward.

Here in Montgomery County, we value our diversity. Among our many communities are more than 30,000 Marylanders and nearly seven million nationwide, with Indigenous roots. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a time to reflect, learn, and recommit to justice and equity for all.

We can’t change the past, but we can choose to tell the truth about it.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,



Marc Elrich

County Executive