Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

 

Dear Friends,

We had a great announcement this week – the expansion of Head Start in Montgomery County to provide early childhood education and care for the youngest children – infants through 3-year-olds. This helps address one of the biggest challenges that families face, which is access to quality, affordable child care for the youngest children.

I was joined by child care providers, MCPS leadership, the Council President, parents, and community partners to announce $10 million in early childhood education investments. For the first time in 59 years, Montgomery County is expanding its Head Start program to include an Early Head Start component. This brings more than $6 million in federal funding and allows us—for the first time—to expand these services to include infants and toddlers ages 0 to 3 in community-based programs. Currently, Head Start is available for four- and five-year-olds. This change helps some families access the support they need from the very start of their child’s life.

We also announced a new $4 million facility loan program for child care providers. We know providers work on very thin margins and often struggle to expand or improve their facilities. This program offers forgivable and interest-free loans so providers can create more infant and toddler seats and better serve families who need them most.

And we launched a Shared Resources Collaborative that gives providers access to coaching, business management tools, and collective purchasing power. By lowering costs and strengthening operations, providers can focus on what matters most: teaching and nurturing our children.

All of this builds on the findings from our 2024 child care supply and demand study, which showed that only 19% of infants and toddlers in the County had access to quality, licensed care. That gap hurts families and our economy. Without access to affordable child care, many people, women in particular, are unable to return to work, which hurts our local economy. These initiatives are a direct response to that challenge, and they are designed with equity in mind.

As a former elementary school teacher in a high-poverty school, I know the importance of early education and the connection to learning and success in school. For years, we have talked about many children entering school two years behind. Two years behind is enormous: that means children begin school with the abilities of a three-year-old rather than a five-year-old. They are not prepared for work at their age level. It is no secret that those children start behind and often stay behind, effectively preventing them from being able to be successful at grade-level work, not just in kindergarten but beyond. Brain development in those early years is critically important and impacts future growth. Early childhood education can help ensure that children start school ready and prepared to learn academically, but also socially and emotionally – it's not only about the academics. If they don't get exposure and intervention early, it can become, and often does, a barrier to future learning. The return on investment in a young child is multiples of that return on money spent to remediate learning problems when they are older. Of all the efforts and proposals to address student achievement, early childhood education is the most effective and least costly over the long term than anything else we can do. Put simply, we can fix the problem now or pay for not fixing it later.

Each of these programs will benefit families, and most importantly, provide children with the opportunity to build a critical foundation of early learning that will help them throughout their lives.

Federal Health Care Decisions Creating Confusion and Increasing Costs

The Trump administration and officials have been sowing confusion and dubious claims about vaccines, and this week, Trump and his HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. asserted a link between Tylenol and autism. There is no solid, peer-reviewed science that supports the proposition that Tylenol causes autism. Yet it’s being presented in a way that blurs the line between speculation and fact. That causes fear, chaos, and mistrust. It puts doctors in an impossible position — how do you advise someone when federal leadership seems to be issuing statements that aren’t backed by science?

To bring clarity to vaccine guidance, Maryland and other states have joined the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, a multistate coalition to develop vaccine recommendations and other public health guidance to combat confusing messages coming from the Trump administration. The Collaborative aims to help people understand what is safe and provide information so that doctors can offer counsel based on knowledge and experience. Montgomery County stands with the Maryland Department of Health on the importance of vaccination to help reduce the burden of COVID, Flu, and RSV in the community.

This week, our County’s health officer, Dr. Kisha Davis, a family physician, joined me for my media briefing and talked about the importance of clearing up confusion caused by the Trump administration. You can watch it here: youtube.com/@montgomerycountymd.

In other bad health care news, health insurance costs are going up. Maryland announced that individual health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will increase by an average of 13.4% next year if Congress does not extend the “enhanced premium tax credits.” These credits help make these plans affordable for many, and they will end at the end of 2025 unless Congress acts. This will impact low-income earners nationally and some could see premiums double, according to an estimate by the Congressional Budget Office earlier this year.

If more people drop their coverage, they are more likely to use the most expensive health care—the emergency room—and that is a cost shared by many.

So put this all together:

• Unscientific claims about health risks (like Tylenol and autism) are being made with huge visibility.
• Mixed or contradictory guidance about vaccines is confusing people who just want to make safe choices.
• Insurance costs are skyrocketing, and many people depend on those exchange plans to get basic medical care.

The outcome is leading to people skipping care, delaying vaccinations or treatment, or being priced out of insurance entirely. It breaks trust. It undermines public health. And it contradicts the oath doctors swear — first, do no harm. Maybe RFK, Jr. doesn’t think that applies to him because he’s not a doctor.

We need policy based on science, transparent evidence, and responsible communication. We need leadership that doesn’t stoke fear but instead supports patients and clinicians with clarity. When the federal government issues statements, it must be accountable to science. And Congress needs to act so that people relying on health insurance marketplaces aren’t left completely exposed by disappearing subsidies.

Because without that, the confusion, cost, and harm will only grow — and the burden will fall on the most vulnerable among us.

Notable Economic Development News

I want to tell you about a few of my meetings this week that didn't make headlines but could be important for our continuing efforts to diversify our economy. First, there was the Bio Health Capital Region Forum held at US Pharmacopeia. I noticed a packed house as I gave welcoming remarks and talked about the reasons we are the heart of the nation's #3 hub for the life sciences industry. In the last year, we have seen AstraZeneca open its $300 million cell therapy center, a number of our smaller innovators advance their therapies, and the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing (IHC) expand its staff here in the County to more than 100. We continue to welcome more collaboration and investment in the pursuit of medical innovations.

Because of that conference, the County hosted several international companies looking at different places to expand their U.S. operations. Nine medical device and diagnostics companies looking to expand to the U.S. had the opportunity to meet with companies at the Germantown and Rockville Innovation Centers, faculty from the IHC, the Fischell School of Engineering, and local regulatory consultants to learn more about the process and why Montgomery County would be a great place to do business. Meetings like this one help us pitch our area as a way to meet specific needs. From our conference room at the Leggett Executive Office Building in Rockville, company leaders were able to walk to the Rockville Innovation Center for a tour of the facilities. Montgomery County now has four innovation centers to help small businesses work without costly overhead. Montgomery County now has four innovation centers to help small businesses work without costly overhead. The latest innovation center, which focuses on helping businesses incorporate artificial intelligence into their products and services, will open its doors next week.

Finally, I want to offer my congratulations to Harbor Bank, which celebrated the grand opening of its first branch in Silver Spring on Tuesday. The bank is committed to supporting historically underrepresented communities. These are communities where funding loans can be difficult. The partnerships already created by leaders with the Montgomery County Black Chamber of Commerce and the Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce are a sign that they are ready to flourish here and help provide the kinds of resources that our community needs.

New Laws Starting Oct. 1

There are some notable changes in the law that take effect on Wednesday, Oct. 1, which impact Montgomery County and all of Maryland, ranging from new consumer protections to public safety changes. I’d like to run through a few of them now.

The Lowering Prescription Drug Costs for All Marylanders Now Act helps boost the power of Maryland’s Prescription Drug Affordability Board. The board can set upper payment limits for drugs sold in the State and aims to lower the cost of some of the most expensive medications.

The Maryland Online Data Privacy Act will set new rules for personal data collected by companies we do business with. The new measure would give customers the right to opt out of data sales and targeted advertising. Consumers will be able to access, correct, and delete the personal information a company collects. Data protection assessments will also be required of companies for activities considered high-risk.

Other measures will strengthen the laws against secretly recording or watching someone through video surveillance without their permission, force companies that offer subscriptions with automatic renewal to provide consumers with a way to cancel easily without costly penalties, and make it illegal to add medical debt to someone’s credit rating.

Criminal investigations into theft rings should also get a boost. New laws will aid in the prosecution of organized retail theft by allowing police to combine multiple theft incidents committed across different counties into one criminal case in any county where one theft happened.

We have spent a lot of time over the last few years talking about the Sgt. Patrick Kepp Act, and part of that law will go on the books in October. There will be additional penalties and points assessed against a driver convicted of reckless, negligent, or aggressive driving. The criminal justice system adds more offenses to the distinctions of reckless and aggressive driving.

Also starting Oct. 1, there will be new safeguards to help vulnerable people in the adult protective services system. Confidentiality will no longer be a valid reason not to report abuse that is witnessed.

Hospitals will no longer be able to sue patients over medical debts totaling less than $500, and housing covenants won’t be able to restrict the operation of family child care businesses or put undue limits on them. Late rent charges would be capped at 5%.

We are preparing our list of legislative priorities now, and that will continue over the next few months ahead of the next General Assembly session in January.

Ninth Annual Wheaton Arts Parade Returns on Sunday

This Sunday is the Wheaton Arts Parade. We are always working to create a welcoming, inclusive, and safe community for everyone, and the annual arts parade is one way we do that by highlighting the depth of talent right here in our area.

Wheaton is the center of our diverse County. We are home to Maryland's largest Hispanic population, and more than 40% of our residents were born outside of the U.S. Wheaton is a designated Maryland Arts and Entertainment District, which helps produce many artists, creators, and restaurants whose talents are on display during the arts parade festival.

I enjoy how unusual this parade is. It allows people from many walks of life to enjoy music, readings, and dancing. This parade brings together residents, artists, businesses, and civic organizations, including one group that helps tie it all together — the Wheaton Yarn Bomb.

We’ve invested heavily in Wheaton—from the $180 million Wheaton Revitalization Project to securing state aid for a future arts center and affordable housing. This event gives us a chance to celebrate Wheaton's creative side and showcase what makes it a beautiful and fascinating place to live, work, and visit. So, come out for the parade starting at 10 a.m. or visit the Marian Fryer Town Plaza through 5 p.m. for the festival.

Animal Shelter Capacity

Last weekend, our Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center put out a call to help clear the shelter of big dogs because of capacity issues. More owners are surrendering their dogs, and fewer pets are leaving the building. Because of this situation, we are asking anyone considering surrendering a dog to try all reasonable outlets first, like asking friends and neighbors if they are willing to take in a pet.

During tough times like these, the animal services professionals in the County are committed to helping both individuals and their pets. That’s why we’ve partnered with Home To Home— a shelter intake diversion program. Home To Home is a direct-to-adopter tool for pet owners.

This program helps pets find a loving new home without ever seeing the inside of a shelter. Through this collaboration, we can provide free courtesy listings for pets in the community who are searching for new homes. To visit, list a pet, or search for a pet in our area, visit home-home.org.

New Oak Barrel & Vine Store Opens in Wheaton

On Thursday, we opened the County’s newest Oak Barrel & Vine location. It is inside the Westfield Wheaton mall and replaces the former store on Georgia Avenue. This is the sixth store to carry the Oak Barrel & Vine name. From now through Sunday, it will offer special wine and spirit tastings.

The openings of these upgraded stores across our County have been well-received. Montgomery County's Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) generates over $35 million in net profits annually to fund County services. By reinvesting in our communities through stores like this, we are supporting local products and ensuring that ABS continues to provide real value for Montgomery County residents.

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine, and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement, and education for more than 1,000 businesses. The County uses ABS profits to pay down County debt, with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that otherwise would be funded by County tax dollars. ABS also plays another role in our County, helping to prevent underage drinking.

Travel + Leisure Singles Out Two Cities in Montgomery County

I want to recognize the accolades that two of our “cities” just earned from Travel + Leisure magazine. They asked real estate experts along the East Coast for the best places to live, and Bethesda and Silver Spring both made the top 10.

Bethesda ranked #6 for its mix of downtown and residential benefits. Trails and parks also helped it score high marks. Silver Spring was recently listed as the #1 place for families to live in the nation. On this list, it landed at #10. It was singled out as one of the best areas for first-time homeowners across the DMV.

Many people think Bethesda and Silver Spring are their own municipalities – but they are not. They rely on the County government and are supported by two of our five regional service areas. I want to thank the staff at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase and the Silver Spring Regional Services offices for their work and Visit Montgomery for raising up our communities.

Jewish High Holidays

Earlier this week was Rosh Hashanah, the start of the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur begins at sundown next Wednesday, Oct. 1, and continues until nightfall the following day, Oct. 2. For the Jewish community, this is an important time marked by reflection, repentance, and reverence.

It is also a time to hope that the coming year is filled with personal growth and brings peace to all. Shanah Tovah to all who observe.

 
As always, my appreciation for all of you,

Marc Elrich

County Executive

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

Dear Friends,

This past weekend, I attended the Friendship Picnic, a celebration of our diversity and different cultures. This year was noticeably different, with far fewer folks from the community at the event. I was saddened by the fact that I saw almost no Latinos there, but it’s not hard to understand why.

  

Since President Trump has taken office, we've seen a decrease in participation in community events among Hispanic residents that comes from increased fear. This is not just limited to those who are not documented, either. This country is facing a fundamental problem of demonizing Hispanics in the way it is treating all Hispanics.

You can see it in the latest Supreme Court ruling that allows the Trump administration’s use of racial profiling in immigration arrests in places like Los Angeles. We are making it suspicious to have the wrong skin tone, to speak with a heavy accent, to hold the wrong kind of job, or to have the wrong last name.

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor rightfully blasted this ruling and policy, who said, "We should not have to live in a country where the Government can seize anyone who looks Latino, speaks Spanish, and appears to work a low-wage job." She added to the criticism by wondering if too many Americans are unaware of the difference between presidents and kings.

I agree with her that the seizure of anyone based on superficial reasons and expecting them to prove they are not a criminal is wrong and goes against our constitutional guarantees, namely the 4th Amendment. To link ethnicity alone to reasonable suspicion and call that a relevant factor in detaining someone is beyond unfair, and it's no surprise that the trust that once brought Hispanics to our community events is deteriorating. Seeing people who have every right to be here being subjected to interrogation and arrests, even if they are eventually freed, only heightens the fear in their community.

This decision is critical because we've seen an escalation of ICE activity nationwide that will only increase once the agency’s funding grows by leaps and bounds when the new federal budget is enacted on Oct. 1st. Republicans in Congress appropriated roughly $170 billion for immigration enforcement, deportations, and border security. This is a $75 billion increase—nearly 45% more than they previously received.

But what happens when there are even more people who will be subject to arrest? And what started with the “let’s get rid of dangerous criminals” claim has turned out to be a cover-up to mass indiscriminate deportations. While this disproportionately impacts Latino communities, our immigrant communities are not made up of Latinos alone, they include neighbors from every corner of the world. We are the most diverse county in the entire nation. Attacks on our immigrant neighbors are an attack on our entire community. We must call out the injustice of these actions.



This climate of fear and intimidation is also targeting Black communities. It was horrifying to learn this week that Trump is now proposing to remove road markers and statues that reflect our nation’s cruel history of slavery.

You must know your history to understand where we are as a nation. It plays a vital role in helping everyone comprehend present-day societal issues. This is not about guilt-tripping people; the underpinnings of racism in this country predate any of us alive today. But what is needed is an understanding of how our past has affected something as basic as whether or not families had the opportunities to build wealth, to be economically successful, or just be free enough to go about their business without having to think about how white people feel about having them here.

As a white person, I know full well that I never had to think about what someone thinks about me when I walk into a store, apply for a job, or speak on a subject because of the color of my skin. Imagine what it’s like if you did those things and all the while had to be conscious of what a person might be thinking about you just because you're Black. Trump and his cronies laid that out pretty clearly when they said that when seeing a person of color or a woman in a position of authority, they assume they didn’t get there by merit but are there because of wokeness.

Whitewashing our history and blinding future generations to past injustices is wrong and ineffective. And as a former schoolteacher of history, this is antithetical to the purpose of education and us learning our history. This is a new form of resurrecting Jim Crow laws in our society.

This is a sad time for America, and while we can’t control what the federal government is doing, Montgomery County remains committed to equity, creating opportunities, ensuring safety, and upholding fairness and dignity for all.

I know you care about this too, and it is good to find opportunities to support and help.

I joined my friend Representative Jamie Raskin and many others in Silver Spring Thursday night to greet the We Are America March participants. They are a coalition of grassroots organizations and faith-based groups intending to send a message to the establishment in D.C. by leading a march from Independence Hall in Philadelphia to the Capitol.



One of my favorite parts of being County Executive in Montgomery County is that we are a community that refuses to stay silent in the face of injustice. We are not afraid of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We embrace them because they make us stronger. This week, we also celebrated a ray of hope — our Latino leaders who, despite difficult times, continue to shine as examples of resilience and collective action. Their strength reminds us that even in moments of fear, our community can rise together.

At a time when national policies sometimes seek to divide us, Montgomery County will continue to stand for inclusion and justice. If you’d like to help, reach out to the Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center and volunteer. You can also support the local efforts to protect historical accuracy and support International Underground Railroad Month. Visit Montgomery has featured many of these sites in this update.

Electric Vehicle Tax Breaks Expiring Sept. 30



I have been an electric vehicle (EV) driver since about 2013, and I have enjoyed it: how quiet they ride, the performance, and most importantly, the savings from fuel costs. For a long time, being an EV owner came with challenges. It was sometimes difficult with the lack of charging stations and range after a charge. The number of charging stations significantly increased under the Biden Administration with the help of the Inflation Reduction Act. Also, today’s EVs have a range of at least 200 and up to 300 miles on a full charge.

For over a decade, the benefits of federal EV tax credits have helped push sales and the number of people who have traded their traditional vehicle for a plug-in version. Those incentives have grown to $7,500 for new cars and $4,000 for used vehicles, but the assistance is ending Sept. 30. 

The sunset of this program is a direct result of the Trump administration’s "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." It reduces clean energy incentives and wrecks a program that is working to change habits and produce a greener future.



But just as bad – whether it is EVs, solar panels, or windmills – this nation is also ceding market share of renewable energy technologies to foreign countries, especially China. You can see global EV sales in the graphic above. Please note that the light and dark blue sections are China, the green is Europe, and the yellow is the United States. It’s sad to see how far behind the rest of the world we are today, divesting in federal EV programs hurts our ability to gain market share. Stifling clean energy solutions like EVs and windmills and pushing gas vehicles. harms domestic car companies in global markets–the rest of the world is doubling down on EVs and clean energy while we are walking away.

The U.S. has fallen out of sync with most of the world because our oil and gas companies have disproportionate sway over political decisions. The Biden Administration understood the fossil fuel influence, which is why the last administration invested so much in renewable technologies to catch up. But now, we are going backward with the Trump Administration. The end of the EV tax credits is just another attack on technologies that threaten fossil fuel company profits, and it prevents American companies from being competitive in global economic markets.

To take advantage of the EV incentives before the deadline, EV users should be aware of the following:

• Purchase or lease and take delivery of the vehicle before the end of September.
• The credit is non-refundable, meaning it can only reduce a taxpayer's tax liability and won't result in a refund beyond that amount.
• This change will also end the transfer credit that dealerships can offer resellers of EV vehicles.
• Dealers have the best information about maximizing the credit, so it’s a good idea to talk to them directly.

Montgomery County has led the State in the switch to EVs, with 31% of Maryland's registered plug-in vehicles owned or leased by Montgomery County residents. We have at least 40,000 plug-in EVs in Montgomery County and have worked to increase EV adoption through the EV Purchasing Co-op Dealership Incentives program and infrastructure development.

You can also learn about EVs at Poolesville Day on Saturday. Read more about Poolesville Day here and below in this letter.

We have been installing EV chargers in public parking garages and transforming the County’s fleet to EVs by buying only zero-emission vehicles when we need to replace County sedans. I believe this is still the best way forward to help cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and choose a sustainable way forward. I hope those with an EV continue discussing the benefits of getting away from gas guzzlers. I know it’s a change I don’t regret making.

Our Department of Environmental Protection has been helping residents and area companies add charging stations to shopping centers, apartment complexes, and neighborhoods. Visit montgomerycountymd.gov/dep and look for our sections on Electric Vehicle Incentives and Zero-Emission Vehicles.

Electrifying Montgomery County with Grants from the Maryland Energy Administration



I’m pleased that Montgomery County secured over $2 million in competitive grants from the Maryland Energy Administration. The money will help us expand clean energy efforts, improve efficiency in County buildings, and add new electric vehicle charging stations.

Projects tied to this grant money include solar canopies and EV chargers at the Shady Grove Transfer Station, upgrades to lighting in County facilities and parking lots, and making the Holiday Park Senior Center our first net-zero County facility.

These projects alone will reduce electricity use by nearly 1 million kilowatt-hours annually, generate more than 1,000 kilowatts of clean energy, and save the County at least $214,000 yearly in energy costs.

Beyond those benefits, LED light installations in County parking garages will improve safety, provide customer access to our business districts, and generate revenue that helps maintain those areas.

Our continuing work to make this a greener County will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save taxpayer dollars, and create healthier communities.

I want to thank Governor Moore, the Maryland Energy Administration, and our County departments for collaborating on innovative and creative ways to advance better energy solutions. Working together shows how local government can lead to sustainability and bring tangible benefits back to our residents.

Celebrating Poolesville Day this Saturday



This weekend the town of Poolesville and many of its neighboring communities will celebrate a tradition that began more than 20 years ago. Poolesville Day is an all-day event for families, civic organizations, and anyone looking for fun.

This year’s traditional parade will honor Brenda Murther, who has been an active volunteer for many organizations for more than 50 years, who will serve as the grand marshal. Her leadership with the Girl Scouts, the creation of Camp Sunshine, her long service to St. Mary’s Church, and her decades of volunteering at the local thrift store reflect the values that make Montgomery County such a special place. She has dedicated much of her life to supporting young people, and we are all better for her example of service and kindness.

Poolesville Green has been a big champion of EVs, and this Saturday, they will be hosting an EV event as part of Poolesville Day. It’s great fun to check out the different electric vehicles. I appreciate Poolesville’s efforts to spread the word about EVs.

I’ll be there for the Poolesville Day breakfast and am pleased that we will also be joined by Lt. Governor Aruna Miller. Community events like this help strengthen the ties that bind us together as neighbors. You can expect a 5K run, local businesses out in support of the event, music, agricultural demonstrations, and health screenings.

I encourage residents from across Montgomery County to visit Poolesville on Saturday and enjoy the celebration.

Burtonsville Day this Weekend and Other East County Investments



This Saturday, I will also be walking in the Burtonsville Day parade. The parade steps off at 10 a.m. and the fun continues with a festival from 11 to 3 p.m., complete with live music, good food, and a packed list of vendors.

This annual community festival celebrates East County’s heritage and diversity while emphasizing our unity as neighbors and friends. It may be called Burtonsville Day, but that also encompasses the community spirit of Hillandale, White Oak, Briggs Chaney, Colesville, Cloverly, and Spencerville.

Before I became County Executive, I heard the frustration from East County residents. Plans were discussed, but development stalled out before we saw any fundamental changes. That was the old narrative. Today, we have many examples of progress in East County over the last few years.

We listened to the community when it called for the redevelopment of the Burtonsville Crossing shopping center and helped set up what should be the most significant development in the history of East County with Viva White Oak. We’ve prioritized higher education by assisting Montgomery College’s expansion in East County and laying the roadmap for a fourth campus there, too. Other significant additions include Adventist Medical Center, a 230-room hospital, White Oak Town Center improvements, and the Hillandale Gateway Development.

Redevelopment in East County helps all of Montgomery County. Saturday allows everyone to celebrate these wins and unite around the Marilyn J. Praisner Community Rec Center. I hope to see you there.

Promoting Maryland’s New Vaccine FAQ Page

As respiratory illnesses begin to force people to stay home sick, I want to highlight a significant move made by the Maryland Department of Health.

It is now sharing a COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions page on Maryland.gov. It will take visitors through medical guidelines for receiving an updated vaccine and different scenarios they may encounter with a medical provider or a pharmacist.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is updating its guidance for COVID-19 vaccines, which has left many people searching for answers to questions about how to protect themselves. Talk to your health care provider about your eligibility for a COVID-19 vaccine.

Vaccine season is already underway, and we have seen COVID-19 cases rise as more people return to school. Thankfully, many people have recovered without the need for a hospital visit. I encourage you to ask your doctor if getting a vaccine is right for you because it remains your best protection against severe disease.

Luisa F. Cardona Confirmed, Becomes Newest Assistant Chief Administrative Officer



I want to introduce you to someone many in Mid-County already know well.

Luisa F. Cardona was confirmed this week by the County Council and is now one of three assistant chief administrative officers serving the County. Luisa is taking over the role that was vacated with the retirement of Sonia Mora.

Previously, Luisa was the director of our Mid-County Regional Services office and did incredible work in that community. ​She joined me for my weekly media briefing and shared a bit about her time serving MidCounty, which you can watch here.

Celebrating African Heritage Month



Last week, the County honored our bonds with the African community by recognizing African Heritage Month. This celebration has been a proud tradition for 17 years and speaks to the strength and vibrancy of our African community.

More than 63,000 Montgomery County residents were born in Africa. They are business owners, educators, scientists, and community leaders. They help make us one of the most diverse counties in the nation.

African history is not separate from American history—it is at the core of it. Too often, that history has been overlooked or minimized. But we know that this country's story —its labor, growth, and culture—could not exist without the contributions of Africans and their descendants.

‘Community Conversations’ Continue About FY27 Operating Budget



Finally, I want to thank the Up-County community for participating in the "Community Conversations" about the FY27 Operating Budget held last week at the Black Rock Center for the Arts. People came in person and participated online to ask questions about the County’s plans for community improvements in the Gaithersburg, Germantown, and Montgomery Village areas.

Our next forum will start at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 28, at the Silver Spring Civic Center Building at 1 Veterans Place in the Fenton Room. This budget forum is geared toward older adults and is being held in partnership with The Beacon. This forum will only be available in person. Please make plans to attend if you are interested in providing feedback about the County's next operating budget and how it pertains to older residents or your neighborhood

All “Community Conversations” are also televised live on the County cable station County Cable Montgomery, which can be seen on Comcast (Channel 6 and High-Definition Channel 996), RCN (Channel 6 and HD 1056) and Verizon (Channel 30). If you can’t make it to one of the Community Conversations but would like to participate in the process, submit your question to me directly.

Rosh Hashanah is Next Week



Next week marks the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah, a celebration of the Jewish New Year and the first of several Jewish holidays this fall.

Shanah Tovah to all who are celebrating, I wish you all a sweet and happy New Year. I hope that you’re able to celebrate safely with loved ones and enjoy this time together with friends and family.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,



Marc Elrich

County Executive

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

 

Dear Friends,

This was a difficult week for our nation. We were aware of the 24th anniversary of 9/11 and remembering the tremendous loss from that day, but we were shocked by yet another school shooting and the very public shooting death of Charlie Kirk.

I extend my condolences to Mr. Kirk’s family and friends. I did not share Mr. Kirk’s views. But in this country, people have the right to speak their minds without fear of violence. That principle is at the core of the First Amendment and our democracy.

We should be able to argue, organize, and debate without resorting to hate or violence. Civil discourse requires that, and I will always defend it.

University Boulevard Corridor Plan Concerns

This week, I joined many residents at the University Boulevard Corridor Plan (UBCP) public hearing in front of the County Council at Montgomery Blair High School to raise serious concerns about the proposed planning approach. It is the first time an issue has compelled me to testify at a public hearing as your County Executive.

This plan introduces a new approach called "Corridor Planning," a concept from Thrive Montgomery 2050, which was approved in 2022. Residents were previously assured that the corridors envisioned in Thrive would be worked out through the master plan process, but that has not happened. Instead, a new process has been created that ignores the master plan process and leaves out meaningful input from the community. The UBCP is the first of nine such corridors identified in Thrive that are coming around the County, as shown in the map below.

You can read the memo I sent to the County Council outlining the concerns. You can find that here. You can also listen to my weekly media briefing, where I discuss this and where I was joined by the President of Montgomery County Civic Federation, Cheryl Gannon. Watch and listen here. You can see the three-minute testimony I gave before the County Council here.

Below, I lay out the key concerns about this plan and about this approach in general.

1. Corridor Planning is a concept introduced in Thrive Montgomery 2050 without sufficient details for residents to understand what it would mean to their neighborhood. While the corridors concept was introduced in Thrive, there was no mention that corridor planning would replace the master plan process. In fact, the introduction to Thrive clearly lays out the importance of master plans. You can read what they say directly in Thrive on page 4.
• The community-based planning division has been eliminated from the Planning Department, and with it, we have lost the comprehensive approach to planning. Corridor planning does not consider community amenities like parks, community centers, and libraries, and it does not include the community advisory committee structure that included residents, local business representatives, and others. The area of study is so small that it is impossible to assess accurately school overcrowding, transportation adequacy, or park deficits. It is so irregular that it is impossible to envision a new, improved community that stimulates economic growth and fifteen-minute living, all goals of Thrive 2050. This is contrary to successful master plan processes – as Thrive correctly lays out, it is the master plan process that is designed to address comprehensive future growth for a specific part of the county.
2. False Premise on Housing Needs:
• The plan is based on the false premise that we need to zone for more housing. Our existing approved master plans already provide zoning capacity for approximately 120,000 housing units, enough for about 300,000 residents, which doesn't even account for 100% build-out. Our forecasted growth is approximately 200,000 residents over 25 years, meaning our current capacity already exceeds demand. The executive director of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) confirmed in a letter dated October 2019 that the region could accommodate significantly more housing than forecast within existing comprehensive plans and zoning. You can also read that quote on page 3 of the memo I sent to Council.
• This plan appears designed to let developers target existing neighborhoods, creating a false sense that there's no other land to develop. I believe this is a deliberate distortion from planning officials who are aware we have planned for future growth. They even fail to mention that the housing projection for 2030 dropped significantly in recent forecasts, which would disrupt their narrative.
• This approach will likely shift development away from planned areas like Wheaton and other activity centers, drawing density away from transit centers that were designated for smart growth.
• Unlike other jurisdictions like Minneapolis or Arlington that rezoned due to a lack of capacity, Montgomery County already possesses the necessary zoning and capacity.
3. This Effort Is Not About Creating More Affordable Housing:
• This plan incentivizes the redevelopment of existing, naturally occurring affordable housing, which will inflate land prices. Studies by Park and Planning confirm that new housing in existing neighborhoods will be the same or higher cost than existing housing, not to benefit homeowners or create affordable options.
• This existing area near University Boulevard is already affordable, and rezoning could lead to the displacement of renters and the loss of cherished neighborhood businesses.
• This plan does not include a "no net loss" policy for affordable housing.
• Rhetoric has even demonized single-family neighborhoods, wrongly blaming them for the County’s segregated past, which was rooted in land covenants.
• The goal of this plan seems to be to turn single-family neighborhoods into new "greenfields" for townhouse developers.
4. This Specific Plan is Based on a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line That Is Not Even Planned:
• The plan relies on a BRT line that is not even in the planning stages. I am a strong advocate for BRT, and I proposed the original map in 2008; however, there is NO FUNDING in the six-year capital budget for planning or construction, or even in the outyears, so we don't know when it will be built.
• Encouraging immediate upzoning and increased density based on the idea of BRT is irresponsible; in the past, development was tied to infrastructure, a process called staging, which is no longer a concept in use.
5. No Real Traffic Analysis:
• There is a severe lack of real traffic analysis with this plan. The plan lays out “near-term” and “long-term” recommendations for the immediate area that could have significant impacts on residents and existing businesses in the surrounding area. Many of these impacts are not analyzed or addressed, not even in the appendix. And the appendix is not a part of the Planning Board draft; it is separate.
• Even if a good percentage of the increased population were to use public transit once the BRT is built in the unknown future, a majority will still be using cars. Plans must account for that increase.
• The proposed changes could drastically exacerbate existing congestion on roads like Colesville Road near the beltway. The plan’s narrow boundaries prevent a proper assessment of impacts on the broader road network.
• Proposed street realignments and connections could create new signaled intersections and cut-through traffic, with impacts that are not analyzed or addressed.
6. Conflicts with ZTA 25-02:
• The plan's proposed rezoning directly conflicts with the recently passed ZTA 25-02, causing confusion among residents.
• This plan proposes rezoning R-60, R-90, and R-200 neighborhoods to the Commercial Residential Neighborhood zone, extending beyond corridor-fronting properties and bifurcating established neighborhoods.
7. Environmental Damage:
• This plan will inevitably lead to reduced tree coverage and increased impervious surfaces, directly contradicting our climate change goals.
• This means an increased heat-island effect, reduced stormwater absorption, and greater flooding risks.
8. Rezoning Is Not the Answer to Addressing Safety Concerns:
• The planning staff’s presentation to the County Council emphasized pedestrian and biker safety, but they did not acknowledge that rezoning is the answer.
• In fact, improving safety on University Boulevard is a top priority, and the State is already addressing it through its Pedestrian Action Plan.
• There are ways to improve safety without linking it to a plan that will increase density and traffic.

I appreciated the many people who testified this week. The map above shows how many neighborhoods this one plan would touch. You can watch the hearing yourself, attend the next public hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at the Council Office Building, or read my memo to the Council to learn more. My testimony before the Council is available here.

There is a second public hearing next week on Tuesday, Sept. 16.

There is a better way to achieve our housing goals -- by revising master plans that were zoned for high densities but have not yet been built out. We must find solutions that increase housing affordability without exacerbating traffic, overcrowding schools, damaging our environment, or overtaxing County services. I urge the rejection of the University Boulevard Corridor Plan and a return to a more inclusive planning process that genuinely listens to our communities.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and Supporting Our Community

Monday, Sept. 15, marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. Our Hispanic community, which makes up over 21% of Montgomery County and includes families from El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras, and beyond, makes our County stronger.

This month is usually a joyous celebration, but this year, a cloud of fear and concern hangs over the community because of federal immigration policies, leading to increased ICE activity and over-policing of black and brown communities.

We've seen the impact in Montgomery County; events like the Salvadoran festival have been canceled, and some fear going to work or sending their kids to school. As a County, we are working closely with our schools and community partners to share vital information and help residents understand their rights.

I am angered by the targeted attacks against Hispanic communities based on their appearance or language; it is a disservice to our nation's values. The federal policy that equates looking brown and having a manual labor job with being illegal is a backward, racist viewpoint reminiscent of the segregated era I grew up in. We stand with our neighbors in their struggle to be treated fairly.

Our Hispanic communities have positively impacted our County for years: holding jobs, contributing tax revenue, and boosting spending power. We have the most diverse County in the United States, and we are not looking to change that. It is important to remember that immigrant workers pay state and federal taxes, and through property ownership or rent, they contribute to local taxes. And while they pay taxes, some are ineligible for many programs due to their immigration status.

We will continue our work to help them feel safe and valued. Anyone in need of information or immigrant resource services should utilize the Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center. It is available during the week at (240) 777-4940. If you don’t need services but can volunteer and help immigrant communities during this stressful time, it would be appreciated.

Remarkable Progress in Addressing Troubled Properties

Our latest Troubled Property report for Fiscal Year 2025 is out with some encouraging news. It shows a 69% decrease in the total number of units on the list, dropping from 7,269 units in Fiscal Year 2024 to just 2,264 units this past year. This means thousands more residents are living in safer conditions. We also saw a 57% decrease in units on the At-Risk list.

This progress is a direct result of our focused strategies, including stepped-up enforcement efforts by our Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA) on housing code violations. New tools like our rent stabilization law, which limits rent increases for properties with violations, have incentivized landlords to fix problems faster.

Additionally, new tenant protections from Bill 6-25, passed in April, have strengthened consumer protections and given our enforcement efforts "more teeth." You can watch the bill signing and hear from me, the bill's lead sponsor, Councilmember Kristin Mink, Councilmember Will Jawando, and more on the County’s YouTube page.

Our DHCA Code Enforcement team completed more than 15,000 mandated inspections of multifamily rental units, correcting critical health and safety issues like pests, mold, and inadequate alarms. Property owners are now responding faster, leading to a more than halved rate of housing code citations for failure to comply. To reach Code Enforcement with a concern, call 311 within the County or (240) 777-0311 from outside the County.

The health and safety of Montgomery County residents remain my top priorities. While these results are encouraging, our commitment continues, and we will keep working diligently to protect the well-being of all residents.

National Preparedness Month: Be Ready Montgomery

September is National Preparedness Month, a time to highlight the importance of developing a prepared and resilient community. Even as FEMA this week announced the closure of its National Preparedness Toolkit feature, our County remains committed to helping every family prepare for any event, from floods and snowstorms to power outages and heatwaves.

We share key information through Alert Montgomery for weather changes and traffic alerts, and we encourage families to build emergency kits and develop family plans.

The Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security will host the free "Ready Montgomery: Emergency Preparedness and Public Safety Fair" on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Wheaton Local Park in Silver Spring. It will feature emergency preparedness talks, CPR and AED training, and bleeding control demonstrations. I encourage you to attend or share these important messages through our social media channels.

National Preparedness Month reminds us that individual awareness, community resources, and strong inter-agency collaboration are crucial for our collective resilience during emergencies.

Maryland Prioritizes Protecting Access to Vaccines

September is also the start of respiratory virus season. Despite federal uncertainty regarding vaccine policy, Maryland has taken steps to ensure continued vaccine access. Recently, Gov. Wes Moore emphasized that the health and safety of Marylanders are the State's "North Star," pledging to ensure access to life-saving medicines like vaccines.

Earlier this month, Gov. Moore signed a bill ensuring that insurance providers, including Medicaid and private insurers, will continue to cover the cost of all vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices as of Dec. 31, 2024. This legislation, now in effect, protects against the withdrawal of vaccine coverage for a range of illnesses. Last year, a law also expanded pharmacists' authority to administer flu and COVID-19 vaccines without a prescription to anyone three years and older, increasing statewide availability.

Here in Montgomery County, we are committed to careful, evidence-based decision-making for patient safety and disease prevention, even as federal guidance standards become uncertain. School immunization requirements for children remain unchanged, and families should consult their pediatrician about COVID-19 vaccines. Our free school vaccination program for uninsured children continues through September. You can check for scheduled clinics on govaxmoco.com.

Join Us for the Annual Friendship Picnic This Sunday

Montgomery County’s Office of Human Rights and the Committee Against Hate/Violence will host the annual Friendship Picnic at Wheaton Regional Park this Sunday, Sept. 14, from noon to 5 p.m. This is a truly special event that brings together people from every culture, background, and faith. By sharing food, spending time together, and building new relationships, we strengthen the bonds that make Montgomery County such a welcoming and inclusive place. You don’t need to bring anything, just an appetite.

Events like the Friendship Picnic remind us that we are stronger when we celebrate our diversity, learn from one another, and stand against hate.

I look forward to seeing you there as we continue building a community rooted in respect, compassion, and unity.

 
As always, my appreciation for all of you,

Marc Elrich
County Executive

Message from the County Executive Marc Elrich

Dear Friends,

In case you missed it, I encourage you to watch this week’s Senate hearing with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

I am outraged by the reckless words and actions of Secretary Kennedy and the Trump administration. Public health is on the line, and misinformation from the highest levels of government threatens lives.

During the pandemic, Montgomery County set the standard for what was possible when science guided our response. Among all large jurisdictions in this nation—those with more than a million residents—no county had a higher vaccination rate or a lower death rate. That did not happen by chance. It happened because our residents trusted science, trusted their neighbors who work in federal agencies and life sciences companies, and understood that vaccines save lives.

Let’s remember Operation Warp Speed was actually something that Donald Trump got right in his first term. That program produced COVID vaccines in record time, and it worked. The alternative was so-called “herd immunity,” which would have meant millions more deaths. That is not a matter of opinion. That is what science tells us.

When someone in charge of public health actively undermines vaccines, they are not only ignoring science but also endangering every American. Here in Montgomery County, we know better because we lived through it, and we saw what saved lives.

And let’s be clear: it is not just Democrats who are saying this. Even Republicans, like Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, a physician, are alarmed at what is happening. Here is what was reported in Politico.

“But Cassidy said he saw a contradiction, pointing to Kennedy’s past work for anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defense and his decision to cancel $500 million in federal mRNA vaccine research funding, as well as his past statement that “the Covid vaccine killed more people than Covid.”
Cassidy also raised alarms about Kennedy’s effort to overhaul the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s vaccine advisory panel, saying many of Kennedy’s appointees to the panel had served as paid witnesses in cases against vaccine makers.

“That actually seems like a conflict of interest,” Cassidy added. Kennedy pushed back, saying bias was acceptable “if that bias is disclosed.”

Cassidy also raised concerns about new restrictions on access to Covid vaccines that will make it more difficult for healthy, young people to get the shots.

“I would say effectively we’re denying people vaccine,” Cassidy said.

The evidence is overwhelming, and yet this administration continues to elevate denial over fact. Republicans need to convince Donald Trump that Secretary Kennedy must be removed before he causes more damage. Public health is not a partisan issue—it is a matter of life and death.

Honoring Workers Locally While the Federal Government Continues Its Reckless Actions

Every year, on Labor Day, I enjoy shining a spotlight on the important role of workers. Last week, I used this letter to provide a little history and discuss the hard work undertaken to ensure fair treatment for everyone who earns a paycheck.



This past Monday, I walked in the Kensington Labor Day Parade. It was really nice to see so many people on a beautiful day. It gave me another opportunity to express my thanks and appreciation for our County’s workers, while I also have foremost on my mind is the fate of thousands of federal workers, contractors, NGOs, and immigrant workers. All are caught in the turmoil caused by our federal government, having their lives (and the lives of their families) disrupted by the chaotic decisions made by President Trump. For the workers who keep their jobs, Trump is tossing out negotiated labor agreements — basic rights that came from hard-fought struggles to recognize the right of workers to form unions. You can read more about that here.

The clear direction here for the President is backwards, whether it’s racial justice, immigration, scientific integrity, investment in science, women’s rights, workers’ rights, environmental protections, or anything to do with dealing with historic injustices — progress is under attack.

We are seeing the impact of the federal government's cutbacks. I mentioned some of these examples a few weeks ago, but they bear repeating:

• Through July, while employment has grown in Montgomery County this year, the number of residents employed by the federal government has declined. Exact numbers are hard to find, but roughly 5,000 residents are no longer employed by the federal government, whether they worked in DC, Virginia, or in the County itself. However, I know this is not yet the full extent of federal job loses.
• Voluntary buyout offers for employees at dozens of agencies, a "deferred resignation" program, and deep budget cuts to non-defense agencies, could truly be felt starting in October. There are groups that speak up for the U.S. scientific enterprise, and I hope their efforts can soften the impact of these detrimental moves.

Last week, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that Montgomery County's unemployment rate for July was 3.6%. That’s up 1.1% from the 2.5% rate in January 2025 and is a reversal of the downward trend we saw coming out of the pandemic. The last time it was this high was October 2021. National unemployment, updated today, Friday, Sept. 5, sits at 4.3%.



The chart above, detailing Federal Reserve Economic Data, tracks the last decade of unemployment rates for Montgomery County. The most recent data may only show part of the picture. Potentially 20,000 jobs, and up to 40,000 jobs might still be lost when you factor in contractors, NGOs, and vendors who support federal operations that may not survive in the next federal budget.

From the County’s economic perspective, this situation reinforces what I have long argued - that we cannot afford to be so dependent on federal jobs. This is why we have focused many of our efforts over the last six years on diversifying our economy by capitalizing on our strengths in life sciences and other tech industries.

In response to federal layoffs, we invested an additional $700,000 to expand WorkSource Montgomery's in-person operations, helping our residents adapt and find new opportunities. With more than $3 million in funding now, WorkSource Montgomery is positioned to serve more clients than ever.

Talk to anyone who is looking for work and they will tell you how isolating it can feel to just be sitting on a computer applying for one job after another day after day. Our WorkSource Montgomery offices in Wheaton provide anyone looking for work with the opportunity to talk to someone.

There are additional resources in our community, like resume writing classes through our great Public Libraries. Montgomery College also has a host of training programs that displaced workers can utilize. Mobilize Montgomery is another important tool for former federal workers. I have been very impressed at the speed at which the Moore-Miller Administration has accomplished - working in partnership with Montgomery College and other higher education institutions - to transition former federal workers into teaching positions through Teach Maryland.

We are also deeply concerned about the impact of potential federal actions on our immigrant workforce, particularly regarding construction, service, and restaurant workers. This could cause major disruptions to our economy once the Trump administration has the billions of dollars that will be devoted to building what I call his “ICE Army.” This will be an economic disaster that impacts not just the County but our entire nation.

There are millions of immigrants in our country without legal status (even after having been here for decades) who are likely to get caught in this roundup simply because the Trump administration wants to deport 11 million people. There aren’t 11 million undocumented violent criminals. Federal efforts are now expanding and will take people from businesses that rely on this labor.

Contrary to common conservative-driven tropes, our immigrant workers are NOT freeloaders. Immigrants pay taxes, even if they are not allowed to utilize the services those taxes fund. If they work for most employers, they pay payroll taxes, including social security and Medicare. And if they buy a home, they pay property taxes. If they rent, the property tax is built into the rent payment. Without these workers, tax revenues from these individuals may be reduced.

On Wednesday, Maryland’s Department of Labor Deputy Secretary Jason Perkins-Cohen joined my weekly media briefing. He said that as of 2023, more than 74,000 federal civilian workers lived in Montgomery County, and 48,500 federal civilian jobs were based in Montgomery County. The National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration accounted for most of those jobs. The most recent data through August 23 shows that Montgomery County led the State in unemployment applicants and beneficiaries.

Because both Montgomery County and Maryland are resilient, we also have some better news from the Department of Labor. From the start of the Moore-Miller Administration in January of 2023 until July of this year, Maryland has added more than 101,000 non-farm jobs. That’s a rate of growth of 3.7% and ranks 9th in the nation. Montgomery County accounts for roughly 23% of the State’s Gross Domestic Product, thanks in part to groundbreaking innovations tied to our life sciences industry. The formation of the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing will draw more entrepreneurs and companies to our area for decades to come and help us continue to grow our economy.

I encourage you to visit labor.maryland.gov/federalworkers if you need help finding a job, getting unemployment benefits, or finding reemployment support. I’m glad we have a State administration focused on continued economic growth in Maryland.

Community FY27 Operating Budget Forums Begin Next Week



We are in the early stages of formulating the FY 27 Operating Budget, and input from the public is important. That's why I, along with our regional services offices and community partners, will be hosting 12 Community Conversations through November. These conversations are an opportunity for the public to tell us how they think their tax dollars should be spent.

I urge residents to participate in these discussions because the feedback we receive helps shape our future. We gain valuable insights from these conversations that help guide our decisions and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. The budget ultimately reflects our community's goals and values. We think it is important that people see in our budget the things we are trying to accomplish, how we’re trying to address problems in the community and take advantage of opportunities to move the County forward. There are still many question marks, particularly without knowing how more federal cuts will hurt the workforce and families that call Montgomery County home.

Our first meeting is Monday, Sept. 8, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. It will be held in the East-West Room at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Office. We understand that not everyone can attend in person. That's why this, like most of our forums, will be a hybrid event, giving residents the option to participate virtually.

Each of the County's five regions will host a meeting, and outreach to different audiences will be conducted. Two non-English-language forums will be held, one in Spanish and a multi-lingual forum conducted in English with interpretation services provided in Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese.

Every year, we seek new ways to better connect with our community. We’ve initiated conversations aimed at educators and groups like the African diaspora and seniors. I look forward to hearing from the first community conversation participants beginning next week and over the next few months. Learn more about these meetings right now on our home page at montgomerycountymd.gov.

Habitat for Humanity Offers Affordable Homeownership Opportunities



For many people, the American Dream still includes a home they own and a recent project we introduced to the media last week will help make that a reality for some Montgomery County families.

Homeownership provides families with stability and a chance to build equity. I have pushed to make homeownership a priority when the County invests in affordable housing because it is the key to building wealth. Our investment will help more County families remain in our community and contribute to our tax base.

Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland purchased the 20 townhomes, originally constructed in the 1970s, from the Housing Opportunities Commission in 2024. Our Department of Housing and Community Affairs supported the acquisition of the properties through loans made using approximately $2 million in federal Community Development Block Grant funds, which will be paid back to the County upon the sale of the homes to the new homeowners. That money will be recycled, so to speak, and used to facilitate other affordable housing projects.

Every family deserves to live in a community where they can breathe clean air and where their children can play safely outdoors. This project prioritizes environmental protection, economic opportunity, public health, and building the kind of community where families want to put down roots and thrive.

MoCo Pride Center Opens



I want to recognize an important opening for our community. Last weekend, I attended the ribbon-cutting for the MoCo Pride Center, which is now open seven days a week at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center. It took a lot of work over the years to create a place to support our LGBTQ+ community. This center will feature workshops, wellness activities, and a library. It will be a refuge and beacon of hope for anyone struggling or searching for a supportive community. Learn more about the help it can offer by visiting mocopridefamily.org.

The LGBTQ+ community needs a place like this now more than ever. Trump and the federal government are trying to make discrimination and racism great again and here in Montgomery County, we say no. Opening this center now is a clear sign that Montgomery County will continue to be an ally and proud supporter of all of our diverse communities.

Silver Spring Jazz Festival



The Silver Spring Jazz Fest will be held at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring from 3 to 10 p.m. tomorrow, Saturday, Sept. 6.

I am excited to introduce the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band, who are headlining the festival this year. It’s a band I’ve traveled to New Orleans to see, and now they’re playing here in Silver Spring. The Grammy winners are nationally recognized for preserving and promoting traditional New Orleans jazz. They are one of several artists sharing two stages for the event, covering a wide array of jazz genres. Every time I attend Jazz Fest, I’m introduced to new music and artists.

While the music is the focus, the festival brings thousands of visitors to Downtown Silver Spring. Veterans Plaza is surrounded by wonderful restaurants, several with an international flavor. If you need suggestions, check out silverspringdowntown.com.



I was in Downtown Silver Spring last weekend for the Ethiopian Day Festival. We are lucky to have so many community organizations and supporters who can take the lead on large events like this and allow many people throughout our community to enjoy the arts and connect with each other.

As many people are aware, Purple Line construction has been hard for many of the local businesses. Events like the Ethiopian Day Festival and Jazz Fest help draw people to the area and hopefully, help these businesses sustain themselves during challenging times.

Checking In at the Start of the School Year



Earlier this week I visited several MCPS schools with fellow County leaders and I spoke with many teachers and students about the start of the new school year. Photos from those visits to John F. Kennedy and Albert Einstein High Schools can be found on the County’s Flickr page.

Land Use and Housing Conversations Resume with the University Boulevard Corridor Plan

As part of the ongoing discussions and proposals regarding land use and housing, the Council’s first public hearing on the University Boulevard Corridor Plan will be next Wednesday, Sept. 10 at Blair High School. In advance of the Council’s consideration of the Plan, I have sent a memo to the Council where I outline some of my major concerns about the planning process in general and the University Boulevard Corridor Plan in particular. You can read my memo here: Transmittal of Comments on the University Boulevard Corridor Plan.

As always, my appreciation for all of you,

Marc Elrich
County Executive