Public Meetings - Montgomery County, Maryland

The Economic Development Committee met on April 22, 2026, from 9:32 a.m. to 11:55 a.m. to review the FY27 Operating Budget and FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program for three agenda items: the UM3 Institute for Health Computing, the Economic Development Fund, and Urban Districts. The committee heard from legislative analysts, county executive staff, and directors of the Urban Districts, and made several amendments before recommending approval. UM3 Institute for Health Computing - The County Executive recommended the same $5 million operating support for the Institute for Health Computing (IHC) under the UM3 Non-Departmental Account, as stipulated in the MOU through FY29. - IHC Co-Executive Directors Adam Porter and Brad Marin presented updates: the IHC now supports over 135 personnel (39 living in Montgomery County), has submitted 45 federal grants in the last quarter, received a major $12.5 million award, and has seven innovation applications. Collaborations with the FDA and AstraZeneca were highlighted. - Councilmember Sayles requested the MOU with AstraZeneca and asked about monetization of IHC expertise; the directors explained that revenue models are based on licensing and fees from partners. - All committee members expressed strong support. Councilmember Balcombe called it an obligation under the MOU. Councilmember Glass noted the importance of public investment given federal disinvestment in science. - Outcome: Recommended approval of the FY27 Operating Budget as submitted. Economic Development Fund - The County Executive recommended $4.17 million for the Economic Development Fund (EDF), a decrease of about $7,000 due to compensation adjustments, with no programmatic changes. - Discussion focused on the MOVE program, which has exhausted its current appropriation and has a backlog of applications. The committee agreed to hold a worksession in the fall to review MOVE’s policy and potential modifications. - For the SBIR/STTR program, the program has sunset; a reauthorization bill has legal issues. Councilmember Balcombe advocated for maintaining funding, noting five pending applications worth $200,000. The committee decided not to adopt staff-recommended reductions for SBIR/STTR or the biotech investor incentive, following explanations from Finance that those funds are obligated or dependent on reauthorization. - Councilmember Sayles pressed for equitable tracking of demographic and outcome data across all EDF programs. Staff confirmed that data is being collected and will be presented in the fall. - Outcome: Recommended approval of the FY27 Operating Budget as submitted, with a commitment to revisit MOVE and SBIR/STTR policy in the fall. Urban Districts - The County Executive recommended an increase of $463,276 (3.51%) for the four Urban Districts (Bethesda, Silver Spring, Wheaton, Friendship Heights), including a shift in funding from parking lot districts to the general fund. Specific reductions were proposed for each district. - Councilmembers expressed frustration over recent administrative changes in Wheaton and lack of communication with the community. Balcombe and Fani-González called for a long-term reimagining of the Urban District funding model, noting inequities compared to areas like Germantown. - A key item was the Bethesda Urban Partnership (BUP) request for $149,335 for compensation and same-services increases, which the Executive had not recommended. After discussion, the committee voted to add that amount to the Reconciliation List. - For Wheaton, the committee recategorized the two one-time reductions ($35,293 for lighting upgrades and $30,000 for tree replacement) as ongoing reductions to align with other districts. - The Executive’s reductions for Silver Spring (e.g., $16,000 for landscape/stormwater management) were accepted, though Councilmember Stewart noted concerns about post-construction recovery from the Purple Line. - Friendship Heights Alliance reported success with a different funding model and requested an additional $135,000 for cleaning and security cameras, which was noted for further consideration. - Outcome: Recommended approval of the FY27 Operating Budget for Urban Districts as amended: (1) add $149,335 on the Reconciliation List for BUP compensation; (2) recategorize Wheaton reductions as ongoing; all other reductions as recommended. Key Outcomes - UM3 Institute for Health Computing: Recommended approval of FY27 budget as submitted. - Economic Development Fund: Recommended approval as submitted; no reductions taken; fall worksession scheduled on MOVE and SBIR/STTR policy. - Urban Districts: Recommended approval as amended with $149,335 added for BUP and Wheaton reductions made ongoing. Councilmember Fani-González requested a follow-up meeting in fall on Urban District funding structures.

On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, the Montgomery County Council met in Rockville, Maryland, for morning proclamations, public hearings on FY27 tax-rate proposals, a Capital Improvements Program (CIP) briefing, a legislative session, afternoon proclamations, supplemental-appropriation public hearings/actions, District Council introductions, and a Youth Safety and Security briefing. The Council recessed at 10:53 a.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m., adjourning at 3:54 p.m. Proclamations - Building Safety Month: Council President Fani-González and County Executive Elrich proclaimed May 2026 as Building Safety Month. DPS offered 300 free residential deck inspections beginning May 1 and a permitting open house May 20. - Therapy Animal Appreciation Month: Council President Fani-González and Vice President Balcombe proclaimed April 2026; representatives of therapy-dog organizations attended. - Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce 100th Anniversary: Councilmembers Friedson and Stewart honored the Chamber's century; a board member urged an economic development plan that grows the economy without tax increases. - Autism Acceptance Month: Councilmember Jawando and County Executive Elrich presented the proclamation; officials cited 4,205 MCPS students with autism in 2023, up 15% from 3,649 in 2022, and more than 450 children served by the autism waiver. Public Comments & Testimony Public hearings were held on the FY27 real property tax rate increase and the resolution to increase the county income tax rate. The record remained open until the close of business on April 22, 2026, and a GO Committee worksession was scheduled for April 29, 2026. - Angela Franco (Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce): opposed the proposed 6.3-cent property tax increase and the income tax increase from 3.2% to 3.3%; noted the county budget grew to $7.6 billion over a decade. - Mr. Pajab (resident and small-business owner): opposed the property tax increase, citing federal contracting losses, inflation, and rising assessments creating a double whammy. - Jackie Bennett (Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors): opposed the property tax increase; said the county created its own fiscal cliff and residents face assessment growth and a structural deficit over $257 million. - Glenn Wright (retired senior): opposed the increase; his property taxes rose 66.5% in seven years; argued the senior tax credit limit is inadequate. - Chip Berman (business owner): testified against the increase, describing personal business losses, $43,000 in income taxes paid, and $174,000 in property taxes paid. - Moet Segel (Potomac resident and business owner): opposed the increase; criticized the county for substituting taxes and not tightening spending. - Paul Salatin (Silver Spring resident): supported holding the property tax rate steady and restructuring the income tax; argued the property tax is inflexible and less fair than a progressive income tax. - Teresa Boscher (67-year-old veteran and homeowner): opposed both tax increases; criticized MCPS fiscal decisions and proposed a flat school assessment or two-tier system based on school use. Discussion Items FY27-32 CIP Update - Staff reported a six-year gap of approximately $417.6 million between Council-approved Spending Affordability Guidelines and the County Executive's bond and PAYGO assumptions; the transcript also cited $418 million. The Executive's January recommendation included $172.7 million in project cuts and undesignated reductions for MCPS, the college, and parks. - MCPS's six-year CIP request was about $1 billion above the amended CIP; the County Executive's plan funded roughly one-third of that increase. - Councilmember Jawando noted a $390 million difference between the Executive's planned bond issuance and the Council's SAG, and that exceeding SAG requires eight votes. Councilmembers Glass and Stewart asked for combined analysis of debt service and PAYGO impacts; staff said the CIP and operating budgets would be reconciled in sync. Vice President Balcombe questioned how undesignated reductions worked. Youth Safety and Security Briefing - DHHS described the Youth Resilience Initiative, a public youth data dashboard, Street Outreach Network, Safe Space, and coordinated responses to incidents including the Wooton High School shooting, Blair High School violence, and the Rio youth takeover. - MCPD described Community Engagement Officers, behavioral threat assessment, officer training, summer programs, and partnerships with municipal police departments. - MCPS described districtwide Standard Response Protocol, safety audits, digital mapping, security technology, and data showing declining fights and attacks but rising drug-related incidents. Nineteen high schools have wellness centers. Board President Rivera-Oven noted the lack of a local youth residential treatment program. - Councilmembers raised MOU improvements, avoiding stigmatizing violence-prevention language, principal autonomy, school safety audit communication, reporting delays, early intervention, reintegration after law enforcement contact, community follow-up after incidents, and strengthening Street Outreach Network relationships in Germantown and Clarksburg. Consent Calendar - Item A was removed for separate consideration. The remaining consent calendar items were approved 11-0: - Introduced Supplemental Appropriation 26-43 ($100,050 for roadside tree protection; public hearing scheduled May 5, 2026). - Adopted Resolution 20-1085 appointing Nidal & Nace as Special Counsel for consumer protection cases. - Adopted Resolution 20-1086 authorizing the FY27 Annual Transportation Plan Grant application. - Adopted Resolution 20-1087 amending the FY25-30 CIP and approving a $500,000 GO Bond appropriation for the Poolesville Highway Depot. - Confirmed appointments: Debbie Anderson (Animal Services Advisory Committee); Rachel Bonas, Summer Cook, Evelyn Okutu, Beverly Coleman, Denise Fredericks, Lawrence Graham, Timothy Robinson, Claudia Simmons, Joseph Feldman (Community Action Board); Avital Graves (Interagency Commission on Homelessness); and John Diehm, Stephanie Helsing (Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee). Key Outcomes - Enacted Expedited Bill 13-26, the ICE Out Act, as amended, by an 11-0 roll call vote. Councilmember Luedtke's amendment aligning the detention-facility definition with State HB 1017 passed unanimously; her earlier NEPA/APA amendment was withdrawn. - A motion to add approval of amendments to the Council Rules of Procedure to the April 28, 2026 agenda failed for lack of a second; the resolution was introduced. - Adopted Supplemental Appropriation 26-56 (Food Aggregation Grant Program, $300,000 private grant) 10-0, with Councilmember Jawando temporarily absent. - Adopted Supplemental Appropriation 26-64 (Continuum of Care Planning Activities Grant, $502,167 federal grant). The minutes record 11 yeas while also stating Jawando was absent; the transcript indicates voice approval without objection, a discrepancy noted here. - Introduced ZTA 26-06 (Accessory Residential Uses – Accessory Dwelling Unit) and ZTA 26-07 (Solar Collection System – Use Standards); public hearings are scheduled for June 9, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

A joint work session of the Transportation and Environment (T&E) and Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GO) committees reviewed the FY27 Operating Budget and FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program for the Montgomery County Green Bank Non-Departmental Account. The County Executive recommended a $2,485,474 (14.7%) increase from FY26 to restore the county's allocation to 10% of fuel energy tax revenues. The committee unanimously approved the budget as recommended. Discussion Items - Budget Proposal: Legislative Analyst Stephen Kenny explained the executive's recommendation includes a $2.29 million restoration to reverse partial cuts made in FY26 (a $1.08 million reduction due to lower fuel energy tax revenues and a $1.14 million affordability reduction) plus a $193,670 marginal increase for FY27 projected revenue growth. The proposal aligns with the existing policy of allocating 10% of fuel energy tax revenues to the Green Bank. - Council Leadership Comments: Councilmember Kate Stewart reframed the narrative, noting the council worked to restore funding last year after the executive's initial reduction, emphasizing the council's commitment to the Green Bank. - Green Bank CEO Remarks: Mr. Morel highlighted the importance of consistent 10% allocation for capital markets confidence and leveraging public dollars: currently achieving approximately 4x leverage on a portfolio basis, targeting 5x in FY27. Planned FY27 deployment of $25–30 million from energy tax and other sources is expected to support $150–200 million in project value. Portfolio allocation: 45%+ for BEPS compliance, 20–25% for resilience, 15–20% for solar, 10–15% for EV charging. Technical assistance program (up to $5 million purchase order window) supports BEPS feasibility studies and audits; half already spent. A new pilot with Permitting Services aids disadvantaged communities. Operating costs are kept lean at 15–20% of annual revenues, with no major FTE increases. - Question and Answer: Councilmember Balcombe asked about average project size ($1.5 million to $5 million range). Mr. Morel noted supply chain concerns are mitigated by cooperative buying power of regional renewable energy companies, though large retrofits can take 1–4 years to complete. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved the FY27 Operating Budget for the Green Bank NDA as submitted by the County Executive, without objection. No items were added to the reconciliation list per the council president's budget approach.

The Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GO) Committee, chaired by Councilmember Kate Stewart, held a worksession on April 20, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:51 p.m. to review the FY27 Operating Budget and FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program for Compensation and Benefits for All Agencies and Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs). No votes were taken. The committee received detailed presentations from central staff (Mr. Howard and Mr. Trombka) and heard from labor relations officials, union presidents (Mr. Renne of MCGEO and Mr. Buddle of IAFF), and the Office of Management and Budget. The full council is scheduled to act on these items on May 4, 2026. Discussion Items Compensation and Benefits Overview - The FY27 recommended budget includes approximately $4.9 billion in compensation costs, a 4.5% increase over FY26. Staff presented proposed general wage adjustments (GWAs), service increments, salary schedule adjustments, and longevity changes for various employee groups (FOP, IAFF, MCGEO, non-represented). Key figures: FOP/PLS – max 6.5% increase; IAFF – max 6%; MCGEO (excluding deputy sheriffs and correctional officers) – max 6.35%; deputy sheriffs – max 10.5%; correctional officers – max 7.92%; non-represented – 6.35%. - Retirement and Retiree Health Enhancements: The executive recommends increasing the county’s RSP/GRIP contribution from 8% to 9% in January 2027 and to 10% in January 2028, with employee contributions rising to 5% and 6% respectively. Cost: $3.64 million in FY27, annualized at $7.3 million, rising to $14.5 million by FY29. Also proposed: modifying eligibility for deputy sheriffs and correctional officers (removing minimum age with 25 years), adding a post-retirement annuity option for GRIP, and extending retiree health benefits to certain part-time school health and crossing guard employees after 7 years (instead of 10). The county’s actuary estimated modest pension cost increases but no retiree health cost estimate was provided. - Health and Wellness Provisions: The IAFF agreement includes funding for annual NFPA occupational medical exams (blood testing for forever chemicals) and cancer screening reimbursements (up to $800 every 36 months, estimated $291,000). The MCGEO agreement adds an attendance incentive program for emergency communication center personnel (bonuses up to $2,000/year). - Sustainability Concerns: Staff noted that compensation cost growth (3.7%) slightly exceeds projected revenue growth (3% with proposed tax/fee increases, 2.6% without). Over six years, a 0.7% annual gap could create a $216 million deficit. Staff highlighted that recent pension enhancements and unfunded liabilities are driving retirement cost increases (78% higher than FY24). The committee discussed the need for multi-year planning. Collective Bargaining Agreements - Chief Legislative Attorney Wellons presented three CBA resolutions (MCGEO, IAFF, FOP Lodge 35) transmitted by the County Executive on April 1, 2026. Terms not already covered included training pay differentials, canine handler compensation, increased stipends for peer support specialists ($3,500) and child welfare case-carrying employees ($3,500), hazard pay ($8/hour), tool and shoe allowances, and tuition assistance ($150,000 for MCGEO). The committee reviewed the resolutions without objection. Speaker Positions - Union Presidents (Mr. Renne, Mr. Buddle): Supported the negotiated agreements, providing context on the part-time retiree health exception (system failure during COVID, compromise to reduce service requirement to 7 years) and the value of NFPA physicals and cancer screenings. - Councilmember Katz: Expressed concern about the budget puzzle and the timing of negotiations before council review, but acknowledged the need to support health and safety measures. Disclosed personal interests (spouse and daughter employed by MCPS). - Councilmember Evans: Asked about wellness interventions and retention strategies for experienced firefighters, beyond financial incentives. Staff promised to follow up with fire department. - Councilmember Fani-González (Council President): Sought data on retirement plan participation rates and questioned equity of cost-sharing for part-time versus full-time employees. Received clarification that the seven-year eligibility exception is limited to a small cohort. - Chair Stewart: Noted the complexity and thanked unions for their work. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken. The committee completed its review of compensation and benefits and the CBAs, forwarding recommendations to the full council. - Next step: Full Council action tentatively scheduled for May 4, 2026, including potential adoption of the CBA resolutions and budget decisions. - Staff will provide additional data on retirement plan participation rates and fire department wellness programs by the full council meeting.

The Montgomery County Transportation and Environment (T&E) Committee met on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 9:35 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to review four items in the FY27 operating budget and capital improvements program (CIP) related to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The committee discussed the DEP General Fund, Climate Change Planning Non-Departmental Account (NDA), Water Quality Protection Fund and charge, and Solid Waste Collection and Disposal funds, including the proposed closure of the Resource Recovery Facility (RRF). Consent Calendar - The committee recommended approval of the FY27 DEP General Fund budget and the Climate Change Planning NDA budget ($488,344, unchanged from FY26) as proposed by the County Executive, noting no programmatic or staffing enhancements. - The committee recommended approval of the FY27 Solid Waste Collection Fund budget as proposed by the County Executive. - The committee recommended approval of a $1.0 million CIP shift: $1.0 million in current revenue from the Stormwater Management Retrofit project to the Comprehensive Flood Management Plan for feasibility studies in the Sligo Creek watershed, offset by long-term financing. Discussion Items - DEP General Fund: Senior Legislative Analyst Levchenko presented a 3.5% overall decrease from FY26, primarily due to the wind-down of the electric leaf blower program. Director Macedonia confirmed $300,000 in rebates and $65,000 for outreach remain in FY27. Chair Glass, Councilmember Balcombe, and Councilmember Stewart expressed strong support for DEP's work and opposed any further reductions. The committee approved the budget. - Climate Change Planning NDA: Climate Change Officer Sarah Kogel-Smooker highlighted interdepartmental initiatives funded by the NDA, including extreme heat outreach for outdoor workers, Mezzanet weather monitoring stations, and support for the Loiderman Resilience Hub. The committee approved the unchanged budget. - Water Quality Protection Fund and Charge: The Water Quality Protection Charge is recommended to increase from $147 to $157. A key point of discussion was the M-NCPPC allocation: the Executive recommended a $308,572 increase, but Montgomery Planning requested an additional $2.1 million. Councilmembers Balcombe and Glass questioned the impact on residents and sought clarity on whether shifting $2.1 million from the administrative services tax to the Water Quality Protection Fund would be revenue-neutral. The committee deferred a recommendation on the budget and charge pending a staff analysis of the fiscal implications for residents and M-NCPPC. - Solid Waste Collection Fund: The committee approved the collection fund budget. Councilmember Balcombe confirmed that the proposed RRF closure would not affect the collection fund in FY27. - Solid Waste Disposal Fund and RRF Closure: The County Executive's budget assumes mid-year closure of the RRF (December 31, 2026) and transition to long-haul trucking, with an additional $43.9 million for long-haul contracts and $3.6 million in decommissioning costs in FY27. DEP noted that maintaining current operations (full-year RRF) would require an additional $4.4 million. Councilmember Glass stated his commitment to closing the RRF, citing health and environmental justice concerns. Councilmembers Balcombe and Stewart argued that the decision should be made by the full Council without a committee recommendation, given the complexity and need for all 11 members to deliberate. Committee Chair Glass noted that a majority of the full Council had previously requested a full Council discussion. Key Outcomes - Approved FY27 DEP General Fund budget, Climate Change Planning NDA budget, Solid Waste Collection Fund budget, and the CIP adjustment (all as recommended by the County Executive). - Deferred action on the Water Quality Protection Fund budget and Water Quality Protection Charge, pending a staff analysis of the impact on residential tax bills if M-NCPPC's requested $2.1 million were funded. - No committee recommendation on the Solid Waste Disposal Fund budget or the proposed closure of the RRF. The committee split: Chair Glass supported closure; Councilmembers Balcombe and Stewart preferred full Council deliberation. The issue will proceed directly to the full Council without a committee recommendation. - Next step: A full Council work session on the FY27 budget is scheduled for early May 2026.

The Planning, Housing and Parks (PHP) and Education and Culture (EC) committees met jointly on April 20, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 9:59 a.m. to review the FY27 Operating Budget for the Historical Activities Non-Departmental Account (NDA). The committee discussed the County Executive’s proposed budget, which reflected a decrease of $44,287 (19.38%) from the FY26 budget due to the removal of one-time enhancements for the county’s 250th anniversary, the Black Resistance Oral History project, and the Unfinished Revolution project. The only addition was a 2.5% inflationary adjustment for non-service provider contracts. The committee also heard updates from Montgomery History Executive Director Matt Logan on capital projects and the oral history initiative. Discussion Items - Budget Overview: Legislative Analyst Kristin Cummings presented the proposed FY27 budget for the Historical Activities NDA, noting the $44,287 decrease (19.38%) from FY26. The decrease was attributed to the removal of one-time enhancements from the prior year. The only budget addition was the 2.5% inflationary adjustment for non-service provider contracts. - Montgomery History Updates: Matt Logan, Executive Director of Montgomery History, provided updates on two major capital projects: the new Montgomery History Center in the former RDCO building at Four Courthouse Square (with a total project cost target of $10–12 million, with $8 million in secured funding from county, state, and private sources) and an annex for artifact storage on the fourth floor of the Great Courthouse, expected to be completed by June 2026 for a ribbon-cutting on September 6 (the county’s 250th anniversary). He also discussed the Black Resistance Oral History Project, noting that consultant Adodonna Ashbear has recorded 14 oral histories, including a group session at Emory Grove. Without additional funding, momentum could be lost due to the need to build trust with interviewees. - Councilmember Evans’ Proposal: Councilmember Shebra Evans proposed adding $15,000 (one-time) to the Reconciliation List to support the Black Oral History Project, enabling continued work with the consultant. She emphasized the importance of capturing lived experiences, especially from Black elders, and noted that the project helps counter attempts to erase history. Councilmember Will Jawando seconded the motion. Key Outcomes - Approved Amendment: The committee unanimously approved (without objection) a motion to add $15,000 in one-time funding to the Reconciliation List for the Historical Activities NDA, specifically to support the Black Oral History Project. The funding will be subject to final budget reconciliation decisions. The committee recommended approval of the FY27 Operating Budget for the Historical Activities NDA, as amended.

The Montgomery County Public Safety Committee met on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:44 a.m. in the 3rd Floor Council Hearing Room, Rockville, Maryland, to consider Bill 5-26, “Police – Mask or Facial Coverings – Prohibited (The Unmask ICE Act).” Although the agenda listed the meeting as running until 12:30 p.m., the approved minutes recorded adjournment at 10:44 a.m. Present were Councilmember Sidney Katz, Chair; Councilmember Dawn Luedtke; Councilmember Kristin Mink; and Councilmember Will Jawando. Also participating were Dr. Stoddard, Assistant Chief Administrative Officer; Chief of Patrol Francke of the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD); and Legislative Attorney McCartney-Green. The committee recommended approval of the bill, 3-0, with amendments, with full Council action tentatively scheduled for April 28, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Staff reported that a public hearing on Bill 5-26 was held on March 3, 2026, with approximately 20 speakers who overwhelmingly supported the bill, along with numerous written testimonies. - Supporters cited fear caused by masked federal officers and said the bill would make it easier for community members to quickly identify whether someone was a Montgomery County police officer or a federal agent. Discussion Items Bill 5-26 would prohibit federal, state, and local law enforcement officers from wearing masks or facial coverings while on duty in Montgomery County. Existing exceptions cover medical-grade masks such as surgical or N95 respirators, masks needed during fires, water rescues, biological or chemical incidents, and SWAT operations. A proposed county-related exception was added for extreme temperature plan events. State law and preemption were central to the discussion. Maryland Senate Bill 1, passed by the Maryland General Assembly on April 13, 2026, but not yet signed by the Governor, would impose a similar mask ban and require identification, beginning October 1, 2026. Councilmember Jawando proposed a sunset clause so that Montgomery County’s bill would no longer be effective once the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission adopts a uniform statewide policy. Dr. Stoddard said the County Attorney’s Office has opined that a local policy would remain in force until the state uniform policy is issued, and the process could take several months. Councilmember Dietke asked about the Oct. 1 preemption issue and whether the county could continue to wait for the state policy; the committee agreed the sunset language was acceptable and a housekeeping bill could be brought later if needed. The committee also considered an amendment to align with state law by requiring law enforcement officers to wear identification with name, badge number, and agency on the outermost layer of clothing while performing duty, to verbally provide that identification upon request, and to exempt plainclothes, non-uniformed, and undercover officers. Law enforcement bodies have existing Maryland law and MCPD policies already require identification, and Councilmember Jawando and others argued the amendment would aim at federal agents and improve transparency. Councilmember Merson cautioned that Montgomery County cannot regulate federal law enforcement directly, but supported the amendment because it does not change MCPD procedures and signals accountability. Enforcement mechanisms were the main stimulus. Councilmember Jawando proposed issuing a civil citation to law enforcement officers who violate the county law and to impose a Class A violation fine, which is $500. Councilmember Katz proposed an online reporting portal so officers or members of the public could file non-confrontational reports, with the Office of the County Attorney using the reports to enforce county law or refer matters to the Police Citizen Board. Councilmember Luedtke, Assistant Chief Francke, and Dr. Stoddard expressed concern that direct citation attempts could create dangerous confrontations with federal agents, could exceed the county’s legal authority, and could be impossible to identify masked federal law enforcement for probable-cause purposes. The committee adopted the portal approach, with County Attorney discretion, while preserving the ability to issue citations under existing general enforcement authority if enough evidence exists. Councilmember Luedtke asked for clarification about the evidentiary standard the county uses, noting that state law uses “reasonable cause” and county law does not; the committee said it would seek additional County Attorney guidance before full Council. The committee also discussed broadening exceptions so officers are not disciplined for reasonable workplace protections or cold-weather duty. Councilmember Franke raised concerns about the accuracy of actual “declared weather emergency” wording and said officers ought to be allowed to cover their faces in extreme temperatures or environmental conditions consistent with MCPD practice and county extreme temperature plan. The committee approved an amendment adding Section 35-13E(b)(6) for any other item worn to follow applicable occupational health and safety laws or reasonable workplace accommodations, and to adjust the cold-weather exception to include events consistent with the County’s extreme temperature plan. Key Decisions - Recommended approval of Bill 5-26, as amended, by a vote of 3-0. - Adopted Councilmember Jawando’s amendment to sunset Bill 5-26 once the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission adopts a uniform policy. - Adopted amendments aligning the identification requirements with state law, including the exemption for plainclothes, the uniformed, and undercover officers. - Adopted Council member Katz’s amendment to create an online reporting portal; reports may be used by the Office of the County Attorney for enforcement or referral to the Police Accountability Board. - Amended exceptions to include events consistent with the County’s extreme temperature plan and occupational health and safety or reasonable workplace exemption. - Supported expedited the bill as an expedited bill. - Clarified the definitions of “law enforcement officer” and created an exemption for officers engaged in undercover or covert operations. - Decided the bill will move to the full Council with a next-step vote tentatively scheduled for April 28, 2026.

The Montgomery County Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee, chaired by Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles, met on April 16, 2026, from 1:31 p.m. to 4:39 p.m. to review the FY27 Operating Budget and FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program for the Office of Food Systems Resilience (OFSR), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) overview, and DHHS Administration and Support. The discussion took place amid a challenging fiscal year with significant federal and state funding uncertainties. Key decisions included recommending approval of the County Executive's proposed budgets, with specific votes on program enhancements and reductions, and directing follow-up on contract details and vacancy analyses. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple nonprofits testified during public hearings held April 7–9, 2026, urging support for food system programs. The Commission on Health submitted a formal request for additional OFSR grant enhancements. - Significant public testimony supported HHS budget items, which will be discussed in service-area reviews. Discussion Items Office of Food Systems Resilience (OFSR) - Director Heather Bruskin presented OFSR's evolution over three years from non-strategic funding to competitive, tailored grant programs, emphasizing a layered approach to building a resilient food system: protecting federal assets (SNAP), adaptable infrastructure, community food access, and education. - The committee reviewed the FY27 recommended budget of approximately $13.8 million (less than 1% increase from FY26). Key changes included: - Enhancement: $150,000 for a new Food Systems Education Grant Program to mitigate the loss of federal SNAP-Ed funding (formerly $700,000 across 46 sites). - Reduction: $150,000 from the Retail Food Access Program (MC Groceries and nutrition benefits outreach) reflecting stable enrollment. - Reduction: $230,779 from the Food as Medicine Grant Program (31% decrease) due to overlapping services and growth in external funding opportunities. - Councilmember Friedson and Luedtke questioned regional coordination, the impact of federal cuts (e.g., SNAP-Ed, refugee support), and the Ag Reserve. OFSR reported $3.5 million in special appropriations were fully expended via 53 nonprofits, including $1.85 million for community food assistance grants and $750,000 to Capital Area Food Bank. - OFSR received the highest possible score (11) on the operating budget equity tool. DHHS Overview - Dr. James Bridgers, DHHS Director, highlighted a $576 million recommended budget (3.39% increase, $18.9 million) with 50.15 new FTEs (2.4% increase). He stressed federal funding threats (HR1), showing a "hole" in the safety net. - Vacancies reduced from 375 three years ago to 159 currently (six to seven percent vacancy rate). The largest gaps are in social workers, school health nurses, and community service aides. Contractor costs for backfilling were approximately $6 million in the second quarter, covering about 100 contractors. - The committee discussed the DHHS reorganization (cost-neutral realignment) eliminating the Office of Community Affairs, moving programs to better align with service areas (behavioral health, children/youth/families). Equity and language access moved to the Director's Office. - Councilmember Luedtke raised concerns about state underfunding of senior living facility inspections, now borne by the county. - The Office of Racial Equity gave DHHS a score of 6 out of 11, noting opportunities for intentional application of racial equity. DHHS Administration and Support - The recommended budget decrease of $19.8 million largely reflects reorganization transfers. A $2.5 million enhancement for the Community Connect portal (to continue IT development, mobile app, AI features) was debated. The portal currently supports Working Parents Assistance (WPA) and rental assistance; FY27 would be the final phase of a five-year plan. - Council staff suggested splitting the item: $1.5 million for maintenance and $1 million for enhancements, pending further documentation on contract scope and costs. - A net-zero conversion of three contractual IT positions to merit positions (three FTEs) was approved. - Technical adjustments included shifting $65,000 from DHHS to OFSR for inflationary corrections. Key Outcomes - OFSR Budget: The committee recommended approval of the County Executive's recommended FY27 budget, including: - Concur with $150,000 enhancement for Food Systems Education Grant (approved without objection). - Concur with $150,000 reduction to Retail Food Access Program (approved without objection). - Concur with $230,779 reduction to Food as Medicine Grant Program (approved without objection). - DHHS Overview: No formal vote; the overview was informational. The committee noted the reorganization and requested a visual chart. - DHHS Administration and Support: - The Community Connect portal request ($2.5 million) was added to the reconciliation list with two markers: $1.5 million for maintenance and $1.0 million for enhancements, pending further documentation from DHHS on the contract history and scope. - The conversion of three contractual IT positions to merit positions was approved (net-zero increase, three FTEs). - Next Steps: Council action on the FY27 budget is tentatively scheduled for May 2026. Follow-up reports on vacancy filing progress and contractor costs were requested before full council consideration. Note: The meeting agenda and minutes did not include a Consent Calendar; all items were discussed in detail.

The Transportation and Environment (T&E) Committee met on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 1:35 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. to review the FY27 Operating Budget and FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for WSSCWater, Utilities Non-Departmental Account (NDA), Department of General Services (DGS) Fleet Internal Service Fund, Motor Pool NDA, Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Parking Lot Districts, and a resolution to adopt FY27 Transportation Fees, Charges, and Fares. The committee heard presentations from agency staff and council analysts, discussed fiscal challenges and service needs, and recommended approval of several items, with additions placed on the reconciliation list for full council consideration. Discussion Items WSSCWater FY27 Operating Budget and CIP - WSSCWater presented a proposed 5.0% volumetric and fixed-fee increase, down from earlier projections due to internal cost-cutting. The budget includes no new FTEs and relies on a 6% revenue enhancement (5% from rates, 1% from non-rate revenue and fund balance). - Key cost drivers: increased debt service (4%), regional sewage disposal (7%), heat, light, and power (9%), health insurance (10%), and rising costs from chemicals, fuel, and tariffs. Federal funding for water assistance is declining; a pilot low-income program was sunset. - The Potomac Interceptor emergency repair costs increased: DC Water’s estimate rose to $59 million, with WSSCWater’s 30.9% share impacting future rates (estimated at 0.6% of a future rate increase). Planned projects for the interceptor are also costing more; these will be incorporated in a future CIP amendment. - The committee supported the proposed 5% rate increase and the 2.4% increase in the System Development Charge, but noted that long-term rate projections (e.g., 8.2% in FY28) are uncertain and subject to bi-county agreement with Prince George’s County. - Councilmember Balcombe expressed concern about future rate increases and the need to avoid capital deferrals. Councilmember Stewart emphasized the importance of regional advocacy for federal assistance and avoiding deferred maintenance. Utilities NDA (Non-Departmental Account) - The County Executive recommended a $633,618 increase (1.5%) for utilities. Key changes: $2.1 million increase for resiliency hub and microgrid lease payments, $840,000 for higher commodity costs, and $61,000 for utility charges at the new MCPS bus depot lease site (true cost $100,000). A $2.1 million shift of electric bus fuel costs to the Fleet Internal Service Fund reduces the NDA. - The committee discussed that the microgrid payments are contractually obligated and should not be treated as discretionary. An asterisk was noted for such items on the reconciliation list. - DGS Director Dice described progress on the MCPS bus depot relocation to the GUTI site, with lease executed November 2025, design nearly complete, and construction expected to finish by August 2027. DGS Fleet Internal Service Fund - The County Executive recommended a 1.33% decrease in the fleet budget. Notable: a $742,000 addition for hydrogen fuel for new Ride On hydrogen fuel-cell buses on the Viers Mill corridor, to be placed on the reconciliation list. Without funding, the 13 buses (arriving by September 2026) would be idle until fueling infrastructure is complete. - The committee agreed that hydrogen fueling should be funded to avoid stranding capital investments. Director Dice noted that without fuel, the buses become “very expensive paperweights.” Councilmember Balcombe highlighted the importance of workforce development programs like the fleet apprenticeship program. Motor Pool Fund Contribution NDA - The County Executive proposed a 97% decrease ($41,200 for one vehicle) for the Mobile Crisis Outreach Team under HHS. This vehicle is tied to an expanded HHS service. The committee stressed that if the HHS service is funded, the vehicle must be as well—an asterisk noted. MCDOT Parking Lot Districts (PLDs) - The committee recommended a $149,998 addition for one Transportation Contract Compliance Inspector (split across Bethesda, Silver Spring, Wheaton PLDs) to cover expanded collection hours (Saturdays and until 10 p.m.). Revenue from the hours expansion is estimated at 20-25% increase per PLD (total PLD revenue $30 million). Councilmember Stewart requested data on compliance issues to justify the FTE. - A $42,000 addition for a new fleet vehicle for maintenance was also supported; it reduces rental costs. - The committee noted the elimination of urban district transfers (Bethesda: $1.6M, Silver Spring: $150K, Wheaton: $225K) and three FTEs from Silver Spring PLD, continuing a trend to sever PLD subsidies to urban districts. General fund dollars will replace these transfers for urban districts. Fund balances vary: Bethesda 11%, Silver Spring 0.4% (negative by FY28), Wheaton 124% (due to planned fare structure changes). - CIP adjustments: $895K increase for Gate 31 payment system upgrades in Bethesda; a $276K decrease in Silver Spring facility renovations (affordability deferral); $400K increase for elevator tower renovations in Wheaton Garage 45. Resolution for FY27 Transportation Fees, Charges, and Fares - The committee recommended approval of new and modified fees: - $75 fine for driving/standing/parking in bus lanes (codifying a pilot with manual enforcement; automated enforcement pending privacy compliance). - New Controlled Zone (CZ) permit: $205/month per space in Bethesda, $140 in Silver Spring/Wheaton, for employers reserving 75+ spaces. Overselling at 80% occupancy typical; will monitor and adjust. Councilmember Balcombe requested not to oversell to ensure availability. Councilmember Stewart asked for outreach to small businesses; MCDOT agreed. - Electric vehicle charging fees: 50¢/kWh for fast chargers, 35¢/kWh for Level 2 (up from 17¢, reflecting maintenance costs). - Wheaton PLD fee changes: end collection at 6 p.m. weekdays and on Saturdays, offset by doubling hourly street parking from $1.25 to $2.50, surface lots $1 to $2, garages $1 to $1.75. Revenue neutral per WUDAC request. - $60 fine for stopping in bikeways (Bill 28-25). - Residential permit parking hearing fee moved to code. - Elimination of Transportation Demand Management fees (per Bill 24-25). - Councilmember Stewart requested MCDOT work with Silver Spring on similar adjustments given Wheaton’s changes; Director Conklin expressed openness to parallel discussions if revenue neutral. Key Outcomes - WSSCWater: Committee recommended approval of FY27 Operating Budget with 5% rate increase and 2.4% System Development Charge increase. Next steps: Council worksession May 4, 2026; bi-county meeting with Prince George’s Council on May 14, 2026. - Utilities NDA: Recommended approval as amended, with microgrid payments, energy benchmarking, bus depot utilities, hydrogen fueling, and HHS crisis vehicle placed on reconciliation list (non-tax-supported). - Fleet Internal Service Fund: Recommended approval, with hydrogen fueling on reconciliation list. - Motor Pool NDA: Recommended approval, with one vehicle tied to HHS service on reconciliation list. - Parking Lot Districts: Recommended approval of FY27 Operating Budget and CIP amendments, with one contract compliance inspector and one fleet vehicle placed on non-tax-supported reconciliation list. - Transportation Fees Resolution: Recommended approval of all new and modified fees as submitted by the County Executive. - All items were supported without objection by the committee.