Public Meetings - Montgomery County, Maryland

On April 9, 2026, the Montgomery County Council held a public hearing on the FY27 Operating Budgets and FY27-32 Public Services Program and Fiscal Policy for Montgomery County Government, Montgomery College, the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, WSSC Water, and Montgomery County Public Schools. Council President Natali Fani-González chaired the hearing; all 11 councilmembers were present. The hearing began at 1:30 p.m. in the Council Hearing Room in Rockville, included in-person and virtual testimony, and adjourned at 3:43 p.m. Committee worksessions on the budget and fiscal policy are scheduled through April. Public Comments & Testimony - Linda Brogovski (Co-chair, Montgomery County Commission on Aging) asked for additional funding for in-home respite (upwards of $250,000) and $60,000 for competitive grants to start villages in underserved areas; noted the County Executive allocated $78.8 million for aging and disability services. - Shannon Babe Thomas (Executive Director, Community Bridges) urged an 8% cost-of-living adjustment for nonprofit contracts instead of the proposed 2.5%, citing insurance premiums up 11% and rent up 5%. - Abe Schuckman (CEO, Housing Unlimited; Montgomery Housing Alliance executive committee) said the proposed $100 million for affordable housing preservation and production is $20 million below recent funding levels and leaves a $69 million gap against a $169 million project pipeline; asked for one-time funding to fill the gap. - Akansha Sing (Silver Spring resident; MoCo Food Justice Coalition) requested expanded trauma-informed food access, protection of the $150,000 food systems education enhancement, and a $3.5 million supplemental budget for the Office of Food Systems Resilience. - Esther Wells (President, Montgomery County Taxpayers League; candidate for County Executive) urged the Council to reject both the property and income tax increases and to eliminate the structural deficit, stating a total reduction of $446 million is required; she criticized the County Executive's $8 billion budget, the use of $182 million in one-time reserves for ongoing expenses, and the projected $257 million structural deficit. - Halley Fernando (Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts) urged full funding for Montgomery Parks at the requested 6.3% increase, noting the County Executive's recommended allocation would create a $3.1 million shortfall. - Robert Pestronk (Friendship Heights resident) asked the Council to fully fund the parks operating budget at the 6.3% increase, the county health department at the proposed amount, and the Department of Environmental Protection. - Maria Brancohn (President, Poolesville Seniors) asked the Council to approve the County Executive's recommended legacy renewal award; she described the nonprofit's 90 free monthly activities and more than 6,000 volunteer hours. - Angie McCarthy (Maryland Conservation Advocate, Nature Forward) supported full funding for DEP and parks but expressed concern about the County Executive's $43 million long-haul contract as a replacement for the Dickerson incinerator, calling it an environmental justice issue if waste is shipped to Virginia. - Frazier Blaylock (ReWorld) described the Dickerson resource recovery facility as a valuable county asset that powers about 28,000 homes and urged careful evaluation before changing the waste system. - Nick Logan (Rockville resident; former NIH employee) asked the county to protect funding for developmental disabilities services and the DD supplement, saying the state cut funding for the organization that supports him. - Elizabeth Toolen (Co-executive Director, Montgomery County Food Council) asked for strong, flexible funding for food assistance providers and sustained investment in coordination; she said flat funding is a cut when costs and demand rise. - Lisa Carrier Baker (Academy Director, Adventure Theater MTC) requested $75,000 to help the theater stay in its studios; she cited a Theater Washington report showing suburban Maryland theaters inject nearly $32 million into the local economy and a 350% return on government funding. - Nauflet Williamson (resident) asked the county to invest in early mental health intervention, whole-person screening, and coordinated community referrals. - Daniela Ochoa (resident) urged closing the incinerator, citing 54 U.S. incinerator closures in the last five years and arguing that food waste could be composted and used to save money. - Donna Cauley (resident) expressed concern about the County Executive's proposal to reallocate resources away from the African American Health Program (AAHP) and urged the Council to protect AAHP's autonomy and community-based approach. - Stephen Sellers Lapham (resident) asked whether funding for the Maryland Israel Development Center has been eliminated or shifted, and urged that county funds not go to foreign governments. - Olu Adebayo (Executive Director, Rainbow Place Shelter) requested $1.5 million in operating funding for a new young adult shelter serving ages 18 to 24. - Sarah Paksima (Poolesville town commissioner; Poolesville Pride) requested funding for a community center and health clinic in Poolesville, reverse flex public transportation, and an amendment to fund the MoCo Pride Family and Pride Center at a minimum of $1 million in FY27. - Russell Brazil (Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors) opposed the proposed property and income tax increases; he cited more than $190 million in reserve funds used for ongoing expenses, a structural deficit over a quarter of a billion dollars, and 305 new positions in the budget. - Lee Blinder (Executive Director, TransMaryland) asked the Council to fund the Montgomery County Pride Family at a minimum of $1 million, citing ongoing threats to trans and LGBTQ+ communities. - Robert Elston (Grant writer, Ethiopian Community Development Council) supported the CDBG project 'Expanding Earning Power for Refugees'; he noted ECDC has resettled more than 2,000 refugees in Maryland, including 594 in Montgomery County. - Michelle Joseph (CEO, Student Global Ambassador Program) asked for an 8% nonprofit COLA, protection of nonprofit federal resiliency grants, and adoption of advisory work group recommendations; she cited rising nonprofit wages and insurance costs. - Deborah Monk (Board chair, Interfaith Works) supported continued funding for the Connections eviction-prevention program, which served 495 households last year. - Philip Alexander Downey (CEO, Montgomery County Pride Family) requested a minimum of $1 million in the FY27 base budget, saying the current proposed funding is about half of what is needed. - James Montgomery (former library board volunteer) opposed the County Executive's proposed eight additional library staff cuts, saying earlier cuts from 403 to 385 staff contributed to Sunday closures and reduced kindergarten readiness outreach. - Sean Heinemann (Ayuda Language Access Program) requested an additional $20,000 for the Community Legal Interpreter Bank, citing 1,500 interpreter-assisted meetings, over 500 translated legal documents, and 135 interpreters working in 35 languages. - Jeffrey Haynes (Chair, Montgomery County Historic Preservation Commission) requested funding for one new cultural resource planner, citing a three-to-four-year waiting list for historic designation requests. - Jen Schiller (CEO, Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless) supported the County Executive's $1.9 million increase for homeless services but requested an 8% inflationary adjustment, warning that without it five households would lose their homes. - Alan Hobbs (resident) urged construction of a new synthetic turf field at Poolesville High School, citing four fields for 14 athletic teams, a 40-year-old irrigation system, and PFAS-related concerns. - Nancy Bann (CEO, Mary Center) urged preserving the Montgomery CARES investment, citing higher cervical and breast cancer screening rates among Montgomery CARES patients compared to national averages. - Elizabeth Martins (Progress Place resident; Food Justice Coalition) asked the Council to protect the food systems education enhancement and to invest more in farm-to-food-bank programs to support local farmers. - David Pendleton (SMART Transportation Division) opposed closing the Dickerson generating station and long-hauling waste by truck; he said the facility keeps nearly 1.2 million metric tons of CO2 out of the air and generates $24 million in revenue for the county. - Harold Maldonado (GOP candidate for County Council) rejected the County Executive's budget and criticized the fuel energy tax as a revenue machine, citing about $185 million per year since 2022 and about $2.5 billion since 2013. - Sharon Dietschy (Executive Director, NAMI Montgomery County) requested funding for certified peer support specialists at the county correctional facility, eight mobile crisis outreach teams, 18 staff positions at the behavioral health crisis stabilization center, and expansion of 988 crisis hotline awareness. - Amy Javade (President/CEO, A Wider Circle) requested an 8% COLA instead of the proposed 2.5%; she said the organization furnished close to 3,000 homes last year. - Samir Ahmed (student) urged fully funding public schools and opposed austerity measures during an economic downturn. - Dr. Shannon Ingram (Sol Counseling and Consulting) supported continued funding for the Black Physicians and Healthcare Network partnership, saying it improves culturally responsive mental health care. - A representative of True Ground Housing Partners (identified as Mitchell Crispel in the transcript) urged increasing affordable housing funding by $20 million to previous-year levels to unlock 3,500 ready-to-build homes; he cited a need for more than 47,000 homes affordable at 50% AMI. - Stephen Finley (Sugarloaf Citizens Association) supported the County Executive's proposed waste management plan to close the incinerator and transition to landfilling, saying the time to act is now. - Caroline Taylor (Montgomery Countryside Alliance) supported the parks budget request and the transition away from incineration; she said the Beyond Incineration report found the incinerator twice as damaging to the climate as regional landfills. - Carrie Kasicki (Coalition for Smarter Growth; Montgomery Housing Alliance) urged additional affordable housing funding and reliable funding for Ride On bus service and the bus priority program. - Mike Ewall (Executive Director, Energy Justice Network) supported ending incineration, citing dioxin exceedances at the Dickerson plant and the Beyond Incineration report's finding that the incinerator is twice as bad for the climate and 3.2 times more harmful overall than landfilling. Key Outcomes - The Council held and closed the public hearing on the FY27 Operating Budgets and FY27-32 Public Services Program and Fiscal Policy for Montgomery County Government, Montgomery College, the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, WSSC Water, and Montgomery County Public Schools. - No votes or final budget decisions were taken during the hearing. - Committee worksessions on the FY27 operating budgets and the FY27-32 Public Services Program and Fiscal Policy will be scheduled through the end of April. - The meeting adjourned at 3:43 p.m.

The Montgomery County Council convened a public hearing on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, on the FY27 Operating Budgets and FY27–32 Public Services Program and Fiscal Policy for Montgomery County Government, Montgomery College, the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, WSSC Water, and Montgomery County Public Schools. Council President Natali Fani-González presided; Vice President Marilyn Balcombe and all other councilmembers were present, with Councilmember Kate Stewart initially attending virtually. The hearing consisted of public testimony on budget priorities; no votes were taken. Committee worksessions on the FY27 budget and Fiscal Policy were announced to be scheduled through April. Public Comments & Testimony Parks, Recreation, and the Environment - Jim Brown (Poolesville Town Commissioners) asked the Council to fund a turf field for Poolesville High School, a new community center on town-donated land appraised at over $1 million, a pool bubble, and requests from WOMCO and Poolesville Seniors; he also supported public transportation and maintenance of Agricultural Reserve rustic roads, noting the Poolesville ZIP code generates more than $100 million in annual taxes. - Peter Gray (Washington Area Bicyclist Association, over 1,000 members) asked the Council to fully fund the Parks Department FY27 budget request to maintain current services and to invest in Capital Bikeshare, including discounted annual memberships for income-eligible residents and marketing. - Tom Cove (Montgomery County Sports Advisory Committee) supported the Recreation Department and Montgomery Parks budget requests and the MCPS Stadium Ball Fields Initiative, stressing that turf fields expand equitable access to sports fields. - Ellen Maidman Tanner (Friends of Sligo Creek) strongly supported full funding for Montgomery Parks, warning that the approved 4.1% increase versus the requested 6.3% would leave an estimated $3 million shortfall and hinder invasive-species removal and flood/stormwater management. - Jack Pakonsky (Towson University student and Germantown resident) asked the Council to restore the full 6.3% parks increase, arguing parks are free “third spaces” and noting they are only 2.1% of the county budget. - Jeannie Barnes (Conservation Montgomery) supported continued DEP grant funding for the Home Tree Care 101 program (under $10,000 per year, 93% satisfaction rate) and full parks funding, citing a $3.1 million gap across 416 parks and more than 37,000 acres. - John Clink (retired Department of the Interior employee) urged full funding of the Parks and Planning Commission request, calling parks critical infrastructure that supports health, community, and economic competitiveness. - Neil Rumbaugh (lifelong county resident) asked the Council to fully fund parks, citing safety concerns such as ATVs and mopeds on bike paths, speeding vehicles, illegal car meetups, and inadequate park police staffing. Solid Waste, Incineration, and Stream Restoration - Vivian Thompson (retired University of Virginia professor) opposed the County Executive’s proposal to close the Resource Recovery Facility and send trash to an out-of-state landfill, arguing resource recovery is more environmentally sound, citing county reports that the RRF does not measurably degrade local air quality and is cheaper, and raising environmental justice concerns about proposed landfill sites. - Kit Gage (individual) recommended the county gather more data before deciding to close the RRF, including contract buyout, decommissioning, diesel trucking, and lost electricity/metal recycling revenue, and asked why Arlington County and Alexandria continue using older RRFs. - Kenneth Bauer (Coalition to Stop Stream Destruction) urged the Council to cut DEP and Montgomery Parks personnel costs for engineered stream restorations, calling them unscientific and citing peer-reviewed studies; he proposed redirecting funds to rain gardens, bioretention, and permeable pavement. - Danila Shabeko (individual) seconded Bauer’s criticisms of stream restoration and asked the Council to examine water-quality funding, saying too much was spent on operating expenses and interest payments rather than measurable water-quality improvements. - Lauren Greenberg (Zero Waste Montgomery County) supported the solid waste plan to close the incinerator, dismissed previous testimony as industry-funded misinformation, and urged the Council not to delay action. - Elizabeth Fiedler (resident) strongly supported the FY27 Solid Waste Disposal Plan and incinerator closure, citing dioxin leaks, the 2018 DHHS health report, the 2023 community health needs assessment, and an estimated $365 million repair cost. - Elad Fairburg (resident, PhD scientist) strongly supported closing the incinerator, citing recent dioxin/furan leaks, 150,000 tons of toxic ash sent annually to a Virginia low-income community, $17 million per year in maintenance, and $365 million in potential renovations; he also criticized the Council President for delaying a DEP briefing. - Miriam Eday (Friends of the Earth) strongly urged approval of the DEP landfill transition, saying further hearings were unnecessary; she stated incinerators produce 28 times more dioxin, 6 times more mercury, 6 times more lead, 3 times more nitrogen oxide, and 2.5 times more greenhouse gas than coal per unit of energy. - Carrie Whitcup (Montgomery County Sierra Club) supported DEP’s plan to close the incinerator, noted 150,000 tons of ash had been sent to a low-income Virginia community for 30 years, and advocated for modern landfills with methane capture while pursuing waste reduction. - Stuart Simon (Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions) supported the county executive’s solid waste budget to close the incinerator, saying it would cut greenhouse gas emissions by half, reduce toxic emissions by 2.5 to 5 times, and stop harming the Virginia community receiving ash. Education, Child Care, and Youth - Dawn Potolsky (Montgomery College Alumni Association Board) urged full funding of Montgomery College’s FY27 operating request, including $6.3 million in new dollars, noting MC adds $1.4 billion to the county economy and 87% of alumni stay in the county to live or work. - Dana Baker (Montgomery College full-time counseling faculty, 33 years) asked the Council to fully fund Montgomery College’s FY27 budget and secure pay raises for faculty. - William Premosh (retired Montgomery College part-time professor) supported full funding for both Montgomery College and MCPS, emphasizing that many MC students are minorities, low-income, working, or first-generation; he opposed cuts to support staff such as family engagement specialists. - Nancy Andrade and Miriam Hernandez (Action in Montgomery parent leaders) asked the Council to fully fund the parent-engagement component of Excel Beyond the Bell; Hernandez requested $190,000 for the afterschool program and described training community school liaisons. - Jennifer Nichols (Family Child Care Association of Montgomery County) thanked the Council for a $500,000 increase to the WPA and opening it to families on the scholarship waitlist, but asked for deeper early-childhood investment; she said $5 million could serve 300 more children, $10 million 600, and $16 million 1,000, and contrasted a proposed $180 million MCPS increase with the small early-education allocation. - Renee Zapaka (KFEC/Arc of Montgomery County) requested an 8% increase for early childhood education, noting her center is the county’s only fully inclusive child care program, that a 2024 county study found only 59% of residents had access to care, and that scholarship freezes are reducing access. Nonprofits, Health, and Social Services - Anna Paula Bettinger (WOMCO Help) supported the $239,000 DHHS line item for WOMCO, stating the program served 598 unique individuals across more than 1,000 encounters in the last six months; she also supported funding to build the planned community center clinic by 2030. - Anise Cody (Primary Care Coalition) said the County Executive’s proposed budget funded only 12% of the joint request for uninsured health care and asked the Council to maintain $1.5 million in provider reimbursement and $93,000 for dental services and to annualize an increase of 3,000 visits; she highlighted a $200 value per $1 invested in pharmaceutical assistance. - Christopher Drayton (CSAC) strongly supported the County Executive’s proposed 2.5% increase to the developmental disabilities supplement, noting CSAC has more than 860 employees serving individuals with autism. - Craig Rice (MANA Food Center) asked for an 8% cost-of-living adjustment to county nonprofit contracts and grants, a $3.5 million increase for the Office of Food System Resilience, $1 million for food-as-medicine grants, $200,000 more for school-based assistance, and $250,000 for the farm-to-food bank program; he noted a 30% increase in families served at MANA in one year. - Tristan Caldwell (residential rehabilitation services client) strongly opposed the proposed 50% cut to residential rehabilitation (RP) services and urged restoration plus the 2.5% increase, saying services helped him obtain and maintain employment and live more independently. - Molly Archibald (RRP staff) asked the Council to restore the proposed 50% reduction to the FY27 supplemental budget for residential rehabilitation programs and include the 2.5% increase, warning cuts would increase mental health crises and strain police, fire, and EMS resources. - Lynn Harris (Interfaith Works Board) supported an 8% COLA for essential nonprofit contractors rather than the recommended 2.5%, and highlighted the Connection Services emergency assistance program, which helped 495 families last year and could support nearly 1,000 with more funding. - Stacy Womble (parent of a young adult with autism) requested $46,000 to sustain the Community Companions afterschool program through 2026 and $175,000 for FY27, describing the program as a lifeline. - Kent Sovine (CHIR Long Branch) asked the Council to continue Montgomery County legacy grants for FY27, including LBK, Camp Piney Branch, and Healthy Long Branch. - Fern Hofner (Presbyterians for Police Transformation) urged shifting police funding to civilian-led crisis response, including at least eight mobile crisis outreach teams, filling vacancies, competitive therapist salaries, funding the Takoma Park Mental Health Outreach Program, 24/7 crisis center telephone staff, and a mental health clinician in the 911 center. Business and Taxes - Paula Ross (Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce) strongly urged rejection of the proposed property tax and income tax increases, the 32% increase in 911 fees, and other fee increases; she supported certain economic development investments and called for repealing rent stabilization and focusing on growing the tax base. - Angela Franco (Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce) strongly opposed the proposed 6.3% property tax increase and 3.3% income tax rate increase, plus special taxing districts and another solid waste disposal charge; she supported MCEDC, MCPS with accountability, Montgomery College, and WorkSource Montgomery, and asked the Council to slow government growth. - Stephanie Helsing (Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce) opposed the proposed tax and fee increases—including a 6.3-cent property tax rate adjustment, higher income tax authority, WSSC and transportation fees, and the 5.2% MCPS maintenance-of-effort increase—and urged a more competitive business climate. - Luis Gardenas (Bargain Movers, Gaithersburg) opposed property and income tax increases and new fees, describing $200,000 in county impact fees that made his company’s planned expansion unaffordable and noting he was considering relocating to a neighboring jurisdiction. - Brian Andelou (Apartment and Office Building Association) opposed the proposed property and income tax increases, noting county spending had increased almost 50% since the County Executive took office, and asked the Council to raise the issue of the revised troubled/at-risk property regulations stuck with the County Attorney. Housing - Corrine Hernandez (affordable housing resident) asked the Council to restore county affordable housing funding at least to the level of the previous two years, and ideally more, so more residents can be housed. - Amna Khan (Maryland Inclusive Housing / Montgomery Housing Alliance) urged the Council to increase affordable housing funding beyond the County Executive’s proposal, noting the budget included about $100 million for preservation and development—about $20 million less than each of the previous two years—while pipeline projects require about $169 million in FY27. - Melvin DeCruz (NCCF affordable housing resident) asked the Council to increase funding for affordable housing programs, describing how stable housing helped him recover from homelessness and health issues and gain employment. Other Community Priorities - Nadine Mason Mort, Stephanie Matthew, and Oju Ajogbe supported full funding for the MoCo Pride Family Center at a minimum of $1 million in the FY27 base budget, emphasizing its services for the county’s LGBTQ+ community; Matthew noted the initial county investment was $5,000 plus $500 in supplemental funding. - Tom Drischler (retired City of Los Angeles transportation manager) criticized the school bus stoplight camera program as “taxation by citation,” stating it has produced 415,000 citations and $102 million in fines since 2016, with $68 million paid to contractor Bus Patrol, and that 25,000 residents had registrations frozen; he called for a public hearing on the program. - Susan Kieran (Peace Action Montgomery) acknowledged the County Executive removed Maryland Israel Development Center funding but urged Council members to publicly ground the decision in county values so the funding does not reappear in less visible form. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was held and no votes or formal actions were taken. - Committee worksessions on the FY27 Operating Budget and FY27–32 Public Services Program and Fiscal Policy for the county government, Montgomery College, M-NCPPC, WSSC Water, and MCPS were announced for later in April. - The Council heard from a large number of residents, nonprofit leaders, business representatives, and advocates on budget priorities, with recurring themes including full parks funding, incinerator closure, affordable housing investment, nonprofit COLA increases, early childhood education, and opposition to proposed tax and fee increases.

The Montgomery County Council held a public hearing on the evening of April 8, 2026, to receive testimony on the FY27 Operating Budgets and FY27-32 Public Services Program and Fiscal Policy for Montgomery County Government, Montgomery College, the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, WSSCWater, and Montgomery County Public Schools. The hearing was presided over by Council President Natali Fani-González. No Council discussion or votes occurred during the hearing; it was solely dedicated to public testimony. Committee worksessions on these budget items are scheduled throughout April 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Education Funding (MCPS): Multiple speakers urged full funding of the MCPS operating budget. David Stein, president of the Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA), representing 14,000 educators, argued that failing to fund the budget would harm special education, class sizes, and collective bargaining agreements. Dr. Christine Handy, president of MCASSP (administrators), highlighted the need for $12 million for special education resource teachers, $35 million for class size reduction, 28 new security staff in elementary schools, and expanded summer learning. Pia Morrison, president of SEIU Local 500 (representing 10,000 education support staff), emphasized that cuts to central office staff do not eliminate work but strain frontline workers, and urged the Council not to reduce general wage increases. Dr. Carla McNeil, principal of Hallie Wells Middle School, and Ricardo Hernandez, principal of Seneca Valley High School, both stressed that the budget is essential for student outcomes and staff retention. Dr. Sherilyn Moses, principal of McNair Elementary, called for guaranteed special education resource teachers and building-based security. Darley Sadterwhite, special education teacher, described chronic underfunding as a crisis. Christopher Cannon and Carleen But Pruitt of SEIU Local 500 demanded accountability and opposed cuts to support staff and family engagement specialists. Sally Luis Miller, a family engagement specialist, opposed the proposed reduction of 16 family engagement specialists, arguing it would harm multilingual and vulnerable families. Jason Alexander, a paraeducator, asked the Council to protect collectively bargained wage increases. - Affordable Housing: Numerous residents and advocates requested increased funding for affordable housing preservation and development. Mary Kohler of Montgomery Housing Alliance noted that the proposed budget of approximately $100 million is a reduction from previous years and that $169 million is needed for projects in the pipeline. Irma Washington, a disabled senior, and Christine Palm, a resident of Housing Unlimited, shared personal stories of stability thanks to affordable housing. Maria Moran, Jose Palma, Elena Barrera, Rosalie Savala, Dina Canales, and Mary Claire Boyoto all testified in Spanish or English about the critical need for rental assistance, eviction prevention, and support for housing counseling programs. Carmen Castro Conroy of the Justice and Advocacy Coalition urged more funding for rental assistance programs like CHARP and RAP. Mahir Modi of American Diversity Group highlighted the success of a free medical clinic serving 500 uninsured patients with a budget of $200,000. - Parks and Recreation: Several speakers advocated for full funding of Montgomery Parks. Hannah Hulton, Lynn Parsons (a volunteer weed warrior), Chris Irwin, Zoe Davis (a competitive figure skater), and Casey Anderson (from the Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts) emphasized the health, community, and environmental benefits of parks and the need to close the proposed funding gap of $3.1 million. Zoe Davis shared that parks provide accessible sports opportunities for youth. Chris Irwin specifically urged funding for the Wheaton Action Sports Park. - African American Health Program (AAHP): Multiple speakers opposed proposed changes to AAHP. Jamal Mohammed shared how AAHP helped control his diabetes and credited it with saving his life. Abbayomi Walker of the NAACP highlighted AAHP's achievements: 90% healthy birth weight in the SMILE program, 93% breastfeeding initiation, and CDC full-plus recognition for diabetes prevention. Darius Dean, a 10-year participant, called AAHP a

The Montgomery County Council convened on April 7, 2026 for a full-day session that included proclamations, legislative action on four bills, worksessions on the Capital Improvements Program (CIP), a detailed briefing on the FY27 Operating Budget, and multiple public hearings on budget and appropriations. The council enacted bills on invasive plants, minimum wage reporting, agricultural building exemptions, and governance of the Arts and Humanities Council. The FY27 budget briefing featured a proposed 6.3-cent property tax increase and a 0.1% income tax increase, along with concerns about a potential $257.3 million structural deficit in FY28. Public testimony on the operating budget ran throughout the afternoon and evening, with speakers divided on tax increases and funding priorities. Presentations & Proclamations - Fair Housing Month: Proclamation recognizing April as Fair Housing Month, presented by the Planning, Housing and Parks Committee. Speakers highlighted Montgomery County's historic fair housing leadership and ongoing challenges. - National Public Health Week: Proclamation for April 6-12, 2026, presented by the Health and Human Services Committee, with remarks from the county health officer and community partners. - Minority Health Month: Proclamation recognizing April as Minority Health Month, presented by Councilmember Sayles, with testimony from minority health initiatives. - Arab American Heritage Month: Proclamation recognizing April as Arab American Heritage Month, presented by Council President Fani-González and County Executive Elrich, with community representatives speaking. General Business - Announcements: The council is seeking applicants for the Board of Investment Trustees/Consolidated Retiree Health Benefits Trust and the Planning Board. Applications due April 27, 2026. - Minutes: Approved minutes from March 9, 10, and 17, 2026 sessions (11-0). Legislative Session - Day 9 (Four Bills Enacted) - Bill 26-25 (Vegetation – Invasive Plants): Enacted as amended (11-0). Amends definition of "weed" to align with Maryland Department of Agriculture noxious weed list; prohibits sale and future planting of invasive running bamboo; exempts native species. Councilmember Glass moved adoption of an amendment clarifying the definition. - Bill 1-26 (Minimum Wage – Actual Impact Analysis): Enacted (11-0). Repeals requirement that the Office of Legislative Oversight submit an annual report on minimum wage impact. - Bill 7-26 (Buildings – Agricultural Exemptions): Enacted (11-0). Clarifies agricultural purpose exemption from building permits, including processing for market, and aligns with state law. - Expedited Bill 10-26 (Arts and Humanities Council – Amendments): Enacted (11-0). Overhauls governance: establishes a board of 11-15 voting members appointed by County Executive and confirmed by Council; creates a 5-year designation cycle with OLO evaluation; requires racial equity and social justice policy; mandates ethics disclosures and public meeting requirements. Worksessions – FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) - Agricultural Land Preservation: Approved without objection (11-0). Total program expenditure of $26,123,000 for conservation easements; funded by agricultural transfer tax, developer payments, state aid. - Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center: Approved without objection (11-0). Six-year total $45.2 million (a $6.9 million increase from amended CIP due to refined cost estimates). Briefing – FY27 Operating Budget Overview Council staff and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) presented the County Executive's recommended $7.0 billion tax-supported operating budget (5.7% increase). Key proposals: - Property tax: 6.3-cent increase (supplemental MCPS rate) – third increase in four years. - Income tax: Increase from 3.2% to 3.3% (flat rate), with a working family income supplement. - Reserves: Use of $181.5 million in one-time reserves for ongoing expenditures, leaving undesignated reserves at $46 million (below typical 10% policy level for revenue stabilization fund). - Structural deficit: Projected $601 million gap in FY28 new revenue; with known expenditures, a potential $257.3 million hole – equivalent to a 9.85-cent tax increase. - Compensation: $47.4 million for county government pay adjustments (ranging 2.5%-10.6% depending on bargaining unit); $161.6 million for MCPS. - Fee increases: Water quality protection charge, solid waste fees, 911 fees, community use of public facilities fees. - Council President Fani-González deferred two special transportation taxing districts to the Infrastructure Funding Workgroup and delayed solid waste disposal discussion to fall. - Councilmember concerns: Many members criticized the use of one-time funds for ongoing expenses, the size of the tax increases, and the growing structural deficit. Councilmember Friedson requested a detailed list of efficiencies (0.2% of budget). Councilmember Jawando noted that cuts must account for inflationary cost increases. Councilmember Luedtke called the budget "insane" for relying on reserves. Councilmember Katz called it "the worst budget I've seen." Councilmember Mink asked for clearer distinction between maintenance-of-service and new investments. - Councilmember Balcombe: Emphasized that short-term tax increases worsen long-term structural deficit. Councilmember Evans committed to thoughtful review. Councilmember Glass noted the regressive nature of property tax increases due to inequitable assessments. Consent Calendar Approved (11-0): - Introduced resolution to extend Council’s Contract for Audit Services (action tentatively 4/14/26). - Introduced Supplemental Appropriation 26-64 (DHHS Continuum of Care Planning, $502,167 federal grant; hearing 4/21/26). - Introduced Supplemental Appropriation 26-56 (Office of Food Systems Resilience Food Aggregation Grant, $300,000 private grant; hearing 4/21/26). - Introduced/Adopted Resolution 20-1077 setting public hearing for FY27 Real Property Tax Rate increase (hearing 4/21/26 9:30 a.m.). - Introduced resolution to Increase County Income Tax Rate (hearing 4/21/26 9:30 a.m.). - Introduced/Adopted Resolution 20-1078 amending FY26 budget for non-competitive contract awards: EveryMind, Inc. and League of Women Voters. - Adopted Resolution 20-1079 approving Supplemental Appropriation 26-59 (AHCMC, $53,788 from undesignated reserves). - Adopted Resolution 20-1080 confirming appointment of Lori Garibay-Aquino to Local Management Board. Public Hearings (Afternoon – 1:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.) - Supplemental Appropriation 26-14 (Emergency Family Shelter Services): $3,064,158 from general fund undesignated reserves. Public hearing held; record open until April 16; HHS Committee worksession April 23. - Supplemental Appropriation 26-63 (MCPS IDEA Part B Grant): $553,497 federal grant. Public hearing held and closed; adopted Resolution 20-1081 (11-0). Councilmember Mink noted OLO concerns about culturally responsive training and equitable identification of students of color. - FY27 Capital Budget and CIP Projects (NextGen Technology Refresh, BRT MD 355 North, BRT New Hampshire Avenue): Public hearing held; committee worksessions in April. - FY27 Operating Budgets and FY27-32 Public Services Program: Public hearings held at 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. (continued on April 8). Committee worksessions in April. Public Comments & Testimony (Selected Highlights) - Robin Ficker (taxpayer advocate): Opposed property and income tax increases, calling the budget a "campaign press release." Argued that tax increases make life unaffordable. - Bruce St. John (resident): Stated his property taxes rose 86% from 2020 to 2025; urged council to control spending and reduce taxes. - Margie Graff (Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce): Strongly opposed tax increases, stating they undermine competitiveness and burden residents and businesses. - Pete Cambus (Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce): Urged rejection of property tax increase, restoration of MCEDC funding, and modernization of permitting. - Bridget Howitt (Nonprofit Montgomery): Requested an 8% inflation adjustment for nonprofit contracts instead of the proposed 2.5%, citing rising demand, operating costs, and workforce strain. - Courtney Hall (Interfaith Works): Supported 8% COLA and $449,000 for emergency rental/utility assistance (Connections program) to prevent homelessness. - Ella May Gray (mental health clinician): Advocated for expanding low-cost mental health services, especially for underserved populations. - Vicky Thomas (Animal Services Advisory Committee): Requested funding for five additional animal care attendants and a foster/rescue coordinator to avoid euthanasia; recommended maintaining $30,000 pet food pantry and $125,000 spay/neuter. - Bruce Cohen (volunteer): Described overcrowded shelter conditions; urged spay/neuter requirements and additional staffing to prevent euthanasia of healthy animals. - Mandy Bening (mother of pedestrian fatality victim): Urged funding for Vision Zero measures such as HAWK beacons at mid-block bus stops on high-injury roads. - Donna deGrasse (Silver Spring Justice Coalition): Called for increased mobile crisis outreach teams and public awareness campaign; opposed drone first responder program expansion without independent evaluation. - Kevin Walden (Climate Coalition): Supported full funding for Montgomery County Green Bank; urged bus service expansion upcounty; opposed artificial turf in schools, favoring grass fields; supported solid waste management plan to phase out incineration. - Ben Ross (transit advocate): Criticized budget for spending on "showy" BRT projects while cutting ride-on service; called for more frequent buses and bike-share expansion. - Jasmine Flores (resident): Testified on the life-changing impact of recreation and parks programs for seniors and youth; urged full funding of these services. - Lillian Mass (small business owner): Requested creation of a program for startups to compete for small entry-level county contracts, noting current barriers for new businesses. - Kate Liu (CCACC Health Center): Asked for continued funding of hepatitis B screening program, the only program addressing the biggest health disparity for Asian Americans. - Carrie Guthrie (Cornerstone Montgomery) and Britt Mobley (Rock Creek Foundation): Opposed 50% reduction to Residential Rehabilitation Program (RRP) supplement, which would force staff cuts and endanger services for people with serious mental illness. - Davita Rowley (Community Action Board): Supported expansion of emergency rental/energy assistance, free clinics, and working parents assistance; highlighted ongoing fear in immigrant community. Key Outcomes - Enacted four bills: Bill 26-25, Bill 1-26, Bill 7-26, Expedited Bill 10-26 (all 11-0). - Approved CIP worksessions: Agricultural Land Preservation and Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center (both 11-0). - Approved Consent Calendar (11-0), including introduction of tax rate increase resolutions and supplemental appropriations. - Adopted Resolution 20-1081 approving IDEA Part B grant for MCPS ($553,497). - Public hearings held on emergency shelter appropriation, capital budget projects, and FY27 operating budget. Records remain open on shelter appropriation until April 16. - Budget process: Committee worksessions scheduled throughout April; council will act on full CIP and operating budget in May. Council President Fani-González deferred special taxing districts and solid waste disposal to separate processes.

The Montgomery County Council convened on April 7, 2026, for a full-day session that included legislative actions, worksessions, briefings, and a public hearing on the FY27 Operating Budgets and FY27-32 Public Services Program. The meeting began at 9:03 a.m. with presentations and general business, followed by legislative session, worksessions, a budget briefing, consent calendar, and a lunch meeting with the Montgomery County Retired Employees’ Association. The Council recessed and reconvened at 1:03 p.m. for additional presentations and public hearings, culminating in an evening public hearing from 6:31 p.m. to 8:54 p.m. that featured extensive testimony from residents, advocates, and organizational representatives. Consent Calendar - Introduced a resolution to extend the Council’s Contract for Audit Services (action tentatively scheduled for April 14, 2026). - Introduced a resolution to approve Supplemental Appropriation 26-64 for the FY26 Operating Budget, Department of Health and Human Services Continuum of Care Planning Activities Grant ($502,167 from Federal Grant). Public hearing and action scheduled for April 21, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. - Introduced a resolution to approve Supplemental Appropriation 26-56 for the FY26 Operating Budget, Office of Food Systems Resilience FY26 Food Aggregation Grant Program ($300,000 from Private Grant). Public hearing and action scheduled for April 21, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. - Introduced and adopted Resolution 20-1077 to set the Public Hearing Date for the Council’s intent to consider an FY27 Real Property Tax Rate increase. Public hearing scheduled for April 21, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. - Introduced a resolution to increase the County Income Tax Rate. Public hearing scheduled for April 21, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. - Introduced and adopted Resolution 20-1078 approving an Amendment to the FY26 Operating Budget designating EveryMind, Inc. and League of Women Voters of Montgomery County, Maryland, Inc. for non-competitive contract award. - Adopted Resolution 20-1079 approving Supplemental Appropriation 26-59 for the FY26 Operating Budget, Department of Recreation, Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County ($53,788 from General Funds Undesignated Reserves), as recommended by the joint EC/GO Committees. - Adopted Resolution 20-1080 confirming the County Executive’s appointment to the Local Management Board for Children, Youth, and Families: Lori Garibay-Aquino. Public Comments & Testimony The evening public hearing (6:30 p.m. session) was dedicated to testimony on FY27 Operating Budgets and FY27-32 Public Services Program. Speakers addressed a wide range of issues: - Recreation and Parks: Michael Ritchie (Recreation and Parks Advisory Board) urged full funding for the Department of Recreation, noting undersized facilities, waitlists for camps and senior programs, and the success of free passes. Ryan Holywell supported funding for recreation and parks, highlighting demand for senior and therapeutic programs. Alison Gillespie requested full funding for Parks Department budget, citing a 6.3% increase request but only 4% in executive proposal. - Montgomery College: Gloria Paricio Blackwell (Board of Trustees) requested a $6.3 million increase (first in four years) for MC, citing 23% enrollment growth while budget grew only 12%. Students Devon Dees, Julio Lopez, Alexander Hardman, and staff Karen Zayenga (AFSME Local 2380) testified in support, emphasizing affordability, workforce training, and staff retention. Bruce Spector (BCR Cyber) spoke as an employer partner, supporting MC’s cybersecurity programs. - Libraries: Grace Manube (Library Board) requested restoration of $624,864 to open all branches on Sundays and support for library enhancements. Karina Shod (student) and Roger Whelans (Potomac Library LAC) echoed the request, noting widespread community support (over 200 signatures collected). - Housing & Homelessness: Multiple speakers from Housing Justice Montgomery and other groups called for increased funding: $80 million for emergency rental assistance, $20 million for rapid rehousing, $27 million for permanent supportive housing, $182 million for Housing Initiative Fund, $3.3 million for moving assistance/storage, and $9.5 million for SHARP program. Speakers included Robert Goldman (MHP), Thomas Gibson (shelter resident), Joe Schifrin, Michelle Red (via Pascal Lamar), Rashida Lee, Edwina Lewis, and Sergein Yengo. They emphasized that housing investments reduce long-term costs (e.g., 40-70% reduction in ER visits). - LGBTQ+ Services: Madeleine Rope, Lamont Ballantine, Jasmine Young, Tommy Lamont, and Quentin Strange testified in support of $1 million base funding for the MoCo Pride Center, noting growing demand for safe spaces and referrals. - Food Insecurity: John Ross (Nourishing Bethesda) reported 35% of county residents are food insecure, including 27,000 children, and requested continued support for food pantries. - Developmental Disabilities: Rick Callahan (Interact) urged a 3% increase (to $23.4 million) for DD supplement to sustain DSP wages and services. - Child Care: Kevin Coverley (Children's Opportunity Alliance) argued for $16 million increase in working parents assistance, noting only $500,000 allocated vs. need. - BlackRock Center for the Arts: Stephen Barber and Oni Watson Jr. requested restoration of $125,000 for civic and community use funding, noting BlackRock provides over $700,000 in subsidies as Germantown’s de facto civic facility. - Opposition to Tax Increases: Aaron Drawler, Jason Erringer, Alex Cantor, Jonathan Krasner (citing Reddit comments) spoke against property, income, and fee increases, calling for spending cuts, auditing MCPS, and eliminating vacant positions. - MCPS and Cold Spring Elementary: Brooke Rickett, students Daniel Chen and Giovanni Scatolini, and teacher Kira Mickelson testified about safety and learning challenges at the only open-concept school in the county, urging prioritization and full funding of the replacement project starting in FY28. - Other: Taylor Turner shared personal story about maternal care inequity, calling for accountability and education. Beatrice Martinez supported Linkages to Learning mental health program. Buddy Sutton (volunteer fire chief) opposed proposed cuts to Laytonsville fire personnel. Glenn Richards supported full funding for Park Police. Multiple speakers also addressed MCPS accountability and budget priorities. Discussion Items - Legislative Session - Day 9: The Council enacted four bills by 11-0 votes: - Bill 26-25 (Vegetation – Invasive Plants): Enacted as amended, including a new definition of “Weed.” - Bill 1-26 (Minimum Wage Actual Impact Analysis): Repealed the annual OLO report requirement. - Bill 7-26 (Agricultural Building Exemptions): Clarified exemptions, requiring permits for food/beverage consumption areas unless exempted by state law. - Expedited Bill 10-26 (Arts and Humanities Council): Established new board structure, appointment/confirmation process, racial equity policy, and transition provisions. - Worksessions: - Agricultural Land Preservation CIP: Approved as submitted by County Executive (unanimous straw vote). - Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center CIP: Approved as submitted (11-0). - FY27 Operating Budget Overview Briefing: Council staff presented the County Executive’s proposal, including a 5.1% expenditure increase, 6.3 cent property tax increase, and 0.1% income tax increase starting Jan 2027. Councilmembers expressed concerns about using reserves for ongoing expenses, structural deficits, and maintaining AAA bond rating. They requested detailed information on growth projections, efficiencies, and personnel costs. Council President Fani-González deferred creation of two new Transportation Special Taxing Districts to the Infrastructure Funding Workgroup. - Meeting with MCREA: Discussed retiree investment fund management and other budget concerns. - Public Hearings (1:30 p.m. session): - Supplemental Appropriation 26-14 for Emergency Family Shelter Services ($3,064,158) – held open until April 16, 2026. - Supplemental Appropriation 26-63 for MCPS IDEA Part B Grant ($553,497) – adopted (11-0). - FY27 Capital Budget and CIP for Next Generation Technology Refresh, Bus Rapid Transit MD 355 North and New Hampshire Avenue – held open. - FY27 Operating Budgets and FY27-32 Public Services Program (1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.) – held open; committee worksessions scheduled throughout April. Key Outcomes - Enacted Bills: Bill 26-25, Bill 1-26, Bill 7-26, and Expedited Bill 10-26 (all 11-0). - Approved CIP Worksessions: Agricultural Land Preservation and Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center (unanimous). - Adopted Consent Calendar Resolutions: 20-1077, 20-1078, 20-1079, 20-1080. - Adopted Public Hearing Action: Resolution 20-1081 for MCPS IDEA Grant. - Public Hearing Records: Several public hearings held open for additional testimony and committee worksessions. - Budget Briefing: Council staff to provide detailed breakdowns on growth projections, efficiencies, and personnel costs. Deferral of two Special Taxing Districts to Infrastructure Workgroup. - Next Steps: Committee worksessions on FY27 budgets and CIP continue through April. Public hearings on property tax rate and income tax increases scheduled for April 21, 2026. Application deadlines for Board of Investment Trustees and Planning Board are April 27, 2026.

The Planning, Housing and Parks (PHP) Committee met on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 2:15 p.m. to 3:04 p.m. to review the FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for the Department of Recreation. The committee recommended approval of most projects as submitted by the County Executive, deferred one project pending a cost estimate, and discussed the need for a new recreation center in Bethesda. Consent Calendar No separate consent calendar was identified; all approvals were made after discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Community members testified in support of keeping an artificial turf field at North Potomac Community Center, opposed to the proposed conversion to natural grass. Discussion Items - Natural Grass Field at North Potomac Community Center: A $720,000 placeholder for a natural grass field to replace the existing artificial turf (10 years old, 12-15 year lifespan) was considered. Further analysis indicated the cost could be up to three times that amount. Staff recommended deferral until an accurate cost estimate is available. The committee agreed. - Kennedy Shriver Aquatic Center Building Envelope Project: A $9 million project to restore windows, masonry, and roof, scheduled for completion fall 2026. Director Dise noted additional need for pool floor resurfacing not in original scope, and will seek extra funding to avoid future closure. - Holiday Park Net Zero Initiative: $105,000 increase (1.87%) for facade, window replacement, and exterior work to support zero emissions by 2035. Construction started fall 2025, completion FY27. Committee expressed strong support. - Recreation Facilities Refurbishment – Centers: $24 million program for systematic renovation of rec centers. Damascus Senior Center refurbishment on schedule for end of 2026. Director Albornoz raised possibility of a larger redevelopment in Emory Grove/Upper County beyond refurbishment. - Refurbishment – Indoor Pools: $10.84 million decrease reflecting completed work; new schedule for indoor pool projects including MLK Swim Center. - Refurbishment – Outdoor Pools: $11.451 million change; Bethesda outdoor pool needs new white coat and mechanical system. - Recreation Facilities Asset Replacement: $3.056 million increase to advance bleacher and kitchen replacements from FY29 to FY27, plus marquee replacement. - Playground Replacement: No cost change; state aid used for several playgrounds. - Swimming Pool Slides Replacement: $359,000 increase for refined estimates; work coordinated with other pool closures. - MLK Indoor Swim Center Renovation: No cost change; design FY27, construction FY28, closure scheduled between Kennedy Shriver reopening and other projects. - North Bethesda Community Recreation Center: Project remains in CIP with no cost change; schedule dependent on White Flint sector plan and affordability considerations. Key Outcomes - Approved (as submitted by County Executive): Holiday Park Net Zero Initiative, Kennedy Shriver Aquatic Center Building Envelope, MLK Indoor Swim Center Renovation, North Bethesda Community Recreation Center, Recreation Facilities Asset Replacement, Playground Replacement, Refurbishment - Centers, Indoor Pools, Outdoor Pools, and Swimming Pools Slide Replacement. - Deferred: Natural Grass Field at North Potomac Community Center until a more accurate cost estimate is provided. - The committee noted the separate joint PHP/HHS discussion on the Western County Recreation Project. - Chair Friedson and Director Albornoz discussed the future need for a downtown Bethesda recreation center, citing growth, aging population, and lack of full-service facilities. State funding secured by Delegate Corman for design work was acknowledged. - Councilmember Jawando requested improved public communication of the facility prioritization matrix, including equity factors. Departments agreed to work on synthesizing data for external use.

The Planning, Housing and Parks (PHP) and Health and Human Services (HHS) Committees held a joint work session on April 6, 2026 from 1:30 p.m. to 1:47 p.m. (agenda had listed 1:45-2:15) to review the County Executive’s proposed FY27-32 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) budget for the Western County Recreation Center. The project, located at Dillingham Park in Poolesville, has been long advocated for by the Fair Access Committee and the Town of Poolesville. Councilmembers Friedson (Chair, PHP), Fani-González, Jawando, Sayles (Chair, HHS), Luedtke, and Friedson (HHS) participated, along with directors from Recreation, General Services, and OMB. Discussion Items - Project Overview: Director Dise of DGS reported that design will begin in FY28. The Town of Poolesville owns the Dillingham Park site and will provide a ground lease. The facility will include recreational space and an HHS health suite of approximately 1,000 square feet, featuring storage, clinical spaces, medical exam rooms, and reception. Equipment costs are included in the CIP estimate, with allowances for long-lead items. - Health Suite and Programming: Deputy Director Ossent confirmed that the health suite was developed with input from HHS, Recreation, and local providers. Community surveys and needs assessments will be conducted before programming is finalized. Councilmember Balcombe asked about equipment; Ossent assured that the CIP includes an equipment allowance and any long-lead items would be ordered in advance. - Transportation and Hours: Council President Fani-González emphasized that the center must serve low-income farm workers who may need hours beyond the typical 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. She requested a public transportation plan from DOT, noting the need for efficient routes. Councilmember Friedson suggested microtransit as a flexible solution, praising Councilmember Balcombe’s advocacy. Councilmember Luedtke echoed the need for adaptable transit, especially for distant parts of Upcounty. - Health Outcomes Context: Friedson noted that Poolesville had the worst health outcomes in the county according to a countywide analysis, driven by older adult and rural demographics, making the center a critical response to an identified HHS need. Key Outcomes - The committees voted unanimously to recommend approval of the FY27-32 CIP budget for the Western County Recreation Center as submitted by the County Executive. - Councilmember Fani-González requested that a public transportation plan be shared with the committee once the project advances further. Both Chairs concurred. - The committees requested a full Council discussion on this project, along with other FY27-32 recommended CIP projects for Culture and Recreation.

The Education and Culture (EC), Health and Human Services (HHS), and Economic Development (ECON) Committees met jointly on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 1:33 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. to receive an update on the early care and education (ECE) workforce. The meeting featured presentations from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the Children's Opportunity Alliance (COA), Montgomery College, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), and Montgomery Moving Forward (MMF). Key topics included workforce compensation, the need for a statewide registry and career lattice, subsidy modernization, and coordinated next steps. Discussion Items - Workforce Compensation Study Findings: Jennifer Arnáiz (DHHS) presented results from a survey covering about 23% of the credentialed ECE workforce. Median hourly wage is $21/hour; only 5% reach the self-sufficiency wage of $31/hour. 99% earn below the county median household income of $128,000/year. 66% cited higher pay as the single biggest factor to stay. 37% rely on public benefits. Only 28% have employer-provided health insurance. Fewer than half expect to stay with their employer in five years. - State-Level Advocacy: Sharon Friedman (MMF) and Chris Swanson (C-Impact Now) described a statewide call to action for an ECE workforce registry (Maryland is one of only four states without one) and a birth-to-five career lattice. Estimated startup cost for a registry is $700,000; annual operation $1.8 million. The work will transition to a new Maryland Early Care and Education Coalition on July 1, 2026. - Local Pathways: Ginger Robinson (Montgomery College) reported that since 2019, $2.3 million in ECEI scholarships have been awarded, with enrollment increasing 75% (from 120 to 209 students) between FY24 and FY26. Nichelle Owens (MCPS) described high school CDA pathways, paraeducator partnerships with Towson University and the University of Maryland, and professional learning for pre-K partners. - Coordination and Role Clarity: Councilmember Friedson questioned whether roles among partners are sufficiently clear. Kimberly Rusnak (COA) acknowledged the complexity but stated that partners are now aligned on the need to address both seats and workforce. Councilmember Luedtke highlighted the Maryland Longitudinal Data System Center as a resource for tracking educational and workforce outcomes. - Regulatory and Funding Timelines: Council President Fani-González requested that the Early Care and Education Initiative’s sub-committee recommendations on subsidized childcare and the workforce be transmitted by June 2026, and the County Executive’s official regulatory recommendations by July 2026 to support Council action before November 2026. Key Outcomes - Data Requests: Councilmember Mink requested enrollment capacity data for ECE programs from MCPS, Montgomery College, and Universities at Shady Grove, along with data on graduation placement of students who pursue ECE studies. Councilmember Balcombe requested complete seat capacity data for Montgomery College’s ECE credit and non-credit courses. - Next Steps: Partners committed to launching affordable health insurance benefits through a shared service model in fall 2026, submitting COMAR revisions to modernize subsidy regulations, and supporting a statewide legislative push for a mandatory educator registry and birth-to-five career lattice. - Community Polling: COA commissioned a poll of registered voters showing that 77% consider retaining and attracting early childhood educators extremely or very important, providing a foundation for future dedicated funding advocacy.

The Montgomery County Audit Committee, comprising members of the Government Operations & Fiscal Policy Committee plus the Council President and Vice President, met on March 26, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 9:50 a.m. to review the Fiscal Year 2025 external audit results and consider the renewal of SB & Company's audit contract for FY2026. Discussion Items - FY2025 External Audit Results – SB & Company (engagement partner Bill Seymour and engagement manager Renata Reis) presented that the county received unmodified (clean) opinions on all required financial statements: County government, Employees’ Retirement System, Consolidated Retiree Health Benefits Trust, and other audit-related work. No material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting were identified, no fraud was discovered, and no audit adjustments were needed. The single audit (federal grants) tested six major programs totaling just under $120 million in expenditures (52% of the $230 million in total federal awards), resulting in an unmodified compliance opinion and the county retaining its low-risk audit status. The auditors noted full cooperation from management and highlighted the importance of continued vigilance regarding cybersecurity and IT risks. - Contract Renewal for SB & Company – The committee reviewed the third-year renewal of SB & Company’s audit contract (originally awarded via RFP for a five-year term). The contract provides for an annual increase based on the Consumer Price Index; for this year, the increase was 2.7% ($8,000), using existing funds in the audit appropriation. Senior Legislative Analyst Blaise DeFazio recommended approval. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously voted to recommend approval of the contract amendment with SB & Company for the FY2026 audit to the full Council. The contract renewal will be introduced to the Council on April 7, 2026. - The committee also noted plans to reconvene in June 2026 to review reports from the Inspector General.