Public Meetings - Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

The Montgomery County Retirement Board convened on January 28, 2026, to approve prior meeting minutes, review 2025 investment performance, and receive notification of pension forfeiture actions against two former employees convicted of theft. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approval of October 29, 2025 Meeting Minutes: Motion made and seconded; unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments. Discussion Items - Investment Performance Update (2025): Kathy presented the retirement plan’s 2025 results, reporting a 16.45% gross return, the best since 2019. The portfolio market value ended the year at $752 million, rising to approximately $761.6 million as of the day before the meeting. Equities, especially international and emerging markets, contributed strongly. Fixed income and alternatives also performed well. Commissioners discussed the impact of the negative 2022 return (–15%) on the fund’s 80% funding threshold, which currently prevents a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for retirees. It was noted that another two years of strong returns may be needed to surpass that threshold and enable a COLA increase. Kathy highlighted supportive monetary and fiscal policy tailwinds for 2026. - Criminal Proceeding Mandating Pension Forfeiture: The board was notified that two former county employees, Patricia Altusa and Lisa Schopper, were convicted of theft of government funds. Under Pennsylvania’s Public Employees Pension Forfeiture Act (Act 140 of 1978), their pension benefits are forfeited. They will receive a return of their own contributions, subject to restitution. No board vote was required; notification to the individuals will occur the following week. Key Outcomes - Minutes of October 29, 2025, approved unanimously. - Investment performance update received; no formal action taken. - Pension forfeiture update accepted; no vote needed. - Meeting adjourned.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners held its regular public meeting on January 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the boardroom. The meeting included recognitions, updates on major capital projects, approval of contracts and grants, and public comment on a range of county business items. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 8, 2026, Board of Commissioners meeting (motion carried unanimously). - Approved authorization of planning assistant contracts for Abington Township, Southward Township, Collegeville Borough, Hatboro Borough, North Wales Borough, and a new contract for Plymouth Township (motion carried unanimously). Commissioner DeBello noted the need to revisit the 50% cost share model. - Committed $1,092,438 in county funds for the Farmland Preservation Program, which leverages approximately $3 million in state funds (motion carried unanimously). - Authorized three subgrantee agreements between the Redevelopment Authority and Montgomery County for statewide local share account grants totaling $2.5 million, with a 1% RDA fee ($25,000) paid from grant funds (motion carried unanimously). - Authorized submission of a brownfields cleanup grant application to the EPA for up to $4 million for cleanup at the Erie Street Prison site (motion carried unanimously). - Approved the revision of the county seal, modernizing the design while preserving historical elements (motion carried unanimously). - Approved reappointments to the Montgomery County Planning Commission, Montgomery County Transportation Authority, and Drug and Alcohol Planning Council (all motions carried unanimously). - Approved the January 22, 2026, personnel list (motion carried unanimously). - Approved advertisement of bids and RFPs as per Exhibit A (motion carried unanimously). - Approved all Exhibit B contract awards except item 11 (motion carried unanimously). Item 11 (contract for electronic poll books) was voted on separately: Commissioner Weiner and Commissioner McKeeja voted aye, Commissioner DeBello voted no (2-1). - Approved Exhibit C contract awards for the Southeast PA Regional Task Force (motion carried unanimously). Public Comments & Testimony - David Morgan (Ambler): Commented on the Justice Center cost increase from $415M to $480M, asked about lease costs, Microsoft enterprise agreement, and requested a bipartisan chair for the board. He also noted a typo in the agenda referencing "Delaware County" and praised a Penn Medicine program for new mothers. - Joe Rooney (Abington): Praised voter services staff (Leanne Sierra) for professionalism. Criticized the green roof for potential maintenance issues (ants, rodents). Questioned contract awards for cell phone software licenses ($30,870 for straw gun investigations), a youth leadership program from Lewes, Delaware ($300,000), a gravel trail increase, and a sheriff's vehicle purchase from Easton, PA instead of a local vendor. Expressed strong support for law enforcement. - Carmina Taylor (Norristown): Apologized for blurting out during earlier comment. Emphasized the importance of civility and attentiveness by commissioners. Announced a statewide initiative led by Black mayors and encouraged Montgomery County participation. - Christine (Chrissy Jamowski, Roseford): Raised concerns about multiple data center proposals near her home, including a proposed land swap of State Game Lands 234 that could lead to a hyperscale data center. Asked for county support to municipalities, impact studies on health, water, and electric bills, and a public forum. Commissioner McKeeja noted the county's chief sustainability officer is working on a forum for municipal officials. Discussion Items - Commissioner Remarks: Commissioner Winder opened by announcing an executive session on January 13, 2026, for legal consultation. He highlighted MLK Day service events, the America 250 kickoff at Valley Forge, the Pennsylvania Farm Show (with butter sculpture by artists from Conshohocken), and the upcoming Share Food Program warehouse opening in Lansdale on January 29 (county invested $4 million in ARPA funds). He recognized Marsha Eichelberger, Executive Director of Family Promise of Montgomery County, with a commendation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and a citation from Congresswoman Madeleine Dean. He also recognized Rick Preet, Roman Catholic High School football head coach and Montgomery County resident, for winning the PA 5A state championship and being named Coach of the Year. He proclaimed January 25-31, 2026 as Medical Legal Death Investigation Professionals Week and presented a certificate to the coroner's office. - Commissioner Jametta: Reported on the first-ever municipal elected officials orientation forum with 200 attendees, highlighted the Share Food warehouse investment ($7 million total from CARES and ARPA), introduced the new labor liaison Ross Dispenza, and presented "Way to Go" awards to Sean Lee, Jordan Charrega, Sean T. Smith, and others. - Commissioner DeBello: Recognized January as School Board Appreciation Month, noting Montgomery County has 22 school districts and 198 school board directors. He also acknowledged the hard work of law enforcement. - Meals on Wheels Presentation (Phoebe Camsianick, Family Services of Montgomery County): Described the Meals on Wheels and Project Hearth programs for seniors, highlighting volunteer needs and the annual "March for Meals" event. Commissioner McKeeja recounted volunteering with a 54-year volunteer. - Justice Center Update (Jesse King, Chief Operating Officer): Provided a detailed update on phase two construction, including a green roof (first in county facilities), two building entrances, cafe vendor selection, and lighting. Timeline: substantial completion in Q3 2026, operational in Q4 2026. Phase two contract awards total $233M with $5.8M in approved change orders (2.5%). For phase three (historic courthouse renovation), design principles emphasize timelessness and sustainability. Estimated total project cost: $472M to $480M (depending on contingency spend). Remaining contingency: $2M for phase two, $5M for phase three. Commissioners discussed cost pressures (scope changes, escalation) and requested quarterly updates. Commissioner Weiner highlighted the need for a review of capital project processes. - Erie Street Prison Update (Scott France, Patty Guttenplan): Reported on progress of the RFEI for redevelopment of the prison site. Targeted uses include residential with inclusionary element, retail, public plaza, structured parking, prison preservation, and county elements (40,000 sq ft). The county is applying for a $4 million EPA Brownfield Cleanup Grant (no match required). A public hearing on cleanup options was held that evening at 5 PM. The RFEI process continues with interviews complete; a supplement will be issued to development teams. - County Seal Revision (Megan Holt): Presented the revised seal, updated for clarity and modern use while retaining original elements (steam engine, farmer, manufacturing, etc.). The new brand colors are Pol Vault, Marigold, and Frost. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items and most contracts were approved unanimously, except for item 11 (electronic poll books) which passed 2-1. - The Justice Center project timeline remains on track for Q3 2026 substantial completion and Q4 2026 operational start for phase two; phase three completion expected Q4 2028. Total project cost range $472M–$480M. - The county will submit the EPA brownfield cleanup grant application for the Erie Street Prison by January 28, 2026. - The county seal revision was adopted; updated seal will be used for official business. - The board committed $1,092,438 in county funds for farmland preservation, leveraging state funds. - The board authorized new planning assistant contracts for six municipalities, with a directive to review the cost-share model. - A motion to separate and approve item 11 (poll books) was passed 2-1. Commissioner DeBello voted no. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 12:15 PM, followed by a Salary Board meeting.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners held its first meeting of 2026 on January 8, 2026, at 10 a.m. The meeting included opening remarks, approval of routine items, public comments, and several announcements. Following the main board meeting, the Salary Board and Election Board also met briefly. Commissioners outlined new meeting rules, highlighted upcoming county events, and addressed key administrative matters. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the December 18, 2025, Board of Commissioners meeting were approved unanimously. - Commissioner Reappointments: - Reappointments to the Schuylkill River Parking & Rail Authority (Resolution 1) were approved. - Appointments to the Montgomery County Transportation Authority (Resolution 2) were approved. - Appointments to the Montgomery County Conservation District (Resolution 3) were approved. Commissioner De Bello was appointed to the Conservation District board. - Personnel Matters: The personnel presentation given by Anthony Brew, Chief Human Resources Officer, was approved (effective January 28, 2026). - Advertisement of Bids and RPs: The advertisement of bids and RPs as attached in Exhibit A was approved. Commissioner Keesha highlighted a new RP for language access services, led by the Director of Human Rights Affairs, to modernize interpretation and translation services. - Contract Awards, Amendments, and Renewals: Exhibits B (Montgomery County) and C (South Eastern PA Regional Task Force) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Matthew Decker (co-founder and artistic director, Theater Horizon) spoke about the theater's 21st season, noting it serves over 4,000 visitors annually and has an education program reaching 1,000 children. He invited commissioners to the opening night of "XOXO," a variety show on February 13, 2026, featuring personal stories and songs about love. Commissioners expressed support and said they would share information with county employees. - Lauren Haran (retired county employee) spoke in tribute to Frank Milton, a retired county data specialist who served 28 years in the background, entering sentencing information into state databases. She praised his dedication and positive attitude. Commissioners thanked her for highlighting his service. Discussion Items & Announcements - Meeting Rules: Chair Winder outlined new rules for public comment: each speaker is allotted three minutes (timed), comments must be germane to county business, and disruptive conduct will not result in removal. The goal is to maintain a safe and productive forum. - Upcoming Events: - MLK Day of Service (January 19, 2026) – encourage community participation. - Annual Point-in-Time Homeless Count (January 22, 2026) – donations accepted via an Amazon wishlist. - Second Annual State of the County Address (February 11, 2026) at Montgomery County Community College. - America 250 celebration – information at montgomerycountypa.gov/america250. - Lanco 2040 grant applications due March 3, 2026; over $20 million invested in 54 municipalities over the past 10 years. - First-ever convening of all newly elected/re-elected municipal officials on January 10, 2026. - New HHS Director: Dr. Pat McCurden was welcomed as the new head of Health and Human Services (HHS), a department with a $478 million budget and nearly 600 staff. Dr. McCurden is a licensed social worker with 25+ years of leadership experience. - Human Trafficking Awareness Month: Commissioner De Bello highlighted a seminar on human trafficking and urged awareness, noting an estimated 30 million victims globally. He supported the Worthwhile Thrift Stores that fund victim services. - Fire Academy Graduation: 42 graduates from the Montgomery County Fire Academy (Class 150-2) are serving 26 different fire companies. Volunteer firefighters make up 96% of all firefighters in the county. - Election Board Certification: The Election Board certified the January 5, 2026 recount for the Lower Providence Township Supervisor race, which narrowed to a 2–3 vote difference out of 824 ballots. The recount used a separate scanner, and both candidates were present. - Farewell to Dean Standard: Commissioners thanked Dean Standard, outgoing Chief Financial Officer, for nearly a decade of service. Dean is leaving to become COO of a township in Chester County. Commissioners praised his patience, transparency, and role in maintaining the county’s AAA bond rating. - Salary Board: The Salary Board approved the January 2026 salary board presentation by Anthony Brew. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items were approved unanimously. - The Election Board certified the Lower Providence recount results. - The next Board of Commissioners meeting is scheduled for January 22, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the same room.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners held its January 5, 2026 meeting, which included the annual reorganization, election of officers, public comments, and closing remarks. Outgoing Chair Commissioner McKeesia reviewed 2025 accomplishments, and Commissioner Jamila Winder was elected Chair, while Commissioner McKeesia was elected Vice Chair. Public Comments & Testimony - State Representative Reg Scott congratulated Commissioner Winder and stressed the importance of county government in uncertain times. He highlighted a partnership that helped over 4,000 families in his district avoid utility disconnection and urged continued focus on mental health, housing, and food access. He also suggested the board discuss the annual chair transition with constituents. - John Bower expressed support for Commissioners McKeesia and DeBella, calling them compassionate and smart, and thanked them for their work. - Carmina Taylor praised the board for demonstrating bipartisan governance and implored continued civility. She specifically urged support for the female commissioner (Winder) and recognition of different lived experiences, calling on both black residents and white men to support her leadership. Discussion Items - Outgoing Chair Commissioner McKeesia opened the meeting, noting the passage of the first bipartisan budget in nearly a decade, the 24/7 behavioral health crisis center, three homeless shelters in Lansdale and Pottsville, and the highest voter turnout (50%) in a local election. He thanked his colleagues and passed the gavel to Commissioner Winder. - Commissioner DeBella wished everyone a happy new year, highlighted Montgomery County's growth as one of the "hottest counties," and expressed hope that 2026 meetings would be more business-focused, with regular project updates and expense discussions. - Nominations for Chair: Commissioner McKeesia nominated Commissioner Jamila Winder. Commissioner DeBella self-nominated but lacked a second. The nomination was closed, and Winder was elected unanimously. - Commissioner Winder accepted the chair, emphasizing bipartisan collaboration and shared leadership. She outlined key challenges: housing insecurity, mental health, justice and public safety, and sustainable infrastructure. She committed to open dialogue, transparency, and mutual respect. - Nominations for Vice Chair: Chair Winder nominated Commissioner McKeesia. Commissioner DeBella self-nominated but lacked a second. McKeesia was elected unanimously. - Closing remarks: Commissioners thanked each other and the county team. Commissioner McKeesia noted the value of collective action and reminded that it takes two commissioners to advance an agenda. Commissioner DeBella encouraged continued honesty and feedback. Key Outcomes - Commissioner Jamila Winder was elected Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners for a term expiring January 4, 2027. - Commissioner Neil McKeesia was elected Vice Chair for a term expiring January 4, 2027. - The board adjourned the general meeting and immediately convened a Salary Board meeting, where the annual compensation of county employees was approved unanimously.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners met on December 18, 2025, to approve the fiscal year 2026 budget, consider numerous resolutions, and hear public comments. The meeting lasted approximately 2.5 hours. The board unanimously passed a $1.2 billion total county budget, including a 4% real estate tax increase, and approved several grants, contracts, and appointments. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The November 13, 2025, meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - Planning Assistance Contracts: Approved contracts with East Greenville Borough ($63,118), Douglas Township ($86,070), Cheltenham Township ($137,136), and West Norriton Township ($120,498) for community planning services through 2028. - Open Space Grants: Approved $220,000 to Lower Moreland Township for a 0.43-acre parcel along Pennypack Creek, and $160,000 to Lower Salford Township for a 1-acre parcel adjacent to Harleysville Community Center, both as part of the Monco Forever Green program. - Norristown Farm Park Lease and Zoo Sublease: Authorized a 35-year lease with the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for Norristown Farm Park and a sublease with Elmwood Park Zoo for the historic Castor House, with the zoo planning a greenhouse conservatory and free public amenities. - Industrial Development Authority Life Extension: Extended the IDA’s corporate life by 50 years to 2075-76 to allow issuance of 35-year bonds. - Norristown Public Library Grant Commitment: Affirmed a 50-year public library use commitment to support a Keystone Grant for HVAC and ADA improvements. - Teamsters Local 384 Collective Bargaining Agreement: Approved a three-year contract (2026-28) for 200 correctional officers, raising starting pay to $54,000 in 2026 and $57,000 by 2028. - Baraitha Cultural Learning Center Grant: Approved $500,000 from reclaimed ARPA funds for expansion of the center. - Board Appointments: Approved appointments to the Food Policy Council, Conservation District, Workforce Development Board, Local Emergency Planning Committee, Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board, Community College Board, Board of Managers, and Montgomery County Youth Center. - Personnel List and Contracts: Approved the personnel list, bid advertisements, and contract awards/amendments for the county and the Southeastern PA Task Force. Public Comments & Testimony - David Morgan (Ambler): Opposed the 4% tax increase, citing a 57.9% cumulative increase over six years. Questioned the $55 million deficit, new positions, and lack of updates on the county campus plan. Urged budget revision. - Dr. Janine Darby (Montgomery County Coroner): Thanked commissioners for budget support, noting that requests are necessities, not luxuries. - Joy Burke (Springfield Twp.): Supported creation of the Sustainability Committee, recommending members from existing municipal EAC networks. - Zach Davis (Upper Merion Twp.): Supported the Sustainability Committee, emphasizing environmental and financial benefits and constitutional rights to clean environment. - Ed Moy (West Norriton Twp.): Opposed the county’s “welcome policy” for undocumented immigrants, citing ICE threats and voter registration concerns. - Rev. Peter Martin (First Presbyterian Church, Norristown): Supported the welcome policy, arguing federal ICE actions interfere with county services and worship. Asked commissioners to stand with the community. - Speaker (Orphan’s Court advocate): Praised county’s adoption and pregnancy resource guide efforts, encouraged support for life and children’s safety. - Jasmine Danj (via Zoom, Ambler): Criticized the budget for zero funding to immigration services, language access, or community integration, and questioned accountability for non-cooperation policies. Discussion Items - Budget Announcement and Presentation: Chair announced a $1 million donation from the Toading Foundation for the Lansdale Transitional Housing Facility, set to open early 2026 with 20 beds and support services. CFO Dean Dortone presented the FY2026 budget, noting a $55 million deficit reduced to $43 million through cost containment, and a 4% tax increase (5.462 mills) generating $12 million new revenue. The general fund budget is $632.7 million; total county budget is $1.2 billion. - Commissioners’ Comments on Budget: Commissioner DeBello acknowledged difficulties but emphasized reducing the deficit and noted 12 cents of every property tax dollar goes to the county. Commissioner Weiner highlighted bipartisan collaboration and investments in mental health, housing ($5.3 million), and public safety. Chair McKessia stressed the budget as a compromise and noted a $15 million reserve addition from 2024 surplus. - Community College Millage Increase: Approved increasing the dedicated millage from 0.39 to 0.49, raising $6.2 million to bring county funding closer to the state’s one-third share. Commissioner DeBello noted the community college is a top asset. - Sustainability Committee Announcement: Applications open until January 16, 2026, for a committee to advise on the countywide sustainability plan. - EV Charging Infrastructure Contract: Approval of a $2 million grant-funded reimbursement agreement for 40+ electric vehicle charging locations, doubling the county’s infrastructure. - Impact Award Winners: Recognized six county employees for outstanding service: Veronica Hill, Danielle Higgins, Lisa Nowacard, David Thomas, Amanda Kelly, and Jackie Gettellin. Key Outcomes - FY2026 Budget Unanimously Approved (3-0): Includes a 4% real estate tax increase to 5.462 mills, $632.7 million general fund expenditures, and $255.8 million capital budget. The budget funds emergency behavioral health center, housing shelters, public safety radios, and parks. - Community College Millage Increase Approved (3-0): New rate of 0.49 mills, raising $6.2 million for Montgomery County Community College operations. - All Resolutions Passed Unanimously: Includes planning contracts, open space grants, zoo lease, IDA extension, library grant, correctional officers’ contract, cultural center grant, board appointments, personnel list, and contracts. - Personnel and Salary Actions: Approved personnel list and a 3% cost-of-living increase for non-represented employees and 2% for certain elected officials, effective December 20, 2025. - Next Meeting: Regular board meeting set for January 8, 2026, at 10 a.m., with a reorganization meeting on January 5, 2026 (time TBD).

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on the proposed 2026 budget on December 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The budget was initially presented on November 13, 2025, and the board is scheduled to vote on adoption on December 18, 2025. Commissioners emphasized efforts to make the budget more transparent and accessible, noted a starting deficit of approximately $55 million, and reported reducing that deficit by over $30 million through spending cuts, including eliminating some unfilled positions. The hearing featured extensive public testimony from residents, municipal officials, nonprofit leaders, and first responders, with speakers voicing support for various county programs and concerns about overall spending growth. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill Henderson (Montgomery County Municipal Fire Officers Association) expressed full support for the proposed interest-free loan program for first responder radios, funding for the public safety training campus (including a new burn building), and continued investment in emergency communications and vehicle modems. He emphasized that fire ground communications are a top safety concern. - Mike Jackson (Lower Providence Township Police Chief, Montgomery County Police Chiefs Association) voiced support for bulk purchasing of police radios and improvements to the public safety training campus, stating that these investments directly improve performance and service quality. - BJ Brush (Lansdale Borough elected official) thanked the commissioners for ongoing housing strategy investments, specifically noting a short-term supportive housing program that is projected to reduce homelessness in Lansdale by over 70%. He also expressed appreciation for a $250,000 grant for ADA accessibility improvements in local parks. - Janet Flasek (Lois Alford?) raised concerns about effective utilization of county headcount and requested that Commissioner Mahita reimburse the county for any car service expenses used for county business, questioning the permissibility of such expenses. - Sandra Levine (Hatfield Township) criticized the use of taxpayer funds to mail thank-you letters to election inspectors, calling it a waste of money (74 cents postage per letter). She also questioned the necessity of newer positions, including DEI and immigration officials, and expressed concern about rising employee benefit costs. - Ann Pavone (West Norriton Township Board of Commissioners) shared a positive story about a resident's pedestrian safety proposal that led to a successful county grant application, thanking the county for supporting community-driven projects that improve walkability and safety. - Dr. Vicky Bastecki-Perez (President, Montgomery County Community College) requested support for increasing the college's millage from 0.39 to 0.49, committing to a three-year tuition freeze in return. She cited a strong return on investment ($4.40 lifetime earnings per dollar invested), over $80 million annual economic contribution, and nearly $600 million in alumni income. - Sloan Harker (student, Montgomery County Community College) described the college's supportive environment, personalized education, and professional opportunities, calling it a vital community asset. - Barbara Panka (Jenkintown Borough Council) expressed deep gratitude for county grants, noting a $250,000 grant for pedestrian safety improvements. She highlighted the borough's narrow sidewalks and heavy traffic (over 30,000 vehicles daily) and the importance of safe crossings for children walking to school. - Steve Skindler (Jenkintown) praised the quality of county planning staff and active transportation initiatives, emphasizing walkability and transit connections. - Stacy Doherty (Executive Director, Laurel House) thanked the county for supporting domestic violence services. She noted that Laurel House served nearly 3,000 survivors and answered over 3,600 hotline calls last year. She specifically commended funding for shelter, transitional housing, and child care through Project CARES, calling the budget a moral document that values survivors. - David Reish (Harleysville resident) expressed deep concern over the proposed $632.7 million budget, which he calculated has grown 51% since 2019 (a 13% real increase after inflation). He highlighted that the administration budget has doubled (up 102%), including a 2,617% increase in the commissioners' own budget (from $3.4 million to $10.7 million). He called for greater efficiency and a return to essential government functions. - Shannon Isaacs (Montco Anti-Hunger Network) thanked the county for transformative ARPA grants that helped double food distribution to nearly one million pounds. She noted that the county's $1 million emergency food investment during the SNAP crisis had a direct impact on the estimated 120,000 food-insecure residents. - Jacob Stone McRae (ECLOMO) reported that his food pantry serves about 600 people monthly (over 19,000 individuals and 148,000 pounds of food last year), and stressed the importance of continued county funding through Nourish Montco grants. - Manera Walker (Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Ardmore) expressed gratitude for Nourish Montco funds that provided a safety net during uncertain times, stating it helped pantry leaders recover from the strain of COVID-19. - David Morgan highlighted the need for more evening public meetings, better transparency on the county campus plan, and a reduction in new positions (citing a list of added roles). He noted that Bucks County and Norristown School District have 0% tax increases for 2026, urging a revised budget. - Claire Higgins (Hopeworks) asked for continued funding for crisis services, especially mobile crisis teams and the planned emergency behavioral health center. She shared a personal story about navigating behavioral health challenges for her adopted children, emphasizing the critical need for such services. Key Outcomes - The hearing was recessed by motion and second at 5:30 PM on the same day, with all commissioners voting in favor. No final decisions on the budget were made; the board will consider adoption at the regular meeting on December 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM.

The Montgomery County Election Board met on November 24, 2025, to certify the results of the November 4, 2025 municipal election. The board approved the previous meeting's minutes, discussed election turnout and processes, and handled a recount petition for the Lower Moreland Ward 2 Commissioner race. The board certified all election results except that race. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting. Discussion Items - Election Certification: Staff reported that the election code requires certification by the third Monday following the election. The board closed its canvas on November 18, 2025, and completed the first signing. No recount petitions were filed during the five-day waiting period except one just before the meeting. - Recount Petition: A recount petition was filed for the Lower Moreland Ward 2 Commissioner race. The board took a brief recess to confirm the details with the court. The petition was confirmed to be for that race, and a hearing will be scheduled. - Election Statistics: Board members noted a turnout of 50.16% (310,164 votes). There were approximately 400 positions on the ballot with over 1,200 candidates. Staff praised their team for smooth post-election processes, including processing write-ins and managing tiebreakers. - Poll Worker and E-Poll Book Update: Staff mentioned that poll worker vacancies exist but they have a database of volunteers. An e-poll book demo passed successfully, and a decision on full rollout is expected in January. The e-poll book is already in the capital budget but still requires a contract. - Write-in Fun Facts: The board noted that no fictional characters were elected, and there is no registered voter named John Doe in Montgomery County. Write-in votes were tabulated for Bruce Wayne, but none were found. Key Outcomes - Certification Vote: The board voted unanimously to certify the results of the November 4, 2025 municipal election for all Montgomery County races, with the exception of the Lower Moreland Ward 2 Commissioner race, which is undergoing a recount. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following the certification.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners met on November 13, 2025, to discuss and approve the proposed 2026 budget, hear public comments on immigration enforcement, and address routine county business. Commissioners McKija, Winder, and DeBello presided. The meeting highlighted record election turnout, the county's response to rising costs, and strategic investments in housing, behavioral health, and public safety. Consent Calendar - Approval of the October 23, 2025 meeting minutes. - Resolutions 1–4: $750,000 match for Norristown Public Library ADA/HVAC, and applications for LSA grants (coroner's mausoleum, Valley Forge Connector Trail segment, and library box trucks) – all approved unanimously. - Lease agreement with 3147 Easton Road LLC for swing space during Willow Grove Annex renovation (three years, $304,000) – approved. - Reappointment of a SEPTA board member and appointments to the Youth Center Board of Managers – approved. - Personnel list for November 13, 2025 – approved. - Advertisement of bids/RFPs and contract awards for Montgomery County and the Southeastern PA Task Force – approved. - Salary board list for November 13, 2025 – approved. Public Comments & Testimony - David Morgan (Ambler) – Questioned the $400,000 exploration budget for a hydroelectric dam project and asked for clarity on cumulative costs and tax increases. Also raised concerns about the Justice Center budget overruns and suggested merging positions to save costs. - Stephen Heath (Cheltenham Twp.) – Thanked commissioners for policies limiting ICE cooperation (refusing 287(g)) and urged continued support for immigrant communities, noting that trust with law enforcement is being undermined by ICE tactics. - Denise Schmidt (Limerick Twp.) – Expressed fear over ICE presence near schools and public areas, and urged adoption of a welcoming policy. - Ed Moy (West Norriton) – Shared a different perspective as a veteran and former state police officer, arguing that illegal entry is a crime and that ICE cooperation is necessary for public safety; referenced a Bucks County court ruling. - Juanita Arube (East Norriton) – Described personal observations of ICE enforcement (6 a.m. detentions, unmarked cars) and pleaded for a welcoming resolution to reduce fear in immigrant communities. - Michelle Ngarto (Lower Salford Twp.) – Cited suspicious mail-in ballot patterns in local races, alleging Democrat mail ballots disproportionately affected Republican leads; recommended audits. - Other speakers – Commented on the American Delivery documentary, adoption, and non-emergency service requests (311-style system). Discussion Items - 2026 Proposed Budget Presentation (CFO Dean Dortone & Deputy COO Stephanie Tipton) – The $619 million general fund budget closes a $25.5 million gap through a millage rate increase to 5.462 (average $36/year additional) and a $13.5 million draw on unassigned fund balance. Key cost drivers: health care (9% increase), debt service, and unfunded mandates (911, behavioral health). Savings included $1.4 million from renegotiated prescription drug contracts, $800,000 from workers' comp, and elimination of 11 positions. The capital plan totals $256 million for 2026, including $54 million for Justice Center Phase 2/3 and $39 million for library construction. The community college millage would rise to 0.49 mills ($17/year increase) to stabilize tuition. - Commissioner Discussion – Commissioners praised staff for reducing a projected $55.9 million deficit to $25.5 million through cost containment. They highlighted investments: $3.6 million for transitional housing, $6 million state grant for behavioral health crisis center, $2 million for Monco Main Streets, and 3% wage increase for employees. Concerns were raised about the hydro dam exploration and Justice Center overruns, but the budget was seen as fiscally responsible. - Recorder of Deeds Report – Presented Veterans Day events, the discount ID program (650+ businesses), House Bill 269 to protect veterans' documents, holiday drive for Veterans Multi-Service Center, and a new Montgomery County Veterans Trail map (available in print and online). Key Outcomes - 2026 Budget Advertised – The proposed budget will be posted online and available for public inspection. Two public hearings set for December 4, 2025 (10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.), with final adoption vote on December 18, 2025. - Ongoing ICE Policy – Commissioners reaffirmed refusal to sign 287(g) agreements, noting the sheriff's commitment and the importance of local control. No formal welcoming resolution was voted on, but public comments urged action. - Election Results Audit – Commissioners noted record 50% turnout and 90,000+ mail-in ballots, and affirmed post-election audits will verify results. - Next Meeting – December 4, 2025 at 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. for budget hearings; December 18, 2025 at 10 a.m. for final budget vote.

The Montgomery County Board of Elections held a meeting on November 7, 2025, to open the official tabulation of the municipal election results. The meeting was called to order by Chair Neil Makija, with Commissioners Winer and Cabello present. The board recognized the work of poll workers and the voter services team, noting an exceptional voter turnout. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Opening Remarks and Election Statistics: Chair Makija thanked poll workers and reported that approximately 307,000 people voted in the municipal election, representing about 50% turnout for Montgomery County. He noted this was a substantial increase from 225,000 voters four years ago, an increase of 75,000 voters. He attributed the smooth election to the voter services team. Commissioners Winer and Cabello also expressed gratitude for the volunteer poll workers and the successful, safe election. - Swearing-In of Tabulation Workers: All individuals involved in the official tabulation were sworn in via an abbreviated oath, administered by the board. The oath included pledges to faithfully tabulate and record votes and to perform duties as required. Those who had not signed the official oath were directed to do so at the desk. Key Outcomes - Motion to Commence Tabulation: Commissioner Winer moved to commence the official tabulation, seconded by Commissioner Cabello. The board voted unanimously in favor (3-0). - Meeting Adjournment: Commissioner Fellows moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Commissioner Winer. The motion carried unanimously.