The Montgomery County Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee and Public Safety Committee will meet jointly on Monday, Oct. 4, for a worksession on proposed Bill 45-10 that would create a two-tiered service connected disability retirement system for all County employees identical to the current system for fire and rescue employees.
The MFP Committee, which is chaired by Duchy Trachtenberg and includes Councilmembers Valerie Ervin and Nancy Navarro, and the Public Safety Committee, which is chaired by Phil Andrews and includes Councilmembers Roger Berliner and Marc Elrich, will meet at 9:30 a.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville.
The worksession to be conducted by the joint committees follows a public hearing held on Sept. 28 on Bill 45-10 proposing creation of a two-tiered service connected disability retirement system for all County employees identical to the current system for fire and rescue employees. Under the proposal, which is sponsored by Councilmembers Trachtenberg, Andrews, Berliner and Ervin, employees eligible for a service-connected disability retirement benefit would receive either a partial incapacity benefit of at least 52.5 percent of final earnings or a total incapacity benefit of at least 70 percent of final earnings.
The current system for all employees, except fire and rescue employees, provides a service-connected disability retirement benefit of at least 66.7 percent of final earnings for both partial and total incapacity.
Showing posts with label Management and Fiscal Policy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Management and Fiscal Policy. Show all posts
Friday, October 1, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The Montgomery County Council Received Update on Economic Indicators, County Fiscal Plan and White Flint Sector Plan Financing
Today, the Montgomery County Council received an update on economic indicators and the County Fiscal Plan. The Council will look toward Fiscal Year 2012 with estimates showing the County’s major known commitments are projected to increase by about 4.3 percent (not including wage growth for County agency employees) while the approved fiscal plan permits growth in agency expenditures of just 0.1 percent. For more information on this update, click here.
The County Council also received a briefing on the progress made in recent months toward developing a plan and taking action toward financing the infrastructure necessary for the development envisioned in the adopted White Flint sector plan to go forward. To read more about the White Flint financing, click here.
The County Council also received a briefing on the progress made in recent months toward developing a plan and taking action toward financing the infrastructure necessary for the development envisioned in the adopted White Flint sector plan to go forward. To read more about the White Flint financing, click here.
PS/MFP Joint Committee Meeting on Monday, September 27th
The Public Safety (PS) Committee, chaired by Councilmember Phil Andrews and the Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, chaired by Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, held a joint work session on Monday, September 27th at 9:45 am. The PS/MFP Committee discussed the following agenda item:
Joseph Adler, Director of the Office of Human Resources and Richard Bowers, Chief of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services, presented testimony to the PS/MFP committee members on the issue of special pay for ALS providers. The joint committee requested additional information from the Executive Branch in order to make their decision on a provision in the bargaining agreement that would increase the special pay differential to ALS workers. Another work session on this topic has been scheduled for October 25th.
Joseph Adler, Director of the Office of Human Resources and Richard Bowers, Chief of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services, presented testimony to the PS/MFP committee members on the issue of special pay for ALS providers. The joint committee requested additional information from the Executive Branch in order to make their decision on a provision in the bargaining agreement that would increase the special pay differential to ALS workers. Another work session on this topic has been scheduled for October 25th.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Statement of Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg at the Inaugural Session of the Montgomery County Organizational Reform Commission
On behalf of our Council President Nancy Floreen and my other Council colleagues, I want to, first, welcome you to the Council Office Building and, second, to thank you for your interest in serving our County in this important position.
As you know, Montgomery County has faced extraordinary budget challenges in recent years, and the road ahead will be rocky. But I am pleased that the Montgomery County Council has stepped up to meet these challenges directly and has taken essential measures to get our fiscal house in order.
We have reduced expenditures, increased revenues, and established a new reserve and long-term fiscal policy that will help us plan for the future. But there is more to be done, and we have great hope for this Organizational Reform Commission and its work.
Resolution No. 16-1350, that we adopted on May 18, 2010, established the Montgomery County Organizational Reform Commission to make recommendations for potential reorganization or consolidation of functions performed by County government and County-funded agencies. Your charge is to solicit suggestions for potential reorganization or consolidation of functions performed by County government and County-funded agencies from: elected officials; County residents; business and community leaders; County and agency employees; bargaining unit representatives; and other stakeholders.
As you know, the Commission must submit its final report to the Executive and Council no later than January 31, 2011. The report must contain the Commission's recommendations to reorganize or consolidate functions performed by County government or County-funded agencies. For each recommendation for reorganization or consolidation, the Commission's report must include the rationale and estimated cost savings associated with implementing the recommendation. Any organizational proposal for County government in the Commission report must take the form of a reorganization plan that the Executive could submit to the Council under Charter §217.
So, there is a lot of work to do. But we know you are up to the task, and we stand by ready to help in any way.
We greatly appreciate your willingness to help us move Montgomery County forward.
Thank you very much.
As you know, Montgomery County has faced extraordinary budget challenges in recent years, and the road ahead will be rocky. But I am pleased that the Montgomery County Council has stepped up to meet these challenges directly and has taken essential measures to get our fiscal house in order.
We have reduced expenditures, increased revenues, and established a new reserve and long-term fiscal policy that will help us plan for the future. But there is more to be done, and we have great hope for this Organizational Reform Commission and its work.
Resolution No. 16-1350, that we adopted on May 18, 2010, established the Montgomery County Organizational Reform Commission to make recommendations for potential reorganization or consolidation of functions performed by County government and County-funded agencies. Your charge is to solicit suggestions for potential reorganization or consolidation of functions performed by County government and County-funded agencies from: elected officials; County residents; business and community leaders; County and agency employees; bargaining unit representatives; and other stakeholders.
As you know, the Commission must submit its final report to the Executive and Council no later than January 31, 2011. The report must contain the Commission's recommendations to reorganize or consolidate functions performed by County government or County-funded agencies. For each recommendation for reorganization or consolidation, the Commission's report must include the rationale and estimated cost savings associated with implementing the recommendation. Any organizational proposal for County government in the Commission report must take the form of a reorganization plan that the Executive could submit to the Council under Charter §217.
So, there is a lot of work to do. But we know you are up to the task, and we stand by ready to help in any way.
We greatly appreciate your willingness to help us move Montgomery County forward.
Thank you very much.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Councilmember Trachtenberg Says Montgomery Moving in Right Direction After Taking Decisive Fiscal Actions
ROCKVILLE, Md., July 8, 2010—Montgomery County Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, who chairs the Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, said today that receiving AAA bond ratings from all three rating agencies is a significant indicator showing recent actions taken by the County are putting Montgomery County back onto a fiscally responsible track.
On Wednesday, County Executive Isiah Leggett announced that Montgomery County has retained its AAA bond rating from all three rating agencies. The Executive thanked Councilmember Trachtenberg for her hard work as chair of the MFP Committee, which made recommendations to the full Council to pass new fiscal and reserve policies for the County.
The possibility of a downgrade from the rating agencies was a critical factor for implementing new fiscal policies. In April, the rating agency Moody’s placed Montgomery County on a “negative watch list” due to falling County reserves.
Montgomery County has never received less than a AAA bond rating in 35 years. The rating allows Montgomery to issue bonds for its capital borrowing at the most favorable rates, saving County taxpayers millions of dollars a year. Top ratings are seen as an important endorsement of a jurisdiction’s overall fiscal health.
“It was necessary for Montgomery County to stabilize its finances in order to maintain its AAA rating by Fitch, Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “The County as a whole needs to be fiscally prudent to keep our financial house in order.”
On June 29, the Council approved a Six-Year Fiscal Plan and new reserve policies as recommended by the MFP Committee. The balanced Six-Year Fiscal Plan is designed to help the County achieve a structurally balanced budget for future years. The plan seeks to match expenditures to available revenues without any drawdown of reserves. The new reserve policy would gradually increase the targeted total reserve over the next nine years from 6 percent to 10 percent. The policy would lead to less spending by government agencies.
“As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “As stewards of the County's economy, the Executive and the County Council have shown real leadership and a vision for the future by building our reserves and clearing a path toward balanced budgets. When the current fiscal crisis is finally past, our fiscal plan and actions of the last month will be seen as part of the solution.”
On Wednesday, County Executive Isiah Leggett announced that Montgomery County has retained its AAA bond rating from all three rating agencies. The Executive thanked Councilmember Trachtenberg for her hard work as chair of the MFP Committee, which made recommendations to the full Council to pass new fiscal and reserve policies for the County.
The possibility of a downgrade from the rating agencies was a critical factor for implementing new fiscal policies. In April, the rating agency Moody’s placed Montgomery County on a “negative watch list” due to falling County reserves.
Montgomery County has never received less than a AAA bond rating in 35 years. The rating allows Montgomery to issue bonds for its capital borrowing at the most favorable rates, saving County taxpayers millions of dollars a year. Top ratings are seen as an important endorsement of a jurisdiction’s overall fiscal health.
“It was necessary for Montgomery County to stabilize its finances in order to maintain its AAA rating by Fitch, Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “The County as a whole needs to be fiscally prudent to keep our financial house in order.”
On June 29, the Council approved a Six-Year Fiscal Plan and new reserve policies as recommended by the MFP Committee. The balanced Six-Year Fiscal Plan is designed to help the County achieve a structurally balanced budget for future years. The plan seeks to match expenditures to available revenues without any drawdown of reserves. The new reserve policy would gradually increase the targeted total reserve over the next nine years from 6 percent to 10 percent. The policy would lead to less spending by government agencies.
“As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “As stewards of the County's economy, the Executive and the County Council have shown real leadership and a vision for the future by building our reserves and clearing a path toward balanced budgets. When the current fiscal crisis is finally past, our fiscal plan and actions of the last month will be seen as part of the solution.”
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Councilmember Trachtenberg's Statement on Tripple-A Bond Rating at Press Conference with County Executive on July 7
“Last week, by voting to require annual contributions to the County’s reserves and mandate balanced budgets, Montgomery County’s elected officials caught up to where the residents have been for quite some time. Long before the current recession, families in our area recognized the need for fiscal discipline, debt reduction, sensible spending, and long-term planning.
“But the clock has finally run out on the thought that government can spend without consequence or make budget policy without discipline – and it is not just citizens who are demanding a new era of scrupulousness and fiscal responsibility. The bond agencies that rate counties’ financial health, thus determining the rate at which municipalities can borrow money, have made it clear that Montgomery County budgets have to change; and this year's budget did. For the first time in 40 years, the budget which was passed by the Council at the recommendation of the Executive cut spending.
“Today's vote of confidence from Moody's and the other positive actions from Fitch and Standard and Poors underscore the importance of recent actions taken in Montgomery County.
“As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable. As stewards of the County's economy, the Executive and the County Council have shown real leadership and a vision for the future by building our reserves and clearing a path towards balanced budgets. When the current fiscal crisis is finally past, our fiscal plan and actions of the last month will be seen as part of the solution.”
“But the clock has finally run out on the thought that government can spend without consequence or make budget policy without discipline – and it is not just citizens who are demanding a new era of scrupulousness and fiscal responsibility. The bond agencies that rate counties’ financial health, thus determining the rate at which municipalities can borrow money, have made it clear that Montgomery County budgets have to change; and this year's budget did. For the first time in 40 years, the budget which was passed by the Council at the recommendation of the Executive cut spending.
“Today's vote of confidence from Moody's and the other positive actions from Fitch and Standard and Poors underscore the importance of recent actions taken in Montgomery County.
“As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable. As stewards of the County's economy, the Executive and the County Council have shown real leadership and a vision for the future by building our reserves and clearing a path towards balanced budgets. When the current fiscal crisis is finally past, our fiscal plan and actions of the last month will be seen as part of the solution.”
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Montgomery County Retains Triple-A Bond Rating
County Executive Ike Leggett today announced that Montgomery County has retained its Triple-A bond rating from Moody’s, coming off a “watch list” from that agency in April that reflected concern over falling County revenues. Moody’s rating moved Montgomery County to a “stable outlook” category. He was joined by Council President Nancy Floreen and Management & Fiscal Policy Committee chair Duchy Trachtenberg
The Triple-A bond rating allows Montgomery County to issue bonds for its capital borrowing at the most favorable rates, saving County taxpayers millions of dollars a year. The County had already received Triple-A Stable ratings from the other two bond rating agencies, Fitch and S&P, on $325 million of General Obligation bonds it is issuing tomorrow, July 8th.
“I want to thank Council President Nancy Floreen and Management & Fiscal Policy chair Duchy Trachtenberg for their leadership in winning Council approval for my recommendations – and all Councilmembers who supported the package," said County Executive Leggett.
“Today's vote of confidence from Moody's and underscores the other positive actions from Fitch and Standard and Poors underscore the importance of recent actions taken in Montgomery County,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable. As stewards of the County's economy, the Executive and the County Council have shown real leadership and a vision for the future by building our reserves and clearing a path towards balanced budgets. When the current fiscal crisis is finally past, our fiscal plan and actions of the last month will be seen as part of the solution.”
Click here to read the full County press release.
The Triple-A bond rating allows Montgomery County to issue bonds for its capital borrowing at the most favorable rates, saving County taxpayers millions of dollars a year. The County had already received Triple-A Stable ratings from the other two bond rating agencies, Fitch and S&P, on $325 million of General Obligation bonds it is issuing tomorrow, July 8th.
“I want to thank Council President Nancy Floreen and Management & Fiscal Policy chair Duchy Trachtenberg for their leadership in winning Council approval for my recommendations – and all Councilmembers who supported the package," said County Executive Leggett.
“Today's vote of confidence from Moody's and underscores the other positive actions from Fitch and Standard and Poors underscore the importance of recent actions taken in Montgomery County,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable. As stewards of the County's economy, the Executive and the County Council have shown real leadership and a vision for the future by building our reserves and clearing a path towards balanced budgets. When the current fiscal crisis is finally past, our fiscal plan and actions of the last month will be seen as part of the solution.”
Click here to read the full County press release.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Statement of Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg on the Montgomery County Council’s Approval of a Six Year Fiscal Plan and New Reserve Plan
Statement of Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, Chair of the Management and Fiscal Policy Committee on the Montgomery County Council’s Approval of a Six Year Fiscal Plan and New Reserve Plan.
"The Council's action today is an important step—but far from the last step—toward results-based budgeting and performance accountability. As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable. As stewards of the County's economy, the Council today has shown real leadership and a vision for the future. When the current crisis is finally past, this fiscal plan will be seen as part of the solution."
"The Council's action today is an important step—but far from the last step—toward results-based budgeting and performance accountability. As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable. As stewards of the County's economy, the Council today has shown real leadership and a vision for the future. When the current crisis is finally past, this fiscal plan will be seen as part of the solution."
Montgomery County Council Approves Balanced Six-Year Fiscal Plan
County’s First Such Plan Shows Spending Limits Needed to Achieve Balanced Annual Budgets
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 29, 2010—The Montgomery County Council today approved a six-year fiscal plan that outlines the spending limits needed to achieve balanced annual budgets. This is the first time the Council has approved such a plan to help reduce annual budget gaps and lessen the impact of severe economic downturns like the one the County has experienced over the past two years.
The Council also approved by 8-0 votes today measures that would gradually increase County reserve funds to 10 percent of adjusted governmental revenue over a nine-year period. The current County reserve target is 6 percent of total resources.
The six-year fiscal plan was approved today by a 7-1 vote. Council President Nancy Floreen and Councilmembers Phil Andrews, Roger Berliner, Marc Elrich, George Leventhal, Nancy Navarro and Duchy Trachtenberg voted in favor of the plan. Councilmember Mike Knapp voted against it. Council Vice President Valerie Ervin was temporarily absent.
The six-year plan is a snapshot in time that reflects current assumptions for County revenues and fiscal policy. Using these assumptions, the plan achieves balance by limiting the future expenditures of the County’s four agencies—Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery College, the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, and County Government. The plan will be updated annually and as conditions change.
The plan, which applies to Fiscal Years 2011-16, is based on adherence to established County fiscal policies in future years, but it also makes clear that the Council will make actual decisions year by year.
"The Council's action today is an important step—but far from the last step—toward results-based budgeting and performance accountability," said Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, chair of the Council's Management and Fiscal Policy Committee. "As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable. As stewards of the County's economy, the Council today has shown real leadership and a vision for the future. When the current crisis is finally past, this fiscal plan will be seen as part of the solution."
The plan attempts to alleviate situations like the one the County faced in preparing an operating budget for Fiscal Year 2011, which begins on July 1. The County faced a budget gap of nearly $1 billion, or about one-fourth of the County budget. Working with the County Executive, the Council approved a range of strong measures to balance the budget, including service reductions, elimination of hundreds of positions, and a pay freeze and furloughs for County employees.
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 29, 2010—The Montgomery County Council today approved a six-year fiscal plan that outlines the spending limits needed to achieve balanced annual budgets. This is the first time the Council has approved such a plan to help reduce annual budget gaps and lessen the impact of severe economic downturns like the one the County has experienced over the past two years.
The Council also approved by 8-0 votes today measures that would gradually increase County reserve funds to 10 percent of adjusted governmental revenue over a nine-year period. The current County reserve target is 6 percent of total resources.
The six-year fiscal plan was approved today by a 7-1 vote. Council President Nancy Floreen and Councilmembers Phil Andrews, Roger Berliner, Marc Elrich, George Leventhal, Nancy Navarro and Duchy Trachtenberg voted in favor of the plan. Councilmember Mike Knapp voted against it. Council Vice President Valerie Ervin was temporarily absent.
The six-year plan is a snapshot in time that reflects current assumptions for County revenues and fiscal policy. Using these assumptions, the plan achieves balance by limiting the future expenditures of the County’s four agencies—Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery College, the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, and County Government. The plan will be updated annually and as conditions change.
The plan, which applies to Fiscal Years 2011-16, is based on adherence to established County fiscal policies in future years, but it also makes clear that the Council will make actual decisions year by year.
"The Council's action today is an important step—but far from the last step—toward results-based budgeting and performance accountability," said Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, chair of the Council's Management and Fiscal Policy Committee. "As governments at every level—national, state, county and municipality—struggle to rein in spending and find a way to maintain essential services, the urgency of sober and serious fiscal planning is inescapable. As stewards of the County's economy, the Council today has shown real leadership and a vision for the future. When the current crisis is finally past, this fiscal plan will be seen as part of the solution."
The plan attempts to alleviate situations like the one the County faced in preparing an operating budget for Fiscal Year 2011, which begins on July 1. The County faced a budget gap of nearly $1 billion, or about one-fourth of the County budget. Working with the County Executive, the Council approved a range of strong measures to balance the budget, including service reductions, elimination of hundreds of positions, and a pay freeze and furloughs for County employees.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
MFP Committee Recommends Six Year Balanced Fiscal Plan and New Reserve Policy
The Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, chaired by Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, met on Thursday, June 24th at 10:00 a.m. The Committee considered efforts to stabilize County finances to withstand future economic challenges. Specifically, the MFP Committee discussed the following:
The MFP Committee recommended approval of the Resolution to Approve Reserve and Selected Fiscal Policies with amendments and recommends approval of Bill 36-10, Finance – Revenue Stabilization Fund with amendments. The Committee also recommended approval of the Resolution on the Tax Supported Fiscal Plan Summary with amendments. Finally, the MFP Committee discussed the work program for the Office of Legislative Oversight. The conversation focused on the report for the County Council on the structural budget deficit.
The full County Council will take action on both resolutions and Bill 36-10 on Tuesday, June 29th. This County Council session is open to the public.
“Today the MFP Committee took important, strategic steps to place Montgomery County on the road to financial resiliency. We approved new fiscal policies that will define our County as fiscally prudent and economically strong. In addition, we will concentrate on results-based budgeting and performance measures. Montgomery County may not look the same in future years, but our County will emerge financially stronger than ever before.”
Please contact Laurie Mintzer Edberg, Director of Management and Fiscal Policy, at 240-777-7948 (direct dial) or laurie.edberg@montgomerycountymd.gov with any questions regarding this MFP session.
- Resolution to Approve Reserve and Selected Fiscal Policies
- Bill 36-10, Finance – Revenue Stabilization Fund – Amendments
- Tax Supported Fiscal Plan Summary for the FY11-16 Public Services Program
- Office of Legislative Oversight’s FY11 Work Program
The MFP Committee recommended approval of the Resolution to Approve Reserve and Selected Fiscal Policies with amendments and recommends approval of Bill 36-10, Finance – Revenue Stabilization Fund with amendments. The Committee also recommended approval of the Resolution on the Tax Supported Fiscal Plan Summary with amendments. Finally, the MFP Committee discussed the work program for the Office of Legislative Oversight. The conversation focused on the report for the County Council on the structural budget deficit.
The full County Council will take action on both resolutions and Bill 36-10 on Tuesday, June 29th. This County Council session is open to the public.
“Today the MFP Committee took important, strategic steps to place Montgomery County on the road to financial resiliency. We approved new fiscal policies that will define our County as fiscally prudent and economically strong. In addition, we will concentrate on results-based budgeting and performance measures. Montgomery County may not look the same in future years, but our County will emerge financially stronger than ever before.”
Please contact Laurie Mintzer Edberg, Director of Management and Fiscal Policy, at 240-777-7948 (direct dial) or laurie.edberg@montgomerycountymd.gov with any questions regarding this MFP session.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
District 18 Breakfast Club
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg was the guest speaker at the District 18 Breakfast Club that met at the Tastee Diner on Cameron Street in Silver Spring at 7:30 am on Monday, June 14th.
The Councilmember spoke with the group about the formidable work ahead regarding the county’s budget and the need for Montgomery County to significantly re-structure how the county does business moving forward. She talked about the various reasons for the challenging budget conditions facing the county; from the historic downturn in the over all economy to the unsustainable growth in government that was taking place in previous years when the county’s revenue situation was not the concern it is today.
Councilmember Trachtenberg also talked about the challenge of increasing the county’s reserves to 10% from the previous levels of 6% which is the recommendation from the Bond Rating Agencies and must be accomplished in order for our county to maintain its AAA Bond Rating in the years ahead.
She took several questions from the audience that touched on a range of topics from economic development to the huge portion of the county’s budget for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) to the future of some of the county’s non-profits and the future of the Costco development proposal for Westfield Mall in Wheaton.
Naomi Bloch and Alan Bowser of the Tracthenberg staff attended the breakfast with Councilmember Trachtenberg.
The Councilmember spoke with the group about the formidable work ahead regarding the county’s budget and the need for Montgomery County to significantly re-structure how the county does business moving forward. She talked about the various reasons for the challenging budget conditions facing the county; from the historic downturn in the over all economy to the unsustainable growth in government that was taking place in previous years when the county’s revenue situation was not the concern it is today.
Councilmember Trachtenberg also talked about the challenge of increasing the county’s reserves to 10% from the previous levels of 6% which is the recommendation from the Bond Rating Agencies and must be accomplished in order for our county to maintain its AAA Bond Rating in the years ahead.
She took several questions from the audience that touched on a range of topics from economic development to the huge portion of the county’s budget for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) to the future of some of the county’s non-profits and the future of the Costco development proposal for Westfield Mall in Wheaton.
Naomi Bloch and Alan Bowser of the Tracthenberg staff attended the breakfast with Councilmember Trachtenberg.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Thank you, Greater Olney Civic Association!
I was honored to attend the meeting of the Greater Olney Civic Association last night in Olney. It was good to see so many old friends and to meet new people. We had a good conversation about the FY11 operating budget just approved by the Council and the complex fiscal issues facing the County. Among many things, we talked about the factors related to the decline in County income tax revenues and State revenue write-downs, the future cuts in county programs and services, the County’s reserve policy, the MCPS budget, and the critical need to look at restructuring of County government.
Many thanks to President Matt Zaborsky for the kind invitation to attend the GOCA meeting and the opportunity to talk with the GOCA representatives and neighbors.
Learn more about the Olney Civic Association, visit their website at http://www.goca.org/.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Statement of Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg at the Kensington Town Hall Forum
Good Evening. I’m Duchy Trachtenberg and I’m running for re-election to the Montgomery County Council, as an At-Large member.
When I raised my hand back in December of 2006 to take the oath of office, I understood the obligation I had to the residents of Montgomery County. For me, it was a continuation of my life’s work. During these last four years, I have strived to put people first and I have been hard-working and deliberate in my legislative actions, always willing to speak truth to power.
My priorities have been centered around children-their supports in school and out of school; public safety; public transportation; healthy and sustainable development; and the vulnerable, our most needy residents.
An example of this is the role I played in spearheading the Montgomery County Family Justice Center project into a reality. This is a clearinghouse facility that consolidates services for domestic violence victims and their children. In its first year of operation, over 1400 victims from over 100 countries have been served.
I helped lead the effort to reform our disability retirement system. I helped ensure that our procedures are based on a sound, public health foundation; that this important retirement benefit is preserved for those that are eligible; and that all employees have equitable access to the best medical practices.
As the Chair of the Council’s Management & Fiscal Policy Committee, I have worked with colleagues and the Executive branch to define over 2 billion dollars in savings during the first three budget cycles and presently I am playing an important role in defining our long-term fiscal plan in these most challenging times.
When I came to the Council building, I didn’t just want to fill an empty chair, I came to change lives. I believe I have done just that and I ask for your support tonight. Please vote on September 14th for Duchy Trachtenberg, Montgomery County Council, At-Large.
When I raised my hand back in December of 2006 to take the oath of office, I understood the obligation I had to the residents of Montgomery County. For me, it was a continuation of my life’s work. During these last four years, I have strived to put people first and I have been hard-working and deliberate in my legislative actions, always willing to speak truth to power.
My priorities have been centered around children-their supports in school and out of school; public safety; public transportation; healthy and sustainable development; and the vulnerable, our most needy residents.
An example of this is the role I played in spearheading the Montgomery County Family Justice Center project into a reality. This is a clearinghouse facility that consolidates services for domestic violence victims and their children. In its first year of operation, over 1400 victims from over 100 countries have been served.
I helped lead the effort to reform our disability retirement system. I helped ensure that our procedures are based on a sound, public health foundation; that this important retirement benefit is preserved for those that are eligible; and that all employees have equitable access to the best medical practices.
As the Chair of the Council’s Management & Fiscal Policy Committee, I have worked with colleagues and the Executive branch to define over 2 billion dollars in savings during the first three budget cycles and presently I am playing an important role in defining our long-term fiscal plan in these most challenging times.
When I came to the Council building, I didn’t just want to fill an empty chair, I came to change lives. I believe I have done just that and I ask for your support tonight. Please vote on September 14th for Duchy Trachtenberg, Montgomery County Council, At-Large.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg Speaks at the Beth El Men’s Club Breakfast
For more information on the issues discussed at this breakfast, please contact Laurie Mintzer Edberg, Director of Management and Fiscal Policy, at 240-777-7948 or laurie.edberg@montgomerycountymd.gov.
Monday, April 5, 2010
“A More Efficient Government”: Statement of Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg
I read today’s Washington Post article by Michael Laris titled “Turf issues can impede ending agencies’ overlapping duties” with great interest. It identifies both the opportunities, as well as the challenges, inherent in an effort to consolidate overlapping responsibilities of agencies and departments in order to bring more efficient government to the people of Montgomery County.
The Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy Committee (MFP) has been a long time advocate of such actions, and indeed our last three sessions have focused on the consolidations possible within the IT sphere, both for all Montgomery County departments, as well as across County agencies.
I think the opportunity to explore doing more with less, and to see how sharing resources across organizational units can reduce costs is upon us. MFP will continue to explore this consolidation topic, and explore its use not only in IT, but in all major county functions. The work session this morning brings together the IT interests of all County agencies, and provides a good backdrop to press for action in this important area.
To read the Washington Post's article, click here.
The Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy Committee (MFP) has been a long time advocate of such actions, and indeed our last three sessions have focused on the consolidations possible within the IT sphere, both for all Montgomery County departments, as well as across County agencies.
I think the opportunity to explore doing more with less, and to see how sharing resources across organizational units can reduce costs is upon us. MFP will continue to explore this consolidation topic, and explore its use not only in IT, but in all major county functions. The work session this morning brings together the IT interests of all County agencies, and provides a good backdrop to press for action in this important area.
To read the Washington Post's article, click here.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg Calls Leggett Budget Pragmatic Response to Difficult Economic Times
‘Need to Look Beyond 2010’ Trachtenberg Says of Challenge Before Montgomery County Council
ROCKVILLE, Md., March 15, 2010—Montgomery County Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg (D-At-Large), chair of the Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, today called County Executive Isiah Leggett’s recommended Fiscal Year 2011 Operating Budget a product of the region’s economic downturn and an opportunity to build a new government foundation anchored in fiscal responsibility and long-term planning.
“These are new and challenging times for Montgomery County,” Councilmember Trachtenberg said. “In the recent past, Montgomery County enjoyed budget surpluses and County officials debated how to expand social services and fund new community initiatives. Today, we face unprecedented economic difficulties and this will simply mean County government will look very different in the coming year. I am particularly concerned about services for the most vulnerable and what they will be in the years to come.”
Councilmember Trachtenberg, who as MFP chair will preside in the coming weeks over discussions and proposed modifications to the proposed FY11 budget, also believes that the Council has an obligation to establish a long-term goal for Montgomery County. Councilmember Trachtenberg has identified the need to look beyond 2010 to plan for the County’s financial health.
“During last year’s budget process, I said that making short-term choices that avoided difficult multi-year decisions was unsustainable and fundamentally unfair to taxpayers,” Councilmember Trachtenberg said. “My colleagues and I were elected to step up when the time arrives to make hard choices, and that time is now.”
Councilmember Trachtenberg said that, due to the continued severity of the current economic recession and the associated dramatic revenue reductions in the current fiscal year, Montgomery County faces a historic projected gap of nearly $780 million in the FY11 Operating Budget.
The County Executive’s recommended budget closed the gap. The proposed total County budget (which includes debt service, grants, and enterprise funds) for FY11 is $4,304,288,414—a reduction of $169.7 million from the FY10 Approved Budget—representing a 3.8 percent decrease. This is the only time the annual County Budget has been reduced since the adoption of the current Charter in 1968.
ROCKVILLE, Md., March 15, 2010—Montgomery County Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg (D-At-Large), chair of the Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, today called County Executive Isiah Leggett’s recommended Fiscal Year 2011 Operating Budget a product of the region’s economic downturn and an opportunity to build a new government foundation anchored in fiscal responsibility and long-term planning.
“These are new and challenging times for Montgomery County,” Councilmember Trachtenberg said. “In the recent past, Montgomery County enjoyed budget surpluses and County officials debated how to expand social services and fund new community initiatives. Today, we face unprecedented economic difficulties and this will simply mean County government will look very different in the coming year. I am particularly concerned about services for the most vulnerable and what they will be in the years to come.”
Councilmember Trachtenberg, who as MFP chair will preside in the coming weeks over discussions and proposed modifications to the proposed FY11 budget, also believes that the Council has an obligation to establish a long-term goal for Montgomery County. Councilmember Trachtenberg has identified the need to look beyond 2010 to plan for the County’s financial health.
“During last year’s budget process, I said that making short-term choices that avoided difficult multi-year decisions was unsustainable and fundamentally unfair to taxpayers,” Councilmember Trachtenberg said. “My colleagues and I were elected to step up when the time arrives to make hard choices, and that time is now.”
Councilmember Trachtenberg said that, due to the continued severity of the current economic recession and the associated dramatic revenue reductions in the current fiscal year, Montgomery County faces a historic projected gap of nearly $780 million in the FY11 Operating Budget.
The County Executive’s recommended budget closed the gap. The proposed total County budget (which includes debt service, grants, and enterprise funds) for FY11 is $4,304,288,414—a reduction of $169.7 million from the FY10 Approved Budget—representing a 3.8 percent decrease. This is the only time the annual County Budget has been reduced since the adoption of the current Charter in 1968.
# # #
Monday, February 22, 2010
Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee Concurs with Staff on CIP Issues
The Management and Fiscal Policy Committee, Chaired by Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, met this morning on the five following issues: Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) for the Integrated Justice Information System (IJIS), CIP for the Public Safety System Modernization; CIP for the Technology Modernization, CIP for the FiberNet project and the FY2010 Preliminary Cable Communications Plan. The MFP Committee concurred with Council Staff on the CIP for all the topics mentioned above and in some instances requested additional information. There was no action taken on the Preliminary Cable Communications Plan as the work session was informational in purpose.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee Updates
The Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee will meet on Monday, February 22nd at 9:30 am to discuss the Capital Improvements Program (CIP). Specifically, the Committee will review the Integrated Justice Information System (IJIS) and Public Safety Modernization. In addition, the MFP Committee will meet at 10:30 am on the same day to discuss General Government - Technology Modernization, FiberNet and the Cable Television and Communications Plan.
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg is Chair of the Management and Fiscal Policy Committee.
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg is Chair of the Management and Fiscal Policy Committee.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Management and Fiscal Policy Committee (MFP) will meet today at 2 p.m.
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg is Chair of the Management and Fiscal Policy Committee (MFP). The MFP Committee will meet today at 2 p.m. on the following agenda items:
Agenda Item #1: Spending Affordability Guidelines for the FY11 Capital Budget and other general CIP assumptions
Agenda Item #2: Spending Affordability Guidelines for FY11 Operation Budget
Agenda Item #3: Expedited Bill 41-09, Taxation--Property Tax Credit--Business Incubator
Agenda Item #4: Resolution to approve the designation of Enterprise Zones and Priority Funding Areas as a "Recovery Zone" for issuance of Recovery Zone Bonds.
Agenda Item #1: Spending Affordability Guidelines for the FY11 Capital Budget and other general CIP assumptions
Agenda Item #2: Spending Affordability Guidelines for FY11 Operation Budget
Agenda Item #3: Expedited Bill 41-09, Taxation--Property Tax Credit--Business Incubator
Agenda Item #4: Resolution to approve the designation of Enterprise Zones and Priority Funding Areas as a "Recovery Zone" for issuance of Recovery Zone Bonds.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Statement of Duchy Trachtenberg on the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) Budget Proposed by Executive
"I was absolutely thrilled to see the County Executive's strong support for Montgomery County schools in the CIP. This is the right time to be making these types of visionary decisions. We have a world-class school system that has earned Montgomery County the reputation of being one of the best, if not the best, place for children to grow, learn and achieve their potential. I strongly support the County Executive's CIP," stated Duchy Trachtenberg.
County Executive Ike Leggett transmitted to the County Council the Recommended FY11-16 Capital Improvements Program on January 15, 2010. The recommendation maintains Montgomery County's commitment to quality education by supporting critical school capacity, modernization, capital maintenance, and health and safety projects in our public schools. The County Executive increased the local share of school funding by $220.4 million, over a 21% increase. Moreover, the general obligation bond funding for school facilities increased by over $217 million, a 29.4% increase which reflects the high priority given to the Montgomery County school system. The $1.485 billion CIP budget for schools represents a 16.8% increase from the most recent $1.271 billion six year program. It should be noted that the County Executive funded 99.1% of the Board of Education's original six-year request. This shows solid support for our county's public education system in light of the economic recession.
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg is Chair of the Management and Fiscal Policy Committee.
To view the complete FY11-16 CIP, click here.
County Executive Ike Leggett transmitted to the County Council the Recommended FY11-16 Capital Improvements Program on January 15, 2010. The recommendation maintains Montgomery County's commitment to quality education by supporting critical school capacity, modernization, capital maintenance, and health and safety projects in our public schools. The County Executive increased the local share of school funding by $220.4 million, over a 21% increase. Moreover, the general obligation bond funding for school facilities increased by over $217 million, a 29.4% increase which reflects the high priority given to the Montgomery County school system. The $1.485 billion CIP budget for schools represents a 16.8% increase from the most recent $1.271 billion six year program. It should be noted that the County Executive funded 99.1% of the Board of Education's original six-year request. This shows solid support for our county's public education system in light of the economic recession.
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg is Chair of the Management and Fiscal Policy Committee.
To view the complete FY11-16 CIP, click here.
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