Bill for Hiring ‘Preference’ to be Drafted; Creation of Special Hiring Authority Referred to Charter Review Commission
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 24, 2009—The Montgomery County Council today unanimously approved moving forward to establish a “hiring preference” that would permit a job candidate with a disability to receive a hiring preference for a vacant County merit system position if the candidate is among the highest rated candidates in a normal competitive process. The Council’s action was based on a review of the County government’s hiring of persons with disabilities by the Office of Legislative Oversight (OLO).
The Council decided to refer to the Charter Review Commission the question of whether to amend the County Charter to allow the Council to create a special “hiring authority” to recruit and hire persons with disabilities into County government merit positions outside of the merit system. The Council asked that the Charter Review Commission to report back to the Council on the proposal by July 1.
“The combined unemployment and under-employment rate for people with disabilities is 70 percent or more,” said Council President Phil Andrews, who requested the report be compiled by the Office of Legislative Oversight. “That is a staggering waste of talent. With today’s landmark action, the Council has unanimously indicated its commitment to substantially expanding employment opportunities in County government for people with disabilities.”
A bill requiring a new County personnel regulation establishing a hiring preference for certain individuals with a disability will be drafted and is scheduled to be introduced before the Council on Dec. 1.
OLO’s report “Hiring Persons with Disabilities: A Review of County Government Practices” was released in 2008. On Nov. 23, the Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee recommended the actions taken by the Council today.
“The United States has been making considerable progress in improving the hiring of persons with disabilities over the past 20 years,” said Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, who chairs the MFP Committee. “Now, Montgomery County is stepping up to implement some of the most progressive policies in the nation, allowing us to improve the quality of our work staff with highly qualified persons of any ability status.”
If a special authority is established (which would require voter approval of a Charter amendment), it likely would resemble a model used by the federal government known as “Schedule A.” Under that federal hiring program, federal agencies are allowed to directly hire qualified people with specific types of disabilities into vacant positions while bypassing many components of the federal government’s competitive hiring process. In the federal government, a hiring manager may hire a Schedule A applicant without advertising the job. A job applicant can apply for a position directly to the agency rather than through the federal USA Jobs program.
Because a special hiring authority and a hiring preference would be complementary and not duplicative, the MFP Committee suggested the Council pursue both.
Contact: Neil H. Greenberger 240-777-7939 / Jean Arthur 240-777-7934 / Delphine Harriston 240-777-7931
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving
I hope that you have a great Thanksgiving holiday--a wonderful time to be with family and friends.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Duchy at Silver Spring's Thanksgiving Parade
I had a really great time at Silver Spring's Thanksgiving Parade. Along with many Girl Scouts from the National Capital Region, we traveled the crowded parade route along Georgia Avenue and down Ellsworth Drive. Thanks to all for the very warm welcome!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Big Turnout at the County Council's Town Hall Meeting
I thoroughly enjoyed the County Council's Town Hall meeting that we held on November 18th at the Tilden Middle School in Rockville for the White Flint/Kensington/Garrett Park/North Bethesda area. There were nearly 200 people there and we had a good conversation about a broad range of issues. Many people were interested in the White Flint Sector Plan currently being considered by the County Council. At the Town Hall meeting, I emphasized the importance of having a strong and effective fiscal plan for the proposed development in the White Flint area. I also noted my strong support for designating at least one new school site in the Sector Plan Area, and the importance of doing all we can to enhance pedestrian safety, particularly on Rockville Pike.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Code Enforcement Issues in Montgomery County
I joined with Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett and other officials yesterday to urge the enactment of three remaining code enforcement measures that he proposed last spring. Many of our neighbors throughout Montgomery County have expressed concern about important quality of life issues that affect their neighborhoods. The County Executive and the County Council have heard these concerns loud and clear and have taken appropriate steps to strengthen the County’s code enforcement. I wholeheartedly support these measures.
One measure, Bill 23-09, which limits the storage of inoperable, unused and unregistered vehicles in residential neighborhoods to 30 days, was enacted by the Council on October 6. The three remaining measures that are awaiting Council approval are: Bill 22-09 -- gives an enforcement agency the authority to issue a notice of violation that cannot be appealed to the Board of Appeals. Current regulations require an enforcing agency to issue a notice of violation before issuing a citation. Bill 24-09 -- requires certain detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses to obtain an approved final inspection within 18 months after the Department of Permitting Services issues the initial building permit. Zoning Text Amendment 09-03, which is designed to restrict the encroachment and expansion of home occupations into residential neighborhoods, as well as limit the paving of front yards and limit heavy commercial vehicles in residential zones.
One measure, Bill 23-09, which limits the storage of inoperable, unused and unregistered vehicles in residential neighborhoods to 30 days, was enacted by the Council on October 6. The three remaining measures that are awaiting Council approval are: Bill 22-09 -- gives an enforcement agency the authority to issue a notice of violation that cannot be appealed to the Board of Appeals. Current regulations require an enforcing agency to issue a notice of violation before issuing a citation. Bill 24-09 -- requires certain detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses to obtain an approved final inspection within 18 months after the Department of Permitting Services issues the initial building permit. Zoning Text Amendment 09-03, which is designed to restrict the encroachment and expansion of home occupations into residential neighborhoods, as well as limit the paving of front yards and limit heavy commercial vehicles in residential zones.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Montgomery County Council to Host White Flint/Kensington/Garrett Park/North Bethesda Areas Town Hall Meeting, Wednesday, Nov. 18
Residents Invited to Express Their Views on Issues, Ask Questions of Councilmembers at Tilden Middle School
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 18, 2009—The Montgomery County Council will continue its efforts to find out what issues most concern residents when it hosts a Town Hall Meeting for the White Flint / Kensington / Garrett Park / North Bethesda area TODAY, Wednesday, Nov. 18. The meeting at Tilden Middle School will start at 8 p.m. A pre-meeting reception will begin at 7:30 p.m.
This will be the third Town Hall Meeting hosted by the Council in 2009. The Council is composed of President Phil Andrews, Vice President Roger Berliner and Councilmembers Marc Elrich, Valerie Ervin, Nancy Floreen, Mike Knapp, George Leventhal, Nancy Navarro and Duchy Trachtenberg. The Council previously held Town Hall Meetings this year in Germantown/Boyds and West Gaithersburg/Darnestown areas. Most meetings have attracted more than 200 residents.
Tilden Middle School is located at 11211 Old Georgetown Road between the Wildwood section of Bethesda and the southern area of Rockville, adjacent to White Flint.
The meeting will allow residents to let the Councilmembers know how they feel about specific issues and will allow them to ask questions of the Councilmembers in an organized, but informal, setting.
Topics expected to be of interest include the proposed White Flint Sector Plan, schools, public safety, traffic, growth, the County budget and taxes.
“In many ways, our County is facing one of its most difficult periods in a very long time. We are all in this together and we want residents to tell us about their most important concerns as we approach making important decisions about growth in this area,” said Council President Andrews. “This Council has made a priority of having better direct communication with residents, and Town Hall Meetings have proven to be an excellent way to do just that. For the citizens, these meetings provide a forum where they can see their elected officials in a different format than a televised meeting or through a news release.”
The meeting will be taped for later broadcast on County Cable Montgomery (CCM—cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon). Susan Kenedy, a producer for the county station, will moderate the meeting.
For more information about the Town Hall Meeting or about the broadcast times, call 240-777-7931.
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 18, 2009—The Montgomery County Council will continue its efforts to find out what issues most concern residents when it hosts a Town Hall Meeting for the White Flint / Kensington / Garrett Park / North Bethesda area TODAY, Wednesday, Nov. 18. The meeting at Tilden Middle School will start at 8 p.m. A pre-meeting reception will begin at 7:30 p.m.
This will be the third Town Hall Meeting hosted by the Council in 2009. The Council is composed of President Phil Andrews, Vice President Roger Berliner and Councilmembers Marc Elrich, Valerie Ervin, Nancy Floreen, Mike Knapp, George Leventhal, Nancy Navarro and Duchy Trachtenberg. The Council previously held Town Hall Meetings this year in Germantown/Boyds and West Gaithersburg/Darnestown areas. Most meetings have attracted more than 200 residents.
Tilden Middle School is located at 11211 Old Georgetown Road between the Wildwood section of Bethesda and the southern area of Rockville, adjacent to White Flint.
The meeting will allow residents to let the Councilmembers know how they feel about specific issues and will allow them to ask questions of the Councilmembers in an organized, but informal, setting.
Topics expected to be of interest include the proposed White Flint Sector Plan, schools, public safety, traffic, growth, the County budget and taxes.
“In many ways, our County is facing one of its most difficult periods in a very long time. We are all in this together and we want residents to tell us about their most important concerns as we approach making important decisions about growth in this area,” said Council President Andrews. “This Council has made a priority of having better direct communication with residents, and Town Hall Meetings have proven to be an excellent way to do just that. For the citizens, these meetings provide a forum where they can see their elected officials in a different format than a televised meeting or through a news release.”
The meeting will be taped for later broadcast on County Cable Montgomery (CCM—cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon). Susan Kenedy, a producer for the county station, will moderate the meeting.
For more information about the Town Hall Meeting or about the broadcast times, call 240-777-7931.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Montgomery Council Unanimously Approves Expanded Uses of Drug Forfeiture Funds Bill
Montgomery Council Unanimously Approves Expanded Uses of Drug Forfeiture Funds Bill 35-09, Whose Chief Sponsor Was Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, Will Allow Money Seized From Drug Criminals To Be Used for Drug Treatment and Prevention Programs
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 17, 2009—The Montgomery County Council today unanimously approved Expedited Bill 35-09 that will allow money seized from criminals convicted of drug-related crimes to be used for drug treatment and prevention programs. The bill, whose chief sponsor was Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, was co-sponsored by Council President Phil Andrews, Council Vice President Roger Berliner and Councilmembers Marc Elrich, George Leventhal and Nancy Navarro.
The bill amends current law that restricts the use of Drug Enforcement Forfeiture Funds to “expenses related to enforcement of laws regarding controlled dangerous substances.”
The Drug Enforcement Forfeitures Fund (DEFF) contains money that is forfeited to the County under state law as drug-related contraband. The fund includes cash and the proceeds of the sale of real and personal property seized during drug enforcement actions. The DEFF had a balance of $2,686,145 at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2009 and had approximately $2.3 million at the beginning of FY10.
Councilmember Trachtenberg, who chairs the Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy Committee and serves on its Health and Human Services Committee, said a change in the law regarding how forfeited funds could be spent will be important as the County continues to face budget shortfalls that are impacting programs, such as drug prevention and drug treatment programs.
“Drug prevention and treatment programs, and the operation of the Drug Court, are important parts of a successful campaign to reduce the use of controlled dangerous substances,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “Recent severe shortfalls in County revenue make it important to look for alternative sources to fund these critical programs. It is hard to think of a better use of money seized from drug offenders than to allocate it toward people who want help for their drug-related problems.”
Allocating DEFF funds for drug treatment and prevention programs will increase the non-tax supported alternative funding available for these critical programs.
“This is a timely and most appropriate use of these funds,” said Council President Andrews. “At a time when we are forced to make difficult fiscal decisions, it is essential that critical programs such as rehabilitating drug offenders continue to have adequate funding.”
Expedited Bill 35-09 also will require quarterly reporting to the Council on the DEFF revenue and expenses. The Council is responsible for appropriating the funds in the DEFF. Regular reports will provide important information to help the Council in appropriating these funds in the most effective way.
The quarterly reports on the fund, which will be made by the Police Department, will include an update on the current balance in the fund, information on recent deposits from forfeitures and details on recent expenditures from the fund.
“This legislation is another example of good government,” said Council Vice President Berliner. “We need to carefully manage our scarce resources—now more than ever—and this bill is a step in the right direction.”
In September, the Montgomery County Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Advisory Council (AODAAC) unanimously adopted a motion in support of what has evolved to become Expedited Bill 35-09. The resolution read: “Whereas addiction treatment is crime prevention, therefore be it resolved that the Montgomery County Drug Enforcement Forfeiture Fund regulations be amended to include as an authorized use of funds ‘drug abuse treatment and prevention services.’”
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 17, 2009—The Montgomery County Council today unanimously approved Expedited Bill 35-09 that will allow money seized from criminals convicted of drug-related crimes to be used for drug treatment and prevention programs. The bill, whose chief sponsor was Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, was co-sponsored by Council President Phil Andrews, Council Vice President Roger Berliner and Councilmembers Marc Elrich, George Leventhal and Nancy Navarro.
The bill amends current law that restricts the use of Drug Enforcement Forfeiture Funds to “expenses related to enforcement of laws regarding controlled dangerous substances.”
The Drug Enforcement Forfeitures Fund (DEFF) contains money that is forfeited to the County under state law as drug-related contraband. The fund includes cash and the proceeds of the sale of real and personal property seized during drug enforcement actions. The DEFF had a balance of $2,686,145 at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2009 and had approximately $2.3 million at the beginning of FY10.
Councilmember Trachtenberg, who chairs the Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy Committee and serves on its Health and Human Services Committee, said a change in the law regarding how forfeited funds could be spent will be important as the County continues to face budget shortfalls that are impacting programs, such as drug prevention and drug treatment programs.
“Drug prevention and treatment programs, and the operation of the Drug Court, are important parts of a successful campaign to reduce the use of controlled dangerous substances,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “Recent severe shortfalls in County revenue make it important to look for alternative sources to fund these critical programs. It is hard to think of a better use of money seized from drug offenders than to allocate it toward people who want help for their drug-related problems.”
Allocating DEFF funds for drug treatment and prevention programs will increase the non-tax supported alternative funding available for these critical programs.
“This is a timely and most appropriate use of these funds,” said Council President Andrews. “At a time when we are forced to make difficult fiscal decisions, it is essential that critical programs such as rehabilitating drug offenders continue to have adequate funding.”
Expedited Bill 35-09 also will require quarterly reporting to the Council on the DEFF revenue and expenses. The Council is responsible for appropriating the funds in the DEFF. Regular reports will provide important information to help the Council in appropriating these funds in the most effective way.
The quarterly reports on the fund, which will be made by the Police Department, will include an update on the current balance in the fund, information on recent deposits from forfeitures and details on recent expenditures from the fund.
“This legislation is another example of good government,” said Council Vice President Berliner. “We need to carefully manage our scarce resources—now more than ever—and this bill is a step in the right direction.”
In September, the Montgomery County Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Advisory Council (AODAAC) unanimously adopted a motion in support of what has evolved to become Expedited Bill 35-09. The resolution read: “Whereas addiction treatment is crime prevention, therefore be it resolved that the Montgomery County Drug Enforcement Forfeiture Fund regulations be amended to include as an authorized use of funds ‘drug abuse treatment and prevention services.’”
At the Montgomery County Council Session
Montgomery Council to Address I-270 Transportation Issues, ICC Tolls
Also Drug Enforcement Fund, Nutritional Labeling, Health Impact Assessment for Road Projects
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 16, 2009—The Montgomery County Council on Tuesday, Nov. 17, will make recommendations to the Maryland State Highway Administration and the State Department of Transportation concerning the scope of possible expansion for I-270 and the mode of transportation that should be used for the proposed Corridor Cities Transitway that would extend from the Shady Grove Metro Station to Clarksburg. The Council also is expected to make recommendations in regard to the range of toll charges for the Intercounty Connector that is being built to link I-270 to I-95 in Laurel.
The Council’s day will start at 9:30 a.m. with the dedication of a mural in the Third Floor Conference Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The mural, “Building Strong Communities,” was created by Project Youth ArtReach, a program with youthful offenders at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility. The regular session will begin at 9:40 a.m. in the Third Floor Hearing Room.
The morning and afternoon sessions of the Council’s day will be televised live by County Cable Montgomery (CCM—Cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon). The live broadcast also can be viewed via streaming through the County Web site at www.montgomerycountymd.gov. The broadcast will be repeated at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 20.
During the morning session, the Council will discuss and take positions on several key issues concerning transportation in the I-270 corridor. In regard to the Corridor Cities Transitway, the Council will either recommend light rail or bus rapid transit over a dedicated line as the mode of transportation. The Council also will make a recommendation concerning expansion of I-270. Options include building two new lanes in each direction or building a total of two lanes that would be reversible depending upon the time of day.
The Council is expected to take action on Expedited Bill 35-09 would expand the possible uses for money seized from drug dealers and held in the County’s Drug Forfeiture Fund. The bill, whose chief sponsor is Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, would allow the funds to be used for drug treatment programs and to help fund the County’s innovative drug court.
The Council also is scheduled to take action on Bill 19-07 that would require certain County restaurants to post nutritional information on menus and menu boards. The legislation, whose chief sponsor was Councilmember George Leventhal, has recently been amended recently to reflect provisions being discussed in a similar bill now being considered in Congress.
At 1:30 p.m., the Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed resolution that would require a health impact assessment before major road projects are allowed to proceed.
Also Drug Enforcement Fund, Nutritional Labeling, Health Impact Assessment for Road Projects
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 16, 2009—The Montgomery County Council on Tuesday, Nov. 17, will make recommendations to the Maryland State Highway Administration and the State Department of Transportation concerning the scope of possible expansion for I-270 and the mode of transportation that should be used for the proposed Corridor Cities Transitway that would extend from the Shady Grove Metro Station to Clarksburg. The Council also is expected to make recommendations in regard to the range of toll charges for the Intercounty Connector that is being built to link I-270 to I-95 in Laurel.
The Council’s day will start at 9:30 a.m. with the dedication of a mural in the Third Floor Conference Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The mural, “Building Strong Communities,” was created by Project Youth ArtReach, a program with youthful offenders at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility. The regular session will begin at 9:40 a.m. in the Third Floor Hearing Room.
The morning and afternoon sessions of the Council’s day will be televised live by County Cable Montgomery (CCM—Cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon). The live broadcast also can be viewed via streaming through the County Web site at www.montgomerycountymd.gov. The broadcast will be repeated at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 20.
During the morning session, the Council will discuss and take positions on several key issues concerning transportation in the I-270 corridor. In regard to the Corridor Cities Transitway, the Council will either recommend light rail or bus rapid transit over a dedicated line as the mode of transportation. The Council also will make a recommendation concerning expansion of I-270. Options include building two new lanes in each direction or building a total of two lanes that would be reversible depending upon the time of day.
The Council is expected to take action on Expedited Bill 35-09 would expand the possible uses for money seized from drug dealers and held in the County’s Drug Forfeiture Fund. The bill, whose chief sponsor is Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, would allow the funds to be used for drug treatment programs and to help fund the County’s innovative drug court.
The Council also is scheduled to take action on Bill 19-07 that would require certain County restaurants to post nutritional information on menus and menu boards. The legislation, whose chief sponsor was Councilmember George Leventhal, has recently been amended recently to reflect provisions being discussed in a similar bill now being considered in Congress.
At 1:30 p.m., the Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed resolution that would require a health impact assessment before major road projects are allowed to proceed.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Honoring the Buffalo Soldiers
At the "Tribute to America's Veterans" concert in Silver Spring, we honored the contribution of all of the Nation's veterans and our active duty military men and women. We also gave special recognition to the Buffalo Soldiers of the 92nd Infantry Division, aka the Buffalo Soldiers Division--African-American men who served in combat during the Italian Campaign in the Mediterranean theater. At the program, we saluted Buffalo Soldiers Joseph Hairston, James Daugherty, and Charles Williams.
Wayne Goldstein Playground Dedication in Kensington
On Saturday, I attended the Wayne Goldstein Playground Dedication at the Kensington Heights Neighborhood Park in Kensington, Maryland. It was a beautiful ceremony and a wonderful tribute to our good friend, Wayne Goldstein, who passed away in April 2009. We remembered him in our words, thoughts and prayers, and honored him by planting a tree and unveiling a sign for the playground with his name. We also recognized his mother, Trenice Goldstein, who was present at the ceremony. Wayne was a former president of the county's Civic Federation, president of Montgomery Preservation Inc. and a columnist for The Sentinel newspaper.
Among his many friends who were there to honor him were Congressman Chris Van Hollen, County Executive Isiah Leggett, Montgomery County Council President Phil Andrews, County Councilmembers Marc Elrich, Valerie Ervin and myself, Delegate Al Carr, Peggy Dennis and Jim Humphrey of the Montgomery County Civic Federation, Lorraine Pearsall, Montgomery Preservation, Inc, Donna Savage, Kensington Heights Citizens Association, Amy Presely, Montgomery County Planning Board, and Montgomery County Director of Parks, Mary Bradford.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Agreement on Fillmore Silver Spring Signed
County, Lee Development Group Sign Land Donation Agreement for Fillmore Silver Spring
County Gets Silver Spring Property Worth $3.5 Million For Free To Open Fillmore Music Hall
Montgomery County and the Lee Development Group today signed a final agreement permitting the construction of a Fillmore Music Hall on the property which formerly housed the J.C. Penney Company in downtown Silver Spring. After completion of the Music Hall, Lee Development Group will donate the land to the County.
Under the terms of the agreement, Montgomery County receives the $3.5 million property at no cost to create a dynamic new music, entertainment, and community use venue in downtown Silver Spring, a move that will bolster economic development and the music scene for that community and the County as a whole.
The new music hall, to be run under contract by Live Nation, will preserve the historic fa̤ade of the old J.C. Penney store site on Colesville Road owned by the Lee Development Group Рa site vacant for 18 years -- and build a modern, new music and community use venue behind it. The State of Maryland and Montgomery County will contribute $4 million each Рfor a total $8 million in public investment -- toward the cost of building the facility, which will be owned by the County. The Music Hall requires no ongoing public subsidy.
An economic impact analysis done by the County’s Department of Finance shows an annual cost to the State and County on projected bond issues as approximately $355,000 and annual direct and indirect income to the
State and County from sales, income, beverage, fuel, and other taxes, as well as rent, as approximately $1,067,000. This results in a net annual profit to the public of $712,000.
When the value of Live Nation’s improvements to the County-owned building and Live Nation’s ongoing and structural maintenance work are included – as well as the value of community use and Live Nation community contributions – the net benefit to the public increases by another $951,000 to a total net public benefit annually of about $1,663,000.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Lee Development Group would also provide for free management services for the construction of the facility, a $500,000 value.
The land donation is intended to serve as the required “public use space and public amenity” that is required for County development projects. Almost always such an amenity is provided in conjunction with a development project. In this case, however, the Lee Development Group is providing the amenity up-front – long before they have a development project on the property adjoining the former J.C. Penney site.
“The County’s vision is to bring a dynamic, first-class music, entertainment, and community use venue that will offer a wide range of musical choices to Silver Spring at the former J.C. Penney site,” said County Executive Ike Leggett. “That’s why the County approached the Lee Development Group with this innovative approach, asking them to donate this key property at the gateway to Silver Spring.
“We want to bring Silver Spring revitalization across Colesville Road and Georgia Avenue. We want more customers for Silver Spring businesses and restaurants.
This location will create a dynamic center of music and entertainment with the American Film Institute and the restored Silver Theater directly across the street.
“This is one more giant step toward delivering that vision,” said Department of Economic Development director Steve Silverman. “Now more than ever, we need to take Silver Spring revitalization to the next level.”
”This complex and groundbreaking agreement is finally signed. Now we look forward to working with the County Planning Department to move this project forward,” said Bruce H. Lee, President of Lee Development Group.
More information on the project is available at www.livemusicss.com
County Gets Silver Spring Property Worth $3.5 Million For Free To Open Fillmore Music Hall
Montgomery County and the Lee Development Group today signed a final agreement permitting the construction of a Fillmore Music Hall on the property which formerly housed the J.C. Penney Company in downtown Silver Spring. After completion of the Music Hall, Lee Development Group will donate the land to the County.
Under the terms of the agreement, Montgomery County receives the $3.5 million property at no cost to create a dynamic new music, entertainment, and community use venue in downtown Silver Spring, a move that will bolster economic development and the music scene for that community and the County as a whole.
The new music hall, to be run under contract by Live Nation, will preserve the historic fa̤ade of the old J.C. Penney store site on Colesville Road owned by the Lee Development Group Рa site vacant for 18 years -- and build a modern, new music and community use venue behind it. The State of Maryland and Montgomery County will contribute $4 million each Рfor a total $8 million in public investment -- toward the cost of building the facility, which will be owned by the County. The Music Hall requires no ongoing public subsidy.
An economic impact analysis done by the County’s Department of Finance shows an annual cost to the State and County on projected bond issues as approximately $355,000 and annual direct and indirect income to the
State and County from sales, income, beverage, fuel, and other taxes, as well as rent, as approximately $1,067,000. This results in a net annual profit to the public of $712,000.
When the value of Live Nation’s improvements to the County-owned building and Live Nation’s ongoing and structural maintenance work are included – as well as the value of community use and Live Nation community contributions – the net benefit to the public increases by another $951,000 to a total net public benefit annually of about $1,663,000.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Lee Development Group would also provide for free management services for the construction of the facility, a $500,000 value.
The land donation is intended to serve as the required “public use space and public amenity” that is required for County development projects. Almost always such an amenity is provided in conjunction with a development project. In this case, however, the Lee Development Group is providing the amenity up-front – long before they have a development project on the property adjoining the former J.C. Penney site.
“The County’s vision is to bring a dynamic, first-class music, entertainment, and community use venue that will offer a wide range of musical choices to Silver Spring at the former J.C. Penney site,” said County Executive Ike Leggett. “That’s why the County approached the Lee Development Group with this innovative approach, asking them to donate this key property at the gateway to Silver Spring.
“We want to bring Silver Spring revitalization across Colesville Road and Georgia Avenue. We want more customers for Silver Spring businesses and restaurants.
This location will create a dynamic center of music and entertainment with the American Film Institute and the restored Silver Theater directly across the street.
“This is one more giant step toward delivering that vision,” said Department of Economic Development director Steve Silverman. “Now more than ever, we need to take Silver Spring revitalization to the next level.”
”This complex and groundbreaking agreement is finally signed. Now we look forward to working with the County Planning Department to move this project forward,” said Bruce H. Lee, President of Lee Development Group.
More information on the project is available at www.livemusicss.com
PEG Network Briefing at Montgomery College
The Trachtenberg Office attended a briefing on H.R. 3745, the Community Access Preservation (CAP) Act, introduced by Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis).
The CAP Act will permit PEG Fees collected from cable providers to be used for PEG operating as well as capital expenses. Current law limits use of these funds to capital expenditures only. The CAP act also requires that PEG funding be maintained at historical levels while Congress studies the effective of statewide franchising on PEG. The PEG Network briefing also addressed creating effective performance measures for PEG programming and effective ways to use social media to reach new audiences.
The briefing was held at the Montgomery College Administrative Offices.
The CAP Act will permit PEG Fees collected from cable providers to be used for PEG operating as well as capital expenses. Current law limits use of these funds to capital expenditures only. The CAP act also requires that PEG funding be maintained at historical levels while Congress studies the effective of statewide franchising on PEG. The PEG Network briefing also addressed creating effective performance measures for PEG programming and effective ways to use social media to reach new audiences.
The briefing was held at the Montgomery College Administrative Offices.
Alert Montgomery - A message from the CAO
Before winter storms hit this year, I strongly encourage all Montgomery County employees to make sure that your personal email addresses or PDA’s are registered with Alert Montgomery. That way, you will get up-to-the-minute information about liberal leave, closings and other announcements. To register or update your Alert Montgomery information, go to the County’s home page at http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ and click on “Alert Montgomery.”
Timothy L. Firestine, Chief Administrative Officer
Timothy L. Firestine, Chief Administrative Officer
County Executive's Town Hall Meeting in Silver Spring
The Trachtenberg Office was represented at County Executive Isiah Leggett's Town Hall meeting at the Takoma Park Middle School, in Silver Spring, on November 12, 2009. Previous town meetings have drawn thousands of residents who have taken advantage of the opportunity to voice their concerns to the County Executive.
"Town meetings present an excellent opportunity for me to find out what's on the mind of our residents," said Leggett. "A cornerstone of my administration has been to make sure 'everyone has a seat at the table' and these public meetings provide a forum for our residents to share their ideas and concerns."
At the meeting, the County Executive addressed a broad range of questions including trends in the County budget, maintenance of effort issue, public safety, job creation, improved access for people with disabilities, and growth and development issues. One issue that attracted much public content was youth empowerment and programs for young people in the Silver Spring area.
At this meeting, the County Executive announced that Montgomery County and the Lee Development Group signed a final agreement permitting the construction of a Fillmore Music Hall on the property which formerly housed the J.C. Penney Company in downtown Silver Spring.
The town meeting was videotaped by County Cable 6, the County government channel, for future airing.
"Town meetings present an excellent opportunity for me to find out what's on the mind of our residents," said Leggett. "A cornerstone of my administration has been to make sure 'everyone has a seat at the table' and these public meetings provide a forum for our residents to share their ideas and concerns."
At the meeting, the County Executive addressed a broad range of questions including trends in the County budget, maintenance of effort issue, public safety, job creation, improved access for people with disabilities, and growth and development issues. One issue that attracted much public content was youth empowerment and programs for young people in the Silver Spring area.
At this meeting, the County Executive announced that Montgomery County and the Lee Development Group signed a final agreement permitting the construction of a Fillmore Music Hall on the property which formerly housed the J.C. Penney Company in downtown Silver Spring.
The town meeting was videotaped by County Cable 6, the County government channel, for future airing.
Veterans Day Ceremonies in Wheaton
The Trachtenberg Office was represented at Veterans Day Ceremonies at VFW Post 2562 in Wheaton, Maryland. With the Presentation of Colors, an invocation by Danny Baker, Chaplan, VFW Post 2562, a Veterans Day address by Brig. General Paul D. Gleason, M.D. (USAF-Ret.), and a solemn presentation of memorial wreaths, the ceremonies led by Tomas F. Bunting, PSF of WFW Post 2562 were well attended by veterans of all the military services, their families and friends.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Montgomery Council Approves 2009-11 Growth Policy
Rejects Major Changes County’s Planning Board Had Proposed Changes to Relax School Overcrowding and Traffic Congestion Tests
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 12, 2009—The Montgomery County Council on Nov. 10 gave final approval to the 2009-11 County Growth Policy, the purpose of which is to attempt to ensure that public infrastructure is adequate to handle the impact of new development. In approving the policy, the Council rejected major recommendations suggested by the Montgomery County Planning Board to relax or weaken a number of school overcrowding and traffic congestion standards.
Density and the type of development in particular areas such as White Flint and Gaithersburg West are established in master plans and zoning laws, not in the Growth Policy, which deals almost exclusively with the timing of development in relation to needed infrastructure. The Council is currently considering the proposed White Flint Sector Plan and the Gaithersburg West Mast Plan, but has not taken any action on either.
Regarding school capacity, the Council rejected the Planning Board’s proposal to raise the threshold to require school facilities payments by developers from 105 percent of capacity in a high school cluster to 110 percent. Had the Council approved the change, which was opposed by the Montgomery County Council of PTAs, it would have been possible for a majority of the elementary schools in a cluster to be substantially overcrowded, but for the average for the elementary school cluster overall to fall below the 110 percent threshold. [For example, three elementary schools at 115 percent and two at 98 percent would produce an average of 108 percent.]
Under the test maintained by the Council, a school facilities payment of approximately $20,000 per additional student would be triggered because the average school capacity would exceed 105 percent. Under the Planning Board proposal that was rejected, a school facilities payment would not have been triggered.
The Council also rejected a proposal by the Planning Board to allow capacity to be transferred from an approved project to a proposed project within a cluster. That proposed change would have enabled a developer to go forward with a project that otherwise could not be built—or not be built without paying a schools facilities payment.
Regarding transportation capacity, the Council rejected the Planning Board’s recommendation to substantially weaken traffic mitigation requirements by changing Policy Area Mobility Review (PAMR) standards. The Council deferred any major changes to the PAMR standards until the Council has the opportunity to review recommendations by the County Executive that are expected by March 31, 2010.
The Council also sharply scaled back a Planning Board recommendation to establish an alternative review procedure to PAMR standards that would have lowered traffic mitigation requirements for mixed-use and energy-efficient buildings. The Planning Board recommended allowing such an alternative approach in Metro Station Policy Areas and in areas within one-half mile of where transit service runs at least every 15 minutes during peak periods. The Council was concerned that too much of the downcounty, and many other parts of the County, would have qualified under this definition for the alternative review procedure. Councilmembers restricted the use of the new test to Metro Station areas and a few other discrete areas, including Germantown Town Center and Kensington.
“Essentially, the Council maintained tougher tests for school overcrowding and traffic congestion mitigation than proposed by the Planning Board,” said Council President Phil Andrews. “The changes that the Council did approve to the Growth Policy were modest expansions of the current policy of encouraging development at Metro Stations and in other areas well-served by transit. In a primarily suburban County, the Council recognizes that most residents are going to continue to get around by car and is striving to maintain acceptable average travel times on our roads. The Council also is committed to providing more transit service, which benefits transit users directly, and drivers indirectly, by freeing up capacity on existing roads.”
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 12, 2009—The Montgomery County Council on Nov. 10 gave final approval to the 2009-11 County Growth Policy, the purpose of which is to attempt to ensure that public infrastructure is adequate to handle the impact of new development. In approving the policy, the Council rejected major recommendations suggested by the Montgomery County Planning Board to relax or weaken a number of school overcrowding and traffic congestion standards.
Density and the type of development in particular areas such as White Flint and Gaithersburg West are established in master plans and zoning laws, not in the Growth Policy, which deals almost exclusively with the timing of development in relation to needed infrastructure. The Council is currently considering the proposed White Flint Sector Plan and the Gaithersburg West Mast Plan, but has not taken any action on either.
Regarding school capacity, the Council rejected the Planning Board’s proposal to raise the threshold to require school facilities payments by developers from 105 percent of capacity in a high school cluster to 110 percent. Had the Council approved the change, which was opposed by the Montgomery County Council of PTAs, it would have been possible for a majority of the elementary schools in a cluster to be substantially overcrowded, but for the average for the elementary school cluster overall to fall below the 110 percent threshold. [For example, three elementary schools at 115 percent and two at 98 percent would produce an average of 108 percent.]
Under the test maintained by the Council, a school facilities payment of approximately $20,000 per additional student would be triggered because the average school capacity would exceed 105 percent. Under the Planning Board proposal that was rejected, a school facilities payment would not have been triggered.
The Council also rejected a proposal by the Planning Board to allow capacity to be transferred from an approved project to a proposed project within a cluster. That proposed change would have enabled a developer to go forward with a project that otherwise could not be built—or not be built without paying a schools facilities payment.
Regarding transportation capacity, the Council rejected the Planning Board’s recommendation to substantially weaken traffic mitigation requirements by changing Policy Area Mobility Review (PAMR) standards. The Council deferred any major changes to the PAMR standards until the Council has the opportunity to review recommendations by the County Executive that are expected by March 31, 2010.
The Council also sharply scaled back a Planning Board recommendation to establish an alternative review procedure to PAMR standards that would have lowered traffic mitigation requirements for mixed-use and energy-efficient buildings. The Planning Board recommended allowing such an alternative approach in Metro Station Policy Areas and in areas within one-half mile of where transit service runs at least every 15 minutes during peak periods. The Council was concerned that too much of the downcounty, and many other parts of the County, would have qualified under this definition for the alternative review procedure. Councilmembers restricted the use of the new test to Metro Station areas and a few other discrete areas, including Germantown Town Center and Kensington.
“Essentially, the Council maintained tougher tests for school overcrowding and traffic congestion mitigation than proposed by the Planning Board,” said Council President Phil Andrews. “The changes that the Council did approve to the Growth Policy were modest expansions of the current policy of encouraging development at Metro Stations and in other areas well-served by transit. In a primarily suburban County, the Council recognizes that most residents are going to continue to get around by car and is striving to maintain acceptable average travel times on our roads. The Council also is committed to providing more transit service, which benefits transit users directly, and drivers indirectly, by freeing up capacity on existing roads.”
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Saluting Montgomery County's Veterans
At the Round House Theatre in Silver Spring last night, I attended the "Tribute to America's Veterans" concert sponsored by the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., a local non-profit community organization. Along with County Executive Isiah Leggett and my County Council colleagues--Council President Phil Andrews and Councilmember Valerie Ervin--we enjoyed an evening of great music and moving tributes to Montgomery County's veterans and active duty military women and men.
I had the great honor of joining with Councilmembers Ervin and Andrews to present County Council proclamations recognizing the achievements and sacrifices of two Buffalo Soldiers who were present: Mr. Joseph Hairston and Mr. James Daugherty. And, with surprise, we recognized another Buffalo Soldier in the audience, Mr. Charles Williams. We also presented a certificate of appreciation to one of Montgomery County's most effective non-profit organizations working on behalf of our veterans--Rebuilding Together Montgomery County.
The evening was filled with music performed by Silver Spring's Jonny Grave, and the blues duo, Memphis Gold and Jay Summerour.
Thanks to the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., Building Bridges America, Inc., the Montgomery County Commission on Veterans Affairs, and PFA Silver Spring LLC, for a wonderful event.
I had the great honor of joining with Councilmembers Ervin and Andrews to present County Council proclamations recognizing the achievements and sacrifices of two Buffalo Soldiers who were present: Mr. Joseph Hairston and Mr. James Daugherty. And, with surprise, we recognized another Buffalo Soldier in the audience, Mr. Charles Williams. We also presented a certificate of appreciation to one of Montgomery County's most effective non-profit organizations working on behalf of our veterans--Rebuilding Together Montgomery County.
The evening was filled with music performed by Silver Spring's Jonny Grave, and the blues duo, Memphis Gold and Jay Summerour.
Thanks to the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., Building Bridges America, Inc., the Montgomery County Commission on Veterans Affairs, and PFA Silver Spring LLC, for a wonderful event.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Discussing Health Care at Leisure World
I had the pleasure and honor of participating in a Health Care Reform panel discussion yesterday over at Leisure World, hosted by ENFORCE. The turn out was very strong and a substantive discussion followed. The questions were quite thoughtful and provided both panels with a broad range of concerns to debate. These questions touched on everything from internet privacy to the solvency of our Medicare system; to how best to reduce health care costs without adding to our National deficit; tort reform; the public option; and the potential future problems with excluding illegal immigrants from any taxpayer funded health care plans.
This is clearly a complicated and topic and the debate will continue as this bill now moves on from the House to the Senate. I look forward to following this closely and continuing to help all of the citizens of Montgomery County better understand these issues.
This is clearly a complicated and topic and the debate will continue as this bill now moves on from the House to the Senate. I look forward to following this closely and continuing to help all of the citizens of Montgomery County better understand these issues.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Councilmember Trachtenberg to Introduce Resolution Requiring ‘Pregnancy Centers’ to Disclose Actual Scope of Their Services
Measure Would Have Centers Tell Clients Up Front That They Do Not Provide Medical Advice or Establish Doctor-Patient Relationships
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 9, 2009—Montgomery County Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg (D-At Large) on Tuesday, Nov. 10, will introduce a resolution for the Council, acting as the County’s Board of Health, that would require Limited Service Pregnancy Centers, which are also known as Crisis Pregnancy Centers (CPCs), to notify clients that the center will not be providing medical advice or establishing a doctor-patient relationship. The resolution also would require the CPCs to recommend to the client that she should seek out a qualified health care professional.
Councilmembers Roger Berliner, Valerie Ervin, Marc Elrich, Nancy Floreen, George Leventhal and Nancy Navarro are cosponsors of the resolution. If the County’s Board of Health approves the measure, Montgomery County would be the first local jurisdiction in the nation to have such an action approved by its board of health.
Currently, there are three family planning clinics in Montgomery County that receive partial public funding. There are four Crisis Pregnancy Centers in the County, none of which receive public funding.
A public hearing on the resolution is tentatively scheduled for Dec. 1.
“The Montgomery County Council, sitting as the Board of Health, has an obligation to protect the public’s health,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg, who is a member of the Council’s Health and Human Services Committee. “Nothing is more important than the protection of the health and well-being of women in Montgomery County. Requiring full disclosure of crisis pregnancy centers is critical, given that there are more CPCs in the County than there are publicly-funded comprehensive family planning clinics.”
Councilmember Trachtenberg said that the legislation is needed because CPCs often provide false and misleading information to women. She said that CPCs often tell clients that abortions make future pregnancy impossible; that abortions and oral contraceptives cause breast cancer; and that condoms are ineffective in preventing pregnancy and STDs. Overall, she said that CPCs often discourage women from seeking contraception or abortion.
“Women seeking medical attention shouldn’t have to guess whether a ‘pregnancy’ clinic provides full-service care, including contraceptive services—this information should be made readily available to them,” said Councilmember Navarro.
The proposed regulation would not force any CPCs to close. CPCs would still be allowed to counsel and provide accurate information to women who choose to carry their pregnancies to term. However, the regulation would make sure women are given accurate information about the CPC from the start of their visits. The regulation also requires that the information be made available in English and Spanish.
Said Councilmember Elrich: "Misleading advertising serves no one well in any circumstances, and most certainly not in a time of vulnerability. We owe it to the women of Montgomery County to make sure they are going into any counseling situation with an accurate understanding of the type of advice and services they may receive.”
Said Councilmember Floreen: “Pregnancy can be a time of great joy and also of tremendous confusion. As women face some of the most complicated and meaningful decisions of their lives, we owe it to them to make sure they receive thorough and medically sound information.”
Said Councilmember Leventhal: “Women in crisis need a full range of options presented to them fairly and objectively. This legislation will ensure that women understand the nature of advice they are receiving.”
A 2006 report by Congressman Henry Waxman of California entitled, “False and Misleading Health Information Provided by Federally Funded Pregnancy Resource Centers,” stated that during an investigation of 23 CPCs that received federal grants, “20 of the 23 centers (87 percent) provided false or misleading information about the health effects of abortion.”
Pregnancy resource centers received approximately $1 million through the Compassion Capital Fund, created in 2002 as a component of the Bush Administration’s faith-based initiative, according to the report. The report also said that CPCs received more than $24 million in Community-Based Abstinence Education funds between 2001 and 2005, and at least $6 million from abstinence funding provided to states.
Among those who have said they support the resolution the Council will be considering are NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland, Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, the D.C. Abortion Fund (DCAF), Potomac Family Planning, NARAL Pro-Choice America, the National Abortion Federation and the National Institute for Reproductive Health. In addition, the measure is supported by Susan Wood, who is an associate professor of Health Policy and of Environmental and Occupational Health for the George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services and the executive director of the Jacobs Institute of Women's Health, and Terry O’Neill, president of the National Organization for Women.
CONTACT: Pat Brennan 240-777-7829
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 9, 2009—Montgomery County Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg (D-At Large) on Tuesday, Nov. 10, will introduce a resolution for the Council, acting as the County’s Board of Health, that would require Limited Service Pregnancy Centers, which are also known as Crisis Pregnancy Centers (CPCs), to notify clients that the center will not be providing medical advice or establishing a doctor-patient relationship. The resolution also would require the CPCs to recommend to the client that she should seek out a qualified health care professional.
Councilmembers Roger Berliner, Valerie Ervin, Marc Elrich, Nancy Floreen, George Leventhal and Nancy Navarro are cosponsors of the resolution. If the County’s Board of Health approves the measure, Montgomery County would be the first local jurisdiction in the nation to have such an action approved by its board of health.
Currently, there are three family planning clinics in Montgomery County that receive partial public funding. There are four Crisis Pregnancy Centers in the County, none of which receive public funding.
A public hearing on the resolution is tentatively scheduled for Dec. 1.
“The Montgomery County Council, sitting as the Board of Health, has an obligation to protect the public’s health,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg, who is a member of the Council’s Health and Human Services Committee. “Nothing is more important than the protection of the health and well-being of women in Montgomery County. Requiring full disclosure of crisis pregnancy centers is critical, given that there are more CPCs in the County than there are publicly-funded comprehensive family planning clinics.”
Councilmember Trachtenberg said that the legislation is needed because CPCs often provide false and misleading information to women. She said that CPCs often tell clients that abortions make future pregnancy impossible; that abortions and oral contraceptives cause breast cancer; and that condoms are ineffective in preventing pregnancy and STDs. Overall, she said that CPCs often discourage women from seeking contraception or abortion.
“Women seeking medical attention shouldn’t have to guess whether a ‘pregnancy’ clinic provides full-service care, including contraceptive services—this information should be made readily available to them,” said Councilmember Navarro.
The proposed regulation would not force any CPCs to close. CPCs would still be allowed to counsel and provide accurate information to women who choose to carry their pregnancies to term. However, the regulation would make sure women are given accurate information about the CPC from the start of their visits. The regulation also requires that the information be made available in English and Spanish.
Said Councilmember Elrich: "Misleading advertising serves no one well in any circumstances, and most certainly not in a time of vulnerability. We owe it to the women of Montgomery County to make sure they are going into any counseling situation with an accurate understanding of the type of advice and services they may receive.”
Said Councilmember Floreen: “Pregnancy can be a time of great joy and also of tremendous confusion. As women face some of the most complicated and meaningful decisions of their lives, we owe it to them to make sure they receive thorough and medically sound information.”
Said Councilmember Leventhal: “Women in crisis need a full range of options presented to them fairly and objectively. This legislation will ensure that women understand the nature of advice they are receiving.”
A 2006 report by Congressman Henry Waxman of California entitled, “False and Misleading Health Information Provided by Federally Funded Pregnancy Resource Centers,” stated that during an investigation of 23 CPCs that received federal grants, “20 of the 23 centers (87 percent) provided false or misleading information about the health effects of abortion.”
Pregnancy resource centers received approximately $1 million through the Compassion Capital Fund, created in 2002 as a component of the Bush Administration’s faith-based initiative, according to the report. The report also said that CPCs received more than $24 million in Community-Based Abstinence Education funds between 2001 and 2005, and at least $6 million from abstinence funding provided to states.
Among those who have said they support the resolution the Council will be considering are NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland, Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, the D.C. Abortion Fund (DCAF), Potomac Family Planning, NARAL Pro-Choice America, the National Abortion Federation and the National Institute for Reproductive Health. In addition, the measure is supported by Susan Wood, who is an associate professor of Health Policy and of Environmental and Occupational Health for the George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services and the executive director of the Jacobs Institute of Women's Health, and Terry O’Neill, president of the National Organization for Women.
CONTACT: Pat Brennan 240-777-7829
Sunday, November 8, 2009
MontCo legislation would target anti-abortion centers - Examiner
By: Alan Suderman | Examiner Staff Writer | November 8, 2009
The four pregnancy centers in Montgomery County that don't provide abortion services would be required to tell potential clients that they should go elsewhere for medical advice, under new legislation proposed by Councilwoman Duchy Trachtenberg.
Trachtenberg said the private centers, which promote themselves as a place to help women with unexpected pregnancies, often provide false and misleading medical information about the dangers of abortions or contraceptives in attempts to convince women not to abort their pregnancies.
Her resolution would require the centers to present potential clients with disclaimers in English and Spanish that the information given by the center isn't intended as "medical advice or to establish a doctor patient relationship." It would also require the centers to tell potential clients that they should consult with a health care provider before making decisions about their pregnancies.
"It's pretty much just a consumer protection measure more than anything else," Trachtenberg said. "We're not saying they can't seek clients and they can't counsel them."
She noted that the four centers outnumber the three full-service family planning clinics in Montgomery, which are funded partially with county dollars.
The legislation is sponsored by five other council members and is set to be introduced Tuesday.
But proponents of the centers said the County Council's efforts are misguided and ill-informed, and their clients are well aware of the center's mission.
"The people who are using our services aren't misunderstanding what we do and what we're providing," said Jacqueline Stippich, executive director for Shady Grove Pregnancy Center. She said most of the center's new clients are referred by past clients.
A similar proposal currently being considered by the Baltimore City Council.
Rockville Pregnancy Center Executive Director Gail Tierney said those types of legislations are singling out anti-abortion pregnancy centers to score political points.
"I just kind of find it strange as a medical clinic to make us list things we don't do," Tierney said. "It's like having Home Depot having to post a sign saying: We don't sell dresses."
asuderman@washingtonexaminer.com
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/local/MontCo-legislation-would-target-anti-abortion-centers-8496871-69425737.html
The four pregnancy centers in Montgomery County that don't provide abortion services would be required to tell potential clients that they should go elsewhere for medical advice, under new legislation proposed by Councilwoman Duchy Trachtenberg.
Trachtenberg said the private centers, which promote themselves as a place to help women with unexpected pregnancies, often provide false and misleading medical information about the dangers of abortions or contraceptives in attempts to convince women not to abort their pregnancies.
Her resolution would require the centers to present potential clients with disclaimers in English and Spanish that the information given by the center isn't intended as "medical advice or to establish a doctor patient relationship." It would also require the centers to tell potential clients that they should consult with a health care provider before making decisions about their pregnancies.
"It's pretty much just a consumer protection measure more than anything else," Trachtenberg said. "We're not saying they can't seek clients and they can't counsel them."
She noted that the four centers outnumber the three full-service family planning clinics in Montgomery, which are funded partially with county dollars.
The legislation is sponsored by five other council members and is set to be introduced Tuesday.
But proponents of the centers said the County Council's efforts are misguided and ill-informed, and their clients are well aware of the center's mission.
"The people who are using our services aren't misunderstanding what we do and what we're providing," said Jacqueline Stippich, executive director for Shady Grove Pregnancy Center. She said most of the center's new clients are referred by past clients.
A similar proposal currently being considered by the Baltimore City Council.
Rockville Pregnancy Center Executive Director Gail Tierney said those types of legislations are singling out anti-abortion pregnancy centers to score political points.
"I just kind of find it strange as a medical clinic to make us list things we don't do," Tierney said. "It's like having Home Depot having to post a sign saying: We don't sell dresses."
asuderman@washingtonexaminer.com
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/local/MontCo-legislation-would-target-anti-abortion-centers-8496871-69425737.html
Friday, November 6, 2009
Duchy at the Randolph Civic Association
Last night, I had the opportunity to attend the monthly meeting of the Randolph Civic Assocation at the Viers Mill Recreation Center in North Bethesda. We discussed the proposed White Flint Sector Plan and issues regarding growth, traffic, and schools. It was a pleasure to meet so many active, dedicated, and very well informed members of our Montgomery County community and I look forward to working with them in the future.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Duchy on Cable: H1N1 Flu -- Just the Facts
I had the opportunity to work with Montgomery College's cable television producers to discuss the H1N1 flu that is affecting communities throughout the County and across the country. The program "H1N1 Flu: Just the Facts" is available on the internet through the college’s podcast directory http://podcast.montgomerycollege.edu/podcast.php?rcdid=246 and on the Montgomery College YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpvlXH7WFIY
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Duchy Trachtenberg on Jean Cryor
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jean Cryor, who served Montgomery County so well as a member of our State delegation and, most recently, as a member of the Montgomery County Planning Board. Her dedication to our community was legendary and her service to the County was exceptional. She was our friend and we will miss her very much.
With fondness and respect, I include today's article in the Gazette about Commissioner Cryor.
___________________________________
Planning Board member, former legislator Jean Cryor dies
Potomac woman was former Gazette publisher | by Gazette Staff
Jean B. Cryor, a member of the Montgomery County Planning Board, and former three-term state legislator and newspaper publisher, died Tuesday night.
Her death, at age 70 from cancer, was announced in a statement from County Executive Isiah Leggett.
"Her absence will be deeply felt in many ways and in many communities," Leggett said. "We mourn her loss and extend our deepest condolences to her family, her friends, and her colleagues on the Planning Board."
Cryor, of Potomac, was appointed to the Planning Board in June 2007 after she lost a bid for a fourth term representing District 15 in the House of Delegates in 2006.
On the Planning Board, she was known for her quick wit, sharp questioning and interest in a range of topics.
"Jean brought us insight, compassion, humor, and great good judgment to the decisions we make," Planning Board Chairman Royce Hanson said in a statement Tuesday. "It was characteristic of her dedication to the public weal that she insisted that her funeral could not be held on Thursday. She was one of Montgomery's finest citizens, and an enormous loss to both all of us who knew and loved her, and to the greater community her work touched."
The cause of death was cancer, according to a statement from the Planning Board.
Montgomery County Council President Philip M. Andrews said Cryor had a way of making people feel at ease.
"She was very independent, very clear about what she thought and very warm and engaging," said Andrews, (D-Dist. 3) of Gaithersburg.
He said one of her best traits was her ability to tap into what residents wanted to know.
"I was impressed by her independence, her common sense and her interest in hearing what was on peoples' minds," Andrews said.
Cryor was the lone Republican on the county's delegation to the state legislature when she lost her House seat in 2006 to political newcomer Craig Rice, a Democrat from Germantown, by 152 votes.
Before entering politics, she was a former editor and publisher at The Gazette.
"She was responsible for making our paper strong," said James F. Mannarino, The Gazette's president and publisher, who at the time worked for Cryor as an advertising manager.
"She just made The Gazette a household name back in those days."
Cryor is the only Republican to have been elected president of the Women Legislators of Maryland.
Kathleen M. Dumais (D-Dist. 15) of Rockville shared an office in Annapolis with Cryor from 2002 to 2006. She remembered her as a "terrific mentor" who taught her to "listen to both sides and not compromise your heart and your principles."
Cryor pushed hard for school funding and earned an income tax credit for low-income individuals, said state Sen. Robert J. Garagiola.
"When she took the floor, everyone listened — Republican and Democrat," he said.
Cryor participated by phone in a Planning Board hearing as recently as Oct. 22, said Commissioner Amy Presley, who met Cryor when she was a delegate and Presley an activist in Clarksburg.
"From the first moment I met her, I never viewed her as a politician but as a regular person," Presley said.
Even after Cryor was no longer in the State House, she was looking out for the people she had represented, Presley said.
Cryor was born in Lansdowne, Pa., and raised in suburban Philadelphia, where she had been a reporter for the Philadelphia Bulletin.
She was the widow of Dan Cryor, a broadcast news reporter.
She is survived by her three daughters, Allison Cryor DiNardo of Alexandria, Va. Jennifer Cryor Baldwin of North Potomac, and Deirdre Cryor of Denver, and three grandchildren.
Staff Writers Sebastian Montes, Susan Singer-Bart, Melissa
from the Gazette, November 4, 2009
With fondness and respect, I include today's article in the Gazette about Commissioner Cryor.
___________________________________
Planning Board member, former legislator Jean Cryor dies
Potomac woman was former Gazette publisher | by Gazette Staff
Jean B. Cryor, a member of the Montgomery County Planning Board, and former three-term state legislator and newspaper publisher, died Tuesday night.
Her death, at age 70 from cancer, was announced in a statement from County Executive Isiah Leggett.
"Her absence will be deeply felt in many ways and in many communities," Leggett said. "We mourn her loss and extend our deepest condolences to her family, her friends, and her colleagues on the Planning Board."
Cryor, of Potomac, was appointed to the Planning Board in June 2007 after she lost a bid for a fourth term representing District 15 in the House of Delegates in 2006.
On the Planning Board, she was known for her quick wit, sharp questioning and interest in a range of topics.
"Jean brought us insight, compassion, humor, and great good judgment to the decisions we make," Planning Board Chairman Royce Hanson said in a statement Tuesday. "It was characteristic of her dedication to the public weal that she insisted that her funeral could not be held on Thursday. She was one of Montgomery's finest citizens, and an enormous loss to both all of us who knew and loved her, and to the greater community her work touched."
The cause of death was cancer, according to a statement from the Planning Board.
Montgomery County Council President Philip M. Andrews said Cryor had a way of making people feel at ease.
"She was very independent, very clear about what she thought and very warm and engaging," said Andrews, (D-Dist. 3) of Gaithersburg.
He said one of her best traits was her ability to tap into what residents wanted to know.
"I was impressed by her independence, her common sense and her interest in hearing what was on peoples' minds," Andrews said.
Cryor was the lone Republican on the county's delegation to the state legislature when she lost her House seat in 2006 to political newcomer Craig Rice, a Democrat from Germantown, by 152 votes.
Before entering politics, she was a former editor and publisher at The Gazette.
"She was responsible for making our paper strong," said James F. Mannarino, The Gazette's president and publisher, who at the time worked for Cryor as an advertising manager.
"She just made The Gazette a household name back in those days."
Cryor is the only Republican to have been elected president of the Women Legislators of Maryland.
Kathleen M. Dumais (D-Dist. 15) of Rockville shared an office in Annapolis with Cryor from 2002 to 2006. She remembered her as a "terrific mentor" who taught her to "listen to both sides and not compromise your heart and your principles."
Cryor pushed hard for school funding and earned an income tax credit for low-income individuals, said state Sen. Robert J. Garagiola.
"When she took the floor, everyone listened — Republican and Democrat," he said.
Cryor participated by phone in a Planning Board hearing as recently as Oct. 22, said Commissioner Amy Presley, who met Cryor when she was a delegate and Presley an activist in Clarksburg.
"From the first moment I met her, I never viewed her as a politician but as a regular person," Presley said.
Even after Cryor was no longer in the State House, she was looking out for the people she had represented, Presley said.
Cryor was born in Lansdowne, Pa., and raised in suburban Philadelphia, where she had been a reporter for the Philadelphia Bulletin.
She was the widow of Dan Cryor, a broadcast news reporter.
She is survived by her three daughters, Allison Cryor DiNardo of Alexandria, Va. Jennifer Cryor Baldwin of North Potomac, and Deirdre Cryor of Denver, and three grandchildren.
Staff Writers Sebastian Montes, Susan Singer-Bart, Melissa
from the Gazette, November 4, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
Trachtenberg Supports Bill That Would Provide Equal Benefits to Same Sex Domestic Partners of Employees of County Contractors
I was proud to join Montgomery County District 4 Councilmember Nancy Navarro and other Council colleagues today to announce details of an “equal benefits” bill that Councilmember Navarro will be introducing before the Council that would extend to employees of many contractors and subcontractors performing work for the County the same benefits already granted to County employees. The bill will be officially introduced before the Council on Tuesday, November 3, 2009.
The County has a longstanding policy, in law and practice, against employment discrimination based on sexual orientation. Montgomery County already grants equal benefits to a same sex domestic partner of a County employee that are offered to an employee’s spouse, through Bill 29-99, effective March 3, 2000. Navarro’s bill would simply extend this law to many employees of County contractors and subcontractors.
Councilmember President Phil Andrews, Vice President Roger Berliner and Councilmembers Marc Elrich, Valerie Ervin, Nancy Floreen, George Leventhal and I are co-sponsors of the legislation. The equal benefits bill also has the support of County Executive Isiah Leggett.
The legislation would extend equal benefits to a same-sex domestic partner of a covered employee recognized under a marriage license, domestic partnership or civil union granted out of state or to a same-sex domestic partner as defined under Maryland law. The legislation would only cover employees who perform work for the County on a contract that is currently covered by either the County’s Wage Requirements Law or the recently enacted Prevailing Wage Law.
Benefits that may be extended under the legislation could include bereavement leave, family medical leave, sick leave, health benefits, dental benefits, disability insurance, life insurance and retirement benefits.
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