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."
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
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.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Planning for Diversity in Mental Healthcare Provision
Working toward stronger initiatives for mental illness and better service delivery has been a priority for me as most of you already know—I’ve not been shy about sharing stories about my son Wally who receives care for schizophrenia.
On Thursday June 22, I joined administrators and community leaders in a progressive roundtable discussion exploring the issue of “Mental Health Services in Montgomery County: Strengthening Programs for Diverse Immigrant Communities.” Hosted by (NAMI MC), thirty individuals, including Iris Reeves, Coordinator for Multicultural Issues, MD State Mental Hygiene Administration; Dr. Raymond Crowel, Chief, Montgomery County Adult Behavioral Health Program; Betty Lam, Chief of Community Affairs, Montgomery County Health & Human Services; and Daniel Karoma, African & Caribbean Liaison, Montgomery County Office of Cultural Affairs, were in attendance.
One of the questions central to our discussion was “What are the primary barriers in accessing and delivering mental health services to culturally diverse immigrant communities?” Some of the identified barriers were: language, deep stigma of mental illness in certain cultures, a lack of knowledge in identifying mental illness and/or not knowing where to find resources to gain help. The providers also identified a great need for better and more easily accessed case management as opposed to the thought that greater emphasis being placed on early intervention. The next meeting for the group will be on Thursday, September 23, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
NAMI Montgomery County (NAMI MC) is the Montgomery County, Maryland affiliate of National Alliance on Mental Illness which is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. NAMI MC is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults living with mental illnesses in Montgomery County, MD. For more information visit: http://www.namimc.org/aboutus.asp.
On Thursday June 22, I joined administrators and community leaders in a progressive roundtable discussion exploring the issue of “Mental Health Services in Montgomery County: Strengthening Programs for Diverse Immigrant Communities.” Hosted by (NAMI MC), thirty individuals, including Iris Reeves, Coordinator for Multicultural Issues, MD State Mental Hygiene Administration; Dr. Raymond Crowel, Chief, Montgomery County Adult Behavioral Health Program; Betty Lam, Chief of Community Affairs, Montgomery County Health & Human Services; and Daniel Karoma, African & Caribbean Liaison, Montgomery County Office of Cultural Affairs, were in attendance.
One of the questions central to our discussion was “What are the primary barriers in accessing and delivering mental health services to culturally diverse immigrant communities?” Some of the identified barriers were: language, deep stigma of mental illness in certain cultures, a lack of knowledge in identifying mental illness and/or not knowing where to find resources to gain help. The providers also identified a great need for better and more easily accessed case management as opposed to the thought that greater emphasis being placed on early intervention. The next meeting for the group will be on Thursday, September 23, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
NAMI Montgomery County (NAMI MC) is the Montgomery County, Maryland affiliate of National Alliance on Mental Illness which is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. NAMI MC is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults living with mental illnesses in Montgomery County, MD. For more information visit: http://www.namimc.org/aboutus.asp.
Montgomery County Council to Hold Public Hearing on Purple Line Alignment Options
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 28, 2010—The Montgomery County Council at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 29, will hold a public hearing on options concerning the specific alignment and approximately station locations of the planned Purple Line. The Purple Line would be an east-west connection of the Bethesda and New Carrollton Metrorail stations.
The Council’s day will start at 9 a.m. with interviews of applicants for the Council’s new Organizational Reform Committee in the Sixth Floor Conference Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The Council’s regular general session will begin at 10 a.m. in the Third Floor Hearing Room and will be televised live by County Cable Montgomery (CCM—Cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon). It also will be available via streaming through the County Web site at http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/. It will be rebroadcast on Friday, July 2, at 9 p.m. The interviews with applicants to the reform committee are open to the public, but will not be televised.
The purpose of the Purple Line Functional Plan is to identify the specific alignment and approximate station locations with Montgomery County so that existing and future master plans, and other plans, will have adopted policy guidance in regard to the Purple Line. The Council’s Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment (PHED) Committee is scheduled to hold a worksession on the Purple Line on July 15. The full Council worksession is tentatively scheduled for July 20.
During its morning session, the Council is scheduled to take action on a resolution to approve reserve and selected fiscal policies and on Bill 36-10 that combined would work toward helping the County achieve a structurally balanced budget where only recurring revenue is used to fund recurring expenses. The actions would help lessen the impact of severe economic problems when the County encounters a severe economic downturn such as the one it has experienced over the past several years.
At 1:30 p.m., the Council will hold five public hearings, including one on the recommendations of the County Charter Review Commission. Another public hearing will address a proposed correction to the Damascus zoning map that would rezone 4.6 acres of land north of the intersection of Kings Valley Road and Kingstead Road in conformance with the Damascus Master Plan. The County Planning Board, at its meeting of May 6, voted 4-0 to recommend approval of Corrective Map Amendment G-888.
The Council’s day will start at 9 a.m. with interviews of applicants for the Council’s new Organizational Reform Committee in the Sixth Floor Conference Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The Council’s regular general session will begin at 10 a.m. in the Third Floor Hearing Room and will be televised live by County Cable Montgomery (CCM—Cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon). It also will be available via streaming through the County Web site at http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/. It will be rebroadcast on Friday, July 2, at 9 p.m. The interviews with applicants to the reform committee are open to the public, but will not be televised.
The purpose of the Purple Line Functional Plan is to identify the specific alignment and approximate station locations with Montgomery County so that existing and future master plans, and other plans, will have adopted policy guidance in regard to the Purple Line. The Council’s Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment (PHED) Committee is scheduled to hold a worksession on the Purple Line on July 15. The full Council worksession is tentatively scheduled for July 20.
During its morning session, the Council is scheduled to take action on a resolution to approve reserve and selected fiscal policies and on Bill 36-10 that combined would work toward helping the County achieve a structurally balanced budget where only recurring revenue is used to fund recurring expenses. The actions would help lessen the impact of severe economic problems when the County encounters a severe economic downturn such as the one it has experienced over the past several years.
At 1:30 p.m., the Council will hold five public hearings, including one on the recommendations of the County Charter Review Commission. Another public hearing will address a proposed correction to the Damascus zoning map that would rezone 4.6 acres of land north of the intersection of Kings Valley Road and Kingstead Road in conformance with the Damascus Master Plan. The County Planning Board, at its meeting of May 6, voted 4-0 to recommend approval of Corrective Map Amendment G-888.
International Day Celebration at the First Baptist Church of Silver Spring
I was very pleased to have been invited to attend the First Baptist Church of Silver Spring’s International Day Celebration on Sunday, June 27, 2010 in Silver Spring. Along with our County Executive and the County Council President, I enjoyed the fellowship, the thoughtful sermon, the wonderful singing and the amazing celebration of the music, food and countries represented by this diverse congregation in the program that followed the service. I was once again reminded of the amazing diversity we have here in Montgomery County!
Indian Spring Celebrates America’s Independence
The Trachtenberg Office was proud to be represented at the Independence Day Parade and Celebration. The Indian Spring Citizens Association serves over 800 homes, just inside the beltway in Silver Spring, east of Colesvile Road (Route 29). In 2005, the community was listed in the Washingtonian as one of the “Best Places to Live.” According to the magazine, "This is the kind of inner-Beltway suburb that downtown Silver Spring was revitalized for. The professionals living here may have families, but they’re not so suburbanized that they don’t enjoy the art films, live music, and trendy food that are trademarks of the new Silver Spring."
Supporting Safe & Drug Free Schools
This morning, I was thrilled to receive a certificate from the staff of the Montgomery County Public Schools Safe and Drug Free Schools Program recognizing our joint work in the prevention of alcohol and other drug use and violence.
I welcomed my friends Rita Rumbaugh, Meg Baker, Barbara Pearlman, Mei Yin, and Emily Sudbrink and her son Chris to the Council Office Building in Rockville to bring attention to this very important issue.
The Certificate reads: “This is to sincerely thank Duchy Trachtenberg, County Councilmember, for your continuing commitment, dedication and support for our students and our schools, through our partnerships for the prevention of alcohol and other drug use and violence.” Signed by Jerry D. Weast, Superintendent of Schools and Rita B. Rumbaugh, MCPS Safe and Drug Free Schools Specialist.
I was honored to receive this recognition and will continue my advocacy in support of Montgomery County’s children, students, and safe and drug-free schools.
I welcomed my friends Rita Rumbaugh, Meg Baker, Barbara Pearlman, Mei Yin, and Emily Sudbrink and her son Chris to the Council Office Building in Rockville to bring attention to this very important issue.
I was honored to receive this recognition and will continue my advocacy in support of Montgomery County’s children, students, and safe and drug-free schools.
Heritage Days Celebration Part 1
The Trachtenberg staff visited some of the many Heritage Montgomery locations and events that were featured this past weekend (June 26-27) throughout Montgomery County.
Each year, on this last weekend of June, Heritage Montgomery hosts its signature event – the annual Heritage Days Celebration. This two-day, free-of-charge, county-wide event festival offers visitors an opportunity to sample over 40 sites representing the history, culture, and natural beauty of Montgomery County. In addition to the participation of larger, well-supported sites such as Glen Echo Park and the Sandy Spring Museum, Heritage Days offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy many small sites that are not regularly open to the public.
Naomi and her husband visited historic Clarksburg and the Button Farm with a restful stop at Black Hill Park in between.
In Clarksburg they enjoyed live music, good food and friendly people all while touring the featured sites via the free trolley! The highlights of their visit were stops at the 100 year old Clarksburg Elementary School and the Clarksburg United Methodist Church. At each stop their passport-style booklet was stamped and at the end of the visit, having collected all the stamps they collected a small gift which was a great way to end their wonderful visit to historic Clarksburg!
For more information about The Clarksburg Historical Society: P.O. Box 496. Clarksburg, MD 20871. Phone: 301-428-0190 email: JoannClarksburg@aol.com.
At the Button Farm Naomi and her husband walked through the heirloom vegetable garden and visited with Tony Cohen, director of the Menare Foundation and chatted with him about this living history farm. For more information about the Button Farm and the Menare Foundation: http://www.menare.org/buttonfarm.html and/or http://www.menare.org/menare.html.
HHS-PS Committee Work Session Summary—Thursday June 24th
Members of the Public Safety (PS) and Health and Human Services (HHS) Committees received a briefing on the County’s current efforts to coordinate gang suppression and intervention activities across County departments, local municipalities, and neighboring jurisdictions including Prince George’s County.
BACKGROUND:
On May 26, 2010, Education Committee Chair Ervin requested that the Public Safety Committee discuss the coordination of gang suppression, prevention, and intervention activities due to recent alleged gang activity in the Silver Spring/Takoma Park area. The scope of the presentation was narrowed to focus on the coordination of suppression and intervention efforts for youth who are or have been gang-involved.
PRESENTATION/DISCUSSION SUMMARY:
A. Assistant Police Chief Wayne Jerman shared several gang crime statistics, including that during the 1st Quarter of 2010, there were 54 criminal incidents reported which were classified as gang-related incidents. These included crimes committed by an individual who is a gang member or associate, and crimes committed to benefit the gang, gang status, or for financial gain in furtherance of the gang. For the most recent reporting period, the 3rd District had the most reported gang incidents with 20, followed by the 6th District with 13.
B. Presently, Montgomery County receives funding from five primary gang grants, and all are used for three aspects of gang prevention, suppression, and intervention.
C. There is a pending Congressional Earmark for a Bi-County Gang Task Force with Prince George’s County. The grant would fund a MCPD Sergeant and two gang investigators, a Takoma Park Police gang investigator, a SAO Gang Prosecutor, and Correctional Gang Intelligence Officer, Gang Analyst, and Data Entry positions. The grant award is $2.7 million to be split evenly between Montgomery County and Prince George's County. If awarded, Montgomery County will share the funds between Law Enforcement/Suppression and HHS/Intervention.
D. There was a positive highlight on the integration of Regional Informational Databases and other technology, the chief of which was GangNet. The GangNet database allows gang-related information to be correlated, analyzed, and acted upon. The information can also confirm gang membership, size of the gang, regional movement/recruitment by gangs, types of crimes different gangs commit, gang territory, locations where gang members are stopped, vehicles used by the gang members, and can assist the State's Attorney’s Office at sentencing.
E. Councilmember Trachtenberg enquired whether any efforts were being extended in determining whether young people who became involved in gangs had a correlative history of family violence, substance abuse, or poverty in their homes. She expressed her support for the continued collaboration between public safety and health and human services organizations in formulating solutions that identify and intervene in the lives of young people. Kate Garvey (Health and Human Services), in responding, expressed that there has been some progress but she hoped that the future would bring a single service system.
F. Captain Dave Gillespie (Dept. of Police) felt that most intervention is based on age appropriate techniques that came from best practices. Warden Green told the Councilmembers that gang violence had its own dimensions within the correctional system; and when left to itself, it grows like poison—prevention/suppression/intervention funding and re-entry action are all necessary for the present and future well-being of Montgomery County.
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial) or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov with your questions regarding this HHS-PS Committee session.
BACKGROUND:
On May 26, 2010, Education Committee Chair Ervin requested that the Public Safety Committee discuss the coordination of gang suppression, prevention, and intervention activities due to recent alleged gang activity in the Silver Spring/Takoma Park area. The scope of the presentation was narrowed to focus on the coordination of suppression and intervention efforts for youth who are or have been gang-involved.
PRESENTATION/DISCUSSION SUMMARY:
A. Assistant Police Chief Wayne Jerman shared several gang crime statistics, including that during the 1st Quarter of 2010, there were 54 criminal incidents reported which were classified as gang-related incidents. These included crimes committed by an individual who is a gang member or associate, and crimes committed to benefit the gang, gang status, or for financial gain in furtherance of the gang. For the most recent reporting period, the 3rd District had the most reported gang incidents with 20, followed by the 6th District with 13.
B. Presently, Montgomery County receives funding from five primary gang grants, and all are used for three aspects of gang prevention, suppression, and intervention.
C. There is a pending Congressional Earmark for a Bi-County Gang Task Force with Prince George’s County. The grant would fund a MCPD Sergeant and two gang investigators, a Takoma Park Police gang investigator, a SAO Gang Prosecutor, and Correctional Gang Intelligence Officer, Gang Analyst, and Data Entry positions. The grant award is $2.7 million to be split evenly between Montgomery County and Prince George's County. If awarded, Montgomery County will share the funds between Law Enforcement/Suppression and HHS/Intervention.
D. There was a positive highlight on the integration of Regional Informational Databases and other technology, the chief of which was GangNet. The GangNet database allows gang-related information to be correlated, analyzed, and acted upon. The information can also confirm gang membership, size of the gang, regional movement/recruitment by gangs, types of crimes different gangs commit, gang territory, locations where gang members are stopped, vehicles used by the gang members, and can assist the State's Attorney’s Office at sentencing.
E. Councilmember Trachtenberg enquired whether any efforts were being extended in determining whether young people who became involved in gangs had a correlative history of family violence, substance abuse, or poverty in their homes. She expressed her support for the continued collaboration between public safety and health and human services organizations in formulating solutions that identify and intervene in the lives of young people. Kate Garvey (Health and Human Services), in responding, expressed that there has been some progress but she hoped that the future would bring a single service system.
F. Captain Dave Gillespie (Dept. of Police) felt that most intervention is based on age appropriate techniques that came from best practices. Warden Green told the Councilmembers that gang violence had its own dimensions within the correctional system; and when left to itself, it grows like poison—prevention/suppression/intervention funding and re-entry action are all necessary for the present and future well-being of Montgomery County.
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial) or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov with your questions regarding this HHS-PS Committee session.
Montgomery County Planners to Host Community Open House for New East County Science Center Master Plan
Montgomery County Planning Board Press Release:
SILVER SPRING, MD – Planners, starting work on a new master plan for the East County this fall, are going into the community on Wednesday to solicit ideas and comments for what the plan might encompass.
The plan, called the East County Science Center Master Plan, will encompass the White Oak area east of New Hampshire Avenue and Colesville Road, including the Cherry Hill Road area and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) site. At the June 30 open house, planners want to hear from residents, workers, landowners and anyone interested in the future of eastern Montgomery County as they begin to develop a scope of work for the project.
The plan will create a new vision for the area that features a mixed-use life sciences center building upon the presence of the FDA campus in White Oak. It will address the land use, urban design and transit access issues related to the future growth of the Cherry Hill area. That includes the FDA, the proposed Washington Adventist Hospital, County’s Site 2 (formerly a Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission site) and the Percontee property.
At the open house, planners will discuss the upcoming project and solicit input from the community on issues that should be addressed. Residents are asked to drop in anytime between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. to learn about the purpose of the plan, the approximate boundaries of the planning area and proposed study area, demographic research, and the basics of master planning.
Learn more at www.montgomeryplanning.org/community/ecsc
After the open house, planners will develop a scope of work that they will present to the Planning Board this fall.
Who:
Montgomery County Planning Department
What:
East County Science Center Master Plan Open House
When:
4:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 30 (drop in anytime)
Where:
Eastern Montgomery Regional Services Center
3300 Briggs Chaney Road
Silver Spring, Maryland 2090
For more information, contact:
Valerie Berton
Communications Manager
Montgomery County Planning Board
301/495-4600
SILVER SPRING, MD – Planners, starting work on a new master plan for the East County this fall, are going into the community on Wednesday to solicit ideas and comments for what the plan might encompass.
The plan, called the East County Science Center Master Plan, will encompass the White Oak area east of New Hampshire Avenue and Colesville Road, including the Cherry Hill Road area and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) site. At the June 30 open house, planners want to hear from residents, workers, landowners and anyone interested in the future of eastern Montgomery County as they begin to develop a scope of work for the project.
The plan will create a new vision for the area that features a mixed-use life sciences center building upon the presence of the FDA campus in White Oak. It will address the land use, urban design and transit access issues related to the future growth of the Cherry Hill area. That includes the FDA, the proposed Washington Adventist Hospital, County’s Site 2 (formerly a Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission site) and the Percontee property.
At the open house, planners will discuss the upcoming project and solicit input from the community on issues that should be addressed. Residents are asked to drop in anytime between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. to learn about the purpose of the plan, the approximate boundaries of the planning area and proposed study area, demographic research, and the basics of master planning.
Learn more at www.montgomeryplanning.org/community/ecsc
After the open house, planners will develop a scope of work that they will present to the Planning Board this fall.
Who:
Montgomery County Planning Department
What:
East County Science Center Master Plan Open House
When:
4:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 30 (drop in anytime)
Where:
Eastern Montgomery Regional Services Center
3300 Briggs Chaney Road
Silver Spring, Maryland 2090
For more information, contact:
Valerie Berton
Communications Manager
Montgomery County Planning Board
301/495-4600
HHS-PHED Committee Work Session Summary—Tuesday June 22nd
The Health and Human Services (HHS) and Planning, Housing & Economic Development (PHED) Committee met on Tuesday, June 22 regarding the Review of the Use of the Silver Spring Civic Building by the Round House Theatre.
BACKGROUND:
Both committees received a presentation from the Executive staff, Round House Theatre representatives and comments from the Chair of the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board regarding the Round House Theatre’s use of the new Silver Spring Civic Building and additional space in Silver Spring.
A few weeks prior to the work session, the Council received a letter from the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board (SSCAB) expressing concern about two issues related to the opening of the new Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza. They felt that if Round House was going to receive the use of additional space at the Civic Building (which other groups might be able to use if Round House were not there) the County’s Lease Agreement with Round House should require that Round House contribute to the community. Additionally, the SSCAB reviewed the proposed fees for other spaces in the Civic Building and was concerned that the fees were too high for most community groups.
Several Broader issues that were discussed included the extent to which the County assisted non-profit organizations; and there was contemplation on the following:
A. The Executive Office, represented by Diane Schwartz –Jones, said they would maintain the agreement established with RHT, and that there would be evaluations on what would be fair modifications in light of changing fiscal climate and the fees paid by other nonprofits of equal maturity to RHT.
B. The SSAB recommended that stakeholder discussions be held on policy implications for the use of community space and to have a conversation that establishes clearer criteria for the accommodation of diverse arts and nonprofit community groups.
C. Most Councilmembers were in agreement that a re-evaluation of expectations was in order of what the County can feasibly continue to support, as it pertains to subsidizing leases and utility bills of nonprofits.
D. The Council asked Ms. Schwartz-Jones to provide a follow-up report on the final deal struck with RHT on their lease agreement at the new Civic Building.
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial) or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov with your questions regarding this HHS-PHED Committee session.
BACKGROUND:
Both committees received a presentation from the Executive staff, Round House Theatre representatives and comments from the Chair of the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board regarding the Round House Theatre’s use of the new Silver Spring Civic Building and additional space in Silver Spring.
A few weeks prior to the work session, the Council received a letter from the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board (SSCAB) expressing concern about two issues related to the opening of the new Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza. They felt that if Round House was going to receive the use of additional space at the Civic Building (which other groups might be able to use if Round House were not there) the County’s Lease Agreement with Round House should require that Round House contribute to the community. Additionally, the SSCAB reviewed the proposed fees for other spaces in the Civic Building and was concerned that the fees were too high for most community groups.
Several Broader issues that were discussed included the extent to which the County assisted non-profit organizations; and there was contemplation on the following:
- The Round House Theatre is one of several arts and humanities organizations that receive substantial assistance because it is located in space owned by the County. Moreover, many organizations do not have the advantage of being in County space and must obtain and pay for space on their own.
- Some non-profit organizations that provide other types of services are housed in County space and others are not.
- Round House Theatre has been charging other nonprofits to rent the space that was leased to them by the County (for free at two Silver Spring locations, and for a $1 annually at a Bethesda location) and keeping the proceeds as revenue.
- Silver Spring has several very active non-profits which either have no space or inadequate space, while Round House is about to get more space.
A. The Executive Office, represented by Diane Schwartz –Jones, said they would maintain the agreement established with RHT, and that there would be evaluations on what would be fair modifications in light of changing fiscal climate and the fees paid by other nonprofits of equal maturity to RHT.
B. The SSAB recommended that stakeholder discussions be held on policy implications for the use of community space and to have a conversation that establishes clearer criteria for the accommodation of diverse arts and nonprofit community groups.
C. Most Councilmembers were in agreement that a re-evaluation of expectations was in order of what the County can feasibly continue to support, as it pertains to subsidizing leases and utility bills of nonprofits.
D. The Council asked Ms. Schwartz-Jones to provide a follow-up report on the final deal struck with RHT on their lease agreement at the new Civic Building.
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial) or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov with your questions regarding this HHS-PHED Committee session.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Heritage Days in Montgomery County
Each year, on the last weekend of June, Heritage Montgomery hosts its signature event – the annual Heritage Days Celebration. This two-day, free-of-charge, county-wide event festival offers visitors an opportunity to sample over 40 sites representing the history, culture, and natural beauty of Montgomery County. In addition to the participation of larger, well-supported sites such as Glen Echo Park and the Sandy Spring Museum
Celebrate Montgomery County
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.
County Offers Tips on Surviving the Heat
With summer heat in full swing, Montgomery County health officials are encouraging residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Most at risk are young children, the elderly, and people with health problems such as asthma, who are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and exhaustion.
By taking the following precautions, residents can remain safe and comfortable during the hot days of summer:
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration, cramps, exhaustion or heat stroke can result from not drinking enough fluids. Water is the safest liquid to drink. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.
Never leave pets or young children in a car, even with the windows cracked. Check frequently on elderly relatives or neighbors and other at-risk individuals. Watch for signs of heat-related illness such as hot, dry skin; confusion; hallucinations; and aggression.
Knowing the symptoms of heat exposure can prevent serious heat illness from becoming life threatening. Should any of the following occur, get out of the heat, loosen any tight or heavy clothing, and drink plenty of water:
Most at risk are young children, the elderly, and people with health problems such as asthma, who are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and exhaustion.
By taking the following precautions, residents can remain safe and comfortable during the hot days of summer:
- Stay indoors, whenever possible.
- Be careful to avoid strenuous activities that can result in overexposure to the sun, such as sports and gardening. If you must do a strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning before 9 a.m.
- Visit nearby air-conditioned buildings in your community if your home is not air-conditioned. These may include senior centers, movies theaters, libraries and shopping malls.
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration, cramps, exhaustion or heat stroke can result from not drinking enough fluids. Water is the safest liquid to drink. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.
Never leave pets or young children in a car, even with the windows cracked. Check frequently on elderly relatives or neighbors and other at-risk individuals. Watch for signs of heat-related illness such as hot, dry skin; confusion; hallucinations; and aggression.
Knowing the symptoms of heat exposure can prevent serious heat illness from becoming life threatening. Should any of the following occur, get out of the heat, loosen any tight or heavy clothing, and drink plenty of water:
- Heat cramps: symptoms include painful muscle spasms, usually involving the abdominal muscles or legs;
- Heat exhaustion: first signs are cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, dizziness, nausea, headache and weakness;
- Heat stroke: the most serious sign of overexposure. Symptoms include red, hot, dry skin, weak pulse, rapid breathing, and changes in consciousness. Seek emergency medical attention by calling 911.
County Tenants Work Group Presents Findings to County Council
The Montgomery County Tenants Work Group (TWG) presented their report to the Council on Tuesday, June 22nd. I personally found the information to be rich and revelatory on the concerns of renters, who represent approximately 25.7% of our county’s population. To that extent I expressed my great concern and hope that future reports from the TWG, or others, will shed light on the demographics of both seniors as well as mentally and physically disabled individuals who may also face serious challenges in accessing and maintaining affordable rental housing. There were several discussions that alluded to the likelihood of a future bill in the State legislature on the issue of Just Cause Eviction. Below you’ll find highlights of the report.
Should you need additional information on the rights of renters, or are seeking resources and solutions as a landlord or tenant, visit the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs page. To view information on Landlord Tenant Law in Maryland, click here.
The TWG was convened by the County Executive in October 2008 and agreed to the following mission:
a. Accurately identify and quantify common and substantive problems confronting renters;
b. Research best practices and successful tenant advocacy models in the region and in the U.S.;
c. Catalogue resources already available to renters across the nation;
d. Review existing local and state codes with the intent of enhancing their effectiveness for protecting renters;
e. Seek public input from a broad range of renters and other interested parties; and,
f. Identify potential solutions to challenges and problems
Following is a summary of highlights from the TWG’s Report Recommendations:
I. From 2008 to 2009, “Holdover Rent” increased by 4.1 % countywide from $1,192 per month to $1,241. Holdover Rent is the rent paid by the current tenant upon lease renewal. The highest increase was in Rockville (5.4%) and lowest (3%) in Olney and Darnestown-Potomac. The county voluntary rent guideline for 2009 was 4.4%.
II. Over 66% of those surveyed paid a monthly rent of $1,500 or less with almost 70% paying an additional amount for utilities (mostly electric or electric and water).
III. For those tenants who had experienced a rent increase one or more times in the last five years, a majority (51.7%) had their rent increased 4% to 7% annually.
IV. Most tenants are “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with their unit, building, and landlord. Most “agree” or “strongly agree” that their property manager is responsive to questions and concerns.
V. Most survey participants had not received a Landlord-Tenant Handbook and most were not aware of the Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs (62%) or the Commission on Landlord Tenant Affairs (71 %). Of those who had interacted with the Office, a majority (56%) was not satisfied with the process.
VI. Rent, long-term affordability, and safety were the three most important issues to those surveyed.
VII. 13% of those surveyed felt that they had experienced discrimination by a previous, current, or potential landlord in Montgomery County. Of those, 65% of those identified race, color, or national origin as the reason.
As a result of this research, the TWG identified several significant challenges confronting renters in Montgomery County. They include:
a. Concern over high rent increases;
b. A feeling of insecurity -not knowing if their rental agreements are permanent or affordable;
c. Fear of retaliation among some tenants for raising concerns or organizing other tenants; and
d. Confusion over where to seek help and how to proceed with complaints and building issues.
A full copy of the group’s report and findings can be found here.
Should you need additional information on the rights of renters, or are seeking resources and solutions as a landlord or tenant, visit the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs page. To view information on Landlord Tenant Law in Maryland, click here.
The TWG was convened by the County Executive in October 2008 and agreed to the following mission:
a. Accurately identify and quantify common and substantive problems confronting renters;
b. Research best practices and successful tenant advocacy models in the region and in the U.S.;
c. Catalogue resources already available to renters across the nation;
d. Review existing local and state codes with the intent of enhancing their effectiveness for protecting renters;
e. Seek public input from a broad range of renters and other interested parties; and,
f. Identify potential solutions to challenges and problems
Following is a summary of highlights from the TWG’s Report Recommendations:
I. From 2008 to 2009, “Holdover Rent” increased by 4.1 % countywide from $1,192 per month to $1,241. Holdover Rent is the rent paid by the current tenant upon lease renewal. The highest increase was in Rockville (5.4%) and lowest (3%) in Olney and Darnestown-Potomac. The county voluntary rent guideline for 2009 was 4.4%.
II. Over 66% of those surveyed paid a monthly rent of $1,500 or less with almost 70% paying an additional amount for utilities (mostly electric or electric and water).
III. For those tenants who had experienced a rent increase one or more times in the last five years, a majority (51.7%) had their rent increased 4% to 7% annually.
IV. Most tenants are “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with their unit, building, and landlord. Most “agree” or “strongly agree” that their property manager is responsive to questions and concerns.
V. Most survey participants had not received a Landlord-Tenant Handbook and most were not aware of the Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs (62%) or the Commission on Landlord Tenant Affairs (71 %). Of those who had interacted with the Office, a majority (56%) was not satisfied with the process.
VI. Rent, long-term affordability, and safety were the three most important issues to those surveyed.
VII. 13% of those surveyed felt that they had experienced discrimination by a previous, current, or potential landlord in Montgomery County. Of those, 65% of those identified race, color, or national origin as the reason.
As a result of this research, the TWG identified several significant challenges confronting renters in Montgomery County. They include:
a. Concern over high rent increases;
b. A feeling of insecurity -not knowing if their rental agreements are permanent or affordable;
c. Fear of retaliation among some tenants for raising concerns or organizing other tenants; and
d. Confusion over where to seek help and how to proceed with complaints and building issues.
A full copy of the group’s report and findings can be found here.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Joint HHS/PS Committee Work Session— Thursday June 24, 2010
A joint work session of the Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee and Public Safety Committee (PS) will be held on Thursday, June 24 at 2:00PM in the 7th Floor Council Hearing Room to discuss the following item:
The following individuals are expected to attend:
The following individuals are expected to attend:
- Assistant Chief Wayne Jerman, Department of Police
- Captain Dave Gillespie, Department of Police
- Deputy Chief Jeffrey Wennar, State’s Attorney’s Office Gang Unit
- Uma Ahluwalia, Director, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
- Kate Garvey, Chief, Children, Youth and Families, DHHS
- Edward Newsome, Director of School Performance, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS)
- Robert Hellmuth, Director, Department of School Safety and Security, MCPS
Proclamation in Recognition of Heritage Days in Montgomery County
On June 22, I had the great pleasure in presenting a proclamation to the Heritage Tourism Alliance of Montgomery County in recognition of Heritage Days. I was joined by my friend and colleague, Councilmember Marc Elrich.
Below is the text of the proclamation.
WHEREAS, the Heritage Tourism Alliance of Montgomery County is an initiative created by county leaders and state officials to preserve and share more than 300 years of Montgomery County’s history with residents and visitors, ensuring that all understand and value the county’s complete past; and
WHEREAS, Heritage Montgomery’s signature program, Heritage Days, with its three thematic clusters, the Farming Cluster, the Quaker Cluster, and the Innovative Technology, is held annually on the last weekend of June; and
WHEREAS, Heritage Montgomery was recently awarded the 2010 Maryland Preservation Award by the Maryland Historical Trust in the category of Preservation Services for its Heritage Days; and
WHEREAS, Heritage Montgomery will be celebrating the Annual Heritage Days Festival on June 26-27, 2010; and will feature forty-five historic sites, including “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” and will showcase several events, such as a free concert by the Washington Revels at the King Dairy MOOseum, and a concert at the historic St. Paul’s Community Church in Poolesville,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the County Council of Montgomery County, Maryland, hereby proclaims June 26-27, 2010 as
HERITAGE DAYS IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY
AND, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Montgomery County Council takes this opportunity to recognize and thank Heritage Montgomery for its many years of outstanding service to the residents of the county, and in sponsoring Heritage Days.
Below is the text of the proclamation.
WHEREAS, the Heritage Tourism Alliance of Montgomery County is an initiative created by county leaders and state officials to preserve and share more than 300 years of Montgomery County’s history with residents and visitors, ensuring that all understand and value the county’s complete past; and
WHEREAS, Heritage Montgomery’s signature program, Heritage Days, with its three thematic clusters, the Farming Cluster, the Quaker Cluster, and the Innovative Technology, is held annually on the last weekend of June; and
WHEREAS, Heritage Montgomery was recently awarded the 2010 Maryland Preservation Award by the Maryland Historical Trust in the category of Preservation Services for its Heritage Days; and
WHEREAS, Heritage Montgomery will be celebrating the Annual Heritage Days Festival on June 26-27, 2010; and will feature forty-five historic sites, including “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” and will showcase several events, such as a free concert by the Washington Revels at the King Dairy MOOseum, and a concert at the historic St. Paul’s Community Church in Poolesville,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the County Council of Montgomery County, Maryland, hereby proclaims June 26-27, 2010 as
HERITAGE DAYS IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY
AND, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Montgomery County Council takes this opportunity to recognize and thank Heritage Montgomery for its many years of outstanding service to the residents of the county, and in sponsoring Heritage Days.
MFP Committee Meeting on June 24th
The Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, Chaired by Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, will meet on Thursday, June 24th at 9:30 am. The meeting will be held in the 3rd Floor Conference Room of the County Council Office Building located at 100 Maryland Avenue in Rockville. The MFP Committee will discuss the following agenda items:
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 (continued)
- Bill 36-10, Revenue Stabilization Fund-Amendments (continued)
- Tax Supported Fiscal Plan Summery for FY11-16 Public Services Program
- Office of Legislative Oversight’s FY11 Work Program
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.
Councilmember Trachtenberg Speaks to the Western Montgomery Citizens Advisory Board
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, as Chair of the Management and Fiscal Policy Committee (MFP) spoke before the Western Montgomery Citizens Advisory Board on Monday, June 21 and briefed the Board and the residents present about the next steps regarding the ongoing economic challenges facing Montgomery County now that the budget for FY11 has been voted on.
She talked about the critical need to restructure the way the county operates because “business as usual” is no longer an option. Councilmember Trachtenberg explained, for one example that 80% of the county’s economic responsibilities are for county staff and the overly generous benefits and retirement obligations to county employees.
She added that this critical work of restructuring county government will be ongoing in the months and years ahead and that it is critical that the County Council receive input from the residents of the county as all the various options are considered.
District 1 Councilmember Roger Berliner also spoke at the meeting and talked about specific issues facing the Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Potomac areas of the county. He updated everyone on BRAC and the White Flint Sector Plan and also commented on the seriousness of the budget work ahead for the County Council.
Everyone joined together to honor Bill Bronrott as he was presented with a certificate of appreciation for his long years of service to the community. Mr. Bronrott recently resigned as Delegate to accept a position in the Obama Administration.
The Western Montgomery Citizens Advisory Group (WMCAB) meets monthly and their meetings are open to the public. For more information and a schedule of their meetings, click here.
She added that this critical work of restructuring county government will be ongoing in the months and years ahead and that it is critical that the County Council receive input from the residents of the county as all the various options are considered.
District 1 Councilmember Roger Berliner also spoke at the meeting and talked about specific issues facing the Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Potomac areas of the county. He updated everyone on BRAC and the White Flint Sector Plan and also commented on the seriousness of the budget work ahead for the County Council.
Everyone joined together to honor Bill Bronrott as he was presented with a certificate of appreciation for his long years of service to the community. Mr. Bronrott recently resigned as Delegate to accept a position in the Obama Administration.
The Western Montgomery Citizens Advisory Group (WMCAB) meets monthly and their meetings are open to the public. For more information and a schedule of their meetings, click here.
Montgomery Council Seeks Applicants for One Position on County Board of Appeals
Deadline to Submit Applications is Wednesday, Sept. 1
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 23, 2010—The Montgomery County Council is seeking applicants for an expiring term on the County Board of Appeals. The term of Catherine Titus (Republican) expires in September 2010. Ms. Titus had indicted that she will apply for reappointment. She currently serves as chair of the board.
Applications for the position must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 1.
By law, no more than three members of the board shall be from the same political party. This position can be filled by a Republican or a voter who declines to affiliate with a party.
Current members of the board, including Chair Titus, are Walter S. Booth (Democrat), Stan Boyd (Democrat), David K. Perdue (declined to affiliate) and Carolyn Shawaker (Democrat). Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time.
For more info, click here.
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 23, 2010—The Montgomery County Council is seeking applicants for an expiring term on the County Board of Appeals. The term of Catherine Titus (Republican) expires in September 2010. Ms. Titus had indicted that she will apply for reappointment. She currently serves as chair of the board.
Applications for the position must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 1.
By law, no more than three members of the board shall be from the same political party. This position can be filled by a Republican or a voter who declines to affiliate with a party.
Current members of the board, including Chair Titus, are Walter S. Booth (Democrat), Stan Boyd (Democrat), David K. Perdue (declined to affiliate) and Carolyn Shawaker (Democrat). Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time.
For more info, click here.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Bethesda Big Train Baseball Game
I so enjoyed being at the Bethesda Big Train game on Saturday night at the Shirley Povich Field, in Cabin John Regional Park!
Joint HHS/PHED Committee Work Session— Tuesday June 22, 2010
A joint work session of the Planning, Housing, and Economic Development (PHED) Committee and Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee will be held on Tuesday, June 22 at 2:30PM in the 7th Floor Council Hearing Room to discuss the following item:
• Review – Use of the Silver Spring Civic Building by the Round House Theatre
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial), or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov, with your questions or concerns regarding this joint PHED-HHS Committee session.
• Review – Use of the Silver Spring Civic Building by the Round House Theatre
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial), or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov, with your questions or concerns regarding this joint PHED-HHS Committee session.
HHS Committee Work Session Summary—Monday June 21st
The Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee [Council members: Trachtenberg, Leventhal, and Navarro] met today to discuss the Executive Regulation 7-10, Eating and Drinking Establishments Nutritional Labeling.
BACKGROUND:
On June 15, the Council received proposed Executive Regulation 7-10, Eating and Drinking Establishments Nutritional Labeling. ER 7-10 would implement Council Resolution 16-1194 and Bill 19-07, codified at §15-15A, Eating and Drinking Establishments—Nutrition Labeling, which the Council adopted on November 17, 2009. Resolution 16-1194 and Bill 19-07 require that calories and other nutritional information be provided at restaurant chains with 20 or more locations nationwide.
REGULATION SUMMARY:
The(se) regulations provide guidance for compliance with and enforcement of Council Bill 19-07 and Board of Health Resolution 16-1194, Board of Health Regulation Requiring Certain Eating and Drinking Establishments to Post Certain Nutrition Information on Menu Boards and Menus. Certain eating and drinking establishments must post the calories of each standardized menu item on the menu or menu board and provide written nutrition information to a consumer upon request. The nutrition information must be posted clearly and conspicuously such that an average consumer may read the information at the ordering counter or from a menu or food tag. This regulation applies only to chain eating and drinking establishments with 20 or more locations in the United States and does not apply to grocery stores, convenience stores or movie theatres.
Following is a summary of the work session:
A. Compliance to Bil1 19-07 will be required by July 1, 2010
According to the County Attorney’s Office, the underlying County Resolution and the Executive Regulation are consistent with and not preempted by the new federal law. Possible amendments to the Executive Regulation may be advisable once pending federal regulations are adopted.
B. Enforcement of the Nutrition Labeling Requirement will not take effect until January 1, 2011
Enforcement of the Executive Regulation—where a $500/day penalty will be issued for violations—will not take effect until January 1, 2011.
The HHS Committee believes that nutritional labeling will provide substantial benefit to the residents of Montgomery County and aid each resident in making informed, healthy choices when dining in our many food and drink establishments.
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial) or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov with your questions regarding this HHS Committee session.
BACKGROUND:
On June 15, the Council received proposed Executive Regulation 7-10, Eating and Drinking Establishments Nutritional Labeling. ER 7-10 would implement Council Resolution 16-1194 and Bill 19-07, codified at §15-15A, Eating and Drinking Establishments—Nutrition Labeling, which the Council adopted on November 17, 2009. Resolution 16-1194 and Bill 19-07 require that calories and other nutritional information be provided at restaurant chains with 20 or more locations nationwide.
REGULATION SUMMARY:
The(se) regulations provide guidance for compliance with and enforcement of Council Bill 19-07 and Board of Health Resolution 16-1194, Board of Health Regulation Requiring Certain Eating and Drinking Establishments to Post Certain Nutrition Information on Menu Boards and Menus. Certain eating and drinking establishments must post the calories of each standardized menu item on the menu or menu board and provide written nutrition information to a consumer upon request. The nutrition information must be posted clearly and conspicuously such that an average consumer may read the information at the ordering counter or from a menu or food tag. This regulation applies only to chain eating and drinking establishments with 20 or more locations in the United States and does not apply to grocery stores, convenience stores or movie theatres.
Following is a summary of the work session:
A. Compliance to Bil1 19-07 will be required by July 1, 2010
According to the County Attorney’s Office, the underlying County Resolution and the Executive Regulation are consistent with and not preempted by the new federal law. Possible amendments to the Executive Regulation may be advisable once pending federal regulations are adopted.
B. Enforcement of the Nutrition Labeling Requirement will not take effect until January 1, 2011
Enforcement of the Executive Regulation—where a $500/day penalty will be issued for violations—will not take effect until January 1, 2011.
The HHS Committee believes that nutritional labeling will provide substantial benefit to the residents of Montgomery County and aid each resident in making informed, healthy choices when dining in our many food and drink establishments.
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial) or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov with your questions regarding this HHS Committee session.
MFP Committee Meeting on June 21st
The Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, Chaired by Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, met on Monday, June 21st at 10:00 am. The MFP Committee discussed the following agenda items:
• Resolution to approve Franchise Agreement for Use of Public Right-of-Way: Level 3 Communications, LLC
• Bill 31-10, Board of Investment Trustees - Membership
• Expedited Bill 30-10, Personnel - Equal Benefits - Fire and Rescue Employees
• Expedited Bill 41-09, Taxation - Property Tax Credit - Business Incubator
The MFP Committee approved a resolution to approve a franchise agreement for use of public right-of-way: Level 3 Communications Services, Inc. In addition, the Committee approved Bill 31-10, Board of Investment Trustees-Membership. Bill 31-10 revises the composition of the Board of Investment Trustees by providing that the representative of the police bargaining unit serve on the Board indefinitely rather than for a fixed term. Moreover, the MFP Committee approved Bill 301-10, Personnel - Equal Benefits – Fire and Rescue Employees. Bill 30-10 amends the law to implement the 2002 collective bargaining agreement with the IAFF (International Association of Fire Fighters) by providing health and insurance benefits to opposite sex domestic partners of employees in the fire and rescue services bargaining unit. Chair Trachtenberg stated that equity with respect to employee benefits should be across the board for all collective bargaining units.
Finally, the MFP Committee discussed Expedite Bill 41-09 on Business Incubators. Steve Silverman, Director of Economic Development, testified at the committee meeting. The effect of this Bill is to substitute a property tax credit for the property tax which each incubator would otherwise be required to pay because, although the incubator is funded by the County, it is located in a privately-owned, fully taxable building, or, if located in a government-owned building, is occupied by a private business. The Committee approved Bill 41-09 with two minor amendments: (1) the credit is limited to incubators either funded substantially by the state or County or located in state or County buildings; and (2) the effective date of the Bill begins on or after July 1, 2010.
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 Franchise Agreement for Use of Public Right-of-Way: Level 3 Communications, LLC
• Bill 31-10, Board of Investment Trustees - Membership
• Expedited Bill 30-10, Personnel - Equal Benefits - Fire and Rescue Employees
• Expedited Bill 41-09, Taxation - Property Tax Credit - Business Incubator
The MFP Committee approved a resolution to approve a franchise agreement for use of public right-of-way: Level 3 Communications Services, Inc. In addition, the Committee approved Bill 31-10, Board of Investment Trustees-Membership. Bill 31-10 revises the composition of the Board of Investment Trustees by providing that the representative of the police bargaining unit serve on the Board indefinitely rather than for a fixed term. Moreover, the MFP Committee approved Bill 301-10, Personnel - Equal Benefits – Fire and Rescue Employees. Bill 30-10 amends the law to implement the 2002 collective bargaining agreement with the IAFF (International Association of Fire Fighters) by providing health and insurance benefits to opposite sex domestic partners of employees in the fire and rescue services bargaining unit. Chair Trachtenberg stated that equity with respect to employee benefits should be across the board for all collective bargaining units.
Finally, the MFP Committee discussed Expedite Bill 41-09 on Business Incubators. Steve Silverman, Director of Economic Development, testified at the committee meeting. The effect of this Bill is to substitute a property tax credit for the property tax which each incubator would otherwise be required to pay because, although the incubator is funded by the County, it is located in a privately-owned, fully taxable building, or, if located in a government-owned building, is occupied by a private business. The Committee approved Bill 41-09 with two minor amendments: (1) the credit is limited to incubators either funded substantially by the state or County or located in state or County buildings; and (2) the effective date of the Bill begins on or after July 1, 2010.
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.
HHS Committee Meeting Work Session—Monday, June 21, 2010
The Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee, on which Councilmember Trachtenberg serves, will meet on Monday, June 21, at 2:00PM in the 7th Floor Council Hearing Room to discuss the following item:
• Executive Regulation 7-10, Eating and Drinking Establishments - Nutritional Labeling
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial) or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov with any questions regarding this HHS Committee session.
• Executive Regulation 7-10, Eating and Drinking Establishments - Nutritional Labeling
Please contact Saschane Stephenson, Legislative Aide for Health and Human Services, at 240-777-7963 (direct dial) or saschane.stephenson@montgomerycountymd.gov with any questions regarding this HHS Committee session.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Join Me at the Bethesda Big Train Baseball Game on 6/19
Join me, and the Family Justice Center Foundation, at the Bethesda Big Train Baseball game on Saturday, June 19 at Shirley Povich Field, located at 10600 Westlake Drive, in Cabin John Regional Park, Bethesda, MD. The Bethesda Big Train will be playing against the Silver Spring Thunderbolts and the fun will begin at 6:30. For more information go to http://www.bigtrain.org/.
Silver Spring Declared “Capital for a Day”
Silver Spring joined the ranks of several Maryland cities, towns, and communities, in being named “Capital for a Day” on Thursday June 17th by Governor Martin O’Malley. The “Capital for a Day” program was launched in 2007 to “bring the State Capital to every corner of Maryland through a series of monthly events.”
Accompanying Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett in extending welcome to the municipality, were interim Montgomery College President Hercules Pinkney and several members of the Montgomery County Council and the Maryland State delegation. Governor O’Malley’s official Cabinet meeting was held in the early afternoon at the Montgomery College Performing Arts Centre, where members of the Executive Cabinet publicly briefed the Governor and Lieutenant Governor on their respective meetings with local counterparts throughout the day. Governor O’Malley declared, “Silver Spring is such a great example of the type of revitalization that is possible when we come together as One Maryland to rebuild and restore our economy, helping our businesses create and save jobs, and improving the conditions under which business can create or save jobs. That’s why strengthening our local partnerships is absolutely critical...”
During the Cabinet meeting, the County Executive emphasized the $900M plus gap that was recently closed for the FY11 budget, and appealed for respite from any further cuts from the State to County funding as they would significantly impact operations and cause greater difficulty in providing needed service to residents and the most vulnerable. Senator Jamie Raskin, who represents Silver Spring, joined Mr. Leggett in celebrating the visible changes and economic developments that have made Silver Spring an entertainment and cultural center destination, and noted that it was only possible because of the impetus and collaboration between the State and the County through supportive funding. An underlying message to the Cabinet was the dire need to fund and grow transportation infrastructure in Silver Spring and parts of Montgomery County; and for the inclusion of business owners, large and small, in the Governor’s recently created Commission on Small Business.
The Governor’s Cabinet Meeting for the Silver Spring’s “Capital for a Day” ended on two high notes: the first being an elaborate unveiling and demonstration of the Visit Maryland Interactive Map (www.visitmaryland.org)—which portrays Heritage Areas, Main Streets, Arts and Entertainment Districts, Civil War Trails, agri-tourism businesses, state and national parks, historical and cultural museums, interpretive signs along the Star-Spangled Banner Byway, and several other highlights under the banner of One Maryland—and the second was a Proclamation reading and plaque presentation. The Proclamation will hang at the Silver Spring Civic Building at One Veterans Plaza.
Saschane Stephenson and Alan Bowser represented Councilwoman Trachtenberg at the Governor’s Cabinet meeting in Silver Spring.
For more information highlighting state investments in Silver Spring, quotes, and the day’s activities, see the official press release Governor O’Malley Declares Silver Spring Maryland’s ‘Capital for a Day’ here.
Saschane Stephenson and Alan Bowser represented Councilwoman Trachtenberg at the Governor’s Cabinet meeting in Silver Spring.
For more information highlighting state investments in Silver Spring, quotes, and the day’s activities, see the official press release Governor O’Malley Declares Silver Spring Maryland’s ‘Capital for a Day’ here.
Middle Eastern American Advisory Group Meeting
The Trachtenberg office was represented by Naomi Bloch at the monthly meeting of the Middle Eastern American Advisory Group (MEAAG) that took place on Monday evening, June 14th from 6:30 to 8:00 pm. The meeting is typically held in the Office of Community Partnerships, located at 255 Rockville Pike, Suite 102 Rockville, MD 20850. The meeting agenda touched on the matter of how international events in the news may be impacting our local communities of residents who come from the various countries where these incidents are and have been taking place. The Group discussed what actions the MEAAG might be able to take to help with outreach to the community members affected by these volatile international crises.
The purpose of the Advisory group is to ensure that the County Executive is well informed of and able to act effectively to respond to the needs and concerns of Middle Eastern Americans living and or working here in Montgomery County. For more information about the MEAAG meetings, which are open to the public, click here.
The purpose of the Advisory group is to ensure that the County Executive is well informed of and able to act effectively to respond to the needs and concerns of Middle Eastern Americans living and or working here in Montgomery County. For more information about the MEAAG meetings, which are open to the public, click here.
Dale Music Co. Celebrates its 60th Anniversary
The Trachtenberg Office was proud to be represented at Dale Music Co.’s 60th Anniversary Celebration in Silver Spring. In these difficult economic times, Dale Music has stood the test of time with a strong commitment to service that wins customer loyalty and keeps them returning for generations. A sense of nostalgia and uniqueness permeates the store that sells musical instruments, sheet music and fine violins – something that has not changed much since it was founded by David and Rhoda Burchuk 60 years ago. The store sells band and orchestra instruments, guitars, fine violins and all kinds of sheet music. It is still a family business, managed by Carol Warden who is a cellist by training.
An awesome collection of sheet music, which is not found in very many stores in the world, is available for sale in the store. The choral and organ department is renowned throughout the United States for its enormous selection for church and school choirs. The band and orchestra department caters to professional bands and orchestras, jazz bands and ensemble music. The store has a staff of music teachers — some of whom were students at Dale when they were growing up. There is a repair shop on the premises for band and orchestra instruments and guitars. Dale now serves the third generation of musicians, as grandparents recall nostalgically where they came to rent an instrument and for music when they were children. Over the years, Dale has had their share of celebrities including Arthur Fiedler, Goldie Hawn, Stacy Keach, and Mama Cass.
Over and around files and shelves of sheet music, Civil War-era brasses, a hurdy-gurdy, 19th century wood-winds, and folk instruments from around the world are displayed. As part of the anniversary celebration on June 17, Carol Warden talked about the antiquarian musical instruments. The day of celebration was a day of music as employees, students and customers made music throughout the day.
Silver Spring Regional Service Director Reemberto Rodriguez presented a proclamation from County Executive Isiah Leggett to Carol Warden recognizing Dale Music’s years of service to Montgomery County. Our Chief of Staff Alan Bowser represented Councilmember Trachtenberg at the ceremony.
For more information, visit http://www.dalemusic.com/ or contact Carol Warden dale@dalemusic.com.
MFP Committee Meeting on June 21st
The Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, Chaired by Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, will meet on Monday, June 21st at 10:00 am. Please note that this meeting was originally scheduled for June 17th. The meeting will be held in the 7th Floor Hearing Room of the County Council Office Building located at 100 Maryland Avenue in Rockville. The MFP Committee will discuss the following agenda items:
• Resolution to approve Franchise Agreement for Use of Public Right-of-Way: Level 3 Communications, LLC
• Bill 31-10, Board of Investment Trustees - Membership
• Expedited Bill 30-10, Personnel - Equal Benefits - Fire and Rescue Employees
• Expedited Bill 41-09, Taxation - Property Tax Credit - Business Incubator
Note: The MFP Committee deferred discussion on Executive Regulation 27-09, General Applicability of Personnel Regulations to Employees of Local Fire and Rescue Departments.
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 Franchise Agreement for Use of Public Right-of-Way: Level 3 Communications, LLC
• Bill 31-10, Board of Investment Trustees - Membership
• Expedited Bill 30-10, Personnel - Equal Benefits - Fire and Rescue Employees
• Expedited Bill 41-09, Taxation - Property Tax Credit - Business Incubator
Note: The MFP Committee deferred discussion on Executive Regulation 27-09, General Applicability of Personnel Regulations to Employees of Local Fire and Rescue Departments.
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.
Read My Latest Newsletter
In this Issue:
FY11 Operating Budget
Maintenance of Effort
Baseball Games
Kemp Mill Association
Liberty's Promise
Silver Spring Blues
Montgomery Village Foundation
Beth El Men's Club
East Silver Spring Citizens Association
Laytonsville Community Parade
Affordable Housing
Housing Unlimited
Violance Against Women Conference
Apple Charlotte Recipe
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Rotary Club of Metro Bethesda Breakfast Meeting
Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, Chair of the Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, was this week’s guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Metro Bethesda. The club meets on Thursdays at 7:30 am at Redwood Restaurant in downtown Bethesda. The weekly meeting allows an opportunity to network with local business leaders, eat a delicious buffet breakfast and hear a dynamic speaker such as Councilmember Trachtenberg. The breakfast adjourns promptly at 8:45 am.
Councilmember Trachtenberg discussed Montgomery County’s fiscal outlook. Many factors contributed to this year’s budget challenge including a downturn in the housing market, a decrease in revenue from recordation taxes, and a decrease in the income tax revenue. She mentioned that Montgomery County is extremely dependent on income tax revenue as opposed to other counties such as Fairfax. Furthermore, Councilmember Trachtenberg stated that the County has a huge obligation to its employees regarding compensation and benefits.
In terms of the future, Councilmember Trachtenberg stated that the MFP Committee will be presenting new fiscal policies for Montgomery County. For example, there will be a FY11-16 Public Services Program, essentially a balanced six-year fiscal plan. Moreover, MFP will recommend a new and improved reserve policy. She frankly told the group that “we have not used our reserves in the most optimal fashion.” The MFP Committee will make recommendations to full Council by the end of June.
Councilmember Trachtenberg entertained several questions from the audience. Some of the questions focused on the White Flint Master Plan, relationship between the Council and OLO (Office of Legislative Oversight), obligations of the County Government to retirees, and ways to increase revenue for the County. One member advocated for a soda tax.
The Rotary Club of metro Bethesda received their charter in December 2006 from Rotary International. The motto of the Rotary Club of metro Bethesda is “SERVICE above SELF.” For more information on this Rotary Club, please go to http://www.metrobethesdarotary.org/.
Laurie Mintzer Edberg, Director of Management and Fiscal Policy, attended the breakfast with Councilmember Trachtenberg.
Councilmember Trachtenberg discussed Montgomery County’s fiscal outlook. Many factors contributed to this year’s budget challenge including a downturn in the housing market, a decrease in revenue from recordation taxes, and a decrease in the income tax revenue. She mentioned that Montgomery County is extremely dependent on income tax revenue as opposed to other counties such as Fairfax. Furthermore, Councilmember Trachtenberg stated that the County has a huge obligation to its employees regarding compensation and benefits.
In terms of the future, Councilmember Trachtenberg stated that the MFP Committee will be presenting new fiscal policies for Montgomery County. For example, there will be a FY11-16 Public Services Program, essentially a balanced six-year fiscal plan. Moreover, MFP will recommend a new and improved reserve policy. She frankly told the group that “we have not used our reserves in the most optimal fashion.” The MFP Committee will make recommendations to full Council by the end of June.
Councilmember Trachtenberg entertained several questions from the audience. Some of the questions focused on the White Flint Master Plan, relationship between the Council and OLO (Office of Legislative Oversight), obligations of the County Government to retirees, and ways to increase revenue for the County. One member advocated for a soda tax.
The Rotary Club of metro Bethesda received their charter in December 2006 from Rotary International. The motto of the Rotary Club of metro Bethesda is “SERVICE above SELF.” For more information on this Rotary Club, please go to http://www.metrobethesdarotary.org/.
Laurie Mintzer Edberg, Director of Management and Fiscal Policy, attended the breakfast with Councilmember Trachtenberg.
Montgomery County Launches New MC311 Online and Telephone System
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett today announced the official launch of MC311, the County’s new online and telephone information system. The public is now able to access Montgomery County government information and non-emergency services online or by calling a single number: “3-1-1.”
Features of the new MC311 Customer Service Center (CSC) include:
• Customers can call one easy-to-remember number in order to access Montgomery County information and services – “3-1-1”;
• Customers can also access information and create or track service requests on the new website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/311;
• 311 also can be reached from most wireless phones – or residents can reach the Call Center by dialing 240-777-0311, which is also the number to reach MC311 for calls originating outside Montgomery County;
• Hours of Call Center operation are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The self-service website is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week;
• About 30 County government “information and referral” phone numbers are now answered directly by MC311. All other County phones can continue to be dialed direct;
• Trained representatives who speak Spanish, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese and French are available, as is a language interpretation service for other languages;
• The TTY line is available by calling 240-773-3556;
• Customer service representatives and the online system use a state-of-the-art database of information and services about County government that can be continually updated so the most current facts are available via the web portal;
• MC311 will provide County leaders and managers a wealth of systematic, real-time information on department performance on service requests that will be valuable in holding departments accountable for their performance and assist policymakers in decisions about the most effective allocation of County resources;
• In the event of a community event/emergency, like a water main break, H1N1 flu epidemic, or weather-related incident, the 311 system can quickly incorporate real time information;
• By consolidating different County department call centers and information and tracking systems, MC311 has already projected more than $10 million in savings between the current and coming fiscal years;
• MC311 is also designed to support the County’s “911” emergency system by diverting some non-emergency calls that are currently answered by 911 operators – freeing up 911 time to focus on emergencies.
"The Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee has been supportive of the Technology Modernization effort that funded MC311, believing that upgrading the technology infrastructure for the County will help residents and businesses alike,” said Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, who chairs the MFP Committee. “I am happy that in MC311, we have accomplished this, but also are giving Councilmembers a modern tool with which to better understand and track the concerns of each taxpayer, as well as the responsiveness of our hard-working departments and agencies."
For more information about MC311, call the Office of Public Information at 240-777-6507.
Frequently Asked Questions.
311 Public Service Announcement
To read the full County press release, click here.
Features of the new MC311 Customer Service Center (CSC) include:
• Customers can call one easy-to-remember number in order to access Montgomery County information and services – “3-1-1”;
• Customers can also access information and create or track service requests on the new website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/311;
• 311 also can be reached from most wireless phones – or residents can reach the Call Center by dialing 240-777-0311, which is also the number to reach MC311 for calls originating outside Montgomery County;
• Hours of Call Center operation are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The self-service website is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week;
• About 30 County government “information and referral” phone numbers are now answered directly by MC311. All other County phones can continue to be dialed direct;
• Trained representatives who speak Spanish, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese and French are available, as is a language interpretation service for other languages;
• The TTY line is available by calling 240-773-3556;
• Customer service representatives and the online system use a state-of-the-art database of information and services about County government that can be continually updated so the most current facts are available via the web portal;
• MC311 will provide County leaders and managers a wealth of systematic, real-time information on department performance on service requests that will be valuable in holding departments accountable for their performance and assist policymakers in decisions about the most effective allocation of County resources;
• In the event of a community event/emergency, like a water main break, H1N1 flu epidemic, or weather-related incident, the 311 system can quickly incorporate real time information;
• By consolidating different County department call centers and information and tracking systems, MC311 has already projected more than $10 million in savings between the current and coming fiscal years;
• MC311 is also designed to support the County’s “911” emergency system by diverting some non-emergency calls that are currently answered by 911 operators – freeing up 911 time to focus on emergencies.
"The Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee has been supportive of the Technology Modernization effort that funded MC311, believing that upgrading the technology infrastructure for the County will help residents and businesses alike,” said Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, who chairs the MFP Committee. “I am happy that in MC311, we have accomplished this, but also are giving Councilmembers a modern tool with which to better understand and track the concerns of each taxpayer, as well as the responsiveness of our hard-working departments and agencies."
For more information about MC311, call the Office of Public Information at 240-777-6507.
Frequently Asked Questions.
311 Public Service Announcement
To read the full County press release, click here.
Montgomery launches 311 phone system (Gazette)
Government adopts one-stop shop for calls
by Erin Cunningham
Staff Writer, Gazette
It's arguably the biggest step Montgomery County will take this year to restructure government and save money — a priority that county officials voiced during recent budget discussions.
On Thursday, the county will officially launch its 311 phone system — a sort of one-stop shop for anyone with a question, concern or service request for county government. The system has been operating unofficially since January.
Now, instead of trying to remember a county government phone number or dialing several departments before reaching the right one, phone requests can go to one central location — a call center the county is leasing at 51 Monroe Street in Rockville — by dialing 311.
Click here to read the full article in the Gazette (6/16/10)
by Erin Cunningham
Staff Writer, Gazette
It's arguably the biggest step Montgomery County will take this year to restructure government and save money — a priority that county officials voiced during recent budget discussions.
On Thursday, the county will officially launch its 311 phone system — a sort of one-stop shop for anyone with a question, concern or service request for county government. The system has been operating unofficially since January.
Now, instead of trying to remember a county government phone number or dialing several departments before reaching the right one, phone requests can go to one central location — a call center the county is leasing at 51 Monroe Street in Rockville — by dialing 311.
Click here to read the full article in the Gazette (6/16/10)
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Montgomery Council Committee to Discuss Fiber Optic Franchise on Thu., June 17
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 16, 2010—The Montgomery County Council’s Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee on Thursday, June 17, will discuss a proposal that would allow Level 3 Communications, LLC to construct a fiber optic telecommunications network in the County.
The MFP Committee, which is chaired by Duchy Trachtenberg and includes Councilmembers Valerie Ervin and Nancy Navarro, will meet at 3 p.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville.
The proposed franchise agreement with Level 3 Communications would be for an initial 15-year term. The County reserves the right to charge Level 3 up to 5 percent of its gross revenues or another amount set by County law or resolution. County Executive Isiah Leggett has recommended approval of the franchise agreement.
Level 3 has previously acquired existing facilities in the County’s right-of-way from three telecommunications companies that had franchise agreements with the County: KMC Telecom III, LLC; Looking Glass Networks, Inc.; and Williams Communications, Inc.
The MFP Committee also will address proposed Bill 30-10 that would provide same sex benefits for employees of local fire and rescue departments (LFRD). For many years, the local departments have employed certain personnel to support their operations. Currently there are 19 employees who could be covered by the legislation.
Contact: Neil H. Greenberger 240-777-7939 / Delphine Harriston 240-777-7931
The MFP Committee, which is chaired by Duchy Trachtenberg and includes Councilmembers Valerie Ervin and Nancy Navarro, will meet at 3 p.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville.
The proposed franchise agreement with Level 3 Communications would be for an initial 15-year term. The County reserves the right to charge Level 3 up to 5 percent of its gross revenues or another amount set by County law or resolution. County Executive Isiah Leggett has recommended approval of the franchise agreement.
Level 3 has previously acquired existing facilities in the County’s right-of-way from three telecommunications companies that had franchise agreements with the County: KMC Telecom III, LLC; Looking Glass Networks, Inc.; and Williams Communications, Inc.
The MFP Committee also will address proposed Bill 30-10 that would provide same sex benefits for employees of local fire and rescue departments (LFRD). For many years, the local departments have employed certain personnel to support their operations. Currently there are 19 employees who could be covered by the legislation.
Contact: Neil H. Greenberger 240-777-7939 / Delphine Harriston 240-777-7931
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.
County Council Town Hall at Leisure World
This afternoon, I joined my Council colleagues for a televised Town Hall meeting at Leisure World in Silver Spring. The program was very well attended by Leisure World residents, and I saw many, many friends there. The women and men who live there always ask insightful questions of their guests and today was no exception.
Many thanks to the Leisure World community for their warm welcome and their continuing interest in our work.
Meeting with the County’s Commission on Veterans Affairs
Last night, I had the pleasure of joining the County’s Commission on Veterans Affairs for their meeting. I was invited to talk about the possibility of establishing a community-based outpatient clinic (CBOC) for our veterans in Montgomery County. I shared my ideas about a possible new public-private partnership that could provide needed medical and mental health services to the nearly 70,000 veterans who live in the County. I suggested that we consider a project similar in concept and design to the Family Justice Center that we created in 2009 to meet the needs of victims of domestic violence and their families.
Commission members were very thoughtful in their suggestions about possible locations for such a facility, possible private and public sector support, and ways to obtain critical and valuable information about the number of Montgomery County veterans and their health needs. Our conversation and our collaboration on this important issue will continue.
Thanks to Bill Gray, Commission Chair, and to Betsy Luecking, staff liaison, for their hard work and dedication to the needs of our veterans.
Celebrating Dr. Hercules Pinkney
On Thursday June 10th, in a room filled with Montgomery County’s public officials, business leaders, educators, representatives of non-profit and civic organizations, and friends, Dr. Hercules Pinkney was lauded as Leadership Montgomery’s Outstanding Leader of the Year.
It was no coincidence that a significant number of attendees pressed their way to shake his hand, or just utter a few words of congratulations, for Hercules Pinkney has been a quiet giant in our midst for several years; and he has garnered the respect of many, including the students and teachers he has served.
Dr. Pinkney has been both an educator and administrator for over thirty years, within the halls of several regional community colleges and, until recently, he was the interim President of Montgomery College.
Montgomery County is fortunate to call Hercules Pinkney one of her own, and I join his friends and colleagues in recognizing his many years of distinguished service—not just as a champion of community colleges being key to preparing future employees and leaders; but also his unique embodiment of steadfast diplomacy and collaboration for the benefit of those who need an advocate.
I have found Dr. Pinkney’s words and actions to be inspirational, and I have truly appreciated collaborating with him for the years he served at the college. I look forward to working with him in the future.
It was no coincidence that a significant number of attendees pressed their way to shake his hand, or just utter a few words of congratulations, for Hercules Pinkney has been a quiet giant in our midst for several years; and he has garnered the respect of many, including the students and teachers he has served.
Dr. Pinkney has been both an educator and administrator for over thirty years, within the halls of several regional community colleges and, until recently, he was the interim President of Montgomery College.
Montgomery County is fortunate to call Hercules Pinkney one of her own, and I join his friends and colleagues in recognizing his many years of distinguished service—not just as a champion of community colleges being key to preparing future employees and leaders; but also his unique embodiment of steadfast diplomacy and collaboration for the benefit of those who need an advocate.
I have found Dr. Pinkney’s words and actions to be inspirational, and I have truly appreciated collaborating with him for the years he served at the college. I look forward to working with him in the future.
MFP Committee to Meet on 6/17 at 3 pm
The Management and Fiscal Policy (MFP) Committee, Chaired by Councilmember Duchy Trachtenberg, will meet on Thursday, June 17th at 3 pm. The meeting will be held in the 7th Floor Conference Room of the County Council Office Building located at 100 Maryland Avenue in Rockville. The MFP Committee will discuss the following agenda items:
(1) Resolution to approve Franchise Agreement for Use of Public Right-of-Way: Level 3 Communications, LLC
(2) Bill 31-10, Board of Investment Trustees – Membership
(3) Expedited Bill 30-10, Personnel – Equal Benefits – Fire and Rescue Employees
(4) Executive Regulation 27-09, General Applicability of Personnel Regulations to Employees of Local Fire and Rescue Departments.
(5) Expedited Bill 41-09, Taxation - Property Tax Credit - Business Incubator
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 Committee session.
(1) Resolution to approve Franchise Agreement for Use of Public Right-of-Way: Level 3 Communications, LLC
(2) Bill 31-10, Board of Investment Trustees – Membership
(3) Expedited Bill 30-10, Personnel – Equal Benefits – Fire and Rescue Employees
(4) Executive Regulation 27-09, General Applicability of Personnel Regulations to Employees of Local Fire and Rescue Departments.
(5) Expedited Bill 41-09, Taxation - Property Tax Credit - Business Incubator
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 Committee session.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Montgomery County Council to Host Leisure World / Northern Silver Spring Area Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, June 16
Press Release
Montgomery County Council to Host
Leisure World / Northern Silver Spring Area
Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, June 16
Residents Invited to Express Their Views on Issues,
Ask Questions of Councilmembers at Leisure World Social Hall
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 8, 2010—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 Leisure World / Northern Silver Spring area on Wednesday, June 16. The meeting at the Leisure World Social Hall will start at 2 p.m.
This will be the third Town Hall Meeting hosted by the Council in 2010. The Council is composed of President Nancy Floreen, Vice President Valerie Ervin and Councilmembers Phil Andrews, Roger Berliner, Marc Elrich, Mike Knapp, George Leventhal, Nancy Navarro and Duchy Trachtenberg. In February, more than 400 attended as the Council hosted its first-ever Town Hall Meeting for students. A capacity crowd attended a meeting at the Housing Opportunities Commission Office in Kensington in March.
Leisure World is located at 3700 Rossmoor Blvd. in Silver Spring. Non-residents of the community must check in at the security gate before proceeding to the Town Hall Meeting.
The meeting will enable residents to voice opinions on 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 public safety, traffic, growth, the County budget, health programs and taxes—including the recently increased energy tax.
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.
To view complete Council press release, click here.
Montgomery County Council to Host
Leisure World / Northern Silver Spring Area
Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, June 16
Residents Invited to Express Their Views on Issues,
Ask Questions of Councilmembers at Leisure World Social Hall
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 8, 2010—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 Leisure World / Northern Silver Spring area on Wednesday, June 16. The meeting at the Leisure World Social Hall will start at 2 p.m.
This will be the third Town Hall Meeting hosted by the Council in 2010. The Council is composed of President Nancy Floreen, Vice President Valerie Ervin and Councilmembers Phil Andrews, Roger Berliner, Marc Elrich, Mike Knapp, George Leventhal, Nancy Navarro and Duchy Trachtenberg. In February, more than 400 attended as the Council hosted its first-ever Town Hall Meeting for students. A capacity crowd attended a meeting at the Housing Opportunities Commission Office in Kensington in March.
Leisure World is located at 3700 Rossmoor Blvd. in Silver Spring. Non-residents of the community must check in at the security gate before proceeding to the Town Hall Meeting.
The meeting will enable residents to voice opinions on 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 public safety, traffic, growth, the County budget, health programs and taxes—including the recently increased energy tax.
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.
To view complete Council press release, click here.
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