The District 411

MyGreenMontgomery.org!

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:21:00 +0000

Have you ever been unsure about where to go to find all of the incentives, information and programs to help you green your lifestyle and save money? Now there is one site for Montgomery County residents to get this information and learn from others in the community: MyGreenMontgomery.org! Check out: http://www.mygreenmontgomery.org Access resources available to you and find out how to save money and decrease your impact on the environment. Visit MyGreenMontgomery.org to learn more!

R.I.P. Roscoe Nix

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 21:34:00 +0000

Roscoe Nix was an icon, pure and simple. He understood the complexities of the times, and he always stood up for the truth. He was a civil rights activist until the end. he would say that a lot had been gained but so much more neeed to be done. He spoke to me about the importance of creating coalitions between Latinos, African Americans, Asians and other immigrants. About the importance of grooming the next generation of leaders of color, because this was a County in transition, a positive transition that mirrors the national trend. Those were some of the reasons why he went out on a limb and endorsed me when I ran for Council- I am ever so grateful for his advice and his belief in me.

I just regret that there aren't many Roscoes left- his wisdom, humility, courage and generosity was legendary.

I am glad that I was a member of the Board of Education when we voted to name an elementary school in his honor and I was there when he spoke during the dedication ceremony. All the children who attend, and will attend Roscoe Nix Elementary school will be honored by this icon's spirit. Rest in peace Roscoe, you achieved so much in your time here, you inspired many of us to emulate your courage and always stand up for truth. Que Dios te Bendiga.

Season's Greetings and News from Councilmember Navarro

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:50:00 +0000

In this Issue:

Social Media "Klout"

Pepco Fined by PSC

Kiosk Library Service Coming to Olney

Small Business Spotlight: Green Apple

Community Bulletin Board

Remember Your Reusable Bag Starting Jan. 1

Committee Evaluation and Review Board (CERB) Search

Silver Spring and Mid- and East County Citizens Advisory Board Vacancies

Rec. Advisory Board Vacancies

Future Link Classes in Rockville Starting Soon

Habitat For Humanity Info Session

Contact Me

Dear Friends,

I want to wish you and your family a very happy holiday season. The holidays are a great time to reflect on the past year and begin planning for the future. This year, we reinstated the "Kids Ride Free" program, increased Police funding to protect our neighborhoods, and laid the groundwork to support Positive Youth Development Programming. The Council made difficult budget decisions and our public employees have been more than patient while the economic outlook slowly improves.

As I look forward to 2012, I see challenges and opportunities ahead. The preliminary economic outlook has improved somewhat, but we know that we're not out of the woods yet. More belt tightening will be necessary to get through another tough budget year, but we need to begin the process of making investments to help those with the greatest need in our County.

Thank you again for your support and for making 2011 such a great year to serve on the Council. As always, if I can ever be of assistance, please do not hesitate to call me at (240) 777-7968 or e-mail me atcouncilmember.navarro@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Councilmember Nancy Navarro

District 4

Help Me Increase My "Klout"

In every e-mail newsletter I send, I ask you to

"Like me on Facebook" and "Follow me on Twitter." I do this because social media is the best way to get information about what is happening at the County Council (and in the world!) in real-time. The Wheaton Patch published an article last week, showing that I have the highest "Klout" score on the Council. Klout is a website that analyzes social media influence and the reach of your followers. Although I'm proud to have such an "influential" network, I know we need to keep growing. Please send this email to at least 5 of your friends who live in Montgomery County and ask them to "Like me on Facebook" and "Follow me on Twitter." Increasing my social media "klout" will help me build real clout on the Council so I can get more accomplished for my constituents.

Pepco Fined $1 million by PSC, Asks for Rate Increase

This week, the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) fined Pepco $1 million for sub-par tree trimming practices and poor communication during last year's summer storms that left many Montgomery County residents without electricity. The PSC said they will levy future fines on Pepco if they cannot produce a new, 5-year plan by February 21st that addresses these issues. You can read the full PSC Order here.

At the same time, Pepco is asking the PSC to allow a $68 million rate increase on customers. The company says this will translate to more than $5.50 a month increase for the average ratepayer. They say they need this increase to improve reliability, but I think Pepco's shareholders and executives should pay for their lack of maintenance for all these years. Pepco should prove that they are serious about improving reliability and service quality before ratepayers are asked to pay any more than we already do.

Kiosk Library Service Coming to Olney

Starting early next year, Olney community residents will have kiosk library service at the Longwood Recreation Center (19300 Georgia Ave. in Brookeville) while the Olney Library is under renovation. The kiosk library service will include:

Circulation of current titles for both children and adults in a book vending machine;
Circulation of media (DVDs, potentially CDs) in a media vending machine;
Pick-up of customer holds in a materials locker system; and
Drop-off of library materials via an internal book drop.

This service will ensure that the Olney community has convenient access to some form of library services during the remainder of the renovation period for the Olney Library. Thanks to the Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL), Department of Recreation, and the Department of General Services (DGS) for making this happen! Thanks also to all of the residents of Olney for your patience during the renovation and implementation of the kiosk at the Longwood Recreation Center.

For more information about the Olney project, and to see updates on the Olney interim service project, visit the Olney Library page.

Small Business Spotlight: Green Apple Market

"Small Business Spotlight" is a new feature in my newsletter to showcase small businesses in District 4. Small businesses are the engine of our economy. They provide jobs and enhance the unique character of our neighborhoods. If you would like your small business highlighted in a future newsletter, please e-mail me.

The first small business I would like to highlight is Green Apple.Opened since August 2011, Green Apple is a family-owned and run convenience store located on New Hampshire Avenue in Colesville. Its owner, Reza Pishva, says that his goal was to bring "a different type of convenience store, unique to the community." He bought the location two years ago and since then has been upgrading and renovating it.

The name emphasizes the healthy and organic food options offered throughout the store from homemade soups, paninis made on daily-delivered fresh bread, yogurt, ice cream, fresh fruits and produce, among many other things you would find at a convenience store.

Apart from being a convenience store, Green Apple offers a café-style neighborhood spot with tables and chairs inside and outside in a patio for eating, studying or just conversing. Wi-Fi will soon be available and Mr. Pishva welcomes students and neighbors to come enjoy his store.

Green Apple is located at 12830 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20904. For more information please call 301-622-6767 or email at greenappleconvinience@gmail.com.

Community Bulletin Board

Remember Your Reusable Bag Starting January 1st

Beginning January 1st, Montgomery County stores will charge 5-cents for paper and plastic disposable bags. If you want to "keep the change," be sure to bring a reusable bag to the grocery store. The Council passed the bag-fee earlier this year to help pay for environmental protection efforts. You can read more about the new law, including a "frequently asked questions" section, on the County website.

Committee Evaluation and Review Board Search Continues

The County Executive has extended the application deadline to serve on the Committee Evaluation and Review Board (CERB) until December 28, 2011. The CERB is responsible for producing a report about County committees, commissions, and boards every 10 years. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by e-mail.

You can find more information about committee, board, and commission vacancieshere.

Vacancies on Silver Spring, Mid- and East-County Citizens Advisory Boards

These important boards serve as a liaison between the community and the County Executive, County Council, and County Government. They advise the Regional Services Center Director on transportation, economic development, housing, education, human services, environment, recreation, public safety, and other issues of importance to the area. They review and comment on the County's capital and operating budgets and master plans; assist with strategies to tailor services to regional needs; conduct workshops and forums: and act on other ad hoc issues.

Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by e-mail. Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses should be included. For more information, contact Beth Gochrach, 240-777-2528.

You can find more information about committee, board, and commission vacancieshere.

Vacancies on Recreation Advisory Boards

The recreation boards advise the County Executive, County Council, the director of the Department of Recreation and the Planning Board on regional recreation needs; encourage the development of desirable parks and recreational opportunities; and advise and make recommendations to appropriate officials on matters concerning budgets, recreation programs, services, and facilities. The regional boards have nine regular members and two alternates, and members must reside in one of the four regions. To determine the region in which you reside or for specific information on regional board meetings, please call 240-777-2528. Residents who live within the city limits of Rockville, Gaithersburg or Washington Grove are not eligible for membership on recreation boards.

Future Link Classes in Rockville Starting Soon

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to address the graduates of Future Link at Montgomery College. Future Link is a 14-week self-advocacy, academic, and career-support program for 16 to 25-year-old young adults. This is a great opportunity for young people who are in need of direction to get back on the right track. You can read more about Future Link and the young people it serves here.

Future Link is offering a 14-week seminar beginning Tuesday, January 24th at Montgomery College Rockville Campus. The program runs through May 1st (graduation). For more information, contact executive director Mindi Jacobson.

Habitat for Humanity Info Session

Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County, Maryland Inc. is hosting information sessions in January and February 2012 on how to purchase one of 19 affordable townhomes in Gaithersburg through Habitat's zero interest loan program. For more information on program eligibility and information session dates please visit the Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County website or call 301-990-0014 x26. Household incomes ranging from the high $30,000 to low $70,000 (based upon household size) may be eligible.

Already own a home but looking for energy improvements? You may be eligible for Habitat's FREE home weatherization services.

Contact Me:

E-Mail: Councilmember.Navarro@MontgomeryCountyMD.Gov

Web: www.NancyNavarro.us

Phone: 240-777-7968

Address:

Councilmember Nancy Navarro

100 Maryland Avenue

Rockville, MD 20850

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News from Councilmember Navarro

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Dear Friends,

I'm pleased to announce that this past Tuesday the Council elected my colleague Councilmember Roger Berliner to serve as Council President and I was elected to serve as Council Vice President. Being part of the Council's leadership team is a great honor and responsibility. I appreciate the trust my colleagues have placed in me and I look forward to continuing our important work for the residents of Montgomery County.

I would like to congratulate Council President Berliner and I look forward to working with him for the coming year. Together, we will continue to protect our most valuable services while promoting economic development opportunities. You can watch Tuesday's Council Session on the Council website.

I also want to take this opportunity to remind you to like me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter. This is the best way to stay up-to-date on the latest news about Montgomery County and the progress of my agenda.

Finally, I would like to wish you and your family a joyous and safe holiday season!

As always, please e-mail me or call my office at (240) 777-7968 if I can ever be of assistance.

Sincerely,

Councilmember Nancy Navarro

District 4

Curfew Update

At the Council session on Tuesday, we discussed the County Executive's curfew proposal. By a 6-3 vote, the Council decided to table the issue. I voted with the majority because I was not comfortable with giving the Executive unlimited authority to institute a youth curfew for an indefinite period of time. I supported tabling the proposal because I believe there are questions that continue to remain unanswered about the need for a curfew. The Council can revisit this proposal again at anytime if necessary.

Last year, I voted to give the Montgomery County Police Department a $2 million enhancement to increase patrols in Silver Spring and East County. Since the enhancement has taken effect in downtown Silver Spring, we have seen a reduction in crime. I believe this targeted approach to law enforcement, along with an enhancement to programs that target at-risk youth and families, is the best way to reduce juvenile crime in our County.

Welcome to District 4!

Last week, the Council unanimously passed the Montgomery County Redistricting Commission's map redrawing Council District boundaries. These new boundaries will take effect officially in the spring. However, I wanted to take this opportunity to welcome my new constituents in Wheaton, Olney, Kensington View, Randolph Hills, Laytonsville, and other neighborhoods to District 4! In a future e-mail, I will discuss the new district boundaries in more detail and provide a "farewell" message to my current constituents--including Burtonsville, Fairland, and Leisure World.

Creating a New Urban Future in Wheaton

Also last week, the Council unanimously passed the Wheaton Sector Plan. As discussed in a previous e-mail, the Wheaton Sector Plan is designed to help Wheaton develop to its full potential through a combination of zoning, traffic, and height and density changes. These improvements will not take place overnight, but will have significant long-term benefits for Wheaton's economic future.

The plan calls for increased density to allow for more residential, office, and commercial uses near the Metro Station. The Council also worked to ensure the single-family houses in the surrounding areas were protected during the redevelopment process. We inserted additional language in the Sector Plan to protect the trees between Wheaton Mall and the adjacent neighborhoods.

I am also working with my colleagues to ensure the small businesses in Wheaton continue to thrive, even with the new development opportunities available through this plan. Wheaton's small businesses give it the unique character that makes it such a great place to live, work and play. Through economic development and technical assistance opportunities, we will ensure Wheaton continues to maintain its distinctive character.

The Wheaton Sector Plan creates a vision for a new urban future that promotes mixed use development, smart growth and economic opportunity for residents of Wheaton and the surrounding community.

Community Bulletin Board

Teen Escape Club's Penguin Ball: A Middle School Semi-Formal!

I am proud to announce that the Teen Escape Club (TEC) continues to provide excellent, positive programming for our youth in the East County. Now, also providing programming for our middle school students. Tonight, the Teen Escape Club will host its first-ever Penguin Ball, a middle school semi-formal featuring DJ G-Tek and Young Motive. The event, put together by TEC's high school participants, will be held at the East County Community Center (3310 Gateshead Manor Way, Silver Spring). There will be prizes for the best dressed, best dancer, cutest pair, best energy, and king and queen of the ball. Admissions is $3 for one, $5 for two, or free with an "After Hours" membership. The admissions tickets includes a free professional picture and light refreshments. Students are also encouraged to bring canned goods for exchange for raffle tickets. Students can bring as many canned foods as they wish. Students are encourage register online at montgomerycountymd.gov/rec or by calling 240-777-6818.

Dates for the next Teen Escape Club events are:

January 13
February 13
March 2
April 13
May 4
June 1

Final Leaf Collection and Winter Storm Alerts

The second and final round of leaf collection in underway through December. You can check if your street is in the Leaf Collection District and find the 2011 Sign Posting Log on the County website.

Before the first major snowfall hits, be sure to sign up for Alert Montgomery for the latest information on severe weather. You can track power outages in the Pepco service territory using the Storm Center website and BGE customers can visit the outage map.

UPDATE: Suspect Arrested for Theft Schemes Involving Vulnerable Adults

Last week, the police arrested a man in connection with the exploitation of vulnerable adults. Over the course of approximately one year this suspect financially exploited four victims in Montgomery County who he perceived to have mental and physical disabilities or deficiencies. The police are concerned that there may be additional victims of suspect's exploitation. If someone believes that he/she may have been a victim or believes a loved one may have been victimized, please call the 4th District Community Service Officer at 240-773-5524.

Man Suspected of Westfield Mall Attacks Arrested

The man suspected of being responsible for committing three kidnappings and carjackings at the Westfield Shopping Center in Wheaton was arrested at his home in Prince George's County last week. I want to commend both the Montgomery County and Prince George's County Police for working together to find the person responsible for these terrible crimes over Thanksgiving weekend.

Police Offer Holiday Season Safety Tips

In light of recent incidents, Montgomery County Police have provided us with this comprehensive list of tips to help keep residents safe while shopping, while walking, and while at home. While opportunities for robberies and burglaries increase during the holiday season, many robberies and burglaries can be prevented by keeping these safety tips in mind.

When shopping:

Do not become distracted by your shopping. Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Park in well-lit parking lots and park as close to the mall or store as possible.
Lock your car doors and keep packages hidden in the trunk of or under the seats of your vehicle.
Do not carry large amounts of cash with you and pay with checks or credit cards when possible.
Ensure that you are not encumbered with a large number of packages. Try to make trips back to your vehicle to store packages in the trunk as you continue to shop.
Carry your closed purse as close to your body as possible.
Carry a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.

When out walking:

Wherever you are, on the street, in an office building or shopping mall, or waiting for a bus or the subway, stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Walk with confidence and know where you are going.
Trust your instincts; if something or someone makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave the area.
Stick to well-lighted and well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
Do not flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like expensive jewelry or clothing.
Have your car or house key in hand before you reach the door.
If you think that someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street and walk toward an open store, restaurant, or lighted house.

If someone does try to rob you, don't resist. Give up your property - do not endanger your life. Report the crime to police as soon as possible, and try to describe the attacker accurately. Your rapid reporting of the incident may prevent others from becoming victims.

When at home:

If your Christmas tree can be seen through a window, do not display presents under the tree where they could be seen.
Make sure to lock doors and windows.
If you are going away for the holiday, let a neighbor know that your home will not be occupied and have someone pick up your mail and newspapers.
Used time lights to give the appearance that someone is at home.
After the holidays, be sure to break down card boards boxes from gifts for recycling so that a potential burglar does not know your home has a new computer, TV, video game system, etc.

Keep these safety tips in mind to help ensure that everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.

Community Bulletin Board

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 17:48:00 +0000

Dear Friends,

I just wanted to pass along some important information that will likely impact you in the days and months ahead. As I receive these sorts of announcements from government agencies, I will be sure to pass them along to you as soon as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My email address is councilmember.navarro@montgomerycountymd.gov and my phone number is (240) 777-7968.

Thanks,

Councilmember Nancy Navarro

District 4

SHA TO REMOVE ICC ACCESS AT NORBECK ROAD

On or about Friday morning, November 11, 2011 at 5 a.m., the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) will restrict access from the Intercounty Connector (ICC) to Norbeck Road/MD 28. Both the temporary ramp from eastbound MD 200/ICC and the traffic signal will be removed to allow for construction of permanent sidewalk and a new bike path along Norbeck Road and over the newly constructed Norbeck Road bridge.

In preparation for the temporary ramp closure, crews will establish a flagging operation on Norbeck Road between Bailey's Lane and Wintergate Drive on Thursday, November 10 from 7 p.m. until Friday, November 11 at 5 a.m. All work is weather permitting. Motorists should prepare and plan for extended travel time in this area after the traffic shift takes place.

When completed Friday morning, traffic will be shifted to the permanent lane configuration. Eastbound and westbound Norbeck Road will revert back to a single-lane operation between Baileys Lane and Wintergate Drive. All traffic on the ICC will exit at Georgia Avenue/MD 97. Westbound Norbeck Road traffic will continue to be directed to use the Georgia Avenue/ICC interchange for access to westbound ICC/MD 200.

During the phase beginning Nov. 11, the eastbound ICC will terminate at the Georgia Avenue/MD 97 interchange until SHA opens the 11-mile segment of the ICC between MD 97 and I-95 by 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011. With this opening, the ICC will connect Montgomery and Prince George's counties from I-270/I-370 at Shady Grove to I-95 south of Laurel.

For more information about the project, please call the ICC Community Outreach Staff at 1-866-462-0020, or visit the ICC project web site at iccproject.com.

Plan NOW for New Montgomery County Carryout Bag Law Effective January 1, 2012

Under the new carryout bag law, all retail establishments in the County that sell goods and provide their customers with a bag (either paper or plastic) to carry out purchases will be required to charge 5-cents per bag beginning January 1, 2012.

Both residents and retailers can help prepare and inform themselves about the law by visiting www.montgomerycountymd.gov/bag. There are fact sheets and FAQs for retailers and residents, a schedule for upcoming free webinars for retailers that will be held through late January, and a copy of the law.

Pepco and the Arbor Day Foundation Launch Energy-Saving Project

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:24:00 +0000

Pilot Program to Provide 3,000 Free Trees to Customers

WASHINGTON – Pepco, in cooperation with the Arbor Day Foundation, is providing 3,000 free trees to Pepco customers in the Washington, D.C., area. The cooperative effort launches the Arbor Day Foundation’s pilot energy efficiency program called Energy-Saving Trees aimed at helping conserve energy through strategic tree planting.

The trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, with 1,000 trees reserved for District of Columbia customers, 1,000 trees for Montgomery County, Md., customers, and 1,000 trees for Prince George’s County, Md., customers.

Pepco customers can reserve up to two free trees at www.arborday.org/pepco from September 26 to November 12, 2011. The free-tree distribution is being handled through the Arbor Day Foundation. In return for the free trees, customers agree to plant them in a recommended location on their property and care for them. The planting location will be recommended based on its potential to create shade as the tree grows in height to reduce energy consumption.

To ensure that customers are planting the right trees in the most strategic location, the Energy-Saving Trees program uses an online tool. Customers can map their houses, select a tree with energy-saving potential, learn the best energy-saving and safe locations to plant, and receive an estimate of the annual savings that may result when the tree grows. When a Pepco customer reserves trees, the two- to four-foot trees will be delivered directly to the customer for planting in the location identified online at the best time for planting this fall.

Along with the estimated future energy savings, the online tool also provides estimates of other community benefits that trees provide, including air quality improvements, storm-water reduction, and carbon sequestration.

“Pepco is honored to cooperate with the Arbor Day Foundation to provide 3,000 free trees to our customers,” says Thomas Graham, President, Pepco Region. “As a company that consistently has been recognized as a Tree Line USA utility by the Arbor Day Foundation for our quality tree care, annual worker training in quality tree care practices and our tree planting and public education program, we welcome the opportunity to provide power-line friendly trees that not only beautify our environment, but also provide the potential for our customers to save energy and money.”

Customers are reminded to call 811 before they dig to avoid hitting underground utilities.

About Energy-Saving Trees:
Energy-Saving Trees is a new energy-efficiency program from the Arbor Day Foundation that expands their effort to work with utility companies across the nation. Currently the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Line USA program recognizes 146 public and private utility companies that demonstrate practices that protect and enhance America’s urban forests. Energy-Saving Trees provides utilities and communities with a turn-key energy-efficiency program using strategic tree planting around homes and buildings. Learn more about Energy-Saving Trees at arborday.org/energysavingtrees.

About The Arbor Day Foundation:
The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization with a mission of inspiring people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. More information about the Foundation and its conservation programs can be found at www.arborday.org

Pepco News Release 9/26/11

Colesville Patch Story

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 19:37:00 +0000

Check out the Colesville Patch story about Castle Boulevard Getting A Pedestrian Safety Makeover:

http://colesville.patch.com/articles/castle-boulevard-gets-a-pedestrian-safety-makeover#photo-7864893

Councilmember Nancy Navarro’s Statement on Castle Boulevard Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Improvements

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:42:00 +0000

District 4 Councilmember Also Addresses Other

Quality of Life Measures for East County Residents

ROCKVILLE, Md., Sept. 21, 2011—Montgomery County Councilmember Nancy Navarro today joined Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett, other officials and local residents to celebrate the completion of pedestrian and traffic safety improvements along Castle Boulevard. The improvements were installed by the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT).

Councilmember Navarro, who represents District 4 that includes the eastern portion of the County, had requested that MCDOT consider measures to increase safety as nine crashes occurred along Castle Boulevard in the last three years, including two collisions involving pedestrians. A speed study indicated that the majority of cars on the road were traveling nine miles per hour over the posted speed limit of 30 miles per hour.

Councilmember Navarro today not only addressed the importance of the Castle Boulevard safety improvements, she also talked about other measures that affect the quality of life of residents in the eastern portion of the County. The full text of her statement:

We have some wonderful neighborhoods in the East County, but we also have some profound needs. This part of the County has faced numerous challenges for many years. Since I was elected in 2009, I have made improving the quality of life in this community a priority.

Every resident in Montgomery County deserves to feel safe where they live. Today, I am pleased to present these pedestrian safety and traffic calming tools on Castle Boulevard in the Briggs Chaney area. All parents should feel confident that their children are safe from speeding cars when walking to and from school.

While these are important pedestrian safety measures, we must do much more to improve the overall quality of life in this area. We need jobs and economic development. We need increased access to public transportation. And we must increase the number of police officers on patrol to keep residents in Briggs Chaney safe. For too long, this area has been impacted by high levels of crime. This must change.

Even in the most challenging economic times, we were able to increase the police budget and boost the number of officers on the street. I have and will continue to urge Police Chief Manger to immediately step up the number of police officers assigned to the Briggs Chaney area. I have been assured by the Police Department that the full staffing enhancement for the area will be complete by the spring. I look forward to working with the chief and County Executive Leggett to make that happen.

Finally, I would be remiss if I did not recognize the ongoing programming targeting youth and the broader community. Working with County Executive Leggett and Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), we have set up the tremendously successful Teen Escape Club at the East County Community Center, which provides kids a safe and fun place to go. The Briggs Chaney farmers market is a great source of pride for this community and I am pleased that this tradition has persisted. The community involvement project by IMPACT Silver Spring, in partnership with the satellite police station and MCPS, has been a productive and meaningful collaboration that will continue strengthening our community.

I will continue working with the County Executive and the Council to provide the quality of life this community deserves.

Pepco Press Release: Hurricane Irene

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:07:00 +0000

Pepco Monitors Hurricane Irene, Prepares to Restore Service
Outages Could be Widespread; Restoration Could be Multi-Day Event
Utility Requests 600 Mutual Assistance Crews; 150 Already are on Site
Customers Urged to Prepare

WASHINGTON - Pepco is closely monitoring the approach of Hurricane Irene, which could strike the Pepco service territory early Saturday. Weather services are predicting that the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area will experience heavy rain and high winds over a sustained period this weekend, which could cause widespread and extended power outages. The subsequent restoration could be a multi-day event. Pepco has initiated its Incident Response Plan and is strongly urging customers to prepare for the possibility of outages.
"Pepco understands that reliable electrical supply is critical to the everyday lives of customers, and as a result, Pepco has been proactively preparing to restore service as quickly and safely as possible if our area experiences outages from Hurricane Irene," said Thomas H. Graham, Pepco Region President. "This storm has the potential to cause extensive power outages that could require crews to work around the clock for multiple days to restore service. This is an all-hands event and every employee will assume a second job to support restoration efforts. I urge customers to prepare for possible extended outages."

Pepco Mobilizes Crews and Staff
In anticipation of the storm, Pepco and its parent company, Pepco Holdings, Inc. began aggressively planning and preparing for the storm on Monday. Early on, the company requested the assistance of 600 personnel from other utilities; 150 from First Energy in Ohio already have arrived in the Washington area. These crews will be deployed depending on the location of the greatest damage. Pepco is keeping on call 340 utility contractors who already are working on the system and has secured 330 tree crews from Asplundh. Pepco's line crews are prepared to work extended hours and the company has alerted additional staff to provide support services, including
customer service staff.
Pepco is continuing to participate on Mid-Atlantic Mutual Assistance and Southeastern Electric Exchange conference calls with other utilities to request additional field crew assistance as needed. The company has been in contact with state and local emergency management agencies to ensure a coordinated community response.
Depending on the severity of the storm, damage to Pepco's electrical infrastructure could be extensive and power restoration could be a multiple-day event. After severe storms, assessing damage and estimating when customers will be restored could take up to 24 hours after the heart of the storm has moved from the area. Crews are deployed to restore service
only when weather conditions become safe.

Customers Urged to Prepare and Be Safe
Pepco urges its customers to prepare for potential power outages and act to ensure their safety. Here are some tips:
Preparation Tips
* Have adequate prescription medicines or infant supplies on hand.
* If you or someone you know uses life-support equipment that
requires electricity to operate, identify a location with emergency power capabilities and make plans to go there or to a hospital during a prolonged outage.
* Assemble an emergency "storm kit." Include a battery-powered radio
or television, flashlight, a first-aid kit, battery-powered or windup clock, extra batteries, special needs items, an insulated cooler and a list of important and emergency phone numbers.
* Keep at least a three-day supply of non-perishable foods and
bottled water and have a hand-operated can opener available.
* Have a telephone with a cord or cell phone to use as a backup.
Cordless telephones require electricity to operate, and won't work if there is an outage.
* Protect your electronic equipment. Unplug sensitive electronics or
plug computers and other sensitive equipment into surge suppressors, and consider a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) for temporary battery backup power.
* Turn off power to flood-prone basement appliances if it is safe to
do so. However, if you have an electrically operated sump pump, you should not turn off your power.

Safety Tips
* Tune in to local news broadcasts for the latest weather and
emergency information.
* Follow the advice of your local emergency management officials.
* Take cover if necessary.
* Stay away from downed wires.
* Call 1-877-PEPCO-62 (1-877-737-2662) and press "2" to report a
downed wire.
* To report an outage, call 1-877-PEPCO-62 (1-877-737-2662) and press
"1" for the automated system.
Additional information may be found at www.pepco.com .

Pepco, a subsidiary of Pepco Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: POM), delivers safe, reliable and affordable electric service to more than 778,000 customers in Maryland and the District of Columbia.

####

Approved ZTA to Preserve Aspin Hill Memorial Park

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 15:56:00 +0000

County Council Approves ZTA That

Will Help Preserve Aspin Hill Memorial Park

Unanimous Vote to Regarding Historic Resource Sites

Could Lead Productive Use of Neglected Pet Cemetery

ROCKVILLE, Md., July 19, 2011—The Montgomery County Council today unanimously approved Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 11-02 that would enhance the economic viability of historic resources by allowing historic properties to revert to their historic uses. Councilmember Nancy Navarro sponsored the ZTA, which could lead to productive commercial use of the grounds of the Aspin [EDITOR’S NOTE: THAT IS THE CORRECT SPELLING OF THE PARK] Hill Memorial Park, a pet cemetery whose facilities have fallen into neglect.

ZTA 11-02 will increase the land use options for historic buildings by allowing historic uses on the site without regard to the land uses allowed by its current zoning. Vacant historic structures are generally deemed detrimental to the historic resource and to the surrounding community. Without ZTA 11-02, historic structures not in their historic use for more than 6 months use may not be re-established those uses.

ZTA 11-02 addresses the problem the County has encountered of keeping historic properties in productive use. There are approximately 430 individual properties in the Master Plan for Historic Preservation. The situation at the Aspin Hill Memorial Park illustrated the need for the ZTA.

The historic buildings on the grounds of the pet cemetery were once used for offices, educational programs and animal care. The ZTA will now allow possible commercial uses of the property that will lead to money that will help raise the funds necessary to support the property.

The Aspin Hill Memorial Park is now owned and operated by the Montgomery County Humane Society. It is located at 13630 Georgia Ave. Possible uses associated with operation of the cemetery will now be possible, such as uses of offices, kennels for boarding of animals, space for outreach and education for the care and protection of animals, a veterinary clinic or a crematory.

"This ZTA solves a long-standing problem in the Aspen Hill community and will ensure that the hundreds of historic properties in the County can continue to function as assets in their community," said Councilmember Navarro. "I am grateful to the Montgomery County Humane Society for working with the surrounding community and the Aspen Hill Civic Association to resolve this issue."

COUNCIL MEMBERS HOST RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY AT THE BCG FARMERS’ MARKET

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 18:15:00 +0000

Briggs Chaney-Green Castle Farmers' and Artisans’ Market to hold Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Montgomery County Council members this Saturday

July 2, 2011

For Immediate Release Contact: Gigi Goin (301) 792-9448
Email: bcgfarmersmarket@gmail.com

June 28, 2011- Silver Spring, MD- A ribbon cutting celebrating the opening of the new Briggs Chaney-Greencastle Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market will take place Saturday July 2, 2011 at 11am at 3300 Briggs Chaney Road in Silver Spring, MD. Council members George L. Leventhal (D-At Large), Hans Riemer (D-At Large) and Nancy Navarro (D-Dist 4) along with BCG Market organizers will be participating in the ribbon cutting.

Mercedes Benz of Silver Spring, a sponsor of the Market, will also have a car on the market floor. Mercedes Benz is sponsoring the seasonal signage of the market.

Chess classes by master coach Tai Campbell will be featured in the BCG Kids Tent starting at 10:30 am. Campbell will teach children and adults basic and advanced chess strategies and tactics. Live music. Our fundraising raffle will be drawn at 2pm. Visitors at the market can win prizes such as a Basket of Market Goodies, shop for fresh produce, pasture raised meats, fresh-baked bread, organic free-range eggs, fashion accessories, hand-made art, jewelry, crafts and more.

The Briggs Chaney- Greencastle Farmers’ and Artisans' Market is located just opposite of the new Mercedes Benz showroom on the parking lot of the Briggs Chaney Park-n-Ride at 3300 Briggs Chaney Road in Silver Spring. It is a grower/producer and fair trade market open Saturdays from 10am to 2pm from May 14 to November 19, 2011.

More information can be found on our website: www.bcgmarket.wordpress.com/

Montgomery Council Seeks Applicants for 2 Positions on County Board of Appeals

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 13:54:00 +0000

FOR INFORMATION: Linda Lauer 240-777-7979

Montgomery Council Seeks Applicants for 2 Positions on County Board of Appeals

Deadline to Submit Applications is Wednesday, Sept. 7

ROCKVILLE, Md., June 15, 2011—The Montgomery County Council is seeking applicants for two four-year terms on the County Board of Appeals. The terms of Stan Boyd (Democrat) and David Perdue (declined to affiliate) expire in September 2011, and both are eligible for reappointment. Mr. Boyd has indicated that he will apply for reappointment.

Applications for the position must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 7.

By law, no more than three members of the board shall be from the same political party. These positions can be filled by a Democrat, a Republican, a voter who declines to affiliate with a party or a voter who is a member of another party officially recognized by the Board of Elections.

Current members of the board include Chair Catherine Titus (Republican), Walter S. Booth (Democrat), Stan Boyd (Democrat), David K. Perdue (declined to affiliate) and Carolyn Shawaker (Democrat). Because of the requirement that no more than three members be from the same political party, the Council cannot appoint two Democrats. Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time.

Members of the Board receive $14,440 annually, with the chair receiving $20,408. Salaries are adjusted annually each December to reflect 50 percent of the change in the Washington Area Consumer Price Index.

Duties of the Board of Appeals include making decisions on most applications for special exceptions as provided in the Zoning Ordinance; hearing and deciding requests for variances from development standards contained in the Zoning Ordinance; and hearing appeals from certain administrative decisions rendered by county government agencies.

The board normally holds weekly hearings all day Wednesday and worksessions every other week. If necessary to accommodate an extended caseload or continued hearings, the board schedules hearings on other weekdays. Members are expected to prepare for the hearings by reading the cases to be heard and to share the workload of drafting and editing opinions or to follow-up on investigations on specific cases. Members work approximately 15-25 hours a week.

The principal jurisdiction of the Board of Appeals (concerning special exceptions and variances under the Zoning Ordinance) does not include the municipalities of Barnesville, Brookeville, Gaithersburg, Laytonsville, Poolesville, Rockville and Washington Grove. The normal Council practice is not to appoint residents of those municipalities to the Board.

Letters expressing interest, including a resume listing professional and civic experience, should be addressed to Council President Valerie Ervin, County Council Office, Stella B. Werner Council Office Building, 100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, Maryland 20850. Applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2011. It is the Council’s policy not to consider applications received after the deadline. After the Sept. 7 deadline, Councilmembers will review the letters of application and select applicants for interviews.

Letters of application are made public as part of the appointment process. The names of all applicants are published and resumes are made available for public review. Interviews are open to the public. A financial statement of assets, debts, income and family property interests will be required of all applicants. Only the appointed candidates will be required to make the financial statement available to the public.

2011 DC Caribbean Film Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Mon, 23 May 2011 19:30:00 +0000

June 3rd - 6th, 2011

In recognition of Caribbean Heritage Month in June, AFI Silver is proud to once again host screenings of the DC Caribbean Filmfest, now in its 11th year.

The festival is co-presented with Caribbean Association of World Bank and IMF Staff (CAWI), Caribbean Professional Network (CPN), Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) and TransAfrica Forum.

For more information and movie dates please visit: http://www.afi.com/silver/new/nowplaying/2011/v8i2/caribbean11.aspx

Congressional Forum on Consumer Financial Protection

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Tue, 10 May 2011 19:05:00 +0000

Congressman Chris Van Hollen

Invites You To His Forum

Your Money Matters:

Financial Consumer Protection

For Today’s Economy

With Special Guest

Professor Elizabeth Warren

Assistant to the President and Special Advisor to the Secretary of the Treasury on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Held in Cooperation with

The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection

Tuesday, May 17, 2011, 7 – 9 p.m.

Silver Spring Civic Center

Talk to experts, gather information and learn more about:

Mail fraud * Check fraud * Lotteries and sweepstake scams

Cell phone billing practices * Investment scams * Foreclosure prevention

Housing rescue scams * New rules for credit cards and ATM cards

Credit reports and scores * Identity theft * Reverse mortgages * Buying insurance * Safe computing issues, spam, firewalls, spyware/malware * Tips to help keep kids safe online * Medicare fraud * Long-term care issues *

Benefit advice for veterans and Social Security recipients * And more.

When: Tuesday, May 17, 2011 Where: Silver Spring Civic Center

7:00 – 9:00 p.m. One Veterans Plaza, corner of Fenton St. and Ellsworth Dr.

Silver Spring, Maryland 20910

Questions: Please call (301) 424-3501

If you need special accommodations, please call 301-424-3501. Parking is available at the In-Town Garage, 801 Ellsworth Dr., across the street from the Center.

Youth Cafe Open!!

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 19:44:00 +0000

‘Youth Cafe' lures students with a positive option in county's high-crime area

by Jeanette Der Bedrosian
Staff Writer-Washington Post
April 20,2011

East County teens now have a place to escape from their routines and into art, music and games — at least for now.

Friday marked the first-ever Teen Escape Club Youth Cafe, the product of Councilmember Nancy Navarro's work with her Youth Advisory Group. Navarro secured a $10,000 county grant to fund three youth cafes, and she is working to make the teen escapes a permanent fixture in the Briggs Chaney area.

The youth cafe is a hangout staged at the East County Community Center in the Briggs Chaney area of Silver Spring, the county's No. 1 crime hot spot, Navarro said. Teens from Blake, Paint Branch and Springbrook high schools can drop in to participate in art contests, music jam sessions and video game competitions, or they can just munch on free snacks.

The idea came from Navarro's Youth Advisory Group, a group of teens who wanted a safe, inexpensive place to interact with their peers outside of school.

"This is an effort to begin to do things that are preventive and proactive," said Navarro (D-Dist. 4). "It's not all about enforcement. I'm really pleased we can take a balanced approach to community building in that particular area of the county."

Navarro said she pushed to secure $10,000 out of a $40,000 county grant given to youth nonprofit IMPACT Silver Spring for the East County project. That amount will fund a total of three programs by July 1.
She included $15,000 for the youth cafe on the upcoming fiscal year's reconciliation list, or a list of programs that are not currently funded but might be saved. It's too late to apply for grant funding for the upcoming fiscal year, she said.

The program is supervised by the Department of Recreation, which helped decide what activities would be at each cafe.

"Teens like to hang out with their friends and be around technology," said Portia Scott, a recreation specialist within the department. "They really like free time and expressing themselves. We got an overwhelming response about being able to express themselves artistically, whether it be music or drawing or painting."

So at the first event, staged from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, teens were able to participate in an art competition called "So You Think You Can Draw?" with a grand prize of $100. The top-rated artists also will be invited to paint a mural in the community center's game room, making it more teen-friendly.

Scott said the recreation department also is looking into the possibility of hosting art classes or disk jockeying classes.

Gabe Albornoz, the director of the Department of Recreation, said the hangouts may seem informal, but they're providing an important safe space that gives teens a positive outlet.

"We're hoping to create a safe but fun and engaging environment for youth in the eastern part of the county, where they can enjoy their time together but do it in a way that's safe and supervised," he said.

jderbedrosian@gazette.net

Latino Youth Collaborative Steering Committee Final Report

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:29:00 +0000

Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett joined members of the Latino Youth Collaborative Steering Committee to release its final report recommending strategies and action steps for addressing the educational, violence prevention and well-being needs of County Latino youth and their families. Leggett also announced the creation of an Oversight Work Group to monitor progress in the implementation of the report’s recommendations. Pictured above (left to right) are: County Council member Nancy Navarro; Leggett; Ivan Echeverry, youth representative; and Diego Uriburu, Identity, Inc.

Click here fore the Report: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/home/pdf/lyc_report.pdf

Yom HaShoah commemoration and Dor L'Dor youth program in Maryland

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 20:38:00 +0000

Yom Ha'Shoah Holocaust Remembrance Day

Community-Wide Memorial Observance

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Congregation B'nai Tzedek

10621 South Glen Road, Potomac MD

4:00-5:00pm
Dor L’ Dor Youth Program
An opportunity for teenagers to meet in small groups and hear and discuss personal histories from local Holocaust survivors
For more information click here: http://jcrc.convio.net/site/DocServer/Dor_L_dor_Flyer.pdf?docID=5601

4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Unto Every Person There Is A Name
an annual worldwide community name reading of B’nai Brith International
Names may be brought to the service or submitted in advance by clicking here: http://jcrc.convio.net/site/Survey?ACTION_REQUIRED=URI_ACTION_USER_REQUESTS&SURVEY_ID=6100 by April 25, 2011

5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

Community Commemoration
A community-wide remembrance of the victims, survivors, and heroes of the Holocaust including
a multi-generational memorial candle lighting, Kaddish, reflection, music and poetry
Keynote speaker Nathan Lewin, Sugihara survivor and community leader
For More information click here: http://jcrc.convio.net/site/DocServer/Main_flyer.pdf?docID=5621

In cooperation with B’nai B’rith Chesapeake Bay Region, Congregation B’nai Tzedek, Grandchildren of Holocaust Survivors, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, Jewish Holocaust Survivors and Friends of Greater Washington, Kindertransport, One Thousand Children, Survivors of the Holocaust - the Last Generation, The Generation After & Washington Board of Rabbis

For more information contact the JCRC at 301-770-0881
and to learn about our Virginia Yom Ha'Shoah Commemoration call 703-893-4007

We request that you RSVP , but everyone who wishes to commemorate the Holocaust will be welcome.

Visit this website to RSVP: http://jcrc.convio.net/site/Calendar/1519130505?view=Detail&id=104181

Capital Improvements Program Public Forum

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 14:29:00 +0000

NOTICE

THE MARYLAND-NATIONAL CAPITAL PARK AND PLANNING COMMISSION

A CHANCE LIKE THIS ONLY HAPPENS ONCE EVERY 2 YEARS!

Joint Public Forum on THE Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for Parks and Recreation

The Montgomery County Planning Board and the Montgomery County Recreation Advisory Boards are accepting public input on future capital improvement projects (CIP) for parks and recreation facilities for fiscal years 2013-2018. The CIP for the Department of Parks includes proposals for parkland acquisition, renovation of older park facilities, and new park development. The Recreation Department’s CIP includes proposals for construction and renovation of community/recreation centers and aquatic facilities.

Recent Department of Parks accomplishments from the current CIP include extension of the Black Hill Trail, construction of the Rock Creek Trail Pedestrian Bridge, construction of Woodside Skatespot, and the renovation of many playgrounds, tennis courts, and ballfields . To check out information on recently completed CIP projects and projects in progress, go to www.parkprojects.org, and click on Capital Improvement Program Projects.

Current Recreation Department projects in the County’s CIP include the MidCounty Community Recreation Center, development of the White Oak Community Recreation Center, and renovation of the Plum Gar & Scotland Neighborhood Recreation Centers.

Sign up to speak during this public forum by 4:00 pm, Tuesday, April 5., Call 301-495- 4600, or sign-up on-line at: http://www.montgomeryapps.org/planning_board/testify.asp The forum is limited to 35 speakers; however, written comments may be submitted to Montgomery County Planning Board Chair Françoise Carrier at 8787 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20910 or mcp-chair@mncppc-mc.org by Thursday, April 7.

WHO: Montgomery County Planning Board/ Department of Parks
Montgomery County Recreation Advisory Boards/ Department of Recreation

WHAT: Joint Public Forum for the Proposed FY 13-16 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) Budget

WHEN: Thursday, April 7, 2011, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

WHERE: Montgomery Regional Office Auditorium
8787 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring

Help with Spring Cleanup

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:51:00 +0000

On Saturday, March 19 we need your help with a spring cleanup of the museum grounds, including all the twigs and sticks that fell during the winter storms. We'll be working from 9 AM - 12 PM and request able bodied teens and adults with gloves, rakes and wheel barrows.

This is a great opportunity for Student Service Learning hours!

If you can help us out, please email dbush@sandyspringmuseum.org

Thank you!!!

Sandy Spring Museum

17901 Bentley Road

Sandy Spring, MD 20860

www.sandyspringmuseum.org

301-774-0022

Apply Now for the Planning Board

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 15:26:00 +0000

The Montgomery County Council is seeking applicants to fill two vacancies on the Montgomery County Planning Board. The terms of Norman Dreyfuss (Republican) and Joseph Alfandre (Democrat) expire on June 14, 2011.

Letters expressing interest, including a resume listing professional and civic experience, political party affiliation, home and office telephone numbers and an e-mail address, must be received no later than 5 p.m., Wednesday, April 27.

No more than three members of the Planning Board may be from the same political party, and all members must be residents and registered voters of Montgomery County when appointed. Members serve four-year terms and are limited to two full terms. The positions can be filled by a Democrat; a Republican; a voter who declines to affiliate with a party; or by a member of another party officially recognized by the Montgomery County Board of Elections. In addition to Mr. Alfandre and Mr. Dreyfuss, the current board members are Chairman Francoise Carrier (D); Amy Presley (R) and Mary Wells-Harley (D). Annual compensation for board members is currently $30,000.

The Planning Board serves as the Council’s principal adviser on land use planning and community planning. Planning Board members also serve as Commissioners of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission.

The Planning Board’s responsibilities with regard to planning include preparation and amendment of County General Plan; preparation and amendment of Master Plans and functional plans; formulation of subdivision regulations; preparation of or recommendations on text amendments to the County Zoning Ordinance; implementation of the subdivision process by reviewing and approving all preliminary plans, site plans and other plans for development; advice on the planning implication of capital facilities and programs of the County government, Montgomery College, the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission and Montgomery County Public Schools; commenting, under its Mandatory Referral authority, on plans for public facilities of local, state and federal agencies; and approval of the work program and the annual operating budget for the Planning Department and the commission’s bi-county offices.

The Planning Board sits as the Park Commission and approves the annual Parks Department operating budget and Capital Improvements Program (CIP) budget; land acquisition contracts and major development contracts for parks; development plans for individual park facilities; policies for park operations; and park user fees.

The Montgomery County Planning Board meets all day every Thursday and often meets on one other evening a week. The entire Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission meets the third Wednesday of every month. On average, a Planning Board member can expect to spend at least two full days a week in scheduled and informal meetings. Additionally, substantial time is required for preparatory work and other activities related to Planning Board responsibilities.

Letters expressing interest, including a resume listing professional and civic experience, political party affiliation, home and office telephone numbers and an e-mail address, should be addressed to: Council President Valerie Ervin, County Council Office, 100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, Md., 20850, or can be e-mailed to county.council@montgomerycountymd.gov. Letters must be received no later than 5 p.m., Wednesday, April 27. It is the Council’s policy not to consider applications received after the deadline. After the closing date, Councilmembers will review the letters of application and select applicants for interviews to be held in May.

Letters of application are made public as part of the appointment process. The names of all applicants are published and available for public review and interviews are conducted in public. A financial statement of assets, debts, income and family property interests will be required of all applicants. Only the candidates appointed will be required to make their financial statements available to the public.

2011 - Alfandre and Dreyfuss terms

Application and Appointment Process Schedule

Deadline for Applications

5:00 PM, Wednesday, April 27

Processing and Copying of Applications

April 27-29

List of Applicants Finalized and Submitted to Council*

April 29, 2011

Council Review of Applications

April 29-May 5

Interview List Finalized

(Applicants selected by at least 3 Councilmembers will be interviewed.)

May 6

Interviews by Council

May 24, 2011 at 9:30 am (6CCR)

Appointment**

June 14, 2011

* The applicant list shall be open to the public at all times and shall be completed at least 3 weeks before appointment or reappointment.

** Within 3 days of the appointment by the County Council, the name of the appointee shall be delivered to the County Executive who shall within 30 days after the appointment either approve or disapprove the appointment. (An appointment that is not disapproved by the CE as described above is deemed to be approved.)

National Consumer Protection Week

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 20:12:00 +0000

Montgomery County’s Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) has joined a group of federal, state and local government agencies and other national consumer advocacy organizations to celebrate the 13th annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 6 – 12. During NCPW, organizations share tips and information that help consumers protect their privacy, manage money and debt and avoid identity theft, frauds and scams. This year, we will host a free seminar on Wednesday, March 9 from noon to 2 p.m., titled, “Recovering from the Recession.” Guest speakers will discuss building/rebuilding credit and managing debts, as well as issues affecting seniors. The seminar will be held at the Rockville Memorial Library 2nd floor conference room, 21 Maryland Ave., Rockville. Pre-registration for the seminar is recommended as space is limited. Free tote bags will be given to the first 25 attendees. Register by calling 240-777-3764 or email consumerprotection@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Office of the Consumer Protection will also be answering consumer questions online throughout the week. Questions may be sent to consumerprotection@montgomerycountymd.gov. Include “NCPW” in the subject line. Answers will be posted on the Consumer Protection website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/consumer.

Office of Consumer Protection investigates complaints involving automotive sales and repairs, new home purchases, home improvements, credit issues, retail sales, internet services and most other consumer transactions and also provides pre-purchase information to consumers and speakers to the community on consumer issues. For more information and to check any merchant’s complaint record, call 240-777-3636 or visit OCP’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/consumer.

5th Annual Let’s Get It Started! Montgomery County Youth Job Fair

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:43:00 +0000

Is Your Business Looking …

To hire motivated youth ages 16-21 for seasonal or permanent work?

For an environment that simplifies your recruitment process and allows you to reach youth considering careers in your field or industry?

If you answered YES to any of the above, then join us for the

5th Annual Let’s Get It Started!
Montgomery County’s Youth Job Fair

Saturday, March 26, 2011
10:00 am-2:00 pm
Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza
One Veterans Place, Silver Spring, Maryland

Sponsored by the County’s Workforce Investment Board's Youth Council, the Montgomery County Department of Economic Development, and the Maryland Multicultural Youth Center, Let’s Get It Started will provide employers with an opportunity to conduct on-site interviews and offer information to youth ages 16-21 about jobs and career tracks in their industry and/or business. This is a great opportunity for businesses looking for seasonal or permanent workers.

Last year's event drew some 800 youth and nearly 40 employers - with some 375 youth hired in seasonal or permanent jobs!

For more information, call 301-495-0441, ext. 225 or 240-777-2039 today!

Annual Congressional Art Competition

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:22:00 +0000

High school artists who live or attend school in the 8th Congressional District are invited to submit work for the 30th annual Congressional Art Competition, sponsored by Congressman Van Hollen.

The winning entry will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year and runners-up will be displayed in Congressman Van Hollen’s congressional offices. A juried exhibition of approximately 90 pieces of the submitted artwork will be on display at VisArts at Rockville from April 6 – May 4, 2011. VisArts is located at 155 Gibbs Street in Rockville.

To participate, students must complete and submit an entry form, which they can get by going to www.vanhollen.house.gov or by calling 301-424-3501. Entry forms need to be signed by the student, a parent or guardian, and a faculty member and faxed to the Congressman’s office at 301-424-5992 or emailed to Karen.McManus@mail.house.gov by Friday, March 25, 2011.

Artwork may be delivered to VisArts either on Friday, April 1st between 2:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. or Saturday, April 2nd between 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

Congressman Van Hollen will host an Arts Celebration and Awards Reception to showcase the exhibit, honor all participants and announce awards at VisArts on Monday, April 11, 2011 from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Karen McManus in the Van Hollen office at 301-424-3501 or at Karen.McManus@mail.house.gov, or Linda Pepper, Congressional Art Competition coordinator, at 301-657-8650 or at pepper461@aol.com.

Coats for Kids!

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 21:08:00 +0000

The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) will collect “Coats 4 Kids!” beginning January 11th to January 25th, 8:30am – 5pm!

YAC will collect new or gently used winter-wear items to donate to needy children attending a local elementary school in our community. Many of our children do not wear proper winter apparel as they travel to and from school! Together, we can make a difference in their lives! Help us help elementary students keep warm this winter. Donate new or gently used coats, scarves, hats, gloves, and other winter apparel for students in grades K‐5. Drop off the clothing between January 11, 2011 to January 25, 2011at any of the five locations:

Counseling office of Paint Branch High School
ounseling office of Springbrook High School
Marilyn J. Praisner Recreation Center
East County Recreation Center(3310 Gateshead Manor Way, Silver Spring, MD 20904)
East County Regional Services Center(3300 Briggs Chaney Road Silver Spring, MD 20904)

For more information contact Joy Nurmi at Joy.Nurmi@montgomerycountymd.gov or 240‐777‐8411

Bill Providing Equal Benefits to Same Sex Domestic Partners of Employees of County Contractors Becomes Law

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:31:00 +0000

Councilmember Navarro Was Chief Sponsor of Legislation Applying to Employees Working on Certain County Contracts

ROCKVILLE, Md., December 30, 2010 An equal benefits bill that will extend to employees of many contractors and subcontractors performing work for Montgomery County a benefit already granted to County employees will become law on Jan. 1. District 4 Councilmember Nancy Navarro was the chief sponsor of Bill 37-09, which was unanimously approved by the Council in February and also had the support of County Executive Isiah Leggett.

The County has a longstanding policy, in law and practice, against employment discrimination based on sexual orientation. Montgomery County already grants equal benefits to a same sex domestic partner of a County employee that are offered to an employee s spouse, through Bill 29-99, effective March 3, 2000. Bill 37-09 extends this law to many employees of County contractors and subcontractors.

The legislation extends equal benefits to a same-sex domestic partner of a covered employee in a domestic partnership recognized under a marriage license or civil union granted out of state or as defined in the new law. The legislation only covers employees who perform work for the County on a contract that is currently covered by either the County s Wage Requirements Law or the recently enacted Prevailing Wage Law.

Benefits that may be extended under the legislation could include bereavement leave, family medical leave, sick leave, health benefits, dental benefits, disability insurance, life insurance and retirement benefits. Under the Equal Benefits Law, if a required benefit cannot reasonably be provided to a domestic partner, the contractor or subcontractor must pay the employee the cash equivalent.

"When it comes to civil rights, it is critical that we treat contract employees with the same respect as County employees regarding same-sex benefits for their domestic partners. This is a matter of basic fairness," said Councilmember Navarro. "Because we are a large County with a diversity of employment situations, we have people who provide services and do outstanding work over long periods of time, but who do it working as contractors instead of as County employees. This should not stop them from receiving the same benefits as their opposite-sex counterparts."

Some of the important exclusions from the bill are:

Non-construction services contracts for less than $50,000
Contractors with less than 10 employees
Contracts with government agencies or non-profit organizations
Contracts for public utility services
Emergency contracts
Bridge contracts based upon a contract awarded by another government agency
Construction contracts valued at less than $500,000 or financed by State or
Federal grants

The law defines domestic partnership as a relationship between two individuals of the same sex that has been licensed as a civil union or marriage in a jurisdiction where such a civil union is permitted. Domestic partnership is also defined as an unlicensed relationship between two individuals of the same sex who share a close personal relationship and are responsible for each other s welfare; have shared the same legal residence for at least 12 months; are at least 18 years old; have voluntarily consented to the relationship without fraud or duress; are not married to, or in a domestic partnership with any other person; are not related by blood or affinity in a way that would disqualify them from marriage under State law if the employee and partner were opposite sexes; are each legally competent to contract; share financial obligations; and legally register the domestic partnership if a domestic partnership registration system exists in the jurisdiction where the employee resides.

A contractor or subcontractor must not discharge or otherwise retaliate against an employee for asserting any right under the Equal Benefits Law, or for filing a complaint of a violation. The law provides that an aggrieved employee, as a third-party beneficiary may, by civil action, recover the cash equivalent of any benefit denied in violation of the law. The County may perform audits and investigate any complaint of a violation. In the instance of a demonstrated violation, the law provides for sanctions, including withholding payment due the contractor and liquidated damages.

The law applies to any contract awarded on or after Jan. 1, 2011, but does not apply to any renewal or extension of a contract that was originally awarded before Jan. 1, 2011. Maryland currently grants limited rights to same sex couples through legislation passed in 2008 to establish domestic partnerships in the state. According to Equality Maryland, the 2008 State laws included 11 protections for domestic partners, including hospital visitation and the making of funeral arrangements for each other. The organization said the State laws also make allowance for a domestic partner's name to be added or removed from the deed of a residence, without incurring a tax liability, as with married spouses.

Montgomery County s law granting equal benefits to County employees was upheld by the Maryland Court of Appeals in the case Tyma v. Montgomery County, 369 Md. 497 (Md. 2002).