The District 411

Wheaton Public Safety Memo

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 17:20:00 +0000

MONTGOMERY COUNTY COUNCIL

ROCKVILLE, MARYLAND

OFFICE OF COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENT

NANCY NAVARRO

MEMORANDUM

August 8, 2012

TO: Councilmembers

FROM: Council Vice President Nancy Navarro and Councilmember Hans Riemer

SUBJECT: Wheaton Public Safety Working Group

Background:

The Wheaton Public Safety Working Group is an element of the Montgomery County Council’s

efforts to revitalize Wheaton’s downtown core. While crime has reportedly decreased in

Wheaton, public perception of safety in the area remains mixed. Public safety is integral in the

overall revitalization effort and shaping attitudes concerning Wheaton’s future.

On Monday, July 9th we met with Montgomery County Chief of Police J. Thomas Manger, 4th

District Commander John Damskey, Mid-County Regional Services Center Director Ana Lopez

Van Balen and Wheaton Urban District Operations Manager Joe Callaway to discuss ways of

bringing community stakeholders together to discuss public safety in downtown Wheaton and

follow through on outstanding recommendations presented by the Wheaton Public Safety Audit

Task Force in October of 2004. The meeting started with an analysis of the 2004 Task Force

recommendations, many of which continue to be relevant today.

Scope of the Initiative:

The scope of the Wheaton Public Safety Working Group will be to study and implement ways of

improving public safety, quality of life, and perceptions of downtown Wheaton as it relates to

revitalization efforts. The Working Group will focus on the following areas:

• Review, evaluate and seek to implement outstanding recommendations from the 2004

Task Force report;

• Establish a community outreach mechanism similar to the Briggs Chaney/IDA Sector

Community Meeting model;

• Educate residents and business owners about Wheaton revitalization and redevelopment

efforts;

• Identify gaps or possible areas of improvement in current public safety services in

Wheaton;

• Develop strategies to improve perceptions about public safety in Wheaton;

• Provide recommendations, as necessary, to the County Executive and Council.

Participants for Proposed Initiative:

Membership of this Working Group will be comprised of government agencies, civic

associations, residents and business owners. Members will include:

• Representatives from the Offices of Councilmembers Navarro and Riemer;

• Mid-County Regional Services Center Director Ana Lopez van Balen;

• 4th District Police Commander John Damskey (or designee);

• A representative from the Mid-County Citizens Advisory Board, the Wheaton Urban

District Advisory Board (WUDAC), and the Wheaton Redevelopment Advisory

Committee (WRAC);

• A representative from Westfield Mall;

• A representative from the Wheaton and Kensington Chamber of Commerce;

• A representative from Montgomery County Public Schools and Parent-Teacher

Association;

• Representatives from neighborhood civic associations; and

• Wheaton business owners and residents.

Staff Support:

The Working Group will receive staff support from the Executive Branch, including the Mid-

County Regional Services Center, Wheaton Urban District, and Montgomery County Police

Department.

Conclusion:

Community oriented policing requires strong, collaborative partnerships among government,

business and residents. This initiative carries on the mission of the 2004 Public Safety Audit

Task Force to alter the existing perception that Wheaton is unsafe, while also taking into

consideration Wheaton’s ongoing revitalization—both through public and private investments.

As long-time supporters of its redevelopment effort, we believe the Public Safety Working

Group is one more way we can demonstrate Wheaton continues to be a top priority.

CC: J. Thomas Manger, Chief, Montgomery County Police Department

John Damskey, Commander, 4th District Police Station

Ana Lopez van Balen, Mid-County Regional Services Center Director

Joe Callaway, Wheaton Urban District Operations Manager

Rob Klein, Wheaton Redevelopment Program Manager

Peter McGinnity, Manager, Business Development & Intergovernmental Program

August Newsletter

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 19:47:00 +0000

Dear Friends,

If you are watching the Olympics, you might see the London 2012 motto: "Inspire a Generation."

Seeing the greatest athletes in the world compete at the highest level is certainly an inspiration. Young people across the globe are dreaming of some day being on that podium receiving a gold medal.

At the Council, we can do a little bit to give Montgomery County's youth a better chance to succeed--not just in the Olympics, but in life.

During this year's budget, I fought to pass the Families and Youth Support Enhancement Initiative because I believe all young people deserve to reach their full potential. We passed the Student/Teen Employment Program (STEP), providing young people with good jobs and important lessons during the summer. We quadrupled the number of Teen Escape Clubs in the County, giving youth an opportunity to develop their ownpositive activities in a safe setting.

We also provided funding for the Department of Recreation's Sports Academies at Wheaton, Paint Branch, Montgomery Blair and Springbrook High Schools, so we don't miss the next Michael Phelps or Hope Solo.

In next year's budget, we need to continue expanding our positive youth activities because these programs provide a chance for all of our kids to be inspired.

Thanks for reading my newsletter! As always, if my office can ever be of assistance, please call (240) 777-7968 or send us an email. You can also visit mywebsite and find me on Facebook and Twitter.

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Nancy Navarro

Council Vice President

Councilmember, District 4

SUMMER LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Since we passed the budget in May, the Council has had a full legislative agenda, with bills and zoning text amendments protecting workers' rights, the environment and public health.

Earlier this week, the Health and Human Services Committee voted 2-1 on the Displaced Worker Protection Act (Bill 19-12). The bill would make sure that when a building changes its cleaning and security contractors, the workers are given 90 days to look for a new job. This legislation will make sure working people living paycheck-to-paycheck have a chance to land on their feet when they are fired for no fault of their own. You can watch my remarks at a press conference about the Displaced Worker Protection Act here.

Last week, the Council unanimously passed Zoning Text Amendment 12-07, which will prohibit "mega gas stations" (those dispensing more than 3.6 million gallons per year) from locating within 300 feet of a school, swimming pool and other sensitive areas. This new law will keep dangerous fumes away from places our children play and protect the environment at the same time.

In the fall, the Council will consider whether to ban a dangerous substance called Coal Tar, which is used in some places to pave roads. The run-off from Coal Tar products pollutes water across the country. Bill 21-12 will stop all use of this dangerous chemical in Montgomery County. A similar measure has already been approved in the District of Columbia and the federal government is considering a nationwide ban.

STORM UPDATE

Following the June 29th derecho, the Council held a series of de-briefings about the performance of Pepco, as well as the county's emergency management response in the aftermath of the storm.

On August 7th, the Public Service Commission (the state entity responsible for regulating utilities) will hold a public hearing on the 3rd floor hearing room of the Council Office Building (100 Maryland Ave. Rockville 20850). You can find more information about the public hearing on the Public Service Commission website.

On October 8th, the Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee (GO), which I chair, will hold a meeting to discuss the response of our cable companies to the storm. It is important to realize that cable does not just provide television service anymore. With phone and internet "bundle" packages, the loss of your cable service is not just an inconvenience--it is a public safety issue. Just as we needed answers from our power utilities, we also need to understand why our cable companies did not do more to communicate with customers during the storm.

WHEATON PUBLIC SAFETY WORKING GROUP

In 2004, Montgomery County established a Wheaton Public Safety Taskforce to address a range of public safety issues in and around the Wheaton area. With the ongoing private development taking place and a $66 million public investment in Wheaton over the next few years, it is time to take another look at what we can do to make sure Wheaton continues to be a safe place to work and live.

In April, Councilmember Hans Riemer and I sent a letter to the County Executive and Police Chief Thomas Manger to start the conversation about reinstituting a similar group for Wheaton. We met with the Chief a couple of weeks ago and decided that we would develop a proposal to complete some of the unfinished work of the 2004 task force. I will provide an update on this initiative in the fall as we continue developing this proposal.

LAND USE UPDATE

One of the Council's most important responsibilities is developing land-use policy for the County. In July, the Council approved an application for new development at the Privacy World property located across the street from the Glenmont Metro Station. This proposal is set to provide up to 1,550 new residential units and 90,000 square feet of retail. Having more density near Metro is in line with our smart-growth and transit-oriented development priorities. It will also provide much-needed amenities and job opportunities in the Glenmont area. I am looking forward to continuing to revitalize Glenmont as the Planning Board begins work on the Glenmont Master Plan, scheduled for Council consideration in 2013.

On another Glenmont-related note, the Council approved the County Executive's request to relocate Fire Station #18--also known as the Glenmont Fire Station. The new location will be the old Glenmont Elementary School site, located directly across the street from the current fire station. This move is necessary because of the State Highway Administration's project creating a grade-separated interchange at Georgia Ave. and Randolph Rd.

Earlier this week, the Council established the work plan for the Planning Department, which includes an important new project that was not previously on the schedule. I moved and the Council approved a "minor master plan" for Sandy Spring, which will allow the Planning Department to develop recommendations to follow through on the Vision for Sandy Spring report that was completed in 2010. This limited master plan will implement the recommendations of the Sandy Spring Master Plan, help existing small businesses, improve transitions to existing neighborhoods, increase pedestrian connections and expand open space in the community.

As you may know, the Council's district boundaries shifted back in February. However, there are two important master plans coming up for what used to be District 4, but are now in District 5, represented by Councilmember Valerie Ervin. The Council is set to take up theBurtonsville Crossroads Neighborhood Plan this fall and the White Oak Science Gateway Master Plan next year. These two plans are vital to enhancing the quality of life in East County by providing much-needed job opportunities and amenities. While these areas are not in my district, I continue to have a very strong interest in seeing this part of our county succeed. I will work closely with Councilmember Ervin to follow through on our vision for revitalizing this area.

OLNEY LIBRARY UPDATE

The MCPL Express @ Olney housed at the Longwood Community Center will be temporarily closed from August 12^th until August 26^th because of scheduled building maintenance and cleaning. Normal operations will resume on August 27^th.

Construction of the Olney Library is underway and is on schedule to open in early Fall 2013. You can get the latest information about this renovation project by subscribing to the Olney Library Renovation Blog and checking out these construction photos.

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD

Salvadoran Festival

Governor O'Malley proclaimed August 5th as "Salvadoran-American Heritage Day in Maryland." Come celebrate at the Salvadoran-American Festival this Sunday, August 5th from noon to 6 p.m. at Wheaton Triangle (2424 Reedie Dr.). Enjoy performances by Salvadoran musical groups, crafts and delicious food.

The event will also include a Health Fair, where more than 20 health care organizations will provide free screenings for cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, osteoporosis, HIV, body mass, as well as vision and dental services. Health information about nutrition, fitness, healthy cooking, family planning and smoking cessation will also be available. You can find more information about the festival here.

Montgomery County Agricultural Fair

The 64th Annual Montgomery County Agricultural Fair will take place at the Montgomery County Fair Grounds in Gaithersburg from August 10th to 18th. This is a wonderful annual event that is fun for the whole family. Find more information on the official website.

Child Safety Seat Inspection

On Thursday, August 16th from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Fitzgerald's Auto Mall (5501 Nicholson Lane, Rockville) is offering a free check of the condition and proper installation of child safety seats by specially-trained Fitzgerald staff, Fire & Rescue personnel, and Police. Every child under eight years old must be secured in a federally-approved and correctly used child restraint system (child safety seat or booster seat) when riding in a motor vehicle, unless the child is 4' 9" or taller, or weighs more than 65 pounds. All vehicle passengers under the age of 16 must be restrained by a seat belt.

Board and Commission Vacancies

The County Executive is seeking applications to fill several County Board and Commission vacancies. There is a vacancy on the Wheaton Redevelopment Advisory Committee, which helps advise the Executive and Council on matters related to the revitalization of Wheaton. You can find more information about Executive-appointed vacancies here.

There is also a new vacancy for the County's Charter Review Commission, which is appointed by the County Council. You can learn more about the Charter Review Commission here and find out how to apply by calling Linda Lauer, Clerk of the Council, at 240-777-7979.

Spanish-speaking Election Judges Needed

The Montgomery County Board of Elections needs 12 individuals who are fluent in Spanish to serve as election judges at polling places on Election Day, Tuesday, November 6, 2012. These persons also be able to speak, read,and write English, be registered to vote in the State of Maryland, 18 years of age or older and US citizens. Montgomery County residency is not a pre-requisite to serve. All election judges are compensated for training and election day service.

Anyone interested in becoming an election judge should contact the Montgomery County Board of Elections at 240-777-8532, download an election judge questionnaire fromwww.777vote.org or e-mail Dr. Gilberto Zelaya.

FY13 Budget Remarks

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Thu, 17 May 2012 14:37:00 +0000

This week, the Maryland General Assembly passed an income tax increase that will disproportionately hit Montgomery County residents. At the same time, our County Council approved a budget that will keep property tax revenue level and cut the energy tax.

While the State is passing off its obligations to local government and tying our hands with mandates, we are investing in our children, our community and our future.

This budget is an important step toward restoring many of the services that have been cut since the Great Recession. The FY13 Operating Budget was our first opportunity since the economic downturn to strengthen our social safety net by supporting programs that help our most vulnerable residents. We restored the Working Families Income Supplement and added an energy assistance program for low income residents.

We kept our promise to enhance positive youth development programming by funding the Families and Youth Enhancement Initiative, a key step towards strengthening our communities. We are increasing staff levels for our gang prevention specialists in the Street Outreach Network and expanding the successful East County Teen Escape Club model to 4 more sites Countywide. We are also providing job opportunities and indispensable learning experiences to youth this summer through the Student/Teen Employment Program (STEP).

As chair of the Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee, I have worked side-by-side with my colleagues to maintain our County’s pristine credit rating by making fiscally responsible decisions. This budget continues to adhere to the most rigorous fiscal policies and responsible Spending Affordability Guidelines that our County has ever adopted. We were able to fully fund all negotiated agreements by our public employee unions and give our hard-working County Employees a one-time lump sum payment after years of cuts and furloughs.

In the Capital Budget, I was proud that my colleagues came together to invest more than $66 million in Wheaton’s downtown over the next six years. We accelerated the construction of Wheaton Library and Recreation Center and kept on track the renovation of Wheaton High School and Thomas Edison Technical High School. We continued essential funding for the Olney Library, which is scheduled to be completed on time. This Council has always been fully committed to our transportation priorities, which is why we added funding for key Purple Line and infrastructure projects.

I want to thank our County Executive for sending a responsible budget, Council President Berliner for his leadership, and my colleagues for their diligent work in enhancing our priorities. Finally and most importantly, I want to thank our constituents for their feedback and contributions to our great County.

Montgomery County Council Statement on Pending Deportation of Acuña Family

noreply@blogger.com (Councilmember Nancy Navarro) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:04:00 +0000

Council Seeks Intervention in Situation Involving

Montgomery College Student from Germantown and His Parents

ROCKVILLE, Md., March 12, 2012—All nine members of the Montgomery County Council today signed a statement expressing their concern about the Department of Homeland Security’s detention and pending deportation of Germantown resident Jorge Steven Acuña (age 19), his mother, Blanca, and his father, Jorge.

“We urge the White House and the Department of Homeland Security to intervene in this terrible situation,” the statement reads. “We also call on Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform to finally fix this broken system.”

The complete Montgomery County Council statement on the detention and pending deportation of the Acuña Family:

We are deeply concerned by the Department of Homeland Security’s detention and pending deportation of Germantown resident Jorge Steven Acuña (age 19) and his mother, Blanca Susana Acuña and father, Jorge Acuña.

This issue was brought to our attention because of the incredible outpouring of support and activism by students at Montgomery College. More than 4,000 people have signed a petition and joined a Facebook group in an effort to stop this unjust action by the federal government.

Jorge’s parents brought him to the United States from Colombia when he was 8 years old. He grew up in Montgomery County, was an honor student at Northwest High School, and is only a semester away from graduating from Montgomery College. His parents, in an effort to do the right thing and seek legal asylum status, were caught up in our nation’s broken immigration system and now face the prospect of deportation. The entire family is currently being held in an ICE facility on the Eastern Shore.

In a similar situation earlier this month in Florida, ICE used its prosecutorial discretion and decided to defer deportation of an 18-year-old high school valedictorian who was born in Colombia and came to the United States at 4 years old. We encourage ICE to use the same good judgment again, this time in the case of the Acuña Family.

We stand committed to working with Congressman Chris Van Hollen and Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara Mikulski to help the Acuña Family avoid deportation. The Acuña Family’s attorney has prepared an emergency stay application and the Montgomery County Council is strongly supportive of this request.

We urge the White House and the Department of Homeland Security to intervene in this terrible situation. We also call on Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform to finally fix this broken system.

For additional information:

Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/groups/300409916692389/

Change.org Petition: http://www.change.org/petitions/jsa

Twitter Hashtag: #JSA

Florida-Case:http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/07/us-usa-florida-student-dUSTRE8261KA20120307

www.lethimstay.net

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.