As dedicated entrepreneurs enriching the fabric of our community, it's crucial for us to not only excel in our businesses but also to actively engage with the institutions that shape the environment in which we operate. One such vital institution is the Montgomery County Council.

What is the Montgomery County Council?

Think of the Montgomery County Council as the heartbeat of our local governance. Comprising eleven dedicated members, the Council is the legislative arm of our county government. They are elected directly by us, the voters of Montgomery County, to serve four-year terms.

Meet Your Representatives:

Let's put faces to the names. These individuals are not just council members; they are our neighbors, friends, and advocates. Here are the current officers:

• President/District 1: Andrew Friedson
• Vice-President/District 4: Kate Stewart
• At Large: Gabe Albornoz
• At Large: Will Jawando
• At Large: Laurie-Anne Sayles
• At Large: Evan Glass
• District 2: Marilyn Balcombe
• District 3: Sidney Katz
• District 5: Kristin Mink
• District 6: Natali Fani-González
• District 7: Dawn Luedtke

What Does the Council Do for Us?

The Council's responsibilities are vast and impactful, touching nearly every aspect of our lives as business owners and residents:

• Allocates funds for budgets and sets tax rates.
• Shapes land use plans and zoning regulations.
• Oversees County programs to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
• Acts on County laws and appointments made by the County Executive.
• Directs and reviews audits of County operations.

How Can We Engage?

Knowing our Councilmembers and understanding their work is just the first step. We can actively participate in the democratic process by:

• Attending Council meetings, which are generally open to the public.
• Participating in public hearings and forums to voice our concerns and perspectives.
• Staying informed about Council proceedings through their website and local media.

Request Our Councilmembers Support

Another powerful method of engagement is to directly communicate with our council members. Whether as a group or individually, reaching out to them allows us to address concerns and advocate for our community's needs effectively. It's important to remember that council members are responsive to the issues they receive feedback on. For instance, if we're concerned about rising crime rates, contacting both our district and at-large council members can make a meaningful difference. Additionally, the council members' staff members serve as valuable resources, guiding us on which agencies to contact when addressing specific issues. By actively engaging with our council members, we empower ourselves to shape the policies and decisions that impact our businesses and our community.

When Does the Council Meet?

Mark your calendars! The Council typically convenes on Tuesdays, starting at 9:00 a.m., with general business beginning at 9:30 a.m. They also hold committee meetings and public hearings, often in the evenings, to accommodate diverse schedules.

Let's Take Action:

Our engagement with the Montgomery County Council is not just about being informed; it's about being proactive advocates for our businesses and our community. By knowing our Councilmembers and actively participating in local governance, we can ensure that our voices are heard and our needs are addressed.

Conclusion:

As Black business owners in Montgomery County, let's make it a priority to know our Councilmembers and engage with the vital work they do on our behalf. Together, we can foster a thriving environment where our businesses can flourish and our community can prosper.

Photo Credit: Moco Show