Getting to the Root of the Problem: Positive Youth Development Programming
Last week, the Council unanimously approved my resolution reaffirming our commitment to Positive Youth Development Programming. In my opinion, we have focused too much on suppression tactics during the curfew debate, instead of focusing on prevention strategies. This resolution is the first public step we have taken toward showing that we will work to address the underlying issues that the curfew seeks to address. I would also like to hear from you about your feelings on the curfew. Please
e-mail me to let me know what you think.
Cutting the Cost of Volunteer Commissions
As chair of the Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee (GO), I am responsible for making sure Montgomery County government spends within its means. When the Executive Branch estimated that we were spending $1.4 million on "free advice" from Committees, Commissions, and Boards (CCBs), I took action. Working with Councilmember Rice, we put together legislation that will provide guidelines for the Committee Evaluation Review Board (CERB) to limit the fiscal impact and minimize unnecessary staff time provided to CCBs. The CERB, sometimes known as the "Committee on Committees" reviews CCBs and makes recommendations for continuing and consolidating them.
The approach our legislation takes will ultimately save our County money, but it also demonstrates our appreciation to all of our residents who volunteer their time on these important and worthwhile CCBs. Yesterday, the GO Committee voted 3-0 in favor of the bill. If you are interested in this issue and would like to apply to serve on the CERB, you can find more information in the "Community Bulletin Board" section below.
The Most Congested Intersections in Montgomery County
Driving around Montgomery County-even in the best weather conditions-can be a challenge. A recent report shows that some of the most congested intersections in the county are in Council District 4. I probably don't have to tell you, but the report shows that some of the worst traffic can be found on US-29 between the Howard County boarder and University Blvd. in the mornings and eastbound University Blvd. between Georgia and New Hampshire Ave. in the evenings. I believe we need to explore a range of options to promote the use of public transportation, including Rapid Transit Vehicles (also known as Bus Rapid Transit). I am also a strong supporter of building the Purple Line to help relieve congestion on our roadways.
