Keeping Up With Kate - Nov. 6, 2025 (English)

Dear Friends,

With the ongoing federal government shutdown and funding for essential programs like SNAP benefits unlawfully halted by the Trump administration, we have entered a heightened phase of community need; and right now, we need action. 

At this critical point we have to step up and provide additional local resources for our residents and our nonprofit partners who continue to meet the growing needs in our community.

To help address these growing needs, this week the Council introduced a $7.75 million Public Service Support Package for Montgomery County residents and our nonprofit partners impacted by the ongoing federal government shutdown.

There are five focus areas in this appropriations package: 

• food for children and families; 

• community partner support;

• housing assistance;

• human rights protections; and 

• economic development.

A public hearing and vote will take place on Nov. 18, so we can get this support out to our community as soon as possible and before we enter the holiday season.

Sincerely,

Kate Stewart

Council President

Veterans Day

Leading up to Veterans Day, Montgomery County will host a series of Veterans Day events, light up public spaces in green, and promote services for veterans and their families. This week, the Council presented a proclamation honoring Veterans Day and recognizing veterans in our community. I extend my deepest gratitude to all current and former members of the U.S. Armed and Uniformed Services who have served our nation.

Montgomery County Earns ‘Triple-A’ Bond Rating for 53rd Consecutive Year

As the Council President and Chair of the Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee, I am proud that Montgomery County has once again earned the Triple-A bond rating. Receiving a Triple-A bond rating signifies that Montgomery County is among the best in the nation for fiscal responsibility, with less than 2% of jurisdictions nationwide earning this recognition. The Council’s long-term and strategic approach to fiscal management, combined with our commitment to maintaining healthy reserves, has enabled our County to weather fiscal challenges and make strategic investments to promote economic development and future growth.

Community Choice Aggregation Expands Options for Affordable, Clean Energy

The Council recently approved legislation I sponsored to establish a community choice aggregator to expand options in Montgomery County for more renewable and affordable energy sources. Community choice aggregation allows local governments to purchase energy on behalf of residents and businesses, with the goals of lowering costs for consumers and securing greener energy for our community.

In 2021 the Maryland General Assembly authorized the County to pursue a pilot Community Choice Aggregation program, and passing this legislation is the first step to ensuring residents have access to affordable, clean energy in the future. Learn more.

Montgomery County History Conference

Join us for the Montgomery County History Conference on Saturday, Nov. 8 at Montgomery College's Germantown Campus. This year’s conference will focus on the 250-year history of Montgomery County.  I’m excited to moderate a panel on “Montgomery County at 250: Looking Back to Move Forward,” with Maryland Delegate Gregory Wims, Delegate Lily Qi and Luz Chavez Gonzales. Learn more and register.

Kate in the Community:

Youth Town Hall

It was great to be joined by Student Member of the Board of Education Anuva Maloo, board members, Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor and so many engaged students at the annual Council Youth Town Hall last night! This was a special opportunity to hear directly from our students on the issues and priorities that matter most to them. At a time when our national politics are turbulent and aimed at dividing us, the voices of our young people remind us of the values that unite us as we work together to shape a better future.

The Banner Montgomery

I recently joined The Banner’s new Montgomery County newsroom and Executive Editor Zuri Berry for a conversation about issues that are important to Montgomery County residents. We are excited to have this talented team of journalists here covering Montgomery County!

Supporting Our Federal Workforce

Thank you Governor Wes Moore for coming to tour the Mobilize Montgomery Federal Workforce Career Center and holding a roundtable with local officials and impacted federal workers. The county and state governments proudly stand in support of our federal workforce, and will continue to work together to provide assistance for our community.

Upcounty and Mid-County Hub Harvest Food Distribution

My team and I recently joined the Mid-County Hub at Harvest Intercontinental Church to support food distribution efforts. 

I was also able to join Congresswoman April McClain Delaney as we marked the 5th year of the Upcounty Hub and put together weekend snack packets the Up-County Hub distributes to public schools. 

At a time when families are losing SNAP benefits due to the unlawful actions of the federal administration and the federal government shutdown, our amazing community partners are stepping up in extraordinary ways to provide food support for children, families and residents.

Linden and North Woodside Civic Association Halloween Fall Funfest

It was great to join neighbors at the Halloween Fall Funfest 2025 hosted by the North Woodside and Linden Civic Association. Thanks to all who came out, dressed up and helped organize this festive gathering!

Mental Health Corner:

American Diversity Group

American Diversity Group (ADG) has launched a program providing mental health consultations and therapy services to people who are uninsured, empowering them to take control of their wellbeing. Sessions occur every Saturday, offering a consistent and supportive environment for growth. To schedule a session, you can email your phone number to [email protected]. Appointments are required.