Looking ahead in 2026 - Newsletter from Council President Fani-González

Neighbors:

As we welcome in the new year, we are getting ready for a busy season with lots coming up here at the County Council. We kick off the 2026 session next week with public hearings, heritage commemorations, and more. 

Next week, the County Executive will announce the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 Capital Budget and FY 2027-2032 Capital Improvements Program (CIP). The Council will hold afternoon and evening public hearings on the capital budget on Feb. 9 and Feb. 10 at 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Following public hearings, the Council will review the proposed capital budget and major projects that impact school construction, transportation, Montgomery College, and more.

At the same time, our partners in Annapolis enter the 2026 state legislative session.

I was proud to be in Annapolis last month for the historic election of my dear friend Delegate Joseline Peña-Melnyk as Maryland Speaker of the House. Speaker Peña-Melnyk is a strong and effective leader, with experience in coalition-building and a proven track record of fighting for working families. I have pledged my full support to Speaker Peña-Melnyk and am committed to helping her advance the legislative agenda of our great state of Maryland.

Let me also congratulate Montgomery County’s delegation members who were selected by Speaker Peña-Melnyk for leadership positions. Among them were Del. Jheanelle Wilkins, who was appointed chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, Del. David Moon, who was reappointed as majority leader, and Del. Marc Korman, who will continue chairing the Environment and Transportation Committee.  

I’m looking forward to continuing our work together to support our world-class education system, stand up for immigrant families, and energize our vibrant business sector. At the state level, I will be closely following decisions that impact our schools, public safety and economic advancement for the county. I will also be in Annapolis advocating for legislation to terminate 287(g) agreements with ICE in Maryland. In light of actions by the federal administration, we must do everything in our power to defend democracy and the constitutional rights of everyone in our community.

Looking ahead, we will continue to build strong and engaged communities in Montgomery County.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy new year!

Share Your Support for The Trust Act!

The Council will hold a public hearing on The Trust Act (Expedited Bill 35-25) on Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 1:30 p.m. I was proud to introduce The Trust Act as my first act as Council President. The emergency legislation would prohibit discriminatory practices by the County against immigrants and limit the use of County agents and resources in immigration enforcement. The bill would also ensure County services continue to be available to all residents, regardless of immigration status. We must be proactive and do all we can at the local level to combat the threats and attacks against immigrant communities by the Trump administration.

Clarksburg Gateway Plan Public Hearing on Jan. 21

The Council will hold a public hearing on the Clarksburg Gateway Sector Plan on Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. at Rocky Hill Middle School (22401 Brick Haven Way, Clarksburg, Md.). The plan lays out a new vision for an interconnected and sustainable Clarksburg community. The plan includes recommendations to advance housing and economic development, transportation networks and recreational opportunities for residents.

I invite community members to provide their views at the upcoming public hearing or by reaching out to the Council. After the public hearing, the Planning, Housing and Parks Committee will carefully review the plan before making recommendations to the full Council.

MLK Day of Service

Discover meaningful ways to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through community service and action. This year, join us for Montgomery County’s annual MLK Day of Service and Volunteer Fair on Monday, Jan. 19 at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel from noon to 4 p.m. This is a great opportunity to engage with local nonprofits and learn about opportunities to give back throughout the year. Register today.

Plus, check out MLK Day events and activities across the County, including the 4th annual “SAY IT LOUD!” MLK Event at BlackRock Center for the Arts on Saturday, Jan. 17, a celebration of Dr. King’s life through art, film and music.

Muslim American Heritage Month

In Montgomery County, we proudly recognize January as Muslim American Heritage Month, an opportunity to celebrate the beautifully diverse Muslim community and honor the contributions that Muslim Americans have made in Montgomery County and beyond. The Council will hold a special commemoration recognizing Muslim American Heritage Month on Tuesday, Jan. 13.

MoCo Rec Summer Camp Fairs Jan. 10 and Jan. 11 in Germantown and Burtonsville

Montgomery County Recreation offers a variety of amazing summer programs throughout the County with a focus on safety, affordability and fun! Montgomery Recreation will host two 2026 Summer Camp Fairs on Saturday, Jan. 10 at the Germantown Community Recreation Center, and Sunday, Jan. 11 at Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center from 1 to 4 p.m. Kick off your summer planning and learn more about what summer programs are best for your children! Registration for summer camps begins for County residents on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

Sincerely,

Natali Fani-González

Council President

Councilmember, District 6

Chair, Economic Development Committee