Press Releases - County Council

In 2026, Montgomery County and the U.S. will both celebrate their 250th anniversaries. To kick off this milestone in local and national history, Council President Stewart will lead a discussion about the importance of knowing and reflecting on history, how it shapes our County today, and how it can help inform current and future actions to ensure Montgomery County is a welcoming and inclusive community. The panelists will also discuss how government leaders and community members are working together to help build a bright future.  

The event will feature diverse perspectives from special guests, Montgomery County Public Libraries Director Darcell Graham, Rebeccah Ballo, acting historic preservation division chief at Montgomery Planning, Commission for Women Chair Sheena Foster, and a Montgomery County Public Schools student representative. 

Montgomery County was founded in 1776 when Dr. Thomas S. Wootton, a member of the Maryland Constitutional Convention, introduced a bill to the Maryland General Assembly to divide Frederick County into three smaller counties: Frederick, Washington, and Montgomery. The bill passed on Sept. 6, 1776. 

The Council, along with Montgomery History and its partners, will celebrate Montgomery County’s 250th anniversary with several special projects and events over the next year. 

The panel discussion will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 17 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Council Office Building’s first floor auditorium (located at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville).  

The event is free and open to the public. Members of the media must RSVP by Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 9 a.m. by emailing [email protected].

# # #