Friends–
I am so excited to get to work on your behalf. There isn’t a moment to waste, so let’s dive into it.
Council in its committee rooms is Council at work
It is an enormous responsibility – an opportunity – to be Chair of the newly formed Economic Development (ECON) Committee. From improving access to capital and streamlining county permits, licenses, and processes to better preparing our young people for the jobs of the future – we will tackle all these issues and more.
We are kicking off the first ECON Committee session on January 23 at 9:30am, with a briefing from the County’s Office of Legislative Oversight (OLO) on their recent report “Establishing and Maintaining a Business-Friendly Environment: A Literature Review.” On the same day, we will also discuss the most recent economic indicators for the County.
As we move into February, we will welcome the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) to discuss how we are implementing the County’s recently adopted Economic Development Strategic Plan. Later in the month we will be focusing on workforce development (jointly with the Education & Culture Committee) and permitting issues. Much more to come on this front!
It is no secret that my other passions are planning and housing matters, so I am equally excited to be named to the Council’s Planning, Housing, and Parks (PH) Committee. My experience as a Planning Board member makes me well-suited to hit the ground running in this critical committee. The PH Committee will begin its work by reviewing a zoning text amendment and a piece of legislation in the afternoon of January 23, and hosting panels on the state of housing affordability in the County on January 30.
I intend to use my energy and experience to bring folks together to make sure our county works for all of us. In this light, I encourage you to watch these worksessions online or even attend in person, to provide us with your feedback.
Hung Phat Grocery in Wheaton
A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of visiting my good friend Lenny Ung, owner of the excellent Hung Phat Grocery in Wheaton. We produced a short video that I think you will enjoy.
Wheaton/Vicinity Transportation Infrastructure Townhall
Wednesday February 22 at 6:30pm in the Wheaton Library/Rec Center.
Join our first townhall on transportation infrastructure in Wheaton and the surrounding communities of Glenmont, Kensington Heights, and Kemp Mill. We will discuss the current status of transportation projects and critical areas that need immediate attention. Food will be provided.
Meet my team
Please join me in welcoming your District 6 Team. We are here to help solve problems, so please do not hesitate to contact us directly. And say hi to us when you see us in the community!
Tommy Heyboer, Chief of Staff
tommy.heyboer@montgomerycountymd.gov
240.777.7867
Jose Ortiz, Senior Legislative Aide
jose.ortiz@montgomerycountymd.gov
240.777.7868
Sylvia Tognetti, Senior Legislative Aide
sylvia.tognetti@montgomerycountymd.gov
240.777.7869
Kathia M. Chévez, Senior Legislative Aide
kathia.chevez@montgomerycountymd.gov
240.777.7870
We are here for you!
Contact us via email: Councilmember.Fani-Gonzalez@montgomerycountymd.gov or Via phone: 240.777.7870.
CIP Budget is released and we have GREAT NEWS!!!
As we dig into the details of the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) that was just released by County Executive Elrich, we are so thrilled to see initial funds – $20 million – for the construction of the Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center. The project will be in association with the housing non-profit Montgomery Housing Partnership (MHP), and it will indeed include a housing component. We are reestablishing the Wheaton Arts/Cultural workgroup to keep track of this long-awaited community amenity for Wheaton, an arts and entertainment district designated by the State.
Planning Board applications due this Friday
Being on the Planning Board was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Please consider submitting an application.
I look forward to hearing from you in the coming days and months as we start this new Council term.
Sincerely,
Natali
Natali in the news
Radio America – “En Sintonia 270 – Natali Fani-González”
Washington Post – “Six women poised to change the face of the Montgomery County Council”
Latino Opinion – “Entrevista con: Natali Fani-González, todo un ejemplo a seguir”
Bethesda Beat – “Flooding, mold, rats: Disaster strikes again at Rock Creek Woods Apartments”