Friends —
There are a lot of fun community and Halloween-themed events happening over the next couple weeks, a smattering of which I include below.
But first I’d like to give you an update on the Economic Development Committee’s deep dive into the County’s sputtering market for commercial leases. Today the Committee is releasing a report detailing some promising policy recommendations for the County to consider. You can read the report here.
The Committee will be collecting feedback on these ideas (and others) this autumn and will meet again early next year to discuss what policies we want to recommend to the full Council.
In the meantime, please share any feedback you may have on the report directly with me at Councilmember.Fani-Gonzalez@montgomerycountymd.gov.
Now, on to upcoming community events:
Western Montgomery Economic Summit
I am honored to be a panelist at the upcoming Western Montgomery Economic Summit, a half-day forum that brings state, county, and local leaders together to explore opportunities to boost the Greater Poolesville area’s economy, with a focus on tourism and visits to the area’s historic, outdoor and entertainment venues.
Western Montgomery Economic Summit
October 27, 2023, 8:30 am – 12:00 pm
The Crossvines
16601 W Willard Rd, Poolesville, MD 20837
I look forward to being on the panel “A Reimagined Model for Economic Growth in the Western County – What Does It Look Like? What is Being Done? What Policies/Strategies Make Sense?” More here.
4th Great Montgomery County Bike Summit
The Washington Area Bicyclists Association (WABA) is once again hosting a bike summit in Montgomery County, and this time it will be in Wheaton! I will be delivering the keynote address on “Safe Streets for All,” which will kick off an afternoon full of interesting panels and activities.
4th Great Montgomery County Bike Summit
Sunday, October 29, 2023, 1:00 PM
Wheaton Library/Recreation Center
11701 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20902
Website
HP Worksessions on Fairland and Briggs Chaney Master Plan
As you may know, I’m a member of the Planning, Housing, and Parks (PHP) Committee and have been holding worksessions on the Planning Board’s draft of the Fairland and Briggs Chaney Master Plan. We will have two more worksessions (at least) on October 30 and November 6, before sending it on to the full Council for final action. You can watch those live here.
Economic Development Committee’s remaining fall schedule
Nov 6: ECON at Agricultural History Farm Park
- Discussion: Agritourism
Nov 9: Joint Session HHS/PHP/ECON
- Bill 6-23, Housing – Sharing Economy Rental
- ZTA 23-01, Accessory Residential Uses – Sharing Economy Rental
Nov 16: Joint Session EC/ECON/PS/HHS
- Workforce Development in Public Safety Careers
- Workforce Development in Health and Human Services Careers
- Discussion: Economic Opportunities in the Sports/Sport Tourism Industry
Dec 4: ECON
- Discussion: Restaurant Sector – Permitting and incentives
- Worksession: Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Process Initiatives
More Community Events
There are lots of exciting halloween events throughout my district led by civic associations, Montgomery parks and the MidCounty Regional Office. Here are a couple happening this weekend.
Halloween Eye Spy Trains Return!
On Saturdays & Sundays in October (starting October 7) from 10am – 6pm, Wheaton Miniature Train will take a ride through “Trainslyvania.” Each rider is given an “Eye Spy” card with seasonal items to look for along the tracks during the ride. Great for families of all ages! Learn more.
Not so Spooky Skate
Wear your costumes and celebrate Halloween at Wheaton Ice Arena! Starting at 5:30pm on October 27, Montgomery Parks will have public skating (including a costume parade) as well as Halloween crafts and treats set up in our party rooms. Learn more.
HalloWheaton
Join the Wheaton Arts & Entertainment District on October 29 beginning at noon for free s’mores roasting, pumpkin painting, costume contests, Halloween crafts, face-painting and photo ops. This is the third annual “HalloWheaton” event at Marian Fryer Town Plaza, located adjacent to 2424 Reedie Drive. Adult activities include a beer garden, fire pits, yard games and a zombie trailer.
I look forward to seeing you around the district this weekend and onward!