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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260224T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260224T210000
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LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T094341Z
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SUMMARY:REPLAY: Wootton High School PTSA - County Executive Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/wootton-high-school-ptsa-county-executive-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Wootton High School\, Rockville\, MD\, United States
END:VEVENT
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260311T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260311T235959
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260319T183120Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T195348Z
UID:751-1773187200-1773273599@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:QUESTIONNAIRE: League of Women Voters
DESCRIPTION:LWV Questionnaire: Candidate responses\, limited to 500 characters\, each question. \n\nQUALIFICATIONS: How do your background and experience prepare you to be County Executive?\n\nAs a Maryland CPA with a Master’s in Taxation\, I have the financial expertise and leadership experience to move Montgomery County forward. My career leading tax strategies for multi-national Corporations has generated multi-million-dollar savings. I will apply this rigorous private-sector discipline to balance costs with growth objectives\, something Montgomery County needs. I plan to identify efficiencies\, ensure fiscal discipline\, accountability\, transparency and oversight in our Government. \n\nHOUSING: What initiatives will you support to increase an affordable housing supply countywide?\n\nI will focus on streamlining the permitting process\, reverse the recent 4.7% property tax rate hike\, cut the annual cap on property assessment increases by 50% to align the county with surrounding jurisdictions\, protect Single-Family Zoning\, weaken rent control laws to stimulate new construction and grow the assessable base for property tax revenue. Housing becomes more affordable when Montgomery County Residents see their wages increase\, and their taxes\, fees and costs of living decrease. \n\nBUDGET PRIORITIES: Which operating budget revenue and spending items will you seek to increase and decrease and why?\n\nLiving in Montgomery County is quickly becoming financially unsustainable for our middle class. I will decrease the personal income tax rate from 3.2% to the state-mandated minimum of 2.25%\, phase-out the local Working Families Income Supplement\, decrease the County Fuel Energy Tax by 75% to lower utility costs\, eliminate vacant positions\, scale back Blueprint for education mandates that lack proven results\, increase investments in public safety and economic development to attract businesses. \n\nSAFETY NET SERVICES: What initiatives will you support\, if any\, to ensure that residents across the county receive safety net services?\n\nWe have a moral obligation to ensure our safety net doesn’t foster long-term dependency. I will prioritize fiscal accountability\, oversight and transparency of Taxpayers’ funds\, audit current spending to eliminate waste and abuse\, streamline services within County government\, empower non-profit partners to deliver services more efficiently\, promote economic growth\, provide workforce development and financial counseling as requirements for receiving social services. \n\nPUBLIC SAFETY: What policies will you support to ensure the safety of our large and diverse population?\n\nI will prioritize fully staffing our police department to improve response times\, improve officer morale through enhanced wellness resources\, restore funding for School resource Officers (SROs) in MCPS to provide crisis support and safety during emergencies\, strengthen juvenile justice laws to address repeat offenders\, enhance coordination between police and residents to ensure every neighborhood feels safe and heard.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/questionaire-league-of-women-voters/
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260311T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260311T150000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260304T041817Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T183358Z
UID:299-1773235800-1773241200@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:RECAP: Leisure World Republican Club - Candidate Extravaganza
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a Candidate Extravaganza hosted by the Leisure World Republican Club\, in association with the Montgomery County Republican Party. This forum is open to Democrats\, independents\, and Republicans and provides voters the opportunity to hear directly from candidates on the issues that matter most to Maryland residents. \n\nPublic safety and crime\nCost of living\ntaxes and government spending\nEnergy and utility costs\nGovernment accountability
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/leisure-world-republican-club-candidate-extravaganza/
LOCATION:Crystal Ballroom\, Leisure World\, MD\, United States
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260313T111500
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260313T131500
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260313T061755Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T101152Z
UID:694-1773400500-1773407700@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:REPLAY: WAMU DEM County Executive Forum with Kojo Nnamdi
DESCRIPTION:WAMU DEM County Executive Candidate Forum\, PT 1 \nWAMU DEM County Executive Candidate Forum\, PT 2  — a live broadcast filled with sharp political insight\, candid conversation\, and Montgomery County Executive Primary Candidates: \n\n\n\n\nEvent Details\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFriday\, March 13\n11:15 a.m. Arrival | 12:00 p.m. Start\nSilver Spring Civic Building\n1 Veterans Pl\, Silver Spring\, MD
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/wamu-county-executive-forum-with-kojo-nnamdi/
LOCATION:Silver Spring Civic Building\, 1 Veterans Pl\, Silver Spring\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260320T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260320T235959
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260319T183831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T191152Z
UID:759-1773964800-1774051199@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:QUESTIONNAIRE: ACT COMMITTEE for TRANSIT
DESCRIPTION:Questionnaire for County Council & Executive Candidates\n  \n\nWould you have voted (or did you vote) yes or no on the following:\n\nthe Thrive 2050 master plan\nthe More Housing O.W. Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA 25-02)\nthe University Boulevard Corridor plan\n\n\n\n  \n\na) Do you support the Transit and Housing Opportunity Act (SB389) to facilitate transit-oriented development near train stations\, including the Red and Purple Line stations in Montgomery County?\nb) Do you support amending the bill to include WMATA-owned land next to stations on the same basis as state-owned land?\n\n  \n\nDo you support reallocating road space from car lanes to sidewalks\, bicycle lanes\, and/or bus lanes to increase safety for all road users in these locations?\n\nOld Georgetown Road (as currently implemented)\nUniversity Boulevard near Blair High School (per newly adopted master plan)\nFrederick Road (MD 355) between Middlebrook Road and MD 124\nCounty roads where walking and cycling are similarly difficult & dangerous\n\n\n\n  \n\nDo you support building all the Purple Line sidewalks recommended by the Purple Line Bicycle and Pedestrian Area (BiPPA) program before the line’s scheduled opening in December 2027\, streamlining the planning process as needed to make this happen? (This includes previously rejected sidewalks near the Takoma-Langley station.)\n\n  \n\nDo you support these highway expansions?\n\nMidcounty Highway Extended\nWidening American Legion Bridge & adjoining section of Beltway with toll lanes\nWidening I-270 with toll lanes\nWidening Beltway between I-270 and Prince George’s County with toll lanes\nObservation Drive Extended\nMontrose Parkway East\n\n\n\n  \n\nShould the county give a higher priority to frequency of current bus service or to planning and preparation for future BRT infrastructure construction?
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/questionaire-act-committee-for-transit/
LOCATION:ACT COMMITTEE for TRANSIT
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260323T170000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260323T193000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260312T190948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T144706Z
UID:684-1774285200-1774294200@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:RECAP: PWRC Leprechauns & Patriots: Meet & Speak & Be Social
DESCRIPTION:You are invited to attend our March event on Monday\, March 16th\, 5pm-7:30pm at Quincy’s in Gaithersburg. This is our annual PWRC Leprechauns & Patriots event – a wonderful pre-St. Patrick’s Day social.  See the attached flyer. Our plan is to provide the spotlight on our candidates and their campaigns.  
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/pwrc-leprechauns-patriots-meet-speak-be-social/
LOCATION:Quincy’s Bar and Grille\, 616 Quince Orchard Road\, Gaithersburg\, MD\, United States
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260325T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260325T210000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260303T084721Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T001945Z
UID:255-1774463400-1774472400@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Spotlight on Wheaton: A County Executive Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION: 
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/spotlight-on-wheaton-a-ce-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Wheaton Rec Center – Social Hall\, 2nd Floor\, 11701 Georgia Avenue\, Wheaton\, MD\, 20902\, United States
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260326T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260326T235959
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260319T184539Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T191133Z
UID:765-1774483200-1774569599@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:QUESTIONNAIRE: Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington (JCRC)
DESCRIPTION:Candidate Questions \n\nWhat are the three most important issues to you and how will you address each?\nHow will you confront antisemitism and other forms of hatred?\nHow will you handle pressure from groups urging you to avoid working with Jewish organizations that support a Jewish\, democratic State of Israel (“Zionism”)?\nHow will you work to support the immigrant community?\nHow will you work to enhance both public and independent schools?\nHow would you enhance the availability of funding for nonprofit agencies that provide social services?
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/questionaire-jewish-community-relations-council-of-greater-washington-jcrc/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260331T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260331T235959
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260401T040937Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T040937Z
UID:869-1774915200-1775001599@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:QUESTIONNAIRE: Caribbean-American Political Action Committee (C-PAC) 2026 Candidate Questionnaire
DESCRIPTION:Caribbean-American Political Action Committee (C-PAC) \n2026 Candidate Questionnaire \n  \nOffice Sought: County Executive \nCandidate’s Name: Esther Wells                       \nCurrent Occupation: Senior Tax Manager\, CPA \nParty: Republican \n****************************************************************************** \n\nIf elected\, how would you proactively and consistently engage with Caribbean-American constituents\, groups\, local leaders\, and organizations in your constituency?\n\nAs a Caribbean-American\, I will utilize the existing Caribbean American Advisory Group (CAAG) to ensure it provides actionable feedback on the needs and concerns of Caribbean Americans living or working in the county.\nRegional Collaboration: I will regularly host Community town halls\, advisory meetings specifically targeted at Caribbean-American residents to seek input on critical issues like the county’s operating budget\, Student achievement and outcomes\, public safety\, economic development\, Homeownership\, entrepreneurship\, Health & Human Services\, civic engagement and voter participation.\nDedicated Community Liaisons: The Office of Community Partnerships (OCP) will continue to employ a dedicated Caribbean Community Liaison to serve as a bridge between the government and Caribbean-American residents.\n\n\nHow would your office address barriers Caribbean immigrants face when accessing public services such as healthcare\, safe\, affordable housing\, education or social programs that disproportionately affect them?\n\nWe must move beyond the current one-time “supplemental appropriation” model and focus on reducing the cost of living and fostering a business-friendly environment to create high-paying jobs and long-term financial stability for Caribbean-Americans.\nHousing Affordability: Reverse the 4.7% property tax rate hike\, reverse the 6.3% property tax hike and the 3% income tax hike proposed FY2027 Operating Budget\, and reduce the annual property assessment increases by 50% of cap\, aligning the county with surrounding jurisdictions.\nHousing Stability: Instead of just increasing rental assistance\, I will help Caribbean Americans build generational wealth and lasting stability through pathways to homeownership. I will streamline the permitting process for new construction\, which will increase the supply of homes\, naturally lower costs and provide more entry-level opportunities for first-time buyers.\nService Streamlining: My office will conduct a comprehensive audit of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to eliminate procedural failures and ensure resources reach eligible residents without bureaucratic delay. I will provide workforce development\, upskilling for residents and financial counseling as requirements for receiving social services.\nEducation: Like my Caribbean-American family\, I will prioritize high academic standards and upward mobility to ensure that tax dollars directly improve the graduation rates\, literacy rates\, proficiency rates and college readiness of Caribbean students\, rather than funding central office positions in MCPS. I will ensure that the record-high MCPS budget is actually reaching the schools in diverse areas (like Silver Spring\, Wheaton\, and Gaithersburg) where many Caribbean immigrants reside\, ensuring our children aren’t left in under-resourced facilities.\n\n\nHow do you ensure culturally responsive services for Caribbean-American residents across agencies (e.g.\, health\, education\, law enforcement\, etc.)?\n\nI will maintain the African American Health Program (AAHP) as the primary vehicle for reaching residents of African and Caribbean descent while ensuring every taxpayer dollar is tied to measurable health outcomes.\nProfessional Standards: Rather than creating new administrative layers\, I will mandate that all county agencies\, from DHHS to MCPD\, integrate existing translation services more effectively into their daily operations. Also\, I will focus on health literacy\, ensuring residents understand how to manage their own care.\nFiscal Responsibility: I will audit existing health programs for waste\, mismanagement and outcomes to ensure that funds intended for community clinics actually reach patients in high-density Caribbean neighborhoods.\nVocational Training: I will expand vocational and technical programs to provide immediate pathways to economic independence for Caribbean immigrant youth\, bypassing the debt associated with traditional four-year degrees.\nCommunity Policing: I will establish direct communication links through bicultural liaisons to ensure culturally responsive policing where police are visible\, accessible\, and protective of the neighborhoods they serve.\nIndependent Inspector General: I will ensure the office of inspector general monitors all county departments\, including health and education\, to ensure that culturally responsive initiatives aren’t just empty labels but are delivering measurable results for Caribbean-American residents.\nOmbudsman Programs: I will create a county ombudsman to provide Caribbean-American residents with a direct\, non-partisan channel to report issues with agency services or police conduct\, ensuring the government remains accountable to residents.\n\n\nWhat initiatives will you lead and/or support that benefit Caribbean-American small business owners and workers\, particularly in industries where they are heavily represented?\n\nEconomic Drivers: My administration will work with the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) to launch a “Strategic Growth Initiative” that provides Caribbean-American entrepreneurs with better access to private capital by strengthening the SBA’s Microloan and Community Advantage Programs\, rather than relying on government-managed grants.\nRegulatory Reform: I will work to eliminate redundant permits and fees that disproportionately hurt small\, minority-owned startups in industries like construction\, retail\, and food service.\nOccupational Licensing Reform: I will lead the initiative to streamline our reciprocity-base occupational licenses\, which would benefit Caribbean immigrants with professional backgrounds\, allowing them to enter the workforce faster in skilled trades or healthcare without costly re-certification.\nI will reform the Minority\, Female and Disabled-Owned (MFD) Business Program to focus on results rather than just certification.\n\n\nWhat support would you provide for Caribbean-American students and parents\, including language assistance and help navigating the school system?\n\nFocus on Core Competencies: I will advocate for a return to rigorous instruction in math\, science\, and literacy. Culturally responsive education should mean ensuring every student masters the skills needed for high-paying careers\, rather than social experimentation.\nSchool Choice: I will lead an initiative to provide vouchers or education savings accounts. This allows Caribbean-American parents to move their children out of underperforming neighborhood schools and into private schools that better align with their cultural and educational values.\nParental Empowerment: I will expand the Newcomers Initiative with a focus on helping Caribbean-American parents navigate the school system and advocating for vocational-technical training as a viable path for students.\nSimplified Portals: I will work with MCPS leaders to implement a more user-friendly\, multilingual digital “Parent Portal” to help families track grades\, attendance\, and graduation requirements without needing to navigate a complex physical bureaucracy.\nWith the MCPS budget now exceeding $3.7 billion\, I will demand greater accountability for how these funds support immigrant families.\n\n\nHow would you advance partnerships with Caribbean-American community organizations to promote mental health\, chronic disease prevention\, or other wellness initiatives?\n\nEmpowering Faith-Based and Community Organizations: I will ensure culturally responsive care\, delivered best by those already trusted within the community. Instead of creating new government-run clinics\, I will increase the role of faith-based organizations and community-led nonprofits. These groups are often the first point of contact for Caribbean-American residents facing mental health challenges or chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.\nOutcome-Based Partnerships: Contracts with community organizations will be tied to measurable health outcomes (e.g.\, lower rates of uncontrolled hypertension or increased mental health service utilization) rather than just the number of people reached.\nHealth Literacy and Prevention: I will form partnerships to focus on health literacy programs that teach nutrition\, exercise\, and preventative care tailored to the Caribbean diet and lifestyle.\nPrivate-Public Screenings: I will encourage partnerships with local pharmacies and private clinics to host mobile screening events in neighborhoods with high Caribbean populations\, making chronic disease detection accessible without expanding the public health bureaucracy.\nCommunity-Led MHPSS: I will support Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) initiatives that respect Caribbean cultural values\, such as the importance of extended family networks in the healing process.\n\n\nHow will you build trust and conduct robust oversight on local\, law enforcement to protect the rights\, security\, and safety of Caribbean-American residents?\n\nI will prioritize full funding for the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) to address staffing shortages while supporting the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) model.\nBicultural Recruitment: I will support aggressive recruitment within the Caribbean-American community to ensure the police force reflects the demographics of the neighborhoods they serve\, reducing cultural and language barriers.\nEffective Oversight: I will work with the Public Safety Committee to ensure oversight is transparent and focuses on building trust through neighborhood engagement and crime reduction\, not just administrative review.\nPublic Access to Data: I will support initiatives that make crime statistics and officer conduct data publicly available online. This allows the community to hold the department accountable through measurable results rather than political rhetoric\n\n\nWhat programs\, funding opportunities\, or policy efforts will you champion that are aimed at improving outcomes for Caribbean-American communities?\n\nStable Property Taxes: I will prioritize stabilizing property taxes and oppose further income tax increases to prevent Caribbean-American homeowners from being “priced out” of their homes as property values rise\, thereby protecting generational wealth.\nPublic Safety as Economic Infrastructure: I will advocate for fully funding the police and School Resource Officers (SROs) to create safe commercial hubs. This policy ensures that Caribbean-owned businesses can thrive in a secure environment\, protecting both customers and owners from theft\, carjacking\, vandalism.\nI will champion the use of Opportunity Zones to revitalize Caribbean-American business corridors like those in East County and Silver Spring.\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/questionnaire-caribbean-american-political-action-committee-c-pac-2026-candidate-questionnaire/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260331T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260331T235959
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260321T015946Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T040137Z
UID:776-1774915200-1775001599@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:QUESTIONNAIRE: Bethesda Today Voter Guide
DESCRIPTION:Bethesda Today Voter Guide Montgomery County Executive \nWhere you live: Montgomery Village \nCurrent occupation and employer: Senior Tax Manager\, Public Utility \nPolitical experience: N/A \nWebsite: VoteforEsther.com \nEmail: VoteforEsther@gmail.com \nSocial media: @ VoteforEsther \nWhy are you running for this office? (100 words maximum) \nIt’s too expensive to live here! My priorities include fiscal discipline\, government accountability\, strengthening the economy\, improving public safety and expanding opportunity through education to reduce cost of living in Montgomery County. \nAs a CPA\, I have the financial expertise and leadership experience to move Montgomery County forward. My career leading tax strategies for multi-national Corporations has generated multi-million-dollar savings. I will apply this rigorous private-sector discipline to balance costs with growth objectives. \nAs President of the Montgomery County Taxpayers League\, I’ve advocated for county taxpayers by supporting appropriate actions to achieve greater efficiency & effectiveness in our county government. \nWhat is the most important issue in this race and what specific plans do you have to address it? (100 words maximum) \nFamilies are being crushed by a crisis of affordability and accountability. To address this\, I will implement: \n\nFiscal Discipline: Streamline Government Operations to include automation of services\, restructure County departments to reduce costs by 20%\nGovernment Accountability & Audits of $7.6B Operating Budget\, focused on procurement\, contracts & grants\, to eliminate waste\, mismanagement\, and misuse of Taxpayers’ funds\nReverse the 4.7% property tax rate hike\nReverse 6.3% property and 3% income tax hike proposed FY2027 Operating Budget\nReduce annual property assessment increases by 50%\n\nMy plan delivers essential tax relief by ensuring every dollar is linked to measurable results. \nWhat is one major issue that has been handled poorly and what would you have done differently? (100 words maximum) \nMCPS’s prolonged COVID-19 school closures severely impacted student well-being and academic success. As one of the last districts to return to in-person learning\, the delay disproportionately harmed students with disabilities\, who lacked essential individualized support. \nState test scores highlight a widening achievement gap: while white and Asian students maintained proficiency levels around 80% (English) and 60% (Math)\, African American and Hispanic proficiency plummeted to 15.7%–22.9% in Math. Furthermore\, virtual learning triggered a mental health crisis\, increasing anxiety and depression. The lack of structure also fueled chronic absenteeism\, disorderly conduct\, and community violence\, underscoring schools’ vital role in social development. \nWhat experience (work\, political or other) has prepared you to hold this office? (100 words maximum) \n\nMaryland CPA with financial expertise and leadership experience leading tax strategies for multi-national Corporations\, which has generated multi-million-dollar savings.\nPresident\, Montgomery County Taxpayers League where I’ve supported appropriate actions to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness in Montgomery County government.\nNAACP Parent Council Representative\, serving to empower minority parents to become active advocates for their children’s education\, ensuring equitable treatment and academic success.\nPresident/Chair of the Board of Trustees of a local faith-based non-profit. Focused on legal and operational oversight\, approving the annual operating/capital budget\, ensuring fiduciary duty compliance and leading strategic planning to advance the non-profit’s mission and financial sustainability.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/questionnaire-bethesda-today-voter-guide/
LOCATION:Bethesda Today
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260409T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260409T150000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260409T222603Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T222603Z
UID:882-1775739600-1775746800@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:REPLAY: FY2027 Montgomery County Council Hearing on Proposed $8B Operating budget
DESCRIPTION:Esther Wells’ public comments on Thursday April 9th\, 2026\, regarding Elrich’s FY2027 proposed $8B operating budget. I do not support the 6.3% property tax hike & the 3% income tax hike. I also do not support creating a projected structural deficit of over $257 million next year\, requiring another 9.85 cent tax increase next year to close the deficit. \nhttps://voteforesther.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2026-04-09-FY2027-Operating-Budget-Public-Comments.mp4\nTaxpayers cannot afford 4 more years of Elrich under a Jawando Administration. Vote for Esther\, County Executive.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/replay-fy2027-montgomery-county-council-hearing-on-proposed-8b-operating-budget/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260410T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260410T235959
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260410T221022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260410T221022Z
UID:886-1775779200-1775865599@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:QUESTIONNAIRE: Montgomery for All 2026 County Executive Candidate
DESCRIPTION:2026 Montgomery County Candidate Questionnaire Montgomery for All \nSection 1: Housing Leadership  \n\nIn your view\, why are many Montgomery County residents struggling to afford housing?\n\nThe unrelenting property Tax Burden: Residents are struggling to afford housing because our current County Council and County Executive Elrich are taxing them out of their own homes. Young adults are moving out of the County because starter homes are out of reach. Property value assessments have surged; recent cycles saw increases of 21% (Group 3)\, 17.7% (Group 1)\, and 12.2% (Group 2). On top of rising property assessment values\, the County Executive and County Council imposed a 4.7% property tax rate hike in 2024. This year’s proposed FY2027 operating budget includes another 6.3 cent property tax rate hike and personal income tax hike\, fees and charges. In addition\, high interest rates and insurance premiums are also affordability factors that are beyond local policy maker control\, but will moderate over time due to market forces. These costs aren’t just for homeowners; they are passed directly to renters as landlords raise prices to cover the skyrocketing tax bills.\nRent Control: The 2023 rent control law has been a disaster for housing availability. Real estate developers have essentially “redlined” the county\, refusing to fund projects where revenue is artificially capped while costs (like taxes) remain unlimited. We have seen an all-out collapse in multifamily permits\, making us an outlier in the region. You cannot “stabilize” prices through policy when the underlying issue is scarcity.\n\n\nWhat is one housing initiative you would plan to spearhead\, if elected?\n\nMy plan focuses on restoring affordability by growing the economy\, not the tax burden. I would reverse the 4.7% property tax rate hike from FY2024 and cap annual assessment increases at 50% of the current limit to be comparable to the region. I would repeal Rent Control to stimulate new construction by removing price caps that drive away investment. Lastly\, I would streamline the permitting process to cut the red tape in the permitting process to get shovels in the ground faster.\n\n\n\nSection 2: Zoning\, Supply\, and Housing Prices  \n\nIn your view\, how does current zoning policy in Montgomery County affect the supply and price of housing?\n\nCurrent zoning policy in Montgomery County acts as a structural barrier that artificially restricts the supply of homes\, driving prices to levels that are unattainable for the average family. Onerous zoning rules and high regulatory costs hinder new home construction\, making it nearly impossible for smaller developers to enter the market. While I am a firm advocate for reducing overall restrictive rules\, I believe we must Protect Single-Family Zoning by opposing ‘by-right’ high-density rezoning. There are tens of thousands of units already developable under current laws that have been ignored. By prioritizing rigid\, outdated regulations over market flexibility\, the county has created a scarcity crisis that punishes taxpayers and discourages the very investment we need.\n\n\nWhat changes would you support to Montgomery County’s zoning policies to support greater housing affordability? Please feel free to provide detail on topics including\, but not limited to: home types; location of zoning changes; timeline and conditions of development approval.\n\nI support greater affordability through a ‘smart growth’ strategy that focuses density along transit corridors and commercial centers\, while slashing the red tape that makes building anything in this county far too slow and expensive. We do not need to “upzone” every quiet street to solve our housing shortage. oppose ‘by-right’ high-density rezoning of existing single-family neighborhoods. We must respect the choices of residents who invested in these communities while focusing our growth in areas already equipped with the necessary infrastructure.\nI support zoning changes that encourage high-density\, mixed-use development along major transit hubs and commercial corridors (e.g.\, Georgia Avenue and Connecticut Avenue). I support more middle housing such as duplexes\, triplexes\, and townhomes\, specifically within Priority Housing Districts near Metro and Purple Line stations.\nThe current review and permitting process is a primary driver of high prices. Time is money\, and the County is currently wasting both. I support creating a “Fast-Track” approval lane for projects that meet specific affordability and density criteria in growth zones. I support clear\, objective design pattern books so developers know exactly what is required from day one\, reducing the lengthy and uncertain review process. For smaller attainable housing like duplexes in designated growth areas\, I support by-right development that adheres to pre-approved standards\, bypassing months of bureaucratic hearings.\n\n\n\nSection 3: Affordable & Market-Rate Housing  \nPlease explain what you see as the role that each of these types of housing play in the housing landscape in Montgomery County\, and the needs they fill for Montgomery County residents: \n\nAffordable (subsidized) housing\n\nSubsidized housing should be a focused tool reserved for those whom the market cannot reach\, such as seniors on fixed incomes\, residents with disabilities\, and our lowest-income workers. I believe we must prioritize accountability\, transparency and oversight of the $8B county budget to ensure subsidies are reaching the people they are intended for\, rather than being swallowed up by bureaucratic overhead or inefficient development projects. Subsidized units should serve as a foundation for residents to achieve personal and economic growth\, eventually transitioning into the market-rate landscape as they build stability.\n\n\nMarket-rate (unsubsidized) housing\n\nThe vast majority of our residents\, including young professionals and middle-class families\, should be served by a robust\, unsubsidized market. Market-rate development grows our assessable tax base\, providing the revenue needed for essential services without requiring the recent 4.7% property tax hike or the proposed FY2027 6.3 cent property tax hike that the current administration has favored.\n\n\n\nWhat is one policy change in each area that you would pursue\, if elected? \n\nAffordable (subsidized) housing\n\nI believe the path to true affordability isn’t just about spending more\, but about spending smarter. One critical policy change I would pursue is the introduction of rigorous fiscal accountability and oversight requirements for organizations receiving county housing subsidies. I would implement a policy requiring financial counseling and workforce development upskilling as a condition for receiving certain social and housing services. This ensures that subsidized housing serves as a “springboard” to self-sufficiency rather than a permanent ceiling. As a CPA\, I will mandate comprehensive oversight and transparency of taxpayer funds. This includes regular performance audits of the Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) and non-profit partners to ensure they are meeting clear\, data-driven benchmarks for housing delivery. I will work to streamline services between the state\, county\, and local governments to eliminate the redundant administrative layers that delay the construction of affordable units and inflate their final cost.\n\n\nMarket-rate (unsubsidized) housing\n\nOne policy change that I would pursue would be to remove barriers like rent control. That way\, we encourage the private sector to build the 200\,000 units needed over the next 25 years\, preventing the current trend where market-rate units become so scarce they are indistinguishable from “luxury” pricing.\n\n\n\nSection 4: Transportation & Smart Growth  \n\nWhat would you do to prioritize transit frequency and access if elected?\n\nAs County Executive\, I am committed to a transit system that is efficient\, accountable\, reliable\, and focused on the needs of every resident. To prioritize frequency and access\, I will:\n\nExpand Weekend Service for Upcounty & Poolesville: Residents shouldn’t be stranded on Saturdays and Sundays. I will prioritize funding to ensure consistent weekend schedules\, allowing families and workers in the Upcounty and Poolesville areas to travel reliably seven days a week.\nExpand to All-Day\, Two-Way\, and Weekend MARC Service: The Brunswick Line is a vital artery for our county. I will advocate for and prioritize the transition to all-day\, two-way MARC service\, along with the introduction of weekend service. Commuters and families shouldn’t be restricted by a “peak-only” schedule; they deserve a rail system that works for their lives\, seven days a week.\nEstablish a Metro-MTA MARC MOU: I will take the lead in creating a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with WMATA and the MTA to reinstate the Metro-MARC transfer specifically for the Emergency Ride Home program. Commuters need the peace of mind that they can get home in an emergency\, regardless of which transit system they use.\nBring RideOn Flex to Poolesville: I will launch high-frequency RideOn Flex on-demand service in Poolesville. This will provide a direct\, flexible link for residents\, connecting them quickly and efficiently to the nearest major transit centers.\nRedesign Upcounty Transit Routes: The current “hub-and-spoke” model is outdated. I will initiate a route redesign focused on shortening travel times and reducing the number of transfers required to get to work or school\, making the bus a competitive alternative to sitting in traffic.\nEnsure Fiscal Accountability: As a CPA\, I will fund these improvements by auditing the current $7.6 billion budget to cut waste and redirect existing funds toward these essential services.\n\n\n\n\n\n2. What would you do to ensure safe walking and biking access to transit\, stores\, schools and services for residents of existing and new housing? \n\n\n\nAs Montgomery County Executive\, my approach to infrastructure is rooted in fiscal accountability and ensuring that every dollar serves the actual needs of our residents. To ensure safe walking and biking access to transit\, schools\, and services\, I will implement the following plan:\n\nUniversal School Access: I am committing to a “Safety First” mandate for our students. Every MCPS school will be equipped with complete sidewalks and clearly marked crosswalks to ensure that walkers have a dedicated\, secure path from their front door to the classroom.\nData-Driven Bike Lane Evaluation: We must stop spending blindly. I will initiate a rigorous cost-benefit analysis of all current bike lanes to evaluate actual utilization rates. If specific lanes are underused and causing unnecessary congestion or maintenance drains\, we will pivot those resources to projects that offer a higher return on safety and mobility for the “silent majority” of taxpayers.\nOptimizing Bikeshare: To increase the ROI on our existing programs\, I will improve the marketing of bikeshare memberships by partnering directly with county employers and launching targeted social media education campaigns. We need to ensure residents actually know how to use these tools effectively before we consider further expansion.\nEnhanced Transit Integration: To truly support multi-modal travel\, I will ensure that the RideOn bus fleet is fully equipped with functional\, high-capacity bike racks that meet current demand. This ensures a seamless link between biking and public transit for commuters.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSection 5: Community Input & Stakeholder Engagement  \n\nWhat organizations\, stakeholders\, datasets\, or other sources of information would you turn to\, to understand the nuts and bolts of housing policy implementation\, and how to craft effective policies that meet Montgomery County’s housing needs?\n\n\n\n\nTo craft effective housing policies for Montgomery County\, I am committed to a collaborative approach that balances fiscal accountability with the diverse needs of our community. I will engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders\, including those representing our vibrant minority communities\, to ensure housing implementation is practical\, sustainable\, and results-oriented.\n\nMontgomery County Taxpayers League: I will ensure that housing initiatives are fiscally responsible and do not lead to unsustainable tax hikes.\nMontgomery Housing Alliance (MHA)\, MHP\, and Habitat for Humanity: I will collaborate with these non-profit developers to find innovative ways to preserve and build affordable units.\nMontgomery Planning Research: I will utilize the Research & Strategic Projects data to track housing market trends and supply gaps.\nMCPS Capacity Reports: I will monitor school capacity data to ensure that housing growth is matched by the necessary investment in our schools and public safety.\nHomeowners Associations (HOAs) and Civic Associations: I will engage directly with HOA boards and the Montgomery County Civic Federation to ensure new housing developments are compatible with existing neighborhoods and do not overwhelm local infrastructure.\nCaribbean American Advisory Group (CAAG): I will work with the CAAG to understand the unique housing barriers facing our Caribbean American residents.\nBeing Well While Black and The Black Collective: I will turn to these organizations to ensure housing policy supports community wellness and addresses historical inequities in housing stability\nChambers of Commerce: I will consult with the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce\, the Greater Silver Spring Chamber\, and the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber to understand how housing availability impacts workforce recruitment and our local economy.\nThe Developer Community: Engaging with groups like the Maryland Building Industry Association (MBIA) and the Apartment and Office Building Association (AOBA) is critical to identifying the specific “red tape” and regulatory hurdles that drive up the cost of construction.\nAffordable Housing Conference\nCoalition for Smarter Growth\nHousing Initiative Partnership\nHousing Opportunities Commission\n Housing unlimited\, Inc\nInterfaith Works\nLatino Economic Development Center\nVictory Housing\nRebuilding Together
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/questionnaire-montgomery-for-all-2026-county-executive-candidate/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260411T123000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260411T143000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260321T224235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T152638Z
UID:780-1775910600-1775917800@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Q&A: Boyds Civic Association Picnic and County Executive Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:COUNTY EXECUTIVE CANDIDATE’S FORUM\nSaturday\, April 11\, 2026\n19901 White Ground Road\, Boyds MD \n(Boyds Presbyterian Church lower parking lot) \n  \n\n\n1. Future of Boyds: What is your vision for Boyds\, and which strengths or challenges would you prioritize? \nMy vision for Boyds is a community where local entrepreneurship and our agricultural heritage go hand-in-hand. To achieve this: I will work directly with the Boyds Civic Association to identify ‘vibrant asset’ projects\, like the adaptive reuse of Hoyle’s Mill\, creating space for local vendors and startups right in the heart of our community. I’ve seen how our permitting process strangles small shops. I will streamline regulations so a family farm in Boyds can easily open a farm stand\, a creamery\, or an agritourism venture without waiting years for a permit. I will prioritize the Boyds Transit Center and local road improvements. Making it easier for customers to get here\, and for you to get to work\, is the best way to support our local economy. Let’s build a Boyds that is open for business and closed to high taxes \n\n\n2. Natural Resources: Invasive plants and insects are expanding. What role should the County play in addressing them more effectively? \nWe’ve seen invasive species like the Spotted Lanternfly and the Tree of Heaven spreading\, and these pests threaten our property values and the Agricultural Reserve. For a community like Boyds\, the County’s role shouldn’t be about more top-down mandates or red tape. Instead\, my plan focuses on: Empowering You\, Not Bureaucrats: 1st\, I want to move away from restrictive regulations that force private citizens to take specific actions on their land\, often at their own expense\, on a strict timeline or under the threat of fines; and toward true partnerships. I will support local groups like the Boyds Civic Association by providing better reporting tools and data so you can manage your land effectively. 2nd We have incredible resources in our Master Gardeners. I’ll make sure their educational programs remain fully funded and accessible at our local libraries\, so every resident knows how to spot and stop an infestation early. \n3. Water Quality: Streams\, ponds\, lakes and aquifers face increased pressure from runoff due to climate change and How can the County improve water quality without more overregulation? \n\n\nIn a community like Boyds\, our water\, from Little Seneca Lake to our critical aquifers\, is the lifeblood of our way of life. Climate change and overdevelopment are direct threats to our rural stability. As your County Executive\, I will push to reform the Water Quality Protection Charge to reward landowners who use effective conservation practices\, turning a burdensome tax into a true incentive. It is essential to establish a baseline (“before”) and a target (“after”) measure to verify your results. We must move beyond just issuing permits. I support enhanced monitoring for stream restorations\, ensuring they actually work for 10 years\, not just five\, and prioritizing the repair of aging sewer lines that cause spills into our watersheds. Our climate strategy should support farmers with voluntary best practices and decentralized energy options such as rooftop or Ground-Mounted Solar\, Geothermal Heating & Cooling\, Microgrids and Battery Storage\, through low-interest financing with the Green Bank\, rather than burying them in red tape. \n4. Solar Farms: How would you balance interests in large-scale solar generation with the agricultural purpose and visual character of the Ag Reserve and adjacent areas? \nAs your County Executive\, I will ensure that our push for clean energy doesn’t come at the expense of our farming heritage. We can balance solar generation without sacrificing the Ag Reserve through smart siting and fiscal common sense. I believe in a ‘Farmer First’ approach that protects our land today and for the next generation. My plan focuses on: Large-scale solar that go on ‘brownfields\,’ parking lots\, and warehouse rooftops first\, not on our most productive Class I and II soils. We must stop the trend of replacing food production with industrial-scale solar arrays. For any solar projects that do move forward\, I will mandate strict setbacks and natural screening. Instead of massive utility-scale farms\, I support partnerships with the Montgomery County Green Bank to help individual farmers and homeowners install rooftop solar and microgrids. This helps you lower your bills without industrializing the landscape. \n5. Housing Affordability: Which elements of the Attainable Housing Strategies Initiative do you feel need refinement\, and how would your approach improve life in Boyds? \nThe most critical refinement needed is the protection of single-family zoning. The current plan risks turning our quiet\, rural neighborhoods into high-density construction zones without the infrastructure to support them. In Boyds\, we’ve seen what happens when development outpaces planning. Our roads are narrow\, and our schools\, like Clarksburg High\, are already bursting at the seams. Adding high-density housing mandates without first fixing these foundations is reckless. My approach improves life in Boyds by: Protecting the Ag Reserve: I will block any initiative that attempts to bypass the protections of our Agricultural Reserve. We must focus growth where the infrastructure already exists—near transit hubs downcounty. I will veto any density increases that don’t come with a guaranteed funding plan for school expansions and road improvements. I will prioritize ‘attainability’ through market-based solutions and cutting the red tape for small builders. I support building reversible lanes on I-270 and transforming MARC into true regional rail\, getting you to work faster without destroying the character of our rural communities. Let’s keep Boyds rural\, affordable\, and accountable. \n6. Permitting: Many describe the County’s entitlement\, permitting\, and inspections processes as onerous and arduous. Other than setting a good example\, what specific steps would you take to improve efficiency and predictability of the system and the individuals within it? \nTime is money\, and in Montgomery County\, the permitting process has become a hidden tax on our residents and small businesses. In Boyds\, whether you’re trying to build a barn\, expand a home\, or start a rural business\, you shouldn’t be met with endless red tape. To fix this\, I will take three specific steps: I will establish mandatory response times for the Department of Permitting Services. If the County doesn’t meet the deadline\, the permit is deemed approved or the fee is refunded. We need accountability\, not excuses. I’ll create a dedicated track for simple permits\, like those for homeowners and small businesses in the Ag Reserve\, to bypass the backlog caused by massive commercial developers. I will integrate the Planning Department and DPS into a single\, streamlined workflow. We need a ‘one-stop-shop’ so you aren’t caught in a loop of conflicting feedback from different agencies. It’s time to move at the speed of business\, not the speed of bureaucracy. \n7. COMSAT: The Council has recently declined historic designation for the COMSAT building. What would you do as Executive to encourage adaptive reuse of key elements\, or to ensure that redevelopment is of truly exceptional quality? \nAs your County Executive\, I will ensure that the redevelopment of the COMSAT site is a world-class destination that respects our history and drives economic growth. I will ensure the Boyds community has a seat at the table. We will audit the redevelopment plans to guarantee they include the necessary infrastructure and school capacity before a single shovel hits the ground. While the main building may not have a historic label\, I will push for a public-private partnership to save key architectural elements\, like the iconic front portico and lobby\, repurposing them as community pavilions or high-tech coworking spaces. I will hold developers to a higher standard. I want the COMSAT campus to become a hub for innovation in the Clarksburg Gateway\, blending tech-sector jobs with high-quality retail and housing that fits the Boyds character. Let’s turn the COMSAT property into a landmark of innovation and accountability. \n\n\n8. Hoyle’s Mill: The MARC station parking and bus facility is advancing through permitting without provisions for septic capacity to support use of the county-owned historic Hoyle’s Mill How would you ensure it becomes a vibrant asset to the community? \nThe County is moving forward with a $5.6 million investment at the Boyds Transit Center while leaving the historic Hoyle’s mill building without the septic capacity it needs for community use. I will focus on three things: fiscal efficiency\, stakeholder engagement and preservation: I will mandate that the MARC station project and the Mill preservation effort share a single\, robust septic system by requiring the Department of Transportation and the Planning Department to align their permits. It is significantly cheaper to install this capacity now\, while the ground is open than to come back years later on a separate\, taxpayer-funded contract. Boyds Civic Association have already identified these flaws. I will give local voices a seat at the table to ensure our tax dollars create integrated\, multi-use spaces that respect our history. By solving the septic issue now\, we clear the way for a local coffee shop\, a community center\, or an educational space that finally brings life back to the heart of Boyds. I’ll ensure your tax dollars are spent on projects that are finished\, functional\, and respectful of our heritage. \n9. County Budget: The county faces revenue shortfalls. Do you support the 6.3 cent property tax + 1% income tax hike\, and if not\, which specific programs or services do you propose trimming or omitting? \nI do not support the property or income tax hikes. Nor do I support creating a structural deficit from use of one-time funds for ongoing expenditures\, which is projected to require another 9.85 cent tax hike next year to close the deficit. We don’t have a revenue problem in Montgomery County; we have a leadership problem and a spending addiction. Personal income growth for taxpayers is stagnant at 1.09%\, yet this budget proposes pay adjustments between 6% and 8.75%. I would require employee raises to be based on a comparative review of worker salaries and in-line with Montgomery County personal income growth of Taxpayers. We must temper pay adjustments to reflect the actual economic conditions of our residents. I will eliminate vacant positions\, outside of Public safety\, that have been funded and unfilled year after year. Latest estimate is over 10K Full-time positions at around $22M. Lastly\, Government Accountability & forensic Audits of our Operating Budget to identify waste & mismanagement of Taxpayer funds. \n10. County Economy: The county employment base relies on the federal government and the inter-related biotech sector. What actions would you take to strengthen economic diversity and long-term stability? \nAs a CPA\, I know that over-reliance on any single sector is a risk we can no longer afford. To strengthen our long-term stability and economic diversity in Boyds. I will reverse our reputation of being ‘closed for business.’ My administration will aggressively recruit corporate headquarters in technology\, cyber-security\, and logistics. By offering speed\, certainty\, and world-class incentives\, we can broaden our tax base and create high-paying jobs that don’t depend on federal grants. In Boyds\, our Agricultural Reserve is a unique economic engine. I will push to expand marketing and tourism for our rural businesses\, ensuring that local food production and agritourism have the regulatory breathing room to thrive. We must stop ‘picking winners and losers’ with high taxes and burdensome regulations. I will cut the red tape that prevents small\, local businesses\, the backbone of our economy\, from growing and diversifying our job market. Let’s build a competitive\, diverse economy through pro-growth policies\, not just more taxes.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/boyds-civic-association-picnic-and-county-executive-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Boyds Presbyterian Church\, 19901 White Ground Road\, Boyds\, MD\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260415T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260415T210000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260313T124654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T185419Z
UID:704-1776279600-1776286800@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:CCCFH County Exec Candidates Forum
DESCRIPTION:  \nCounty Executive Candidates Forum sponsored by the Citizens Coordinating Committee on Friendship Heights
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/cccfh-county-exec-candidates-forum/
LOCATION:Westland Middle School Cafeteria\, 5511 Massachusetts Avenue\, Bethesda\, MD\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260416T200000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260416T213000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260412T214407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260412T214407Z
UID:891-1776369600-1776375000@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Montgomery County Muslim Council (MCMC) 2026 County Executive Candidate Forum (Zoom)
DESCRIPTION:MCMC is a leading civic and political organization dedicated to empowering the Muslim community in Montgomery County through civic engagement and voter education. As the primary election approaches\, our community is eager to hear your vision for the county and your stances on issues important to our community. \nEvent Details: \n\nEvent: MCMC County Executive Candidate Forum\nDate: Thursday\, April 16\, 2026\nTime: 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM\nFormat: Virtual (Zoom link will be provided upon confirmation)\n\n  \nThe forum will feature a moderated Q&A format\, with questions sourced directly from Montgomery County residents. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with a highly engaged voting bloc in our county.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/montgomery-county-muslim-council-mcmc-2026-county-executive-candidate-forum-zoom/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260418T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260418T140000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260316T094144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T094144Z
UID:714-1776513600-1776520800@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:State of Black Montgomery CE Candidates Forum
DESCRIPTION:The Association of Black Democrats of Montgomery County and the Montgomery County Black Collective will host a candidates forum on Saturday\, April 18th\,12-2pm and we cordially invite you to participate. The forum will be held in the Theatre Arts Arena at Montgomery College Rockville (51 Mannakee St\, Rockville\, MD 20850). It will be open to all candidates who have filed for the office of County Executive.\n\nThe forum will be in-person and open to the public. We intend for the forum to include questions from the moderators\, pre-submitted questions\, and questions from the audience. The conversation is intended to provide an opportunity for candidates to express their views on issues that are critically important to the county’s Black community. We’re interested in all the important issues across the spectrum\, but we intend to drill down and spend this time with you getting past talking points to hear how your plans relate directly to us.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/state-of-black-montgomery-ce-candidates-forum/
LOCATION:Theatre Arts Arena at Montgomery College Rockville\, 51 Mannakee St\, Rockville\, MD\, 20850\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260419T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260419T170000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260304T155557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T001908Z
UID:318-1776610800-1776618000@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:National Pan-Hellenic Council of Montgomery County
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/national-pan-hellenic-council-of-montgomery-county/
LOCATION:Colesville United Methodist Church\,  52 Randolph Road\, Silver Spring\, MD 20904\, Colesville United Methodist Church\, 52 Randolph Road\, Silver Spring\, MD 20904\, MD\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260420T183000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260420T203000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260318T144910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T144910Z
UID:736-1776709800-1776717000@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Friends of White Oak - County Executive Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:Friends of White Oak Montgomery County Executive Candidates Forum focused on the issues impacting the White Oak community and the greater East County region. This forum will provide an opportunity for residents to hear directly from candidates about their priorities for economic development\, transportation\, public safety\, housing\, community services\, and other matters that directly affect White Oak and East County. \nFriends of White Oak is a nonprofit organization consisting of volunteers committed to realizing the full vision of the White Oak Science Gateway Master Plan by advancing economic growth\, advocacy\, and strategic partnerships to build a safe\, diverse\, and thriving White Oak community in East County. \nEvent details are below:\n● Date: Monday\, April 20\, 2026\n● Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM\n● Location: White Oak Community Recreation Center – 1700 April Lane\, Silver Spring
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/friends-of-white-oak-county-executive-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:White Oak Community Recreation Center\, 1700 April Lane\, Silver Spring\, MD\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260421T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260421T200000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260305T042214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T001851Z
UID:323-1776794400-1776801600@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce County Executive Forum
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/gaithersburg-germantown-chamber-of-commerce-county-executive-forum/
LOCATION:BlackRock Center for the Arts\, 12901 Town Commons Drive\, Germantown\, MD\, 20874\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T210000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260303T083550Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T001836Z
UID:251-1776884400-1776891600@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Action in Montgomery (AIM) County Executive Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:The forum will be on Wednesday\, April 22\, 2026\, 7-9 pm. \nThis will be an opportunity to hear from and speak with a diverse group of 250+ engaged residents. \nWe are inviting all candidates for County Executive and County Councilmember\,
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/aim-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Harvest Intercontinental Church\, 16227 Batchellors Forest Rd\, Olney\, MD\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260428T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260428T203000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260304T155237Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T001821Z
UID:315-1777402800-1777408200@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Communities of the Town of Chevy Chase hosts Montgomery County Republican Executive Candidate open House
DESCRIPTION:On behalf of the communities of the Town of Chevy Chase\, Chevy Chase Village\, Chevy Chase Section 5 and East Bethesda. This event is designed to give voters a direct opportunity to hear candidates seeking Montgomery County office discuss pressing issues facing our community\, and to hear directly from Candidates to better understand their priorities and positions. \nTuesday April 28\, 2026 \n7:00 – 8:30 PM \nThe event will be held at: \nJane E. Lawton Center \n4301 Willow Lane \nChevy Chase \n  \nIt will be open to the public.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/montgomery-county-council-at-large-plus-candidate-open-house/
LOCATION:Jane E. Lawton Center   4301 Willow Lane   Chevy Chase\, 4301 Willow Lane\, Chevy Chase\, MD\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260429T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260429T200000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260312T185629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T161912Z
UID:679-1777485600-1777492800@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce - County Executive Candidates Forum
DESCRIPTION:Business-driven County Executive Candidates Forum jointly hosted by the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce.  The forum will be held on April 29\, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.\, at the KID Museum\, 3 Bethesda Metro Center\, Suite 140\, Bethesda\, MD 20814. \nJoin Us for the Business Community’s Montgomery County Executive Candidates Forum \n\nThe Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce invite you to a special Montgomery County Executive Candidates Forum hosted by the KID Museum!\n\nThis forum is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the candidates\, learn where they stand on key issues affecting Montgomery County’s business community\, and gain insight into the priorities shaping the county’s future.\n\nHear candidates share perspectives on business climate\, taxes\, economic development\, workforce\, infrastructure\, & community priorities\n\nEvent Highlights:\n-Hosted by: Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce & Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce\n-Moderated by: Douglas Fruehling\, Editor-in-Chief\, Washington Business Journal
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/montgomery-county-chamber-of-commerce-county-executive-candidates-forum/
LOCATION:KID Museum\, 3 Bethesda Metro Center\, Suite 140\, Bethesda\, MD\, 20814\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260502T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260502T160000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260319T025119Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T025119Z
UID:743-1777730400-1777737600@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Bel Pre Recreational Association - Spring Thing Candidate Open House
DESCRIPTION:Strathmore Bel Pre is a 800+ household community in Aspen Hill\, Maryland\, in Montgomery County. \nThis year we have reserved space for candidates running for public office. Present your candidacy to our Community! \nMay 2nd (Saturday)\, 2 pm to 4 pm (rain date May 3rd) \nPool Parking Lot\, 13920 Bethpage Lane. \nOur Spring Thing is a combination open house and social gathering. The event traditionally includes face painting\, balloon twisting\, other kids activities\, tennis and pickleball demonstrations\, free refreshments\, and tables introducing community organizations. \n 
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/bel-pre-recreational-association-spring-thing-candidate-open-house/
LOCATION:Pool Parking Lot\, 13920 Bethpage Lane.\, Aspen Hill\, MD\, 20906\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260504T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260504T203000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260331T021806Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T021807Z
UID:837-1777923000-1777926600@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Cabin John Citizen’s Association County Executive Candidate Esther Meet & Greet
DESCRIPTION:Join our neighborhood to discuss Esther’s campaign for County Executive on May 4th\, 2026. Start time is 7:30pm – 8:30pm.  We would like you to spend a few minutes discussing and then be available for questions and answers from the audience. Location: Clara Barton Community Center in Cabin John\, Community Room. 4th at 7:30 pm. \nThanks in advance for your interest in joining us.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/cabin-john-citizens-association-county-executive-candidate-esther-meet-greet/
LOCATION:Clara Barton Community Center\, Community Room\, 7425 Macarthur Blvd # 151\, Cabin John\, 20818\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260505T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260505T200000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260408T162420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T221907Z
UID:878-1778007600-1778011200@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:League of Women Voters - Republican County Executive Candidate (In-Person & Zoom)
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday\, May 5 from 7 pm to 8 pm at the Universities of Shady Grove and via Zoom\, please register:  https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019d0cbd691775248d19a01265fdb8d3 \n 
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/league-of-women-voters-republican-county-executive-candidate-zoom/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260507T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260507T203000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260331T180211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T162502Z
UID:851-1778180400-1778185800@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Sugarloaf Citizens Association: Montgomery County Executive Republican Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:Montgomery County Executive Republican Candidate Forum\nJoin the Sugarloaf Citizens Association and the Montgomery County Farm Bureau for an insightful evening with the Republican candidates running for Montgomery County Executive. This is your opportunity to hear their visions for the county and the Agricultural Reserve before the 2026 primary.\n\nEvent Details\n\nDate: Thursday\, May 7\, 2026\nTime: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM\nLocation: Clarksburg High School\, 22500 Wims Rd\, Clarksburg\, MD 20871\nCost: Free Community Event\n\n\nFeatured Candidates\n     Shelly Skolnick: Attorney from Friendship Heights.\n     Esther Wells: CPA and President of the Montgomery County Taxpayers League.\n\nWhy Attend?\n\nEngage Directly: Participate in an audience Q&A session with the candidates.\nStay Informed: Learn about candidate positions on key issues like fiscal responsibility\, agritourism\, and land use.\nCommunity Focused: Hosted by local organizations dedicated to preserving the quality of life in Montgomery County’s rural and suburban areas.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/montgomery-county-executive-republican-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Clarksburg High School\, 22500 Wims Rd\, Clarksburg\, MD\, 20871\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260518T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260518T193000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260303T084105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T205536Z
UID:253-1779127200-1779132600@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Montgomery Housing Alliance hosts Montgomery County Executive Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:Montgomery Housing Alliance (MHA)\, a coalition of affordable housing providers and advocates across Montgomery County\, will hold a Montgomery County Executive Candidate Forum on Monday\, May 18th\, 2026. It will be held at Mount Calvary Baptist Church\, 608 North Horners Lane\, Rockville\, MD 20850\, beginning at 6:00 PM and ending at 7:30 PM. \nThe purpose of the candidate forum is to give Montgomery County voters an opportunity to hear candidates discuss the issues of importance to them in this election\, especially regarding housing and homelessness. The event is free and open to the public.
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/montgomery-county-executive-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Mount Calvary Baptist Church\, 608 North Horners Lane\, Rockville\, MD\, 20850\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260607T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260607T130000
DTSTAMP:20260418T134514
CREATED:20260309T215205Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T215205Z
UID:595-1780831800-1780837200@voteforesther.com
SUMMARY:Temple Beth Ami County Executive Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://voteforesther.com/event/temple-beth-ami-county-executive-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Temple Beth Ami\, 14330 Travilah Road\, Rockville\, MD\, United States
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR