As I continue with my campaign’s policy rollout, this week I am focusing on how Montgomery County can protect our environment and lead on clean energy. As I have spoken with so many of you throughout the first part of my campaign, I have heard your concerns on these issues. You’re concerned both about the big picture as the Trump Administration rolls back 50 years of environmental regulations, and the very local, as we face rising energy costs and a need for energy choice.

I have been working in environmental and energy policy for over a decade, and I have seen how Montgomery County can be a leader on these issues.

Green Bank: When I worked for Councilmember Berliner, I drafted the legislation that created the Montgomery County Green Bank. Today, the Green Bank is helping businesses, residents, and organizations install clean energy generation and reduce energy use, and creating jobs in the clean energy economy right here in Montgomery County. Click below to watch my conversation with District 1 resident Reed Hundt on how the Green Bank came to be and how I’ll continue to invest in this important resource on the County Council.

Solar: When I worked for Councilmember Berliner, another key win was advancing work to make Montgomery County a leader in solar energy. Click here to learn more about that effort, and how I’ll work at the Council to continue investing in solar projects that will generate clean energy and lower your energy bills.

Composting: One area where the County has lagged behind is on composting as we seek to achieve zero waste. Click here to learn about my plan to implement a curbside composting program in Montgomery County.

Smart Growth: How we build also has an important effect on our environment. I was joined by Dave Sears, former President of the Montgomery County Sierra Club, to talk about smart growth policies and how we can invest in infrastructure that reduces our carbon footprint.

What I learned from my time at the County Council is that government can do big things and make a real difference for people, even in challenging times. We can lead on the environment and the green energy economy right here in the County and that’s what I’ll do.

Thanks for reading, and I’ll be back in touch soon.