Camille Faivre is an education expert who focuses on education management. In the post-pandemic landscape, she supports institutions in the development and implementation of open and e-learning programs. In this interview, we will discuss various topics related to Montgomery County’s recent initiatives, including the Infrastructure Funding Workgroup, health services funding, childcare renovation projects, school attendance, and the Incubators Non-Departmental Account.
Can you explain the purpose of the Infrastructure Funding Workgroup?
The Infrastructure Funding Workgroup is designed to recommend strategies for funding infrastructure and growth-related needs in Montgomery County. The workgroup will determine and assess the County’s infrastructure needs and research various funding mechanisms. It will engage with developers and community members to gather public feedback and provide progress updates to the GO Committee by March 2026, with a final report expected by June 30, 2026.
Who are the members of the Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GO) Committee?
The GO Committee is comprised of Chair and Council President Kate Stewart, along with Councilmembers Andrew Friedson and Sidney Katz.
What are the main goals of the GO Committee for the Infrastructure Funding Workgroup?
The GO Committee aims to study and review the County’s infrastructure needs and funding mechanisms. This includes meeting with stakeholders, providing opportunities for public feedback, and generating actionable recommendations to address the County’s growth and infrastructure needs effectively.
How will the workgroup engage with developers and community members?
The workgroup will hold meetings with both developers and community members, creating platforms for public feedback to ensure that diverse perspectives are considered in its recommendations.
What is the timeline for the workgroup’s progress updates to the GO Committee?
The workgroup is required to provide progress updates to the GO Committee by March 2026.
When is the final report from the Infrastructure Funding Workgroup expected to be submitted?
The final report from the Infrastructure Funding Workgroup is expected to be submitted by June 30, 2026.
What was the significant change introduced by Expedited Bill 16-24 regarding development impact taxes?
Expedited Bill 16-24 amended the law governing transportation and school development impact taxes, recognizing the need for a thorough study and review of current impact taxes, which led to the formation of the Infrastructure Funding Workgroup.
Can you provide details about the $1.3 million State Opioid Response IV Grant?
The $1.3 million State Opioid Response IV Grant is aimed at preventing high-risk opioid overdoses and deaths among returning residents post-incarceration. The funding will be allocated to meet mandated minimum standards of care and licensing requirements, with approximately $730,000 for personnel services and $568,000 for operating expenses.
What specific needs will the State Opioid Response IV Grant address in Montgomery County?
The grant will address the need for mental health and substance use assessments for inmates, ensuring they receive Medication Assisted Treatment if required, which is critical for preventing opioid overdoses and deaths post-incarceration.
How will these funds be allocated between personnel services and operating expenses?
Approximately $730,000 will be allocated for personnel services, and $568,000 will be used for operating expenses.
What is the purpose of the $2.9 million Behavioral Health Crisis Stabilization Center and Mobile Crisis Team pilot?
The purpose is to increase the capacity and reach of behavioral health services through additional staff, medical equipment, medications, training, and consultant services, preparing programs for licensing and eligibility for Medicaid reimbursement.
How will the funding be utilized to develop and expand these behavioral health services?
The funds will be used for recruiting additional staff, securing medical equipment and medications, providing training and staff development, and procuring consultant services to enhance the programs’ reach and effectiveness.
What are the expected outcomes of this investment in crisis stabilization and mobile crisis response?
The expected outcomes include increased capacity and effectiveness of crisis stabilization services, improved reach of the Mobile Crisis Team, and better alignment with licensing requirements to qualify for Maryland Medicaid reimbursement.
What are the key components of the amendments to the FY25-30 Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for childcare renovation projects?
The key components include renovation or replacement of childcare facilities and playgrounds to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and childcare accreditation and safety standards.
How will the amendments ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
The amendments will focus on updating facilities and playgrounds to meet ADA compliance requirements, ensuring accessibility and adherence to current standards.
What specific childcare facilities and playgrounds will be affected by these renovations?
The affected facilities will include various County-owned childcare centers and playgrounds that currently do not meet ADA compliance and accreditation standards.
How does student attendance impact student achievement and graduation rates at Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS)?
Student attendance is directly linked to student achievement and graduation rates. Consistent attendance contributes to better academic performance and higher chances of graduation.
What strategies does MCPS have in place to promote regular student attendance?
MCPS employs strategies such as regular analysis of attendance data, notifying parents and guardians when attendance becomes a concern, and implementing targeted interventions based on root cause analysis to promote regular attendance.
What interventions are available for students with high rates of absenteeism?
Interventions include personalized support, engagement programs, and resources tailored to address the specific reasons behind high absenteeism rates, ensuring students receive the help they need to improve attendance.
How does MCPS address the attendance issues among special education students, multilingual learners, and students receiving free and reduced meals?
MCPS implements targeted interventions and support programs specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by these groups, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support for regular attendance.
What is the purpose of the Incubators Non-Departmental Account (NDA)?
The Incubators NDA provides for facility lease payments, portfolio management services, and program funding for the County’s Business Innovation Network, supporting business incubation and growth.
How has the Incubators NDA performed in FY25?
The performance of the NDA in FY25 includes an overview of facility lease payments, management services, and the effectiveness of programs under the Business Innovation Network.
What strategies are being considered to strengthen and grow Montgomery County’s business incubation?
Strategies include enhancing support services, increasing funding for innovation initiatives, and fostering partnerships with local and national organizations to drive business growth and innovation.
Can you describe the role of the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence within the County’s Business Innovation Network?
The National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, located in Shady Grove, is a partnership between the National Institutes of Technology, the state of Maryland, and Montgomery County. It plays a pivotal role in developing and promoting cybersecurity solutions and innovation within the County’s Business Innovation Network.
What is your forecast for topic?
Based on the current initiatives and funding allocations, Montgomery County is well-positioned to make significant improvements in infrastructure, health services, childcare, and education. The collaborative efforts and strategic investments are likely to result in enhanced services and better outcomes for the community.
