October 22, 2020
Dear Friend:
Early Voting begins on Monday, October 26th at the following locations across Montgomery County. Don’t forget to vote all the way down– including the Sitting Judges and ballot measures. And, be sure to wear a mask to the polling center!
Shutting Down Voter Intimidation
In this tense election year, voters may encounter attempted harassment at the polls. Voter intimidation is both a state and a federal crime. Attorney General Brian Frosh released a statement warning voters about this type of confrontation. If you have experienced this illegal act, please inform an election judge; call the Election Protection Hotline at 1-866-OUR-VOTE; and report it to the Attorney General’s office. If you witness any type of violence, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Questioning our State’s Transit Plans
The Montgomery County delegation recently met with the State’s top transportation officials for the “Annual Road Show.” Legislators continue to question the high price tag of the proposed I-270/495 project, especially as we watch the State’s poor handling of the Purple Line. In addition to the I-270/495 expansion, I asked about:
- Featuring “Gaithersburg” as a destination on westbound I-C-C signage;
- Completing overdue safety improvements at the 270/189 Falls Road exit;
- Preventing WMATA rate increases in the face of low ridership; and
- Mowing and trimming on roadways for better visibility.
Have a Fa-boo-lous Halloween!
The leaves are changing, and Halloween is around the corner! By following the County’s health guidelines we can have fun safely and responsibly. Traditional trick-or-treating and trunk-or-treating should be avoided. Consider participating in online parties & contests; car parades & drive-by events; or going all-out with Halloween decorations! However you celebrate, remember to wear a mask (bonus points if it matches your costume) if you leave home.
Funding Still Available!
Do you know a nonprofit or small business in Montgomery County that has purchased PPE to comply with public health requirements? Funds from the Reopen Montgomery Small Business Grant are still available. If you have questions about eligibility, e-mail reopen@montgomerycountymd.gov.
As Election Day approaches, check out my “Kibbitzing with Kagan” interview with MoCo’s Deputy Election Administrator, Alysoun McLaughlin. She shared key details about the November Election and what the County is doing to protect your vote!
If you enjoy my weekly updates, please consider checking out my Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Website, and YouTube channel. If you have any questions or comments, send me an email!
Best,
Cheryl
Cheryl C. Kagan
State Senator, District 17
(Rockville & Gaithersburg)
PS: The new Planet Word Museum is opening in DC today! The museum is described to be “an immersive language experience.” As someone who is multilingual and advocates for Language Access, I am eager to visit and wanted to help spread the word.
PPS: If you missed the Conflict Resolution Center of Montgomery County‘s annual gala where I was awarded “Peacemaker of the Year,” you can watch the event here.
(301) 858-3134
Cheryl.Kagan@senate.state.md.us