Rockville, MD – One day after winning an 80 percent victory, Montgomery County Executive‑Elect Will Jawando presented his agenda for the first 100 days of his administration. The new leader will move from overseeing a five‑person council staff to managing a county government of roughly 10,000 employees.
Key Priorities
Jawando said his focus will be on three pillars: affordable homes for families, schools that serve every child regardless of where they live, and neighborhoods where residents feel safe and belong. He emphasized that these goals reflect what voters “overwhelmingly” chose on election night.
Budget Challenge
The incoming administration inherits a structural budget shortfall close to $300 million. At the same time, Maryland faces a potential $3 billion deficit that could reduce state aid to the county. Jawando warned that addressing the fiscal gap will be an immediate test of his leadership.
Tax‑Rate Flexibility
To close the gap, Jawando plans to press state lawmakers in Annapolis for flexibility to adjust local tax rates, with an eye toward higher‑earner contributions. “We need that flexibility, especially if they’re going to pass on costs to us,” he said, noting that county agencies are already reviewing their budgets.
Historic Courthouse Move
Among his first announcements, Jawando revealed plans to relocate the county executive offices to the historic Rockville courthouse, where Thurgood Marshall once argued cases as a young lawyer. The move is intended to bring government closer to the people and honor the building’s legacy.
Community Engagement
Jawando will hold a series of county‑wide workshops to gather resident feedback on tax concerns, school funding, and public safety. He also plans to meet with Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent Thomas Taylor in the coming days to discuss school needs.
Transition Team
The transition team includes local leaders, community figures, and former federal officials, such as former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean‑Pierre, who said early discussions are focused on laying out Jawando’s vision.
Open Positions
Jawando has not yet announced who will serve as the county’s next chief administrative officer or chief of police, but appointments are expected soon. The full composition of county leadership remains partially unsettled, with a close Board of Education race between Brenda Diaz and Omar Lazo still being counted.
Inauguration
Will Jawando will officially take office at an inauguration ceremony on Dec. 7, marking the start of a new chapter for Maryland’s largest jurisdiction.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
