Comments from Councilmember Valerie Ervin

December 1, 2009 Council Session

This County Council will be remembered not only for the things that we were able to accomplish on behalf of our residents but also for coming together during some of the most extraordinary events in the Council's history.

During the past three years, this Council stood together as we mourned the loss of two of our colleagues, Marilyn and Don Praisner. We adapted to the changes that occurred during the aftermath of two unprecedented special elections. And we balanced one of the most difficult budgets in more than a decade. These events tested our commitment to the people of Montgomery County as we put our personal differences aside and moved the people's agenda forward. That is what this Council will continue to do.

This year, the annual process which determines how this body selects its leaders has been a difficult one because nothing about this four year term has been typical. When thinking about what I wanted to say today, I was reminded of the keynote speech that the late great Congresswoman from Texas, Barbara Jordan gave at the Democratic National Convention in New York in 1976. She talked about the concept of governing, looking forward to the future, and she, like President Obama spoke about change. She said, "We are a party of innovation. We do not reject our traditions, but we are willing to adapt to changing circumstances, when change we must. We are willing to suffer the discomfort of change in order to achieve a better future."

These words ring true for me today. In this time of unprecedented fiscal uncertainty, I am confident that this Council will focus on preserving the foundation and principles that make this a great county. We want a quality education for all of our children, we want to live in safe communities, we want to provide jobs that pay a living wage and offer a ladder of opportunity, and we want to enjoy and protect the natural environment. We are very fortunate to live in a County where these are some of the things that create an excellent quality of life.

Today, Montgomery County like many jurisdictions all across America, faces tough economic times. As a single mother who raised two sons, I know what it is like to set priorities, especially when times are difficult. I know how to make do with a little bit less and still manage to balance my checkbook at the end of the month. Many residents in this County are facing similar challenges. Families are learning how to stay within a budget by prioritizing and focusing on the essentials. We in County Government are prepared to do the same. I know this Council, under the experienced leadership of Nancy Floreen, will rise to the challenge and do what is necessary to preserve all that makes Montgomery County a great place to call home.

It is an honor to serve as Vice President of the Montgomery County Council. I thank my colleagues for placing their trust in me. I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to outgoing Council President Phil Andrews. He served us all so well. He was always on time, shared the microphone, and gave residents every opportunity to speak to us through public hearings, town hall meetings, council sessions, and committee meetings. He was everywhere, and he served the council with grace, humor, knowledge and fairness. I also want to thank Roger Berliner for his service as Vice President. He always tried to find common ground, and we all know that was not always easy.

I was recently given a copy of the book, The Price of Government. In the introduction, there is a quote from the Seattle Times that reads, "The usual political way to handle a projected deficit is to take last year's budget and cut. It is like taking last year's family car and reducing its weight with a blowtorch and shears. But cutting $2 billion from this vehicle does not make it a compact; it makes it a wreck. What is wanted is a budget designed from the ground up." This Council as a body will come to grips with this budget cycle, rely on the expertise of our excellent Council staff, and focus on the priorities that our residents want and deserve. It will be a daunting task.

I am confident that this Council will focus on the principles that make this a great county. I know that by working together we will continue to achieve great things.

Now it's time to get to work!