The Montgomery County Council unanimously elected Councilmember Natali Fani-González president and Councilmember Marilyn Balcombe vice president Tuesday, marking a transition in leadership that continues the Council’s focus on serving diverse communities.
“Now more than ever, we need a Council president leading with heart and commitment to ensure Montgomery County gets through these difficult times,” said Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles, who nominated Fani-González.
“We need someone whose lived experiences resonate with our immigrant community and working families. Natali exemplifies these qualities,” Sayles said. Fani-González immigrated to the U.S. from Venezuela as a teenager. She represents District 6, which includes Aspen Hill, Glenmont, Kemp Mill and Wheaton.
After taking the seat, Fani-González focused on the future in her first remarks as president. “As we prepare for this next year, one thing needs to be crystal clear: our values of fairness only endure when we have one system of justice for everyone.”
“If one group can be denied due process, none of us will feel safe to enjoy the rights that this country—the one that I now as an immigrant call home—says it stands for,” Fani-González said. “With this in mind as my guiding star, I will lead this Council with determination and compassion, particularly focused on the most vulnerable in Montgomery County.”
Councilmember Dawn Luedtke, who nominated Balcombe for vice president, noted their shared priority of uplifting the voices of the Upcounty. Balcombe represents District 2, which includes Boyds, Clarksburg, Damascus, Darnestown, Germantown, Hyattstown, Montgomery Village, Poolesville and North Potomac.
“I truly believe that, in large part because of her leadership and her constant attention to that geographic representation and diversity that’s needed, that we have made progress on those issues,” Luedtke said.
Outgoing President Kate Stewart said serving in the role was “a great honor.” She added, “I know I will carry these lessons forward with me.”
Outgoing Vice President Will Jawando echoed that sentiment. Typically, council vice president is next in line to be president, but Jawando did not seek the council presidency after he decided to run for county executive.
“I’m choosing to focus on my role as an at-large member,” Jawando said.
“I look forward to working with the new president and the new vice president, as well as all of my colleagues to fight for what all of our community members need.”
The council president and vice president serve one-year terms.
In addition, Councilmember Gabe Albornoz officially stepped down Monday to resume his role as the county’s recreation director. Three candidates will be interviewed Tuesday to replace him, with a decision to be made Dec 9.
