Delivering his State of the City address “against a stormy backdrop,” Gaithersburg Mayor Jud Ashman highlighted the city’s strengths and the importance of moving forward.
These excerpts come from his written speech delivered last Thursday.
“Down the road in Washington, the federal government is racked with a series of disruptions that threaten to hinder our state more than any other,” Ashman said at the Asbury Methodist Village’s Rosborough Cultural Arts and Wellness Center.
“In Annapolis, our governor and state legislators have just wrapped up a grueling session, grappling with one of the most challenging budgets in recent memory, a substantial housing shortage, and an urgent need to spur economic growth.”
“Here in Montgomery County, proposed increases to the property tax rate and fees are raising difficult questions for residents and business owners alike. And beyond the headlines, we know that many in our community – especially our local federal workforce and contractors – are worried about job security.”
Ashman noted cutbacks to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives under the current federal administration.
“Look, DEI – diversity, equity, and inclusion – as a BRAND, is obviously under attack. But I honestly don’t care what you call it. Gaithersburg is the most diverse city in America. And what we hold dear is that we want everyone to feel valued, welcomed, and find opportunity here. It doesn’t matter what acronym you give to that. ‘A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.'”
Ashman said Gaithersburg continues to stand strong and is fiscally sound. He said the city got a perfect score this year in the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, which examines LGBTQ inclusion.
He highlighted city staff working hard for the community, like the collective efforts made to respond after a tornado hit Gaithersburg last summer.
In arts highlights, Ashman mentioned the city’s first-ever film festival, which will take place April 25-27 at the Arts Barn at 311 Kent Square Road in Gaithersburg. And, he noted the 16th Gaithersburg Book Festival, which is May 17 at Bohrer Park.
“Our strength doesn’t lie in a single budget line or a list of awards – though I’m proud of both. It lies in our people. In the neighbor who volunteers for a committee meeting after a long day of work. In the city staffer who shows up early and stays late because they believe in the mission. In the families who build their lives here and invest in this place because they feel seen, valued, and safe.”
“That’s what makes Gaithersburg different. That’s what makes us strong. And we’re gonna need that strength to weather the storm that’s all around us. We’re all gonna need to look out for our neighbors,” Ashman said.
