Advocacy
2026 Legislative Agenda
Primary Priorities
- Promote and support policies that will help increase and diversify Rockville employers and assist small businesses.
- Facilitate and maintain high-quality education in Rockville-based schools and post-secondary institutions that support student career preparation in areas of high need in the region.
- Work in partnership with the City, REDI, Morguard and Comstock, and other stakeholders to make Rockville Town Center a vibrant destination with arts and culture as a focus.
- Promote and support policies designed to explore and improve transportation options with a focus on their economic impact on the business community.
- Identify creative approaches to revitalize Rockville Town Center through virtual and other alternative approaches to foster community while maintaining resident safety.
- Collaborate with the City of Rockville, the County, and the State to identify funding to support Rockville employers and businesses to recover, revitalize, and grow their businesses.
- Encourage and support Montgomery County’s branding of being the Biotech Corridor.
- Encourage and support Montgomery County’s branding of being part of the Quantum Computing epicenter of the United States and Advanced Immunology Capital of the World.
- Support the branding effort for the life/bio science sector being led by REDI in partnership with the County, MCEDC, USG and Gaithersburg.
- Support the City and REDI in creating partnerships with USG and Montgomery College to provide opportunities for students and entrepreneurs to find work and remain in Montgomery County.
Goal: Support REDI in its economic development efforts to attract new businesses/employers to Rockville and retain existing businesses and to promote and support policies and legislation that increase employment opportunities and the tax base.
- Continue to encourage the City to provide incentives through REDI to new businesses/employers.
- Encourage the City to embrace work arrangements and alternative uses of unoccupied office buildings that are flexible and foster safety while bringing together Rockville employers and customers.
- Encourage the City to create additional welcoming outdoor spaces that maintain safety and encourage patronage of Rockville’s businesses.
- Encourage the City to reduce the zoning restrictions and fees that deter businesses/employers from choosing Rockville and support the City in its efforts to rewrite the zoning code.
- Support making Rockville a destination for the arts and creative industries, which will in turn increase business for Rockville’s multitude of restaurants and service providers.
- Support the City and stakeholders in exploration of the creation of an Arts and Entertainment District.
- Support investment in Rockville’s transportation infrastructure.
- Work with stakeholders on developing existing venues in Rockville as arts and culture destinations – Redgate, Stone Street corridor, Dairy Barns at King Farm, etc.
- Support the Vision Zero goals for pedestrian, bike, and traffic safety.
- Advocate for the addition of workforce/affordable housing in the City of Rockville.
- Support REDI’s efforts in promoting small-scale manufacturing in Rock East and other areas of the City.
- Support annexation of additional areas to increase the tax base.
Goal: Promote high-quality education in Rockville based schools and post-secondary institutions.
- Advocate for smart funding of school capital and operating budgets at the County and State level.
- Advocate better methodologies for calculating school population growth.
- Conduct a campaign to educate elected officials and the public on the effects of housing moratoriums in jurisdictions that negatively impact economic development. Demonstrate how moratoriums have hindered school construction, hurt economic development, and exacerbated the cost of housing. See the informative article on the effect of moratoriums on school construction article here.
- Support academic career preparation in disciplines that represent current and targeted industries in the City of Rockville.
- Support Montgomery College in providing experiential educational opportunities for students who want to engage with the business community or particular industry sectors.
Goal: Work in partnership with the City of Rockville, Morguard, Comstock, Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) and other stakeholders to make Rockville Town Center (RTC) a vibrant destination in accordance with the ULI TAP report and with arts and culture as a focus.
- Support improving connections between Montgomery College and Town Center;
- Support the creation of more vibrant and active signage to mark the arrival in RTC including along Rockville Pike and Promenade Park. More directional signage is still needed.
- Encourage placemaking to attract employees and businesses across the City.
- Work with REDI, the City of Rockville, and Morguard on exploring ways to attract and retain merchants in RTC.
- Encourage the City in exploring ways to increase development density in RTC in order to make it a vibrant and active destination.
- Work with the City of Rockville, REDI, and other stakeholders including WMATA to improve access to the Rockville Metro station and make it more inviting and attractive through art, culture, and destination entertainment events that differentiate RTC from its competitors.
Goal: Partner with the City of Rockville, REDI and other stakeholders to review and explore transportation issues affecting Rockville residents and businesses.
- Continue working with all stakeholders on the Managed Lane Studies regarding 270 and 495 and repair or replacement of the American Legion Bridge and promote leveraging of
smart technologies, review of road capacity, transit options, and telework policies. - Continue advocating to ensure that the State Highway Administration moves forward with West End Noise Barrier Project.
- Advocate for increased investment from WMATA for Rockville metro/transportation stations.
- Support the annexation of the Shady Grove Metro Station into the City.
- Partner with the City of Rockville, REDI, the Rockville Pedestrian Advocacy Committee (RPAC), the Rockville Bicycle Advisory Committee (RBAC), and other stakeholders to research and advocate for policies to improve pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic safety.
- Advocate for actions to improve public safety in the City.
To Honorable Kumar Barve, Mayland Public Service Commission in support of PEPCO’s White Flint Substation.
The Honorable Kumar Barve
Maryland Public Service Commission
William Donald Schaefer Tower
6 St. Paul St., 16th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
March 11, 2026
Dear Chairman Barve and Commissioners,
I am writing in support of Pepco’s White Flint Substation, which is a critical piece of North Bethesda’s infrastructure and has been providing more than 40,000 homes and businesses with reliable power for the past 13 months. Case No. 9820.
Senate Bill 886 – Oppose statewide minimum wage to $25 per hour by January 2032.
As a united coalition of business organizations, the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce, Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce, Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Montgomery County, and Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce are firmly opposed to Senate Bill 886 -- Consumer Protection and Labor and Employment - Food Service Facilities and Minimum Wage.
Mayor & Council re: proposed increase to Permit and License fees
On behalf of the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce and the 400+ businesses we represent, I am writing to express strong concern regarding the proposed increases to permit and license fees, particularly those associated with sign permits.
Rockville’s businesses are already operating in a challenging economic environment. Employers and small business owners are managing rising labor costs, escalating commercial rents, higher insurance premiums, inflation in goods and services, and ongoing regulatory requirements. Additional increases in municipal fees—especially those that directly impact basic business operations—create further financial pressure at a time when many businesses are working simply to maintain stability and remain competitive.
Support to secure funding to modernize the Theater Arts Building at Montgomery College Rockville Campus
Dear Nancy:
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to respectfully request your support in securing funding to modernize the Theater Arts Building at Montgomery College’s Rockville Campus.
Montgomery College plays a critical role as a workforce generator for our region’s nationally ranked theater and performing arts industry. Each year, the college prepares students for careers in performance, technical production, stage management, design, and related creative fields that contribute significantly to the local and state economy.
However, much of this instruction and hands-on training takes place in an aging facility that no longer reflects current industry standards. Modernizing the Theater Arts Building would allow the college to provide students with updated equipment, enhanced learning spaces, improved accessibility, and technology that mirrors today’s professional environments. This investment would directly strengthen workforce readiness and ensure graduates remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
An upgraded facility would also expand opportunities for community engagement and regional performances that enrich the cultural life of our community.
Please see the attached fact sheet about the Theater Arts Building, as well as an overview of Montgomery College’s broader impact on developing the county’s workforce.
Thank you for your continued commitment to supporting higher education and economic growth in our region.
Sincerely,
Marji
House Bill 1229 -- Consumer Protection and Labor and Employment - Food Service Facilities and Minimum Wage House Government, Labor, and Elections Committee February 26, 2026 Oppose
As a united coalition of business organizations, the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce, Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce, Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Montgomery County, and Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce are firmly opposed to House Bill 1229 -- Consumer Protection and Labor and Employment - Food Service Facilities and Minimum Wage.
House Bill 1229 increases the statewide minimum wage to $25 per hour by January 1, 2032, and beginning January 1, 2033, provides that the minimum wage will be indexed to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The bill also phases out the tip credit by January 1, 2031, and raises the minimum wage for tipped workers to $16.50 by January 1, 2030.
2026 Chambers Letter to Governor Moore & the General Assembly
February 18, 2026
Dear Governor Moore and Members of the Maryland General Assembly,
On behalf of Maryland's business community, including chambers of commerce and diverse small- and minority-owned businesses statewide, we write to express concern about Maryland's growing power supply challenges and the implications for economic stability and growth.
Chamber Support for Schools
The Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce is urging Montgomery County leaders to restore critical school construction funding for Twinbrook Elementary School and Wootton High School in the FY27–FY32 Capital Improvements Program. In a formal letter to county and school system leadership, the Chamber outlines why modern, well-planned school facilities are essential to educational equity, workforce development, housing stability, and long-term economic vitality in Rockville. The letter calls for strategic, fiscally responsible solutions that preserve permanent school capacity in growth areas and align with the County’s adopted plans—reinforcing the inseparable link between strong schools and a strong business community. Read more...
Testimony on Proposed Sign Ordinance
February 9, 2026
Mayor Ashton and Members of the City Council
City of Rockville
My name is Marji Graf, and I am the President and CEO of the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce. We represent hundreds of local businesses, associations, nonprofits, property owners, and community stakeholders.
I am here today to express serious concern regarding the proposed sign ordinance language in Article 10 of the Staff Draft Zoning Ordinance for the City of Rockville, dated December 1, 2025. Specifically, the proposed prohibition of internally illuminated freestanding signs¹ and electronic message centers² visible from the public right-of-way would significantly disadvantage Rockville’s small and mid-sized businesses at a time when they are competing harder than ever for visibility and customers in a challenging regional economy.
From the Chamber’s perspective, freestanding internally illuminated signs and electronic message centers—often referred to as EMCs—are not cosmetic extras. They are essential business tools.
Internally illuminated freestanding signs, including monument, pole, and pylon signs, are frequently more effective and attractive than externally illuminated signs. They provide greater visibility, contrast, and legibility at night and during inclement weather. For many storefronts—particularly those set back from the road, located in multi-tenant centers, or lacking prominent building frontage—these signs are often the primary way motorists and pedestrians know a business exists, what it offers, and where to turn.
The proposed ban would disadvantage not only new businesses considering Rockville, but also existing businesses that currently rely on these signs. While such signs would be grandfathered, any change of copy would eliminate their nonconforming status. This means that a new tenant at an existing location—or an existing business updating its logo or name—would be required to replace an effective internally illuminated sign with an externally downlit one. Even without changes, the sign must be removed after eight years, forcing businesses to incur the real costs of purchasing a new sign, as well as the intangible costs of reduced nighttime visibility and attractiveness.
The categorical prohibition of any electronic message center visible from the public right-of-way is equally concerning. To clarify, these are on-premises digital signs—not billboards. Under the proposed definition, EMCs would include gas station digital price displays, fast food drive-through menu boards, and bank drive-through signs. Rockville currently has many businesses using signage that would fall under this definition and would be swept into this prohibition. While we appreciate that the City would still allow EMCs visible to pedestrians, the proposal prevents businesses from using a communications technology that is already responsibly regulated in many jurisdictions through brightness limits, automatic dimming, and reasonable
message change intervals. Rather than modernizing the code, this approach freezes Rockville in the past and undercuts its competitiveness.
Eliminating these modern and effective signage options will disproportionately harm independent retailers, local restaurants, and service providers—businesses that do not have large marketing budgets, brand-name recognition, or prime locations. It sends a message that Rockville is a harder place to do business than neighboring jurisdictions. Montgomery County and the City of Gaithersburg, for example, both allow internally illuminated freestanding signs and EMCs visible from the public right-of-way, subject to reasonable regulatory controls.
These restrictions would also place Rockville at a disadvantage when attracting new investment. Regional and national businesses routinely consider signage visibility as part of their site-selection criteria. A zoning code that bans internally illuminated freestanding signs and prohibits EMCs visible from the public right-of-way will push some prospective tenants to nearby communities with more balanced standards. The result is fewer leases signed, fewer jobs created, and less tax revenue to support the services Rockville residents value.
By allowing internally illuminated freestanding signs and electronic message centers visible from the public right-of-way, Rockville has the opportunity to align its zoning update with current signage best practices and business realities. The Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce urges the City to reconsider these provisions and to work collaboratively with the business community to adopt sign regulations that protect community character while still allowing Rockville businesses to be seen, found, and supported.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Testimony Against Rent Stabilization in Rockville
Submitted by: Marji Graf, President & CEO, Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce
Date: July 21, 2025
To: Mayor Ashton and Councilmembers, City of Rockville
My name is Marji Graf, and I am the President & CEO of the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce, representing hundreds of local businesses, property owners, and community stakeholders.
I would like to voice our strong opposition to rent stabilization legislation in the City of Rockville.
We absolutely recognize and support the urgent need for housing affordability, but rent stabilization is not the right tool. In fact, it may have long-term consequences that do the opposite of what is intended—especially in a city like Rockville that is growing, diverse, and striving for economic vibrancy.
Bill 22-25, Labor Peace Agreements - Hotel Development Projects
As a united coalition of business organizations, we appreciate the opportunity to provide input on Bill 22- 25, Labor Peace Agreements - Hotel Development Projects. We respectfully urge the Council to vote unfavorably on this legislation as currently drafted, which would require labor peace agreements (LPAs) as a condition of Montgomery County’s economic participation in a hotel development project. Overall, our primary concern lies with the overly broad language in the bill and its implications for the economic landscape of Montgomery County.
The 90 Day Report - A Review of the 2025 Legislative Session
Click on the image above, or here to download the full version of The 90 Day Report.
Testimony to the Rockville Mayor and Council
Testimony to the Rockville Mayor and Council
Date: April 28, 2025
Subject: Prioritizing Local Bids in City Procurement
Good evening, Mayor and Council Members,
Thank you for the opportunity to speak tonight. My name is Marji Graf, the President and CEO of the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce, and I am here to advocate for prioritizing local businesses in the City’s bidding process.
As a proud supporter of the "Buy Local" movement, I believe it is vital for our city to lead by example. Local businesses are the backbone of our community, and by prioritizing their bids, we achieve several key objectives:
- Economic Impact: Choosing local businesses ensures that more money stays within our community, circulating and reinvesting in Rockville. This strengthens our local economy and creates a sustainable foundation for growth.
- Community Knowledge: Local businesses have a unique understanding of our community’s needs and values. They are not just vendors but neighbors who genuinely care about Rockville’s well-being.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Women- and minority-owned businesses, which are often local, may not always offer the lowest bid, but they bring invaluable contributions, such as inclusivity and representation. By supporting them, we foster a city that values equity and diversity.
- Long-term Value vs. Short-term Cost: While cost is an important factor, it should not be the sole determinant. Local businesses provide long-term value through reliability, accountability, and community engagement.
I recommend adopting a procurement policy that incorporates a scoring system, weighting criteria like local presence, community involvement, and diversity alongside cost. This approach ensures that we make informed decisions benefiting the city holistically.
By prioritizing local bids, we are investing in Rockville’s future, supporting our residents, and cultivating a thriving community. I urge the Council to make this a priority in all City contracts.
Thank you for considering this critical issue. I am happy to answer any questions or provide further input.
Sincerely,
Marji Graf, President & CEO
Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce
1 Research Court, Suite 450
Rockville, MD. 20850
marji@rockvillechamber.org
301-424-9300
STATEMENT: Eleven Montgomery County Chambers of Commerce Jointly Urge Council’s Removal of Proposed Property Tax Increase From FY2026 Budget
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Cyndi Sutton for Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
cyndi@jrcommunications.com
571-213-0401
STATEMENT: Eleven Montgomery County Chambers of Commerce Jointly
Urge Council’s Removal of Proposed Property Tax Increase From
FY2026 Budget
ROCKVILLE, MD [April 22, 2025] – This afternoon, the Montgomery County Council (MCC) held another public hearing on a proposed FY2026 real property tax rate increase of 3.4% at the Council Office Building in Rockville, Maryland.
Eleven Montgomery County chambers of commerce have joined together to urge Montgomery County Councilmembers to exercise fiscal discipline and responsible budgeting to prevent tax increases. The Chambers have also voiced their opposition to the proposed increase in the systems benefit charge. The increase would mean a 31% hike for single-family homes, a 104.4% increase for multi-family properties, and a 104.9% jump for commercial properties.
The 11 coalition members include:
● Asian American Chamber of Commerce
● Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce (GGCC)
● Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce (GBCC)
● Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce
● Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce (SSCC)
● Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce
● Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Montgomery County (HCCMC)
● Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
● Olney Chamber of Commerce
● Poolesville Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC)
● Wheaton & Kensington Chamber of Commerce
Angela Franco, President and CEO, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, who testified at today’s hearing, released the following statement on behalf of the coalition of Montgomery County chambers:
“Many businesses and households in Montgomery County are already struggling. Tax and cost increases in recent years have been significant and only served to make the County a less desirable place for economic growth. This latest proposed property tax increase of 3.4% will once again financially strain Montgomery County’s businesses and residents. After all, the County raised property taxes by 4.7% just two years ago. We strongly urge the County Council to vote ‘no’ on this property tax increase proposal for fiscal year 2026; otherwise, the County will not only decrease its current competitiveness, but also lose additional growth opportunities.”
About Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC), on behalf of its members, champions the growth of business opportunities, strategic infrastructure investments, and a strong workforce to position Metro Maryland as a premier regional, national, and global business location. Established in 1959, MCCC is an independent, non-profit membership organization. For more information, visit https://www.mcccmd.com or follow the Chamber at https://www.facebook.com/MCCCMD.
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Housing N.O.W. (New Options for Workers) - Support
On behalf of the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce, Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce, Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce, and Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, we strongly support the More Housing N.O.W. (New Options for Workers) legislative and budget package. Thank you to the package’s sponsors (Councilmembers Andrew Friedson and Natali Fani-González) and co-sponsors (Council President Stewart and Councilmembers Balcombe, Luedtke, and Sayles) for introducing the More Housing N.O.W. package.
Specifically, our chambers support:
- Expedited Bill 2-25, Taxation – Payments in Lieu of Taxes – Affordable Housing – Amendments, which establishes a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) for conversion of high-vacancy commercial properties to residential use.
- Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 25-02, Workforce Housing - Development Standards, which allows more residential building types along corridors with a workforce housing requirement.
- Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 25-03, Expedited Approvals - Commercial to Residential, which creates an expedited approval process for projects that convert high-vacancy commercial properties to residential use.
- Budget request to double Homeowner Assistance Program from $4 million to $8 million in the FY26 Housing Initiative Fund (HIF).
- Budget request of $4 million for a new countywide fund to incentivize the construction of workforce units.
Our chambers commend the goals of the More Housing N.O.W. initiative, which aims to increase housing supply, reduce costs, and expand pathways to homeownership. Notwithstanding the extreme headwinds facing Montgomery County’s housing market, which include rent control and the specter of increasing property taxes, the availability of attainable housing is crucial for Montgomery County's economic success. Given the County's stagnant economic growth, our Chambers believe that increasing the supply of middle-income housing can drive economic activity. To spur growth and make Montgomery County more attractive to employers, the County needs more housing options for working families and young professionals.
We also support creating incentives for the struggling commercial property market. While many commercial properties are not ideal for residential conversion, More Housing N.O.W. offers innovative and competitive incentives to convert high-vacancy commercial properties to residential use. This approach addresses two significant economic issues: repurposing struggling commercial properties and increasing housing supply.
Montgomery County and the commercial real estate market may never fully recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, and pressures continue to grow with the potential downsizing of the federal government. Now is the time to provide new options and incentives for converting commercial properties. While these incentives will not solve all the challenges of the struggling commercial real estate market or the County’s attainable housing shortage, they represent an important step in the right direction.
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Making Montgomery County More Competitive in a Challenging Real Estate Climate.” During this discussion, panelists explored potential solutions for key issues facing commercial real estate, including the implementation of tools such as payment in lieu of taxes (PILOTs) and tax increment financing (TIF). Panelists highlighted that while these tools are widely used across the country, they are not yet utilized in Montgomery County. The passage of this bill could enable Montgomery County to join other jurisdictions successfully employing PILOTs or TIFs, thereby providing greater options to address the County’s real estate challenges.
As a united group of business organizations, we appreciate the opportunity to weigh in on these proposals and respectfully request the County Council to favorably consider the More House N.O.W. package.
Stephanie Hesling
President & CEO
Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce
Allie Williams
President & CEO
Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce
Paula Ross
President & CEO
Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce
Angela Franco
President & CEO
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Marji Graf
President & CEO
Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce
Senate Bill 321 - Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act of 2025
Senate Bill 321 - Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act of 2025
Senate Budget and Taxation Committee
February 28, 2025
Oppose
On behalf of the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce, Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce, Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce, and Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, we oppose Senate Bill 321 -- Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act of 2025.
Letter to Mayor & Council on the Streamlined Project Plan Process
February 26, 2025
Dear Mayor & Council,
The Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce strongly supports improving the development process in the City of Rockville and specifically supports the proposed Streamlined Project Plan Process, the proposed Streamlined Process for Planned Development Amendments and the development types proposed for Administrative Site Plan Approvals.
The Chamber also strongly supports the Recommendations for Development Process Improvements contained in the staff report for the March 3 work session on the Zoning Ordinance Rewrite focusing on FAST 2 process improvements.
These proposed improvements are critical to the future economic development of the City of Rockville and will result in an increase in effective and efficient service delivery in the development process.
Sincerely,
Marji Graf
President & CEO
Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce
1 Research Court, Suite 450
Rockville, MD. 20850
marji@rockvillechamber.org
301-424-9300
Rockvillechamber.org
2025 Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce Legislative Agenda
Primary Priorities
1. Promote and support policies that will help increase and diversify Rockville employers and assist small businesses.
2. Facilitate and maintain high-quality education in Rockville-based schools and post-secondary institutions that support student career preparation in areas of high need in the region.
3. Work in partnership with the City, REDI, Morguard and Comstock, and other stakeholders to make Rockville Town Center a vibrant destination with arts and culture as a focus.
4. Promote and support policies designed to explore and improve transportation options with a focus on their economic impact on the business community.
5. Identify creative approaches to revitalize Rockville Town Center through alternative approaches to foster community while maintaining resident safety.
6. Collaborate with the City of Rockville, the County, and the State to identify funding to support Rockville employers and businesses to recover, revitalize, and grow their businesses.
7. Encourage and support Montgomery County’s branding of being the Biotech Corridor.
8. Encourage and support Montgomery County’s branding of being part of the Quantum Computing epicenter of the United States and Advanced Immunology Capital of the World.
9. Support the branding effort for the life/bio science sector being led by REDI in partnership with the County, MCEDC, USG and Gaithersburg.
10. Support the City and REDI in creating partnerships with USG and Montgomery College to provide opportunities for students and entrepreneurs to find work and remain in Montgomery County.
Goal: Support REDI in its economic development efforts to attract new businesses/employers to Rockville and retain existing businesses and to promote and support policies and legislation which increase employment opportunities and the tax base.
- Continue to encourage the City to provide incentives through REDI to new businesses/employers.
- Encourage the City to embrace work arrangements and alternative uses of unoccupied office buildings that are flexible and foster safety while bringing together Rockville employers and customers.
- Encourage the City to create additional welcoming outdoor spaces that maintain safety and encourage patronage of Rockville’s businesses.
- Encourage the City to reduce the zoning restrictions and fees that deter businesses/employers from choosing Rockville and support the City in its efforts to rewrite the zoning code.
- Support making Rockville a destination for the arts and creative industries, which will in turn increase business for Rockville’s multitude of restaurants and service providers.
- Support the City and stakeholders in exploration of the creation of an Arts and Entertainment District.
- Support investment in Rockville’s transportation infrastructure.
- Work with stakeholders on developing existing venues in Rockville as arts and culture destinations – Redgate, Stone Street corridor, Dairy Barns at King Farm, etc.
- Support the Vision Zero goals for pedestrian, bike, and traffic safety.
- Advocate for the addition of workforce/affordable housing in the City of Rockville.
- Support REDI’s efforts in promoting small scale manufacturing in Rock East and other areas of the City.
- Support annexation of additional areas to increase the tax base.
Goal: Promote high-quality education in Rockville based schools and post-secondary institutions.
- Advocate for smart funding of school capital and operating budgets at the County and State level.
- Advocate for better methodologies for calculating school population growth.
- Conduct a campaign to educate elected officials and the public on the effects of housing moratoriums in jurisdictions that negatively impact economic development. Demonstrate how moratoriums have hindered school construction, hurt economic development, and exacerbated the cost of housing. See the informative article on the effect of moratoriums on school construction article here.
- Support academic career preparation in disciplines that represent current and targeted industries in the City of Rockville.
- Support Montgomery College in providing experiential educational opportunities for students who want to engage with the business community or particular industry sectors.
Goal: Work in partnership with the City of Rockville, Morguard, Comstock, Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) and other stakeholders to make Rockville Town Center (RTC) a vibrant destination in accordance with the ULI TAP report and with arts and culture as a focus.
- Support improving connections between Montgomery College and Town Center;
- Support the creation of more vibrant and active signage to mark the arrival in RTC including along Rockville Pike and Promenade Park.
- Encourage placemaking to attract employees and businesses across the City.
- Work with REDI, the City of Rockville, and Morguard on exploring ways to attract and retain merchants in RTC including reviewing parking rates and hours, types of merchants approached for leasing opportunities, etc.
- Support the City in exploring ways to increase development density in RTC in order to make it a vibrant and active destination.
- Work with the City of Rockville, REDI, and other stakeholders including WAMTA to improve access to the Rockville Metro station and make it more inviting and attractive through art, culture, and destination entertainment events that differentiate RTC from its competitors.
Goal: Partner with the City of Rockville, REDI and other stakeholders to review and explore transportation issues affecting Rockville residents and businesses.
- Continue working with all stakeholders on the Managed Lane Studies regarding 270 and 495 and repair or replacement of the American Legion Bridge and promote leveraging of smart technologies, review of road capacity, transit options, and telework policies.
- Advocate for increased investment from WMATA for Rockville metro/transportation stations.
- Support the annexation of the Shady Grove Metro Station into the City.
- Partner with the City of Rockville, REDI, the Rockville Pedestrian Advocacy Committee (RPAC), the Rockville Bicycle Advisory Committee (RBAC), and other stakeholders to research and advocate for policies to improve pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic safety.
- Advocate for actions to improve public safety in the City.
January 24, 2025 Legislative Conference Recap
On Friday, January 24, as President of the Maryland Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (MACCE), Marji Graf had the honor of hosting the annual Legislative Conference at the Comptroller’s Office in Annapolis.
MACCE represents a coalition of 33 Chamber of Commerce Executives across the state of Maryland, advocating for thousands of businesses of all sizes—from locally owned small businesses to Fortune 100 companies. These businesses span every industry and region, unified in their commitment to shaping policies that foster economic growth and opportunity throughout our diverse state.
During the conference, there were insightful discussions with The Honorable Governor Wes Moore regarding his budget and priorities for Maryland. Additionally, productive meetings were held with:
- The Honorable Senator Brian Feldman, Chair of the Senate Finance Committee
- The Honorable Senator Will Smith, Chair of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee
- Ben Seigel, Deputy Comptroller for Policy, Public Works, and Investment
- Andrew Griffin, Partner at Providence Strategies, LLC
These conversations provided a valuable platform to align on key issues impacting Maryland’s business community. What a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with leaders who share a vision of creating a thriving environment for businesses across the state.
2024 Rockville Town Center Master Plan
The Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce supports the adoption of the 2024 Rockville Town Center Master Plan (RTCMP) which was recommended by the Planning Commission. This proposal came from an extensive outreach program by the Community Planning and Development Department and was thoroughly reviewed by the Planning Commission.
This Plan will result in dramatic positive changes to improve the Town Center. It includes additional residential development, affordable housing and an expedited approval process. More planned events and 5 new parks are also part of the plan. Major improvements to the Rockville Metro Station and access to the Town Center are included. As a result, Town Center will become a location. "where people can live, work and play for years to come."
Marji Graf
President & CEO
Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce is in support of the recently introduced Bill 22-24, Taxation, Collection of Development Impact Taxes.
The following letter was submitted in support of Bill 22-24, Taxation.
November 22, 2024
Support. Bill 22-24, Taxation
The Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce is in support of the recently introduced Bill 22-24, Taxation, Collection of Development Impact Taxes.
This legislation will help to save developers money by not charging them impact fees up front, thus making it more affordable to build housing.
Currently, developers in Montgomery County are charged impact taxes up front when they build housing projects. These taxes must be paid within 6-12 months of receiving initial
permits. When developers take out a loan to finance their projects, impact taxes are often included in the total amount of the loan, meaning they are paying interest on the loan for
those impact taxes.
The simple change proposed in the legislation will lower the upfront costs.
The Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce agrees with the Office of Legislative Oversight’s economic impact statement “this bill will have a positive impact on economic conditions in Montgomery County. The additional time developers would have before payments are due would likely reduce financing costs for certain development projects, which would potentially increase developers’ business incomes.”
This legislation will encourage the construction of more needed housing in Montgomery County.
Sincerely,
Marji Graf, President & CEO
Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce
1 Research Court, Suite 450
Rockville, MD. 20850
marji@rockvillechamber.org
301-424-9300
Marji's Letter of Opposition to House Bill 1515 - Sales & Use Tax
In opposition to House Bill 1515 - Sales & Use Tax - Rate Reduction & Service, our President & CEO Marji Graf wrote the following letter of opposition.
See the full letter here.
Read Marji's letter supporting Pepco's proposed Multi-Year Plan filed with the Maryland Public Service Commission on May 16, 2023.
Read the J.O.B.S. Act Joint Letter to Council President Friedson and Councilmembers from April 27, 2024. Full letter here...
To stay on top of current bills and their status, please view the 2025 Bill Tracker.
Please note that the Montgomery County Council withdrew their bill for tipped wages. See the video here.
Primary Priorities:
1. Promote and support policies that will help increase and diversify Rockville employers and assist small businesses.
2. Facilitate and maintain high-quality education in Rockville-based schools and post-secondary institutions that support student career preparation in areas of high need in the region.
3. Work in partnership with the City, REDI, Morguard and Comstock, and other stakeholders to make Rockville Town Center a vibrant destination with arts and culture as a focus;
4. Promote and support policies designed to explore and improve transportation options with a focus on their economic impact on the business community.
5. Identify creative approaches to revitalize Rockville Town Center through virtual and other alternative approaches to foster community while maintaining resident safety.
6. Collaborate with the City of Rockville, the County, and the State to identify funding to support Rockville employers and businesses to recover, revitalize, and grow their businesses.
7. Encourage and support Montgomery County’s branding of being the Advanced Immunology Capital of the World.
8. Encourage and support Montgomery County’s branding of being part of the Quantum Computing epicenter of the United States.
9. Support the branding effort for the life/bio science sector being led by REDI in partnership with the County, MCEDC, USG and Gaithersburg.
10. Support the City and REDI in creating partnerships with USG and Montgomery College to provide opportunities for students and entrepreneurs to find work and remain in Montgomery County.
Goal: Support REDI in its economic development efforts to attract new businesses/employers to Rockville and retain existing businesses and to promote and support policies and legislation that increase employment opportunities and the tax base.
• Continue to encourage the City to provide incentives through REDI to new businesses/employers.
• Encourage the City to embrace flexible work arrangements and alternative uses of unoccupied office buildings that are flexible and foster safety while bringing together Rockville employers and customers.
• Encourage the City to create additional welcoming outdoor spaces that maintain safety and encourage patronage of Rockville’s businesses.
• Encourage the City to reduce the zoning restrictions and fees that deter businesses/employers from choosing Rockville and support the City in its efforts to rewrite the zoning code.
• Support making Rockville a destination for the arts and creative industries, which will in turn increase business for Rockville’s multitude of restaurants and service providers.
• Support the City and stakeholders in the exploration of the creation of an Arts and Entertainment District.
• Support investment in Rockville’s transportation infrastructure.
• Work with stakeholders on developing existing venues in Rockville as arts and culture destinations – Redgate, Stone Street corridor, Dairy Barns at King Farm, etc.
• Support the Vision Zero goals for pedestrian, bike, and traffic safety.
• Advocate for the addition of workforce/affordable housing in the City of Rockville.
• Support REDI’s efforts in promoting small-scale manufacturing in Rock East and other areas of the City.
Goal: Promote high-quality education in Rockville-based schools and post-secondary institutions.
• Advocate for smart funding of school capital and operating budgets at the County and State level.
• Advocate for better methodologies for calculating school population growth.
• Conduct a campaign to educate elected officials and the public on the effects of housing moratoriums in jurisdictions that negatively impact economic development. Demonstrate how moratoriums have hindered school construction, hurt economic development, and exacerbated the cost of housing. See the informative article on the effect of moratoriums on school construction article here.
• Support academic career preparation in disciplines that represent current and targeted industries in the City of Rockville.
• Support Montgomery College in providing experiential educational opportunities for students who want to engage with the business community or particular industry sectors.
Goal: Work in partnership with the City of Rockville, Morguard, Comstock, Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) and other stakeholders to make Rockville Town Center (RTC) a vibrant destination in accordance with the ULI TAP report and with arts and culture as a focus.
• Support improving connections between Montgomery College and Town Center;
• Support the creation of more vibrant and active signage to mark the arrival in RTC including along Rockville Pike and Promenade Park.
• Encourage placemaking to attract employees and businesses across the City.
• Work with REDI, the City of Rockville, and Morguard on exploring ways to attract and retain merchants in RTC including reviewing parking rates and hours, types of merchants approached for leasing opportunities, etc.
• Support the City in exploring ways to increase development density in RTC in order to make it a vibrant and active destination.
• Work with the City of Rockville, REDI, and other stakeholders including WMATA to improve access to the Rockville Metro station and make it more inviting and attractive through art, culture, and destination entertainment events that differentiate RTC from its competitors.
Goal: Partner with the City of Rockville, REDI and other stakeholders to review and explore transportation issues affecting Rockville residents and businesses.
• Continue working with all stakeholders on the Managed Lane Studies regarding 270 and 495 and repair or replacement of the American Legion Bridge and promote leveraging of smart technologies, review of road capacity, transit options, and telework policies.
• Continue advocating to ensure that the State Highway Administration moves forward with West End Noise Barrier Project.
• Advocate for increased investment from WMATA for Rockville metro/transportation stations.
• Support the annexation of the Shady Grove Metro Station into the City.
• Partner with the City of Rockville, REDI, the Rockville Pedestrian Advocacy Committee (RPAC), the Rockville Bicycle Advisory Committee (RBAC), and other stakeholders to research and advocate for policies to improve pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic safety.
• Advocate for actions to improve public safety in the City.
• Encourage safe distancing and connections between businesses and residents in the City of Rockville.