Sep 24, 2026 - HHS Committee Worksession

The Montgomery County Health and Human Services Committee held a worksession on September 24, 2026, to review a supplemental appropriation request of $390,000 for fiscal year 2027 aimed at addressing youth vaping and nicotine addiction. The funds, derived from restricted Jewel and Altria settlement revenues, are allocated to support the Rec Mode Fitness and Boxing LLC Beyond the Gloves youth program ($250,000), the Street Outreach Network ($100,000), and grant administration ($40,000). The committee discussed prior unspent funds from fiscal year 2025 due to staffing vacancies and late notification to community partners, and emphasized the need for improved expenditure monitoring and technical assistance to ensure full utilization of the funds in FY27. The meeting also covered program evaluation metrics, including youth engagement, behavior change, and collaboration with community and school-based services. Councilmembers expressed concerns about past delays in fund utilization, the need for better communication and grant oversight within the county, and plans to enhance grant management staffing and systems to prevent future issues. The committee recommended approval of the appropriation with requests for updates on implementation and outcomes in future budget sessions.