At the September Council meeting, the Council voted 3-1 to join the Greater Bethesda-Chevy Chase Chamber of Commerce. The Council discussion, motion, and second took place during New Business. New Business is on every Council meeting agenda to address issues raised by Council members, at the discretion of the Mayor, after the agenda has been posted. I admit to being surprised by the reaction of some residents and acknowledge the process could have been better handled. As for the Council's decision to join the Bethesda Chamber of Commerce, I have decided to wait until after the October Council meeting so that Council can receive comments and consider further. I believe the decision to join is the correct one. I believe we need to be working with all parties, which includes businesses, involved in the major issues affecting our Town.
I invite all to make comments via emails, calls, letters, etc., as well as during the October Council meeting’s public comments period. This comment period is less formal to provide for a useful exchange between residents and Council members. If the Council decides to reverse the decision after further consideration and discussion, I will entertain such a motion during the course of the meeting.
Thank you,
Al Lang
Mayor