The Sierra Club’s second environmental scorecard for the current Montgomery County Council reveals a continued split between the good to excellent scores of Councilmembers Perez (76%), Praisner (81%), and Andrews (95%) and those of the other Council members, whose scores range from 64% (Councilmember Denis) to a low of 44% (Councilmember Subin).

 

The Sierra Club scored 22 votes with significant environmental implications. These votes determine the County’s direction on growth, transportation, energy, and water and forest conservation. But contrary to some organizations’ policy, we have included unanimous pro-environment votes that really didn’t cost the Council members any campaign contributor support--such as the tax rebate for renewable energy and the resolution on a long-range funding plan for Metro--in order to give Council members every advantage.  Yet the distinct demarcation remains. 

 

Accountability needed

“The Sierra Club feels very strongly that elected officials must be held accountable for their votes.  Each individual yea or nay reflected that Council member’s vision for our future, and each majority vote set the county’s course, usually with irreversible consequences for us, our children, and our grandchildren,” said Anne Ambler, Chair of the Montgomery County Group.  “Cool forests that fall to hot roads and rooftops do not grow back.  The current heat wave gives us warning we’re on the wrong course.”

 

Maryland Chapter Endorsements