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Hispanic Heritage Month Program (Spanish)

Hispanic Heritage Month Program (English)

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH 2016

Councilmember Navarro’s Remarks on Positive Youth Development

Councilmember Navarro’s Comments on Bill 25-16, Creating a Neighborhood Action Team

County Announces Recovery of Unpaid Wages for 318 County Contractors

Legislation Introduced by Councilmembers Navarro and Elrich Provides Necessary Enforcement Power

ROCKVILLE, Md., June 17, 2016—Today the Montgomery County Office of Procurement announced the recovery of $300,070 in unpaid wages for 318 individuals employed by five different service contractors engaged in contracts with the County.  Last year Councilmember Nancy Navarro, who serves as chair of the Council’s Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee and Councilmember Marc Elrich, who serves as chair of the Council’s Public Safety Committee, introduced Bill 43-15 to enhance enforcement of the County’s Wage Requirements Law, which is also known as the “living wage” law.

The County Council unanimously enacted the living wage legislation, which took effect on May 10, 2016. Cherri Branson, director of the County’s Office of Procurement, credited the law with giving her office the additional “enforcement power” needed to take this unprecedented action.

“It is unconscionable that this type of illegal behavior, which is harmful to our most vulnerable workers, went on for so long,” said Councilmember Nancy Navarro. “I am pleased that the County Council took the necessary steps to ensure that our Office of Procurement has the tools and resources required to enforce the law.  We must make sure that all of our workers are paid the County’s living wage.”

“In 2002, the Council passed a living wage bill with the clear intent to provide employees with a living wage,” said Councilmember Elrich. “It is unfortunate that certain unscrupulous business owners managed to subvert the intent of the law, to the detriment of their employees. As amended today, the law now has clear reporting requirements and distinct penalties for not paying employees on County contracts a living wage. I am proud to stand with Councilmember Navarro and my colleagues in sending this clear message that the County will protect contractor employees’ right to earn a living wage.”

The Office of Procurement has identified the companies, who have since taken corrective action, as Camco; LT Services; Potomac Disposal; Securitas; and Unity.

The current living wage rate is $14.35 per hour for fiscal year 2016. Starting July 1, 2016, the rate will increase to $14.40 per hour for fiscal year 2017.  Enacted Bill 43-15 can be viewed at:

http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/COUNCIL/Resources/Files/bill/2015/20160202_43-15A.pdf

 

 

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Recognizing Michael V. Williams as MCPS Educator of the Year

Councilmember Navarro’s Comments on the Orlando Shooting

 

Councilmember Navarro’s Statement on the Orlando Shooting:

“On Sunday, Orlando fell victim to what is an all too common occurrence; a mass shooting perpetrated by someone full of hatred and devoid of respect for human life. This targeted attack that took the lives of 49 people should be more than just a moment of reflection, but a call to action. Maryland has already banned weapons of war, like the one that was used in this massacre. Congress must follow President Obama’s leadership and pass sensible gun control laws.

The Latino LGBT community, in particular, was hard-hit by this tragedy. Many of those killed were immigrants or children of immigrants, who came to this country precisely because of our values of inclusiveness, respect and acceptance. Instead of responding to this tragedy by banning Muslim immigrants we should be proud of the contributions immigrants make to our society, and reject divisive rhetoric.”

FY17 Budget Accomplishments: Prioritizing Education & Public Safety

 

fy17-budget-accomplishmentsWatch Councilmember Navarro’s Remarks on the FY17 Budget:

 

Councilmember Navarro’s Remarks on the FY17 Budget