At the recent State of Montgomery County event, Commissioners Neil Makhija, Jamila Winder, and Tom DiBello marked their first year in office by outlining plans for 2025, writes Katie Bernard for the Philadelphia Inquirer.
This comes in the wake of President Donald Trump’s attempt to freeze federal fund disbursements—a move currently blocked in court—that could have jeopardized over $150 million designated for the county.
Chair Makhija emphasized the need for proactive measures amid funding uncertainties, stating, “We can’t afford to sit still.” To adapt, the county will repurpose its COVID-19 recovery office to focus on innovation, hire a sustainability officer, establish an artificial intelligence task force, and appoint a labor advocate
Addressing homelessness, the commissioners detailed ongoing projects, including a planned shelter in Lansdale and leasing rooms at a Pottstown Days Inn to provide comprehensive services for unhoused residents. Tom DiBello acknowledged community concerns but stressed the necessity of action: “No one wants any of these facilities in their communities… However, we have to do something.”
Plans also include a master leasing program to secure 60 units for families, aiming to “create pathways to success, opportunity, and dignity,” according to Winder. The event concluded with gratitude toward first responders managing a recent four-alarm fire at the SPS Technologies factory in Abington.
Read more about Montgomery County’s plans in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
