Politics

Former Montgomery County delegate Kumar Barve was sworn in Wednesday as the newest member of the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC). Barve, a Rockville resident, was appointed by Gov. Wes Moore to succeed Commissioner Patrice M. Bubar, who has served since May 18, 2022. Barve is expected to take his seat on the bench in the next week.

Maryland 7th District Congress Kweisi Mfume says he’s reserving judgment on the debt ceiling deal reached over the weekend between President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Mfume told WBAL-TV that it will be interesting to see how many rank-and-file Democrats and Republicans will support this measure.

Sea turtles, rejoice! Less plastic will be floating in our area waterways, thanks to a new bill that goes into effect next month. Beginning June 1, eateries in Prince George’s County can only provide single-use utensils upon request. Take-out and delivery orders will also only have disposable utensils upon request.

Costello spoke with T.J. Smith on Tuesday. Costello said he sent a letter to Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement Executive Director Shantay Jackson before her agency’s budget hearing regarding funds. MONSE has received over $50 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act money, according to Costello. He told Smith questions remain about the grants the agency issues to address crime reduction.

The Montgomery County Planning Department’s draft of the Pedestrian Master Plan – the first comprehensive countywide plan to improve the pedestrian experience – was approved by the county Planning Board. The May 25 approval sets the path forward for a County Council public hearing where the community will be invited to testify.

Attorneys with Disability Rights Maryland and Venable LLP Tuesday filed a lawsuit against the Maryland Department of Human Services, the state health department and other state agencies for “illegally and unconstitutionally” housing foster children in hospitals and restrictive institutions beyond medical necessity.

Parents shepherding swimsuit clad tots toward a backyard birthday party. Peals of laughter from kids running past an open window, wreathed by blowup floaties and wrapped in dripping towels. The splash of a cannonball in the deep end. The sounds of summer fun ripple up from ads for Swimply, an app that allows homeowners to rent out private pools to strangers looking to enjoy cool water under the hot sun.