Informed Residents. Stronger Communities.
Meeting People Where They Are
Mission: Educating in communities that have been historically, institutionally, politically and geographically excluded from the decision-making process in Montgomery County, MD, regarding stable, equitable affordable housing, land-use and transit issues.
Purpose: EPIC of MoCo educates, trains, and supports residents on land-use policies and the housing and transportation issues shaped by Thrive Montgomery 2050, focusing on communities that have been historically excluded from local decision-making. We equip residents to serve as their own advocates by helping them understand complex policies, prepare written testimony, and participate effectively in public hearings before the County Council and Planning Board, both virtually and in person.
EPIC of MoCo addresses inequitable access to the policymaking process in Montgomery County by removing structural barriers that prevent meaningful participation. Because much of the County’s outreach relies on email and social media, many residents without reliable internet access, digital literacy, or printing resources are excluded. EPIC bridges this gap by bringing policy information directly into communities through in-person outreach, translated and printed materials, and hands-on support tailored to residents’ needs.
We also help residents navigate the broader systems connected to land-use decisions. This includes connecting households facing property acquisition or redevelopment pressures with trusted legal resources and guidance so they can understand their rights, evaluate options, and secure appropriate representation when needed.
To ensure meaningful engagement, EPIC meets residents where they are—hosting community-based education sessions and providing transportation support, meals, and adjacent spaces for childcare and elders so families can fully participate. Through this work, EPIC strengthens residents’ capacity to engage confidently and consistently in decisions that shape their homes, neighborhoods, and future.
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. YOUR VOICE. YOUR FUTURE
Policy Updates
Governor’s Housing Plan
State legislation under consideration that could influence local zoning, development patterns, and housing production in Montgomery County.
EPIC is monitoring how statewide housing policy may intersect with corridor communities and neighborhood planning.
Ranked-Choice Voting (RCV)
A proposed change to how ballots are structured and counted in local elections. Voters would rank candidates instead of selecting only one.
Changes to voting systems require clear public education and civic awareness.
Community Outreach
EPIC will be speaking with residents across Montgomery County, asking:
Do you know who represents you?
Understanding representation is foundational to civic participation — regardless of how ballots are structured.
Key Issues EPIC Is Tracking
Veirs Mill Road Acquisition
Property acquisition and corridor redevelopment impacts.
University Boulevard Corridor Plan (UBCP)
Long-term density and land use changes along University Blvd.
More Housing N.O.W.
Countywide zoning changes affecting housing supply and redevelopment.
Glenmont Corridors
Long-term density and land use changes along University Blvd.