Secretly and deviously, councilmember Mike Knapp (D-Dist. 2) of Germantown introduced a CIP proposal to move Montgomery County Park and Planning headquarters into Rockville and out of downtown Silver Spring. Even though there has already been a previous debate on whether or not Park and Planning should move to Wheaton or stay in Silver Spring and plans are well underway for the new headquarters called Silver Place, Knapp felt it was necessary to take it upon him self to pursue the matter once again and try to derail the long arduous progress that has been made to revitalize downtown Silver Spring. The news was first learned on the South Silver Spring Neighborhood Association Yahoo groups’ board and posted by member Alan Bowser. The following day the gazette published an article in declaring the proposal withdrawn by Knapp and effectively overturned. Councilmember’s in support of the proposal to move the headquarters out of Silver Spring were Nancy M. Floreen, Philip M. Andrews (D-Dist. 3) of Gaithersburg and Howard A. Denis (R-Dist. 1) of Chevy Chase. Councilmember’s who opposed the move were George L. Leventhal (D-At large) of Takoma Park, Thomas E. Perez (D-Dist. 5) of Takoma Park, Marilyn J. Praisner and Steven A. Silverman (D-At large) of Silver Spring. Michael L. Subin (D-At large) of Gaithersburg was undecided

Commentary: Councilmember Knapp uses the excuse that the move will fix the oversight at park and planning and give better access to residents. Does that ever work? Like a sneaky snake he kept the proposal hidden from the general public and fortunately his efforts were disenchanted. I believe he has more of an Upcounty vs. Downcounty mentality but I personally don’t see a county divided. Once again thanks to Alan Bowser for getting the word out and sending his concerns. You can also tell councilman Knapp how you feel at the contact information below:

County Council Member, Maryland, District #2
100 Maryland Ave, 6th Floor
Rockville, Maryland 20850

240/777-7955 (voice)

Councilmember. Knapp@montgomerycountymd.gov