Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater

I had the honor of speaking with Sara Laird, the wife of Battalion Chief Joshua Laird, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty, and dedicated a highway sign in his memory. A dedicated 21-year veteran of FCDFRS, he was the epitome of leadership and made a profound impact on Frederick County.

I was excited to be at the groundbreaking for the Green Valley Fire Department! This new facility will help our firefighters respond quickly as the community grows. It is a big step in meeting the demand for emergency services and reducing response times. Thank you firefighters for your hard work!

Happy International Women’s Day to the amazing women of Frederick County! Your leadership, creativity, and strength inspire us all and drive positive change in our community. Thank you for everything you do!

Today, I had joined Mr. Doug Conrad, the Band Director at Urbana Middle School, to celebrate Music in Education Month. I enjoyed an amazing performance from the 7th grade band, played a piece on my violin, and answered questions from students as both County Executive and a former music teacher.

Community Housing Meeting - March 2, 2026 YouTube video by FrederickCountyMD

I joined FCG Housing Director Vin Rogers to discuss the release of the Housing Needs Assessment and Affordable Housing Strategic Plan, which lays out a comprehensive framework to tackle the challenges of increasing affordable housing. I encourage you to watch the full video: youtu.be/480uBjikdjY?...

I invite you to help shape Frederick County's budget by completing a brief online survey and attending the public hearing on March 12 at 6 p.m. at Winchester Hall, 12 East Church Street, Frederick. More info/survey: FrederickCountyMD.gov/Budget. The survey will remain open until 4 p.m. on March 20.

Two people smiling with apples in their hands.

A combine harvester in a field.

A flock of sheep outside.

Farmland

Happy National Agriculture Month! 🌾💚To our Office of Agriculture, our farmers, and every agricultural worker, thank you. Your hard work nourishes our community, strengthens our local economy, and sustains traditions that matter deeply to us. You are essential to who we are!

Thank you to the Smoketown/Potomac Valley Area Rotary Club for inviting me to your meeting last night in Brunswick. It was a pleasure to discuss updates on Frederick County, including the FY27 budget, capital improvement projects, and schools.

Wishing a happy Holi to everyone in Frederick County who celebrates! May your day be filled with colorful moments, joy, and cherished memories with loved ones.

In Annapolis last week, I advocated for Frederick County with MD House Speaker Joseline Peña-Melnyk and @senbillferg.bsky.social to ensure our community gets its fair share!

I am pleased to announce the appointment and confirmation of Heather Gramm as the Director of the Frederick County Office of Economic Development and Jamille Wilson as the Director of the Office of Procurement and Contracting. Full statement: www.frederickcountymd.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/5760

A big thank you to @vanhollen.senate.gov and @alsobrooks.senate.gov, and @repaprildelaney.bsky.social for their crucial support in securing federal funding, and to Maryland Tech Council Director Kelly Schulz. The expansion further positions Frederick as a leader in biotechnology.

Excited to celebrate $2.5 million in federal funding for the Hodson Science and Technology Center expansion at
@hoodcollege.bsky.social! This project includes a new Biomedical Research and Training Center to enhance STEM programs and prepare graduates for careers in life sciences and biotech.

A big thank you to @vanhollen.senate.gov and @alsobrooks.senate.gov, and @repaprildelaney.bsky.social for their crucial support in securing federal funding, and to Maryland Tech Council Director Kelly Schulz. The expansion further positions Frederick as a leader in biotechnology.

Excited to announce a $2.5 million donation for the Hodson Science and Technology Center expansion at @hoodcollege.bsky.social! This project includes a new Biomedical Research and Training Center to enhance STEM programs and prepare graduates for careers in life sciences, biotech, and technology.

With increased paperwork and reduced benefits, many families will face barriers in meeting their basic needs. Our partnerships will help mitigate the effects of these cuts and work toward a healthier, more resilient Frederick County!

Today, I joined @vanhollen.senate.gov, @repaprildelaney.bsky.social, @mdhumanities.bsky.social, and Dr. Cheryl Cioffi of Frederick Health to discuss how the anticipated impacts of H.R. 1, like housing, will affect vulnerable populations, including veterans, the homeless, and foster care graduates.

Last year, I joined The City of Frederick and Frederick Health to launch the “Patient, Access, Care, Treatment” (PACT) Task Force. This reaffirms our commitment to ensuring all residents have access to essential healthcare, especially with Medicaid cuts impacting +48,000 Frederick County enrollees.

I celebrated International Women’s Day with the Asian American Center of Frederick, honoring immigrant and international mothers whose love and sacrifices shape future generations. Huge thanks to Joie Chen for hosting and Elizabeth Chung for organizing! When women thrive, we all benefit!

The Climate Summit returned to @hoodcollege.bsky.social, focusing on actionable solutions to global climate challenges. I shared updates on our FCG team's climate actions, introduced the Solar Blueprint Study, and announced a $2M grant from the @mdenergy.bsky.social to improve energy efficiency.

County Executive Fitzwater, wearing a black blazer over a red and white shirt, is sitting in a swivel chair at the WFMD studio with a microphone in front of her

County Executive Fitzwater, wearing a black blazer over a red and white shirt, is standing next to WFMD radio host Bob Miller, who has a grey beard and is wearing a green and blue boat shirt with a wave pattern on it

I joined Bob Miller on Morning News Express for an update on issues shaping our community, including the county’s snowstorm response, recent developments on data centers, and the statewide end of the 287(g) program. Listen: omny.fm/shows/bobcas...

Great evening at SOUL Street’s "Building on Legacy." The AARCH Society shared powerful stories of Black-owned businesses that shaped Frederick County’s cultural and economic foundation. Thank you to the organizers, partners, and everyone who joined to honor and support Black-owned businesses.

Back in Annapolis to testify on several bills, representing Frederick County alongside our Board of Education, Health Department, State's Attorney’s Office, and Delegate Karen Simpson. Thank you to our county staff for their expert testimony and diligent bill tracking to improve our community.

What an insightful time at NACo Con - great sessions on cybersecurity, housing affordability, and how federal policy impacts local government. Loved exchanging ideas with county leaders nationwide! Reminder: nearly 1 in 50 workers across the U.S. are county employees.

I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Lieutenant David Millstein. His dedication to the Frederick County Department of Fire and Rescue Services and his commitment to serving our community will always be remembered. My thoughts are with the entire Millstein family during this time.

I joined @repaprildelaney.bsky.social, @hoodcollege.bsky.social President Dr. Debbie Ricker, and Frederick Health President & CEO Dr. Cheryl Cioffi at the Women's Health Resource Fair where I spoke about FCHD's Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening and the Black Maternal Health Initiative.

A group of people standing together in business attire.

@frederickcoexec.bsky.social released today results of the county’s most comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment and Affordable Housing Strategic Plan. To view the full Housing Needs Assessment and Affordable Housing Strategic Plan, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Housing.

This week, I’ve been in Annapolis with Team FCG advocating for Frederick County by discussing various bills and meeting with state legislators. I am grateful to all the elected officials, advocates, and community members who are working hard for our shared goals.

Thank you to everyone who attended and spoke at the 2nd listening session last night. FCG hopes to complete negotiations and announce results to the community later this spring. You can leave an online comment here: publicinput.com/m32236 or view the recording: frederick.granicus.com/MediaPlayer....

To all those observing Ramadan, I wish you peace, reflection, and blessings to you and your loved ones throughout this holy month. As the sacred time of fasting and prayer begins, my warmest wishes go out to everyone in Frederick County. Ramadan Mubarak!