As reported by Bethesda Beat, newly confirmed County Council President Evan Glass laid out his top priorities for the next legislative session. Among these was the issue of “affordable housing”. Long serving as a talking point in the recent election cycle, affordable housing has been discussed at length by the current County Council and County Executive. There is no doubt that the cost of housing has risen considerably in Montgomery County, and though elected officials are quick to point out other “national issues” that Montgomery County is experiencing (rise in crime, decline in education, etc), they always fail to mention that nationally all metro areas have experienced in explosion in housing prices. So no, this isn’t unique to Montgomery County. However, what is unique is the hypocrisy.
In addition to Evan’s current residence, valued at $770,000 by Zillow, he also owns 2 additional properties that appear to be rental properties. This includes a condo on Eastern Ave valued at $330,000 and a condo on Newell St valued at $460,000.
So while Mr. Evans verbally expresses a concern for housing availability and cost in Montgomery County, he himself owns 3 properties. This is for a family of 2 and a few dogs.
Questions for Mr. Evans:
- Why not return these properties to the market so that those desperate for housing can have a house?
- Is it appropriate for you to generate income off this “crisis”?
- Are your current rental rates above or below market rate? When was the last time you raised rent? By how much?
It is extremely difficult to listen to, much less support, local politicians as they attempt to change zoning laws, change regulations, and try to create a narrative around housing affordability when they themselves own 3 properties.
