Posts by Mike English — Guest Contributor
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Adding sprinklers to older buildings is expensive, but it’s worth it
Needless to say, a fire is not when you want to find out you are missing a lifesaving tool. And honestly, when’s the last time you looked at your fire safety plan where you live, if you even have one? This is exactly the kind of thing the government is here to regulate. Keep reading…
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Montgomery County just passed rent stabilization. Now what?
Montgomery County has had a big last six months: In that time the county has passed an increase to the recordation tax, a property tax increase, and, most recently, passed a (pretty good!) permanent rent stabilization law. So…now what? Keep reading…
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While some on the left demonize developers, the housing shortage continues
Focusing on developers as the only problem with (or the only solution to) our housing market obscures other issues and makes it hard to make sure everyone can afford a place to live. Keep reading…
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Maryland could pass two big tenant protections in this General Assembly session
Maryland could pass two bills with major tenant protections this month. One allows tenants to hold their rent in escrow together when landlords don’t make repairs, and another makes it harder for landlords that are operating illegally to evict their tenants. Keep reading…
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Elected officials in Montgomery County have nothing to fear, least of all the peddlers of fear
Recent elections showed that elected officials can win on pro-housing platforms. Don’t let this opportunity to shape the future go to waste. Keep reading…
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Rent stabilization policy in Montgomery County has its role to play — but only if it’s done carefully
As rent in Montgomery County and across the country continues to soar, what role can rent stabilization policy play in addressing our housing crisis? Keep reading…
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The Chevy Chase Library: A surprising victory, and a new responsibility
Op-ed: Fresh off a Montgomery County Council vote to approve housing as part of the Chevy Chase Library revamp, advocates now need to set their expectations about what happens next. Keep reading…
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Advocates protest for housing to be added to library redevelopment in Maryland’s Chevy Chase
Advocates and residents gathered Sunday to convince lawmakers to add a housing option to the redevelopment plans for a library in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Keep reading…
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Opinion: These Maryland bills would help protect renters and prevent displacement
As Maryland’s General Assembly enters its final 30 days in session for 2022, more than two dozen bills have been proposed that would help renter households. Keep reading…
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South Silver Spring: The place I live, and the place it could be
Opinion: Here’s how South Silver Spring could — and should — change under the Silver Spring Downtown and Adjacent Communities Plan. Keep reading…