About Laurie -Anne
As we look to the future, the uncertainty surrounding the new federal administration challenges communities nationwide, but we stand ready to navigate them locally. This is why Laurie-Anne is seeking re-election. Councilmember Sayles embodies the trustworthiness and dedication we need to champion the essential values that will continue transforming Montgomery County into an even safer and more vibrant community where we can live, work, play, and raise our families.
THE PEOPLE’S CHAMPION
As a proud Maryland native of Gaithersburg, I am excited about the possibilities awaiting our vibrant community. With a government that genuinely listens to and supports everyone, I believe we can forge a more inclusive, informed, and innovative future together in Montgomery County.
Inspired by my parents, Hilda and Perry Sayles, who devoted their lives to public service, I carry their values of education, fairness, compassion, and community involvement as a first-generation Jamaican-American. As a young mother, I strive to pass these values on to my daughter and future generations, instilling hope and purpose.
I never envisioned that my passion could align with making a meaningful impact in the community that supported and helped me raise my daughter. It is an honor to serve Montgomery County with integrity and enthusiasm. Together, we are on the path to building a community where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered, and I can’t wait to see what we will achieve!
PROVEN LEADERSHIP...
Throughout my time in office, I have been a passionate champion for the often underserved and underrepresented. My unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion drives my work. I focus on expanding access to early childhood education, advocating for a $15 minimum wage, fighting for equal rights, a clean environment, a vibrant economy, and pursuing comprehensive immigration reform.
In 2017, I made history as the first African American council member elected in Gaithersburg and again in 2022 as the first Black woman elected countywide in Montgomery County. Through my S.M.A.R.T. agenda, I remain dedicated to prioritizing impactful, community-oriented policies, ensuring that I pave the way for others and that I won't be the last.
Currently, as a member of the County Council, I serve as a member of the newly created Economic Development Committee and the Health and Human Services Committee. In my role as the Council's Lead for Eliminating Disparities in Public Health, I am dedicated to ensuring that all residents, regardless of their background, have equal access to quality healthcare. Additionally, I serve on the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Legislative Committee with representatives from Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City, focusing on vital issues such as public safety, racial equity, affordable housing, environmental justice, and sustainable infrastructure. I am a member of the MACo Tax Subcommittee, where I provide insights and recommendations on tax-related legislation to help streamline the decision-making process for the Legislative committee.
As I near the end of my first term on the Council, I am excited to share the progress we have made together! I successfully launched five dynamic cohorts of the S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council, which empowers young leaders to develop their leadership skills and engage directly in our local legislative process.
One of my proudest achievements is advocating for the O.P.E.N. ZTA, a groundbreaking bill introduced alongside Councilmember Andrew Friedson that’s revolutionizing the way we develop our communities. This game-changing legislation is not only saving developers millions but also significantly enhancing our County’s affordable housing supply. And that's just the beginning! I played a crucial role in passing the landmark Rent Stabilization Bill, which provides vital support to working families who need it most.
As a member of the Economic Development Committee, I had the honor of cosponsoring Expedited Bill 27-23 with Councilmember Jawando, reinforcing our commitment to uplift minority-owned businesses in our community.
In the quest to eliminate public health disparities, I am actively collaborating with health officials and nonprofits to enhance access to maternal healthcare through innovative mobile services. We’re raising awareness about the challenges facing our emergency rooms and tackling the opioid crisis with determination and urgency.
AND ADVOCACY!
I am also a passionate advocate for criminal justice reforms. By collaborating with the Police Accountability Board and championing legislation like the SAFE Act, we’re making strides toward a fairer system. My efforts resulted in a historic executive order from Governor Moore pardoning over 175,000 cannabis-related convictions in Maryland—this is change we can all celebrate!
Through my work with the Office of Food Systems Resilience, I’ve secured crucial funding to combat childhood hunger while also championing initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. I am excited to report that I secured $18.6 million for the Montgomery County Green Bank to drive our clean energy and pedestrian improvements!
CONTINUED COMMITTMENT
As we move forward together, I am grateful for your support and trust in our vision for a smarter, more effective government. Our commitment to S.M.A.R.T. principles—Sustainable, Measurable, Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent—continues to guide our efforts in creating positive change for our community.
The changing federal environment impacts communities nationwide, and everyone feels these shifts. In response, I am committed to being a strong and effective advocate and leader in maintaining Montgomery County's rich diversity. I will ensure that our county continues to be equitable for all, mandating inclusivity that cherishes every individual's thoughts, opinions, and ideas. This dedication reflects the America that Montgomery County residents believe in, and it is the America that I believe in. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are crucial values that must be upheld and cherished.
Let's build on our accomplishments in this upcoming election and address the challenges ahead. Together, we can enhance our SMART agenda for better education, healthcare, infrastructure, economy, and environmental stewardship.
Join me in my re-election journey, and let's ensure that our government remains dedicated to the needs and aspirations of every resident. Your vote is crucial to continue this progress. Thank you for your unwavering support!
A PASSION FOR PUBLIC SERVICE
Let us build on our achievements in this upcoming election and address our challenges. Federal changes are impacting communities across the country, including Montgomery County. I am committed to promoting our county's diversity and ensuring it is fair and inclusive for all, reflecting the values our residents support.
We will continue to follow our S.M.A.R.T. principles—Sustainable, Measurable, Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent— as we work to make positive changes in our community.
We can strengthen our S.M.A.R.T. agenda to enhance education, healthcare, infrastructure, the economy, and environmental care. Join me in my re-election campaign to ensure our government focuses on the needs of every resident.
Your vote is essential for continuing this progress. I appreciate your trust in our vision for a better and more effective government. Thank you for your ongoing support!
“Laurie-Anne has passionately advocated for responsive and inclusive government for all our people. Her public devotion and joyful service to the community give me much hope for our County.”
-Rep. Jamie Raskin,
U.S. Representative for Maryland's 8th congressional district
