Montgomery County Council conducted interviews on Dec. 2 with the three finalists to fill the at‑large seat vacated by Gabe Albornoz.

Each candidate answered questions on qualifications, research methods for council decisions, priorities and engagement strategies. Shira Evans highlighted her eight years on the school board, PTA leadership and equity work and said she would begin with listening tours and staff briefings to get up to speed. "I am prepared day 1 to do this work," Evans said.

Dr. Henry Lee emphasized long service to the county, experience with budgeting and interagency coordination and described a data‑driven approach to oversight. Roberto Rodriguez cited 12 years in county government as a regional director, background in planning and community development, and pressed for transparency, affordability and safety.

Council members probed each finalist on the county budget—where roughly half of the operating budget goes to Montgomery County Public Schools—the Racial Equity and Social Justice Act implementation, and approaches to resident outreach. All three candidates confirmed they were prepared to commit the time the role requires; each confirmed they do not plan to run for the seat in the upcoming election.

The Council will take formal action to appoint the interim at‑large member at its Dec. 9 meeting.