The Montgomery County Council unanimously confirmed Chevra Evans as the county’s new at-large council member after a public nomination and brief debate.

Councilmember Sydney Katz nominated Evans, citing her eight years on the Montgomery County Board of Education and two terms as its president. Katz said, “I strongly believe Chevra’s experience working with the County gives her the resources and understanding of how Montgomery County operates,” and asked colleagues for support. Multiple members, including Will Jawando and Dawn Lukey, described Evans as experienced, fair and prepared to assume office promptly.

The council president noted the vacancy followed Gabe Albornoz’s resignation effective Dec. 1 and said the council received 67 applications and re-interviewed three finalists. The motion to appoint was moved by Councilmember Katz and seconded by Councilmember Stewart. After members rose in support, the president called for hands and announced the appointment passed unanimously; Evans will be sworn in later in the day and will join the dais at the council’s Jan. 13 meeting.

Council leadership also announced committee assignments tied to the change. Lorien Sales was named chair of the Health and Human Services committee; Andrew Friedson will move to HHS, and the new member will have assignments on the GO Committee and the Education and Culture Committee.

The council’s action completes an internal selection process that leadership described as competitive and public; officials said Evans’ education-budget experience made her well positioned to begin amid the upcoming budget season.