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Independent schools warn of rising security costs, zoning burdens and green‑conversion financing gaps
Summary
Heads of independent schools in Montgomery County described rising antisemitic incidents and heavy security spending, inconsistent permitting that raises renovation costs, and difficulty financing county green‑performance requirements; they asked for prioritized grants, streamlined permitting and flexible green financing.
Leaders of 30 independent schools in the Washington region — 30 schools in Montgomery County were represented — told county council members that three operational pressures are converging: school safety, land‑use permitting burdens and the cost of meeting new green‑building standards.
Several heads described a sharp uptick in antisemitic incidents and threats on campus that have required police and FBI involvement; one school said it spends roughly $1.9 million a year on security (personnel and off‑duty officers). Speakers said county safety grant programs exist but face increasing demand and shrinking per‑school awards as more applicants apply.
Independent heads also urged a partnership with permitting and planning staff to reduce capricious or inconsistent requirements that add hundreds of thousands in unplanned project costs. Examples included unexpected rejections of previously approved railings and added traffic‑study demands that delay projects and increase expenses.
On sustainability, heads welcomed county BEPS goals but said independent schools lack capital to finance comprehensive HVAC electrification and energy upgrades. They asked the council to examine targeted financial pathways — including adjustments to Green Bank policies, timing exemptions, or dedicated county assistance — so nonprofit schools can meet the county’s emissions goals without jeopardizing operations.
Committee members committed to convening follow‑up meetings on safety coordination with emergency management and police, and on permitting and community‑use/campus rules with permitting staff.
