Martin's Additions marks 40 years with community celebration, state and county citations

Katie Filipczak Howard, chair of the Village of Martin's Additions council, welcomed residents and guests to a celebration marking the village's 40th anniversary and thanked staff, volunteers and local businesses for helping sustain the community.

The event on March 19, 2025, featured official citations from the Maryland General Assembly and Montgomery County. "We are truly honored to be joined and recognized by our Maryland representatives," Howard said, noting the village's incorporation date of March 19, 1985 and naming the first elected council members. State Sen. Jeff Waldstreicher and Delegates Jared Solomon and Aaron Kaufman presented a citation "in recognition of the 40th anniversary of the Village of Martin's Additions," and Montgomery County Executive Mark Eldridge and county council members delivered county certificates.

Why it matters: The ceremony underlined the role of very small, locally governed municipalities in sustaining neighborhood services and civic life. Speakers used the anniversary to highlight ongoing local priorities — stormwater management, traffic safety and support for aging residents — and to urge new volunteers to run for council.

County Executive Mark Eldridge praised local public servants and described the practical challenges county government faces this budget season. "We are in the midst of doing our budget," Eldridge said, noting uncertainty about state revenue that may require revisions after the legislative session. Evan Glass, a Montgomery County councilmember, called Martin's Additions an "intergenerational community that seamlessly melds historic charm with modern character" and emphasized inclusion.

Several council members and volunteers were honored in short tributes that recounted decades of service. Council secretary Susan Faddig read a list of longtime contributors and highlighted projects such as the village tree program. A village speaker urged residents to consider running for council, saying local government "takes attention to detail" and is critical to neighborhood life.

The event closed with a communal reading of a poem about neighborhood life and shared responsibilities, and refreshments provided by LaFerm, a local business also marking its 40th year. Organizers said they will continue outreach and community engagement events in coming months.

The Village of Martin's Additions council did not take any formal legislative actions or votes at the event; the program comprised remarks, citations and community tributes.