Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater

10/22/2026

It was great to see hundreds of students at Construction Career Day in Frederick County! From soldering and water pipe repair to other live demonstrations and conversations with industry professionals, students got a firsthand look at the skills, career paths, and opportunities available in the trades. I am proud that Frederick County continues to support this event, helping students explore their future while highlighting the important role these industries play in our community.

A special thanks to our teams at Frederick County Workforce Services for connecting young adults to potential jobs, and to our Water and Sewer Utilities Division, whose work happens behind the scenes but plays a vital role in our daily lives, 365 days a year. I also loved meeting Erin, an engineering intern from Linganore High School who plans to return next summer for a second internship with our Water and Sewer Utilities Division.

10/22/2026

Last night, I delivered my fourth State of the County Address, reflecting on the progress we’ve made and the priorities that will guide Frederick County’s future. These include investing in our public schools, expanding access to affordable childcare and housing, supporting older adults, maintaining accessible and fare-free transportation, strengthening public health and safety, growing our economy, preparing students for careers and public service, and establishing the Office of Agriculture and committing to permanently preserving 160,000 acres of farmland. Watch or listen to the full address here: https://youtu.be/VhoyUweuv2A?si=wFGE3qM_o_3fiMn1

At its best, government isn’t something that happens to people; it’s something we built by the people, and for the people. While there is always more work to do, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and optimistic about what lies ahead for Frederick County. Thank you to Nathan Brown, Mayor of Brunswick, MD and the Council for hosting this event in the City of Brunswick, MD, and to the mayors and burgesses throughout the county for their continued partnership. I’m also grateful to the state and federal officials, County Council members, nonprofit organizations, business leaders, educators, first responders, and residents whose contributions help move our community forward.

This evening, Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater delivered the 2026 State of the County Address, highlighting progress made during her first four years in office and outlining opportunities ahead for Frederick County. She emphasized the importance of accountability, inclusion, and sustainability in County Government, and recognized the contributions of municipal, state, and federal officials, the County Council, nonprofit organizations, business leaders, educators, first responders, employees, and community members. Read more: https://fcgmd.co/4zM7FX5

10/20/2026

Congratulations to Urbana Middle on being the 18th FCPS Maryland school to earn Maryland or National Blue Ribbon status!

Urbana Middle is the latest Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) school to earn Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools status, announced by Gov. Wes Moore.

One of 12 Maryland public schools recognized for the 2026–27 school year, Urbana Middle is also one of just two public middle schools statewide to receive the honor!

The recognition celebrates student achievement and schools’ efforts to close performance gaps. Urbana Middle is the 18th FCPS school to earn Maryland or National Blue Ribbon status.

Congratulations to the students, staff, and families whose hard work made this achievement possible! 👏👏👏

10/19/2026

A lovely evening at the 105th Annual Meeting of the Frederick County MD Farm Bureau, with great food and even better company! It was a pleasure to connect with Maryland Secretary of Maryland Department of Agriculture Kevin Atticks and past Frederick County Farm Bureau President Sam Roop.

I also enjoyed meeting Sara Kidd, the new Agriculture Educator with the University of Maryland Extension's Frederick County Office, and learning more about her work supporting local farms and the latest happenings at the sheep farm she runs with her husband.

10/19/2026

🏏 Cricket is coming to Frederick County! Last week's groundbreaking marks an exciting milestone as we welcome the Washington Freedom and a premier cricket facility to our community.

Cricket’s global following will bring new attention to Frederick County, giving visitors new reasons to explore our community and support our local businesses. This 100% privately funded facility will also create a destination for residents and visitors to enjoy the sport and come together for years to come.

Thank you to the Washington Freedom organization, its ownership, project partners, elected officials, community leaders, and everyone whose vision helped bring this project to life and make Frederick County its home.

10/18/2026

History was made and a new legacy has begun with AARCH Society! It was an honor to celebrate the historic opening of AARCH Society’s new home in downtown Frederick - a milestone made possible by the years of vision, faith, generosity, dedication, and commitment of so many.

This achievement represents the very best of Frederick County: people coming together across communities and generations to preserve our history and build something lasting.

Our county’s story cannot be fully told without recognizing the history, leadership, resilience, and extraordinary contributions of our Black community. AARCH will help ensure these stories are preserved, shared, and passed on, not only as a record of our past, but as a foundation for a stronger future.

I am deeply grateful to every resident, community leader, historian, educator, faith community, donor, volunteer, and partner who helped bring this building to life. We opened a door to deeper understanding, lasting connection, and a legacy that will endure for generations.

May AARCH always stand as a place of learning, remembrance, pride, and possibility. Frederick County is stronger when we honor every part of our history and when we work together to shape our future.

10/16/2026

Many thanks to the Frederick County Sustainability Commission and our amazing staff in the Frederick County Division of Energy and Environment for hosting last night’s Sustainability Awards. These awards recognize leadership across our community, including students, schools, volunteers, nonprofits, and businesses. Congratulations to all this year’s honorees and to the schools now certified or re-certified as a Green School!

🌳 AstraZeneca US: As of January 2026, the Frederick site runs on 100% renewable energy, with a goal of carbon-zero operations by the end of 2026.

🌳 DALY Computers: Expanded recycling, repair, refurbishment, donation, and resale programs to reduce waste across its operations.

🌳 Chocolates and Tomatoes Farm: This seven-acre Middletown farm uses regenerative practices, including cover crops, crop rotation, minimal tilling, and water-efficient irrigation, to improve soil health and conserve resources.

🌳 Wild Potomac: Connects watershed restoration with community education and environmental stewardship. Since 2025, the organization has planted 206 trees and more than 1,000 shrubs and wildflowers, engaged 184 volunteers contributing over 2,400 hours, and established two community food forests.

🌳 Michael Turell: For more than 40 years, he has inspired Frederick County youth to explore science and environmental stewardship through 4-H, Scout Troop 278, and hands-on activities.

🌳 Anwesha Parida: She has removed approximately 40 pounds of litter and recyclables and contributed more than 250 volunteer hours.

🌳 Mridula Vasudevan: Her efforts have helped plant 190 native trees, divert more than 300 pounds of textile waste from landfills, and engage over 500 students and residents in sustainability initiatives.

Sustainability takes many forms - from conserving energy and reducing waste to planting trees, restoring habitats, managing stormwater, and engaging the next generation. There is no single way to make a difference, and every contribution matters as we work toward Frederick County's climate and environmental goals.

10/16/2026

Yesterday, I visited Moon Valley Farm as part of Mobilize Frederick’s Beyond Sustainable Regenerative Farm Tour. It’s been wonderful to watch owner Emma grow her 70-acre Certified Organic farm and expand its customer base. Thank you to Production Manager Jared for sharing his insights on soil health, balancing production demands, and delivering the freshest, highest-quality produce to local schools. His perspective highlighted what it takes to excel in farming while investing in healthy soil and sustainable practices means farms can strengthen their operations while protecting the land for future generations.

Supporting local farms helps sustain Frederick County’s agricultural community and strengthen our regional food system.

10/16/2026

Good news Frederick County! After years of advocacy, US 15 expansion in Frederick is moving forward, with the design having been fully funded and construction expected to begin in late 2027! The Maryland State Highway Administration and Maryland Department of Transportation shared these project updates at last night’s open house. ⬇⬇⬇ For more information: https://mdot-sha-us15-and-us40-i70-to-md26-fr1881110-maryland.hub.arcgis.com/

10/15/2026

Congratulations to Visit Frederick - Maryland on 50 years of serving Frederick County! Your work plays a vital role in supporting local businesses and attractions, strengthening our economy, and enhancing quality of life and community pride. Last year, visitor spending reached another all-time record high of $590 million, while the number of visitors grew to more than 2.1 million.

A special congratulations to Rose Chaney of the AARCH Society, the 2026 Frederick Ambassador of the Year, and Brewer's Alley, the FY26 Top Visitor Guide Distributor. A big thanks to Visit Frederick’s incredible team for all they do to showcase the best of Frederick County every day. Here’s to celebrating 50 years of impact and many more to come!