The Montgomery County Council voted 10-0 on Wednesday, Sept. 16, to override County Executive Marc Elrich's veto and keep James Hedrick on the Planning Board for another four years.

The unanimous override marks the second time the council has rejected Elrich's attempt to block Hedrick from the board, which reviews development proposals, master plans and zoning decisions across Montgomery County, including in Bethesda. Elrich also vetoed Hedrick's initial appointment in 2023, and the council overrode that veto unanimously as well.

The vote matters locally. The Planning Board, part of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, shapes land-use policy for Bethesda neighborhoods and downtown development.

Nine votes were needed under state law to reaffirm the appointment over the county executive's objection. All 10 council members present voted yes at the meeting in Rockville. Council member Will Jawando (D-At-large) was absent, recovering from a heart attack he suffered Sept. 5 during a pickup basketball game. NBC Washington reported that doctors placed a stent in his heart and expect a full recovery.

The council first reappointed Hedrick on July 28, adopting Resolution 20-1184. Elrich sent his disapproval letter on Aug. 27, triggering the override vote.

Hedrick, a Democrat and housing policy professional, serves as executive director of Rockville Housing Enterprises. He previously worked for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Commissioners serve four-year terms and earn $30,000 a year.

In a statement to Bethesda Magazine on Sept. 16, Hedrick said he looks forward to "continuing to work with my fellow commissioners, staff, and community stakeholders to help guide thoughtful growth."

Council President Natali Fani-González (D-Dist. 6), a former vice chair of the Planning Board, said in a press release that the council reaffirmed Hedrick because his housing expertise is needed to move the county forward.

Elrich said in a statement that he was "disappointed" by the council's decision but respects its authority. He said his concerns with Hedrick remain the same as in 2023. During an Aug. 26 media briefing reported by Bethesda Magazine, Elrich said Hedrick had "reviewed and approved many plans and projects without demonstrating any willingness to engage constructively with residents and address their underlying concerns" since his 2023 appointment.

In a separate statement reported by The Banner, Elrich argued that Hedrick focuses too narrowly on housing production without considering racial equity, affordability, transportation and the environment. Elrich also raised concerns about Hedrick simultaneously leading Rockville Housing Enterprises while serving on the Planning Board, according to MoCo Show.

Greater Greater Washington reported that its readers sent nearly 100 emails to the council urging members to keep Hedrick on the board.

The override reaffirms Hedrick's four-year reappointment, which the council first approved July 28.