Dear Constituents,
As we move from summer into fall, I want to thank you for a September full of meaningful conversations. From neighborhood gatherings to school dedications, and from talks with nurses and law enforcement to a statewide discussion on housing, this month reflected what guides my work every day: public service begins with listening. I am grateful to everyone who took the time to share their experiences, concerns and ideas with me. Thank you for your continued trust and for making District 8 such a strong and welcoming community.
Working on Housing and Opportunity Across Maryland
As Chair of the House Land Use & Zoning Subcommittee, I was grateful to offer opening remarks at Greater Greater Washingtonβs housing workshop at the University of Maryland, College Park, alongside Senator Kevin Harris.
The workshop brought legislators, housing advocates, researchers, community leaders and policy experts into one room to work through zoning, building codes, housing opportunities and the work ahead. Maryland is weighing how to expand housing opportunities while responding to the needs of communities across the state, and this kind of conversation, with people bringing different perspectives to the same table, is where progress starts.Housing remains a top priority for me and I will keep working toward solutions that serve District 8 families and beyond.
Connecting With Our Communities
One of the most important parts of serving as your Delegate is staying connected with residents and hearing directly about the issues affecting their families and neighborhoods.
I was pleased to join the Linover Improvement Associationβs September General Meeting at Fullerton Elementary School. We discussed local priorities, public safety, upcoming community events, and ways we can continue supporting Fullerton Elementary School and the surrounding community. Thank you to Vice President Mark Kimm and the Linover Improvement Association for bringing residents together and keeping our community engaged.
I also enjoyed joining neighbors at the Hamiltowne Community Cookout hosted by Senator Carl Jackson. Community gatherings like these give us an opportunity to spend time with residents, hear what matters most to families, and strengthen the connections that make our neighborhoods special.
Later in the month, I joined Purbeli Samaj for its Fourth Annual Picnic and Honoring Program at Gunpowder Falls State Park. It was wonderful to spend time with families, celebrate our traditions, and recognize community members who contribute to our shared community.
I was also grateful to join the Pleasant Yacht Club Foundation for its Annual Senior Citizen Day in Sparrows Point. Speaking with seniors from across Baltimore County and Baltimore City was one of the highlights of the month. Their experiences, wisdom, and continued involvement are an important part of the strength of our communities.
Honoring Those Who Serve
September also gave us several opportunities to recognize people whose dedication makes a difference in our communities.
I toured the Maryland State Police Golden Ring Barrack in Essex at the invitation of Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police. Logistics Commander Major Jon Armiger led the visit. In 2025, the troopers based at this barrack responded to 18,447 service calls, conducted 5,152 investigations, made 1,681 arrests and seized 90 firearms. Earlier this year, the barrack’s investigators also rescued two child victims and arrested two suspects in a proactive human-trafficking operation. During the tour, we discussed trooper safety, better coordination between State Police helicopters and county aviation units during emergencies and search-and-rescue missions, and facility needs such as a new HVAC control system and a repaved parking lot. I will keep working with State Police leadership to secure the resources this barrack needs to protect Baltimore County.
Our local officer was recognized this month.Congratulations to Officer Alejandrina βAndyβ Bray on being recognized as the 2025 Officer of the Year for Precinct 08 in Parkville. My Chief of Staff, Sadiksha Basnet, was honored to attend and present congratulations on behalf of the District 8 Delegation. We appreciate Officer Bray and all of our law enforcement officers for their commitment to serving our residents and keeping our communities safe.
At Perry Hall High School, I presented a citation to the family of Gerald L. Martin at the rededication of the Gerald L. Martin Track, an improvement that honors his legacy and will benefit students for years to come. School community and officials also conducted dedication of the softball field in memory of Sandy Trimble, whose lasting contributions to Perry Hall students and families will now be remembered by generations of players.
Expanding Opportunity Through Education
I attended the Edu-GIRLS gala, at the invitation of Prakash Saraf, and presented a Governor’s Citation recognizing the organization’s commitment to educating and empowering girls. Edu-GIRLS works to expand educational opportunities for girls facing poverty and other barriers, and I shared a few words on why opportunity for every child matters. Education creates change that lasts for students, families and communities alike. .
Maryland Focus: Supporting Students and Families
As students across Maryland returned to school this fall, the Maryland State Department of Education announced encouraging progress in student attendance. Marylandβs statewide chronic absenteeism rate fell to 22.8% during the 2025-26 school year, down from 30.9% in 2021-22. MSDE has also launched the βMaryland Shows Upβ campaign to encourage regular attendance and remind families, schools, and community partners about the importance of students being present and engaged in the classroom.
For families, showing up for school is about more than attendance. It is about making sure students have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed. As a former educator, I know how important it is for families, teachers, schools, and communities to work together and I will continue working to support our schools and advocate for opportunities that help every student succeed.
Looking Ahead
As we enter the fall season, I look forward to continuing to meet with residents, visit our schools, support local businesses and community organizations, and work on the issues that matter most to District 8.
Whether we meet at a neighborhood gathering, a school event, a community organization, or my district office, I want to hear from you. Your experiences and ideas help shape my work in Annapolis and throughout our district.
Your Voice Matters
Serving as your Delegate is an honor I never take for granted. If you or someone you know needs help with a state agency, unemployment benefits, housing resources, Medicaid, SNAP, utility assistance, or another state matter, please contact my office.
My team and I are here to help and will do what we can to connect you with the appropriate state resources.
π§ harry.bhandari@house.maryland.gov
π (410) 841-3526 | (410) 849-9266
Warm regards,
Delegate Harry Bhandari, PhD
Maryland House of Delegates, District 8