As we begin the New Year, it's a good time to take one last backward glance at what transpired on our local political scene in Montgomery County in 2011 and take a quick look forward to what's in store for 2012. 

For some, 2011 was a year best forgotten (just ask Jack Johnson) but this year had its bright spots too — the long-awaited ICC finally opened after over 50 years of planning and delay; the first phase of several key projects of critical importance to the County's economy moved forward, including the new Shady Grove Science Center, White Flint, Wheaton, the East County Science Center and others; Silver Spring's newest hotspot, the Fillmore, opened its doors; and Montgomery County Public Schools welcomed new leadership. 

2011 had its downside moments too:  Job growth remained flat-lined here, while Virginia continued to beat us up and steal our lunch money on the economic development front; tough budgetary decisions from a lingering recession caused an outpouring of downright nastiness by public employee unions, directed at some of their supporters on the County Council; a congressional redistricting plan was approved that sets a new standard for gerrymandering; the high-profile indictment and conviction of Prince George's County Executive Jack Johnson and his councilmember wife right next door; heavy fines for Pepco and even an earthquake. 

So, with 2011 now safely in the rearview mirror, what's in store for us this year?

For starters, expect continued challenges to our local economy and housing markets, especially with the failure of the congressional "supercommittee" and the federal budget cuts that are sure to follow.  2012 is also an election year for Congress and the presidency, and a hotly contested race is expected in Maryland's 6th Congressional District. Will Republican incumbent Roscoe Bartlett hold on, given the tough Republican challengers he'll face in the primary? Will voters' absolute contempt for everything having to do with this Congress make for tough sledding for Bartlett and other incumbents?  We'll find out.

Montgomery County voters will also be asked to decide some controversial ballot questions, including the attempted repeal of the Dream Act (allowing children of illegal immigrants who have lived and paid taxes here to qualify for in-state tuition rates). Major state legislative battles loom ahead on efforts to boost transportation funding, extend marriage equality to all, and resolve the teacher pension issue.  We may or may not see continued progress to address traffic congestion, local voters' number-one concern (depending on whether legislators do their job on transportation funding, otherwise expect lots more potholes and traffic in the year ahead). Much will depend on the degree to which our economy and tax revenues either rebound, or continue to falter, making job creation and retention the paramount issue this year.

One thing is certain: I'll have plenty to write about. Happy New Year!