We use cookies to understand how you use our site and improve your experience. You can choose which cookies to allow.
See our Privacy Policy and Terms.
Howard County · issues
Topics getting the most attention in Howard County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Residents are concerned about a proposed 14-cent tax increase, citing inflation and rising costs of living. The Court is reviewing the budget and considering ways to lower the final rate.
Howard County is looking to sell off historic buildings in Old Ellicott City, which could totally change the vibe of our downtown. It’s a big move that might shift how the area looks and functions, so we need to watch how this affects local shops and our town's history.
It's election season in Howard County, and it's time to decide who runs our city and schools. Check out the ballot now so you know exactly who you're voting for and how they plan to shape our community.
The Court is managing the finances for the library renovation to ensure it stays within budget using donations and grants.
Big Spring is caught in a tug-of-war between local oil companies and residents worried about their health. It’s a classic fight over whether the town’s economy is worth the potential environmental risks.
Howard County is pushing new resources to help you prep for floods before the next storm hits. It’s a solid nudge to check your risk level and figure out your evacuation route now, rather than when the water is already rising.
The county is buying a road stabilizer to help bind unpaved roads. This will make roads safer during rain and significantly reduce dust for residents living nearby.
The county is required by law to have a committee ready to hear potential salary complaints from elected officials. They drew names from the grand jury pool to ensure the committee is ready if needed.
Big Spring is keeping kids fed this summer by offering free breakfast and lunch at local schools. If you're a parent looking to save on groceries, just swing by the Junior High or Washington Elementary to grab a meal.
The county continues its tradition of honoring outstanding high school students to support their college applications.
Howard County is finally kicking off construction on the Ellicott City flood tunnel this summer to protect the historic downtown area from devastating floods. This major project aims to put a stop to the repeated water damage that has plagued the local community for years.
Howard County police just finished a two-day crime sweep that resulted in 40 arrests. You’ll likely notice a heavier police presence around town for the next little while as they keep the pressure on.
The March 3 election results are officially in, deciding the local leaders and policies that will steer Howard County for the next few years. It’s time to see who won and how these changes might affect your daily life in the county.
The county is considering a tax zone to help fund infrastructure for a new business park. This could bring more jobs and tax revenue to the area in the long run.
The county is updating its website, which will cause a temporary freeze in content updates.
Howard County is debating new bills that would limit how local police work with ICE. It’s a major shift in local policy that’s sparking intense community debate over how we handle immigration enforcement.
The county is finishing up the Law Enforcement Center, with final punch list items expected to be completed soon. The project has been managed through contingency funds to cover unexpected structural needs.
Howard County just passed a controversial ordinance that tries to restrict travel for abortion services. It’s a major move that’s raising big questions about how much power the local government actually has over your personal life.
Howard County is fighting the FCC to keep control over local internet infrastructure and how broadband providers set up shop in our neighborhoods. If the feds win, the city might lose its ability to manage public rights-of-way and negotiate better service terms for residents.
Big Spring’s mayor just declared a local disaster after that nasty storm hit, which is basically the green light needed to get state and federal cash for repairs. Expect some updates soon on how this affects your daily city services and the cleanup timeline.
Howard County is charging families way too much just to talk to their loved ones in jail, with local call rates actually exceeding federal caps for long-distance calls. It’s a major financial burden that keeps families from staying connected during a difficult time.
Howard County is setting up its first permanent LGBTQIA+ commission to give the community a real seat at the table. This move aims to bake inclusive policy-making directly into the local government process.
Howard County is officially adding Juneteenth to the holiday calendar. Expect government offices and some public services to close down every June 19th moving forward.