This workgroup evaluates behavioral health service capacity and access and recommends strategies to improve coordination and outcomes for individuals with behavioral health conditions.

This workgroup assesses healthcare workforce capacity and well-being and recommends strategies to strengthen and sustain Howard County’s health workforce.

This workgroup is responsible for identifying barriers to health care access and recommending strategies to improve how Howard County residents navigate and receive primary and preventive care.

This workgroup identifies social and environmental barriers to health and recommends strategies to improve health equity for Medicaid-insured and uninsured residents.

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball Established Impactful History and Historic Sites Advisory Workgroup to Preserve Our County’s Rich History on August 6, 2025.

The Office on Aging and Independence promotes the full inclusion of persons with disabilities, addresses the needs of an increasingly diverse cultural community, and supports the desires of our residents to remain independent as they grow older. Our commitment to a No Wrong Door approach makes it easier for older adults, caregivers, adults with disabilities and their families to find the services they need. 

This workgroup evaluates chronic disease prevention and management efforts and recommends strategies to improve outcomes through coordinated and integrated care.

Under Director Robert J. Frances, P.E., the Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits is the clearinghouse for processing licenses and permits, reviewing construction documents, and inspecting buildings and structures for code compliance.

The Howard County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) develops and maintains emergency management plans, which encompass response, recovery, mitigation, and protection. OEM also provides guidance to support agencies on the development of disaster management plans. Staff provides countywide planning as well as training and exercise programs to help the County prepare for natural, technological, and/or man-made emergencies. In addition, OEM staff manage and coordinate the County's Emergency Operations Center during times of emergency.

The Department of Planning and Zoning ensures the orderly and sustainable growth of the County by implementing policies, plans, and regulations that guide land use and development. Research and community engagement are cornerstones to these efforts that shape our community.

The North Laurel Community Center is one of Howard County's community centers, built to serve the southeastern portion of the county. The facility is shared by the Departments of Recreation & Parks and Health, Howard County Police and the Office on Aging and Independence. Features include a fitness room, game room, dance and aerobics room, double gymnasium, pre-school classrooms, multi-purpose rooms, senior activity room, and more.

The Task Force will evaluate and provide recommendations on how to carry forward New Town's planned community framework.

The Health Department bureaus and programs strive to make Howard County a community in which health equity and optimal wellness are accessible for all who live, work and visit.