Providing excellent facilities and building services, preserving citizen investment and improving our community.

On May 27, 2026, County Executive Ball signed Executive Order 2026-08 to establish the Task Force on Disability Inclusion, Safety, and Crisis Response.

The Task Force is being formed to analyze model Offices of Immigrant Affairs in local jurisdictions and in State Government and develop recommendations on a proposed structure, staffing, and placement for an Office of Immigrant Affairs within Howard County Government to enhance the County’s support of its immigrant community.

The nine offices of the Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) address the needs of multiple generations, tailor services to different cultural values, and promote full inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

The Department of Technology and Communication Services (DTCS) is responsible for supporting the County's many different jobs and functions necessary to run the government. We offer services that help departments meet their technology needs and objectives.

The County Executive is the head of the executive branch of government in Howard County and is elected to a four-year term.

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 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. 

The Office of Procurement and Contract Administration maintains approximately 775 annual contracts for the goods, services and capital improvement projects that allow Departments to serve the residents of Howard County.

County Executive Ball is committed to a responsive government. Our team can help navigate the county bureaucracy, respond to questions or concerns, and assist those trying to access County services. Since December 2018, the County Executive’s Office has responded to more than 10,000 constituent cases from calls, emails, and letters.