Thirty-three years ago Howard County was a predominantly white and mainly rural county. Its population was only 23000. Today Howard County is different. Howard County boasts a thriving vibrant economy and welcoming business environment. It is home to 110370 households. This is because of its location. Howard County sits in the heart of central Maryland. It’s between Baltimore and Washington DC. That makes it convenient. It also has access to top educational and healthcare institutions. Upscale retail is nearby. Outstanding recreation and entertainment are available too.
Howard County is unique. It has no incorporated cities or towns. The county government provides all local services. This is important because Howard County is split into branches. There is an Executive Branch and a Legislative Branch. A state-run Judicial Branch also has offices in Howard County. The Executive Branch is led by the County Executive. This person is the county’s CEO. This branch proposes and runs the budget. They carry out policies made by the legislature. They interact with the state and other local governments. They also help residents.
The Legislative Branch is the County Council. Five members are elected every four years. They make laws for the county. They control the budget. They refer residents to agencies and help solve problems. The Council also acts as the Liquor Board and Zoning Board. The Auditor helps the Council with finances. They review the budget. They perform the county’s annual financial audit.
The Judicial Branch is the court system. It interprets and executes the law. It includes the Circuit Court District Court and Orphans’ Court. The Sheriff’s Office enforces court laws. The State’s Attorney prosecutes crimes.
Howard County is geographically small. It’s 160640 acres. It’s the second smallest county in Maryland. Ninety percent is Piedmont Plateau gently rolling hills. Ten percent is Atlantic Coastal Plain sandy soils. The altitude ranges from 20 to 875 feet. Precipitation is 434 inches yearly. There are six regional parks twenty-four community parks. There are seven golf courses five lakes and over 200 miles of trails.
Howard County is highly educated and affluent. In 2022 its population was 335411. Over 95% of residents aged 25 and older are high school graduates. Over 65% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income is very high.
Howard County values transparency. The County Council passed laws requiring online access to documents. This provides searchable formats and regularly updated information. Data is available in machine-readable formats. This improves government transparency. It increases efficiency. It promotes collaboration and civic engagement. It improves life for all residents. It enhances economic opportunities.
The Howard County Data Analytics and Statistics Hub HoCo DASH helps manage performance. It provides information to decision-makers and stakeholders. This is vital for solving problems and delivering results. The GIS division provides data tools and assistance. This is for county agencies. It helps with address information mapping and data overlay.
Howard County is a fascinating blend of history modernity affluence and community. It is a place worth exploring.