A thriving community starts with affordable, stable housing. Too many essential workers, seniors, and young professionals are being priced out of Howard County, which cannot continue. Vanessa is also acutely aware that school construction and upgrades to the county’s infrastructure have not kept pace with growth in many areas of the county. She will prioritize capital investments that facilitate smart growth options that open doors for first-time buyers, allow seniors to age in place, and meet the needs of economically disadvantaged families.

As a mother, the daughter of a Howard County teacher, and a graduate of Atholton High School, Vanessa understands how much strong schools matter in Howard County. When budgets are cut, educator positions get eliminated and class sizes increase. This is not a sustainable trajectory. Vanessa knows that small class sizes are the most equitable benefit we can provide to students and school staff—and she is committed to funding education at levels that will reverse the current scarcity trend and ensure that every child, no matter their zip code, has access to the very best education—and every educator is paid a competitive salary in a system where workloads are reasonable and staff well-being is prioritized.

Safety and trust go hand in hand. Vanessa led Maryland’s first-in-the-nation police accountability reforms because she believes every resident deserves both safety and fairness. As County Executive, she will continue working to reduce gun violence, strengthen public health resources, and build communities where families feel secure and supported.
This will mean expanding the emergency room capacity at Howard County General Hospital and investing in community mobile crisis units that can respond quickly when seconds matter. It means that our youth will have safe and free recreational spaces and more opportunities for structured, supervised activities. Vanessa is committed to working with local law enforcement on crime prevention initiatives, while steadfastly upholding Howard County’s Sanctuary Jurisdiction status.

Local governments all over the nation are finding that they are the last line of defense againstfederal leaders who are determined to turn back the clock of progress in every way. Jurisdictions without strong Democratic executive leadership are suffering the most. Howard County needs a fighter like Vanessa Atterbeary to lead the charge through these unprecedented threats to our democracy. Vanessa will be the county executive that fiercely denounces medical misinformation, the white-washing of history, and the demonization of our vital immigrant communities.
Throughout her career, Vanessa has spoken up for people who are too often overlooked. Whether fighting for survivors of abuse, working families, or children, she has always centered her work on those who need an advocate. As County Executive, she will continue to fight for fairness, equity, and justice, so that every resident knows they have someone in their corner.

Vanessa knows people deserve results, not excuses from their government. In Annapolis, she built a record of getting things done by listening, finding solutions, and delivering real change. She will bring that same focus to Howard County, making government more transparent, efficient, and responsive to the people it serves.

Vanessa’s Priorities

Sign up for campaign updates