HoCo Suspends Library Fines, Keeps Water On During Shutdown

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — In a jurisdiction where approximately 11 percent of households include a federal worker or contractor affected by the federal government shutdown, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced on Friday he was taking measures to alleviate the burden for residents. From water bills to library fees, Ball said the county would make concessions.

“As this latest federal government shutdown heads into its third week, I have decided to suspend water service disconnections in Howard County until this shutdown is over,” Ball said in a statement on Friday, Jan. 4. “Helping out our residents during difficult times is a principle of the Howard County government. Our government took similar measures during the last extended government shutdown, and I wanted to make sure we continue helping our residents in as many ways as possible during this shutdown.”

Agencies across Howard County are stepping forward to assist those who may be impacted.

“This department also stands ready to assist our county residents facing challenges during this difficult time," Howard County's Director of the Department of Community Resources and Services Jackie Scott said in a statement. "Our staff is available to help those impacted by connecting them to needed resources to close the gaps created by the shutdown."

Here are some measures that the county is taking:

• The Howard County Library System has suspended library fines and fees. Effective Jan. 4, no cardholder will be blocked because of fees/fines, and they will not accrue through the end of the shutdown.
• The Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks is offering alternative payment schedules for impacted federal workers and contractors for classes and programs. Call 410-313-7275 to discuss.
• Water service disconnections are suspended. Usually this happens 10 to 60 times a month in the county after residents have been given 30 days to pay and then receive two additional notices, with more than $250 past due. “The Department of Finance does not foresee a significant fiscal impact resulting from a temporary suspension of this process, during the federal government shutdown,” Howard County Director of Finance Janet Irvin said in a statement.
• Federal workers or contractors who need support from health or human services can call the Department of Community Resources and Services at 410-313-6400 or the Maryland Access Point at 410-313-1234.

In addition, the county's tourism office — Visit Howard County — is keeping an updated list of free or almost free activities during the shutdown.

"Howard County is known for its outstanding quality of life which includes plenty of budget-friendly attractions and activities," Executive Director for Visit Howard County Amanda Hof said in a statement. "Those impacted by the federal shutdown will find Howard County a fun and convenient place to spend some of their time.”

SEE ALSO: 11 Percent Of HoCo Families Impacted By Government Shutdown

File photo by Elizabeth Janney.