County Executive Calvin Ball announced a public hearing on September 30 at the George Howard Building, where locals could offer their thoughts on the 184 flag designs vying to become the county's new symbol. According to the Howard County press release, the event will begin at 6:00 p.m. Additionally, those interested in joining the discussion remotely will have the option as the hearing will be streamed live on the County Council's website.
Enthusiastic about the initiative, Ball views the design of the county flag as a significant opportunity to reflect the values of Howard County. "As we continue forward in our process of choosing an updated and modernized county flag design, one that is more in alignment with our present values, I encourage our community members to share their feedback on what flag they think best encompasses Howard County's past, present and future," Ball stated. Those wishing to give in-person testimony can sign up from 5:30 to 6 p.m. outside the hearing room, or if planning to participate virtually, must register by 1 p.m. on the day of the hearing.
The county's website has the hearing's specifics. Registration is required for in-person or virtual testimony. Written testimony is also invited and should be sent to [email protected] by October 2. Requests for accommodations for the hearing should be emailed by September 25.
Launched by an Executive Order in January, the Flag Commission invited entries for a new county flag through an online portal, closing submissions at the end of June. Following the hearing and a public vote on the selected few, the Commission will publish its three finalists by the winter of 2025. The County Executive will then approve the chosen design to the County Council. For more information on the Commission and the redesign process, Howard County residents can visit www.howardcountymd.gov/flag.
