Vanessa Atterbeary

Education 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. Immigration Vanessa will prohibit local law enforcement from being deputized by ICE. Criminal Justice / Public Safety As County Executive, she will continue working to reduce gun violence, strengthen public health resources, and build communities where families feel secure and supported. Abortion / Contraception Just as she did in Annapolis, Vanessa will ensure women’s ability to get abortion care, keeping clinics open. Housing 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. Criminal Justice / Public Safety 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.