Howard County is seeking people interested in serving on the Animal Matters Hearing Board. The deadline to apply is Friday, Jan. 16, 2026. Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced the need for applicants in a press release, specifying that they are looking for applicants from District 1 (Ellicott City to Elkridge) and District 4 (Columbia to North Laurel). The board also seeks a licensed veterinarian who lives in Howard County to serve. “Our beloved pets and animals should be treated with care and respect,” Ball said. “As members of our family, we must provide for their basic needs, not to mention offering them love and enrichment. The Animal Matters Hearing Board helps evaluate and address unfortunate cases where animals are found to be neglected or suffering. We are urging residents to step up and provide a voice for those animals who cannot protect themselves.” There are seven voting members on the board, including at least one licensed veterinarian practicing in Howard County, three members with animal matters experience, and three representing the general public. No more than two members may be from the same County Council district. Board members serve three-year terms. They rule on appeals for animal control law violations and issue orders and declarations on the enforcement of animal control laws. Members also issue recommendations to Howard County’s animal control facility and review that facility’s proposed budget. To be considered, candidates must live in Howard County, be 18 years of age or older, have an interest in animal matters, and be able to attend Board meetings scheduled as needed on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the George Howard Building, located at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City. Applications are online at the Howard County government website, and applicants should select “Animal Matters Hearing Board” in the form. The County Executive will review eligible applicants, and if approved, the County Council will confirm the appointment. There is more information on serving as a commission member on applying on the Boards and Commissions page of the Howard County government website. People with further questions can email them to [email protected]. For more information about Howard County’s Animal Matters Hearing Board and Howard County Animal Control and Adoption Center can be found online or by calling 410-313-2780. As part of the Howard County Police Department, the Howard County Animal Control and Adoption Center investigates animal cruelty cases, rescues endangered animals, accepts unwanted pets from Howard County residents, administers a pet adoption program, conducts humane education programs, and operates the county’s animal shelter. ...read more read less