How Harford County Improved Quality of Life to Win National Award

Harford County, Maryland has won a prestigious national award. The National Association for County Community and Economic Development presented its Award of Excellence to the county. The award recognizes the work of the Southern County Taskforce.

County Executive Bob Cassilly established the taskforce in 2022. It was designed to tackle long-standing issues in the southern part of the county. The award was officially announced at the association’s conference in September.

A Data-Driven Approach to Solving Community Challenges

The Southern County Taskforce took a unique, collaborative approach. It brought together various county departments to work as one unit. According to the county administration, the focus was on collecting concrete data and developing actionable plans.

This effort targeted critical areas like low home ownership and substandard housing. The taskforce also worked to address high poverty rates. It leveraged significant federal and state funding to power its initiatives.

Community and business leaders were essential partners in the process. Public input sessions helped identify specific service gaps. This ensured the plans reflected the actual needs of residents.

Tangible Results and a Brighter Future for Southern Harford

The work has already yielded nearly $2 million in grants for local improvements. These funds have been used for a wide array of projects. New streetlights and security cameras have been installed to enhance public safety.

Parks and community centers have seen significant renovations. The program also provides direct assistance to residents through home renovations and downpayment help for new homeowners. A major restoration of the Citizens Care nursing facility will add 20 much-needed beds.

Other projects include a new senior housing development and a 5.5-acre park. Upgrades to public transportation and local roads are also underway. These combined efforts aim to fundamentally improve the quality of life.

County Executive Cassilly emphasized the action-oriented nature of the taskforce. He stated that for years, the Route 40 corridor heard talk but saw little action. The award, he said, is a testament to the effective collaboration between government, community, and business partners.

The national recognition solidifies the Southern County Taskforce as a model for effective county-led community development. Its success demonstrates the power of a coordinated, data-driven strategy.

Info at your fingertips

What is the Southern County Taskforce?

It is a multi-department initiative launched by Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly. Its mission is to address economic and quality-of-life challenges in the county’s southern communities through strategic planning and collaboration.

What specific problems is the taskforce addressing?

The taskforce focuses on issues like substandard housing conditions, low rates of home ownership, and elevated poverty levels. It uses data and community input to guide its revitalization projects and funding allocation.

What are some key accomplishments so far?

Key accomplishments include securing nearly $2 million in grants. This funding has paid for new streetlights, park renovations, home repair assistance, and the restoration of a nursing facility to add more beds for residents.

How were community members involved?

The taskforce actively partnered with local community and business leaders. It also held public input sessions to identify the most critical service gaps and needs directly from the people living in the affected areas.

Who presented the award to Harford County?

The Award of Excellence was presented by the National Association for County Community and Economic Development (NACCED). This organization recognizes outstanding county-led programs in community and economic development across the United States.

Trusted Sources: National Association for County Community and Economic Development (NACCED), Harford County Government.