Politics & Government

New County Complex Nears Completion

After a 2-year makeover, the Howard County Government Complex is almost ready to reveal its new face. Patch.com joins Chief Bureau of Facilities Michael Giovanniello for a tour.

The buildings and grounds of the Howard County Government Complex have been updated for energy efficiency and, where possible, reuse of resources.  Upgrades are inside and out, and start before visitors leave their cars.

A storm and rainwater retention system has been installed and there are bio-retention systems on the grounds, including in the newly paved parking lot. The system captures water, cleans it and redistributes it to the park-like landscape that surrounds the government complex.

Atop the George Howard building, solar panels collect energy that is used to heat water. The roof of the building was also reconditioned and new windows and window panels have been installed.

Find out what's happening in Ellicott Citywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Inside, a new, more efficient HVAC system has been installed and automated systems control the lighting, ensuring that energy is not used when it's not needed.

Office locations have been rearranged for efficiency. The first floor is dedicated to public functions – need to apply for a permit? Pay a bill? All of that can be taken care of without stepping foot in an elevator.

Find out what's happening in Ellicott Citywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The County Council will still be located on the ground floor, where there is also dedicated space for public meetings in the Banneker room and additional public meeting rooms.

The four-story building will house about 340 employees in all.

Several hundred feet away, the Caroll and Ligon buildings have been joined, creating one building that houses a little more than 100 employees.

Some departments are expected to begin moving back into the Ellicott City building later this week.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here