About
The Howard County Police Department’s (HCPD) Citizens’ Advisory Council (CAC) consists of active and diverse community leaders with a variety of skills and experience who volunteer their time and energy to address law enforcement services in Howard County. Founded in 1992, the Council works under the auspices of the Chief of Police and fosters transparency and two-way communication between the HCPD and the citizens of Howard County.
The CAC offers the opportunity for volunteers to serve as a representative of the community to the department, and to act as a conduit for informing the residents of Howard County about department news, information, and updates. Meetings are held with police leadership monthly and provide a forum for citizens to:
- Learn about law enforcement processes and initiatives.
- Foster collaboration between the HCPD and the community.
- Provide input on police services and new and existing programs, both formally and informally. Examples are body worn cameras and the drone program.
- Aid in the identification of long-term goals for the department.
- Provide testimonial support on topics before the county council.
- Support the HCPD in activities such as National Night Out, Coffee with a Cop, and the Howard County Police Pace, to name a few.
Membership Qualifications include:
- 18 years of age or older
- Reside or work in Howard County
- Pass a background check
Membership Expectations include, but are not limited to:
- Provide input to HCPD leadership on a variety of issues of concern to the citizens of Howard County.
- Provide feedback and share information with the community on policies and initiatives of the HCPD.
- Serve as ambassadors to the Howard County community.
- Engage with and aid the HCPD at programs and events.
- Advocate on behalf of the CAC and HCPD at the County and State level.
- Attend regularly scheduled meetings as per the bylaws.
- Attend the HCPD’s Citizen’s Police Academy within two years of becoming a member.
- Participate in at least two police sponsored community events annually.
- Exhibit consistent professional, respectful discourse and critique within council meetings and in the community as a representative of the HCPD.
- Fulfill all obligations as per the bylaws.
How to apply for membership on the CAC
- For questions about the CAC before applying, please contact HCPD@howardcountymd.gov
- Complete a Citizens’ Advisory Council Application
- Pass Security Clearance
- Attend three meetings prior to interview.
- Pass panel interview and be approved by the Chief of the HCPD
The CAC meets the third Wednesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 pm. Subcommittees meet at a conducive time to the members. These meetings may be in person or online.