Politics & Government

County Council Candidate Q&A: Calvin Ball

Columbia resident is seeking a second full term on the County Council representing District 2.

Name: Calvin Ball

Age: 35

Lives in: Columbia

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Political Party: Democrat

Occupation: Ball is seeking a second full term representing District 2 in the Howard County Council. He also teaches at Morgan State University.

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What are the three most important issues facing your district?

"Ensuring that we have a safe and secure environment.

"Working to make sure that we have excellent educational opportunities, not merely overall, but for all. That includes being commited to lifelong learning and our library system.

"And putting the quality of life of our neighbors as a top priority, and that's whether it's revitalizing older neighborhoods, focusing on environmental sustainability, and making sure our recreation and parks are given the kind of investments that we need."

What do you wish had been accomplished in Howard County in the past four years that was not?

"I wish that we would've been able to make more investments in public safety. I think we made several investments, however. We did increase our first responders by about 100 over the last four years. A lot of that got delayed because of the budget, and having more first responders means cutting down on response times, means more community policing, more bike patrols.

"We did add the domestic violence unit. I would like us to be able to put more resources into fighting domestic violence, fighting any kind of gang issues that may be emerging. In the same vein, having to delay some of our school system priorities for much of the same reason. I'd like to put more resources in our schools, particularly those that are working through challenges or need renovations. A lot of that is aligned with our budgetary challenges."

Why do you deserve this seat more than your opponent does?

"I think that I've been a caring, responsive, accountable voice for the residents of District 2. I have articulated a commitment , a demonstrated commitment to the quality of life of the residents of District 2, from my time volunteering on the Oakland Mills Village Board, to my time as a community organizer, to even working with my daughter's PTA and working with other schools around the community.

"We still have some work to do. I'd be humbled and honored to continue serving our community."

On the Web:

calvinballteam.com


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