About
The Howard County Commission on Disabilities (CoD) was established by statute in 1988 to increase public awareness of disability-related issues; serve in an advisory capacity on County Government programs, policies, and budget; and assist County Government to ensure compliance with the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The commission’s mission is facilitated through the efforts of its members and its subcommittees.
Commission Information
Board Members
- Chairperson: Greg Schuckman
- Vice Chairperson: Steven Towne
- Thomas Horejes
- Gift Jayakar
- Nicholas Jenkins
- Regina Lee
- Elke Pieters
- Robert Suggs
- Bryan Weinstein
- Susan Hirsh
- William McIntyre
General Meeting Schedule
Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of every other month (except December) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Meetings may adjourn earlier or later than the time specified in this notice. An agenda will be posted here three (3) business days before the meeting.
Meetings will be held in person at 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, MD, 21046.
All Commission meetings are open to the public, unless otherwise noted. Persons requiring reasonable accommodations should submit a request by email to CoD@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-6402 (voice/relay) at least five (5) business days before the meeting.
2025 Meeting Dates:
- February 24
- April 28 Link to Meeting
- June 23
- August 25
- October 27
- December 1
Report on the Status of People with Disabilities in Howard County
County Resolution 23-2018 required the Commission on Disabilities to research, review and prepare a report with recommendations “on how the County can facilitate full inclusion of all residents in all aspects of community life” and best practices in disabilities services, specifically in the areas of Education, Employment, Housing, Peer Relationships and Transportation. Staff of the Department of Community Resources and Services prepared this report on behalf of the Commission on Disabilities.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball joined the Howard County Commission on Disabilities (CoD) to celebrate the winners of the Commission’s 2024 Employment Awards. Held at the Maryland Innovation Center, this annual event honors employers and employment professionals who value disability inclusion and advance equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities, as evidenced by hiring practices, staff development, advancement opportunities and accommodation practices. View photos from the event.
Accessible Parking Guidelines
Accessible parking is crucial for people with disabilities, to ensure their safety, independence and equal access to public spaces. The Howard County Office of ADA Coordination and the Access Committee of the Commission on Disabilities have created accessible parking guidelines for motorists and owners of public places.
