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County Council Member · District 3 · Howard County · 2026 Primary
County Council Members serve as the legislative branch of county government, passing local laws and approving the annual budget that funds public schools, roads, and emergency services. They set local tax rates and make final decisions on land use and zoning, which determines where new homes and businesses can be built. This office is responsible for prioritizing how your tax dollars are spent and managing the long-term growth and infrastructure of your community.
View all candidates in this raceChristiana Rigby is a lifelong resident of Howard County's District 3 and currently serves as a member of the Howard County Council. A graduate of the Howard County Public School System and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, she holds a degree in environmental studies and previously worked as a community organizer and environmental educator. Rigby made history in 2018 as the first openly queer member of the Council and later became the youngest woman to serve as Council Chair. Her platform focuses on economic resiliency through minimum wage increases, housing affordability across all income levels, and stable funding for the county's education system. She emphasizes practical, science-based climate leadership and has introduced or sponsored over 65 pieces of legislation during her tenure.
Sources: Campaign website
Housing affordability touches every stage of life, and Christiana is committed to preserving existing affordable homes and expanding housing options so people of all incomes and abilities can find a place to call home in Howard County.
As both an HCPSS graduate and the parent of two students, Christiana understands what families and schools need to succeed.
Protecting our environment means protecting our health, lowering long-term costs, and leaving a stronger community for the next generation, and Christiana brings practical, science-based climate leadership that targets major sources of pollution.
As a parent, public servant, and lifelong Democrat, Christiana is deeply committed to the wellbeing, success, and future of our community.
Source: christianarigby.com
Economic Resiliency and Opportunity
Focusing on practical solutions to strengthen the local economy while managing everyday expenses for families and small businesses.
“Sponsored and passed legislation to raise the minimum wage for working people in Howard County.”
Housing Affordability, Availability, and Accessibility
Preserving existing affordable homes and expanding options near transit for residents of all abilities and income levels.
“Passed legislation requiring moderate-income housing and incentivizing accessible units in transit-oriented developments.”
Empowered Education System
Securing stable funding, modern facilities, and resources for students and educators, including funding for major school construction projects.
“Christiana will continue to fight for sensible, sustainable tax structures that create stable County revenues and allow HCPSS to thrive.”
Cleaner, Greener Environment
Targeting major pollution sources through building codes and renewable energy initiatives while conserving county land.
“Supported the Climate Action and Resiliency Plan, passed building codes that require new buildings to be ready for solar power and electric vehicles, and expanded access to community solar.”
External reporting indicates that Rigby does not plan to run for county executive in the 2026 election cycle, unlike several of her council colleagues. As of mid-2025, no challengers had filed to run against her for the District 3 seat. News coverage highlights her position within a council that is expected to undergo significant turnover in the coming years.
“Secured funding for major school construction and renovation projects, including Guilford Park High School, Hammond High School, Talbott Springs Elementary School, and Oakland Mills Middle School.”
Source“Advocated for the full funding of the County’s Housing Opportunities Trust Fund to enable the County to preserve existing affordable housing.”
Source“Sponsored legislation to reduce plastics in our county by prohibiting plastic straws in restaurants and implementing plastic bag fees.”
Source“Helped create the Gateway Business Park Enterprise Zone, bringing more than $80 million in investments and hundreds of new jobs to District 3 in its first year.”
Source“Expanded opportunities for small businesses to open, grow, and work with the Howard County Economic Development Authority.”
Source“As a member of the Complete Streets Implementation Team, she worked to better connect neighborhoods to schools, jobs, and transit.”
Source“Passed building codes that require solar and electric vehicle ready infrastructure for all new buildings.”
Source“Strengthened oversight, transparency, and accountability in County decision-making to protect taxpayer resources.”
Source“Supported expanded programming and safe spaces for teens across communities in Howard County.”
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