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County Council Member · District 1 · Anne Arundel 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 raceKelly M. Smith is a candidate seeking election to the Anne Arundel County Council representing District 1, bringing a background as a veteran, educator, and public servant with over two decades of experience in the U.S. military, federal government, education, and nonprofit leadership. She describes herself as a proven community advocate who delivers results through dedication, experience, and service to uplift families and strengthen communities. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Education with a concentration in Leadership and Management, she emphasizes honest leadership and real transparency while standing up for the everyday needs of District 1 residents. Her campaign platform focuses on four key pillars: Economic Development, Workforce Planning, Education, and Affordable Housing, designed to build an inclusive and thriving district where no one is left behind. She positions herself as a steady and solutions-driven voice committed to delivering results that reflect the values of her community.
Sources: Campaign website
"Kelly Smith understands that real change comes from dedication, experience, and service."
"With a proven track record in the military, federal government, and education, she brings leadership that listens first and leads with purpose."
"honest leadership, real transparency, and standing up for the everyday needs of our community."
"True public safety comes from care, not just control."
Source: kellysmithkares.com
Education
Expansion of mentoring programs, leadership development for youth, and school-community partnerships with a focus on funding equity in public education.
“"As an AVID teacher and longtime youth mentor, Kelly brings a classroom-tested perspective on what students and families need to succeed. Expansion of mentoring programs, leadership development for youth, and school-community partnerships. Support for funding equity in public education, especially in underserved schools."”
Housing
Advocacy for increased affordable housing stock, protections for renters, support for first-time homebuyers, and initiatives to help seniors age in place.
“"Advocacy for increased affordable housing stock, protections for renters, and support for first-time homebuyers. Initiatives to help seniors age in place through home modification programs and property tax relief. Policies to address housing insecurity and prevent displacement due to rising costs or development."”
Economic Development
Revitalizing the local economy by supporting small businesses, attracting responsible investment, and modernizing commercial corridors.
“"Kelly is ready to fight for that voice... Kelly understands the importance of preparing residents for the jobs of today and tomorrow. Plans to modernize commercial corridors and uplift historically underserved business districts. Strategies for partnering with chambers of commerce, local entrepreneurs, and anchor institutions."”
Public Safety
Ensuring safe streets through infrastructure improvements like lighting and crosswalks while prioritizing care over control.
“"True public safety comes from care, not just control. It means safe streets, strong neighborhoods, and a local government that looks out for all of us... Add more lighting, crosswalks, and sidewalk improvements"”
Veterans
Ensuring veterans have access to resources and respect, supporting job training, apprenticeships, and reducing veteran homelessness.
“"District 1 is home to many veterans and military families who deserve not only our gratitude but real support. Kelly Smith understands the challenges veterans face transitioning to civilian life and is committed to ensuring they have access to the resources and respect they've earned."”
Seniors
Supporting seniors through home modification programs, property tax relief, and creating senior programs.
“"Initiatives to help seniors age in place through home modification programs and property tax relief. Create senior programs, youth programs, and safe spaces for teens"”
Immigration
Ensuring immigrant communities feel welcome and protected rather than policed.
“"Ensure our immigrant communities feel welcome and protected, not policed. Safety is about belonging. I'll will be a strong advocate to ensure District 1 is a place where everyone feels seen, supported, and safe."”
“"As an AVID teacher and longtime youth mentor, Kelly brings a classroom-tested perspective on what students and families need to succeed."”
Source“"Advocacy for increased affordable housing stock, protections for renters, and support for first-time homebuyers."”
Source“"True public safety comes from care, not just control. It means safe streets, strong neighborhoods, and a local government that looks out for all of us."”
Source“"Kelly is ready to fight for that voice... revitalizing District 1's local economy by supporting small businesses, attracting responsible investment."”
Source“"District 1 is home to many veterans and military families who deserve not only our gratitude but real support."”
Source“"Initiatives to help seniors age in place through home modification programs and property tax relief."”
Source“"Ensure our immigrant communities feel welcome and protected, not policed. Safety is about belonging."”
Source