I'm Ryan O'Connor, and I'm running to be your next Howard County Council member for District 5.
This is home. I was born and raised in Ellicott City and graduated from Glenelg High School in 1996. After college, I came back—because there's nowhere else I'd rather be. Today, my wife and I are raising our three kids right here in West Friendship, and all three attend Howard County public schools.
I'm not a career politician. I'm a neighbor, a parent, and a youth sports coach who cares deeply about the kind of community our kids will inherit.
I chose Howard County for the same reasons you did—excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a community where families can thrive. But I've watched as rising taxes squeeze family budgets, development pressures threaten our rural character, and county spending grows faster than our paychecks.
District 5 deserves a council member who understands what we're protecting—and will fight for it. That's why I'm running.
I hold an MBA in Finance from Loyola University Maryland and have spent more than two decades in the energy sector, specializing in project finance. I currently serve as a Relationship Manager on Farmer Mac's Rural Infrastructure team, where I support responsible investment and sustainable growth. My career has taught me how to scrutinize budgets, demand accountability, and deliver results.
Service has always been part of my life. I served as President of the Howard's Ridge Homeowners Association in Ellicott City and currently serve as Director of the Howard County Boys Club Lacrosse program, where I help mentor young athletes across our community.
Strong Schools — I'll fight to manage growth so our classrooms aren't overwhelmed and every child gets the world-class education Howard County is known for.
Lower Taxes — I'll demand fiscal discipline from county government so families and small businesses aren't taxed out of the community they love.
Safe Communities — I'll ensure our neighborhoods have the responsive police, fire, and rescue services we depend on.
This race is simple: Do we want a council member who reflects the values and priorities of Howard County, or one who will go along with the status quo?
I'll be a voice for District 5 families—not special interests, not developers, not the politicians who think they know better than we do.
I'm asking for your vote. Let's protect Howard County together.
