Governor Larry Hogan, Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman Honor Ellicott City Heroes
Dozens Recognized for Heroic and Selfless Acts During Historic Flooding
Governor Larry Hogan joined Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman for a ceremony honoring the dozens of individuals who displayed extraordinary acts of heroism and support following the historic flooding in Ellicott City in July. The event, held on Main Street in Ellicott City, recognized citizens and organizations for their efforts during and following the storm.
“I would like to congratulate the outstanding men and women who selflessly gave their time and talents in service to this historic community,” said Governor Hogan. “These brave citizens selflessly answered the call of their fellow Marylanders and lent a helping hand – in some cases literally – to assist those in need.”
“We’ve made incredible progress because of the hard work and strength of the property owners, businesses, and residents of Historic Ellicott City,” said County Executive Kittleman. “Those who were honored today have led this remarkable recovery. I have great confidence that the work and recovery efforts will continue by these fine people and others to continue to show that Ellicott City is a model resilient community.”
On the evening of July 30, 2016, a storm cell dumped nearly six inches of rain in the area during a few hours timeframe, causing massive flooding on Main Street. Tragically, two people lost their lives in the storm, dozens of buildings – many a mix of business and residential – were damaged and about 200 vehicles were swept downstream or flooded.
Following the flooding, many accounts of heroism emerged of citizens who worked tirelessly to help fellow Marylanders. From people banding together to form a human chain to rescue a stranded woman; to those who organized and made food deliveries; to those who volunteered to help clean up the debris, Maryland citizens worked together in the face of tragedy.
“During the past three months, much progress has been made to repair and rebuild, and by continuing to work together, Ellicott City’s future is sure to be even bigger and brighter than its historic past,” said Governor Hogan.
On July 31, 2016, Governor Hogan declared a State of Emergency and directed state agencies to work with all levels of government to assist the residents and businesses of Ellicott City and Howard County in their recovery efforts. In August 2016, Governor Hogan requested federal aid for Howard County as a result of the floods, which was approved in September. Additionally, the Hogan administration provided $5 million in state funding to assist small businesses and property owners.
