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County Executive - Harford County, Maryland
James M. Harkins
- Biography
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County Executive James M. Harkins oversees local government operations for Harford County, Maryland. Managing a budget of $495 million dollars, Jim is charged with ensuring that efficient and responsive services are provided to the County's 218,590 citizens. A long-time fiscal conservative, Jim is committed to maintaining and expanding a strong economic base, and to preserving and protecting the quality of life Harford County citizens enjoy.
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Jim Harkins was sworn in as County Executive in December 1998, and reelected in November 2002. Before becoming Harford County Executive, he served two terms in the Maryland House of Delegates, where he was ranking minority member of the House Judiciary Committee. He also served one year on the House Appropriations Committee. A twenty-five year veteran of the Harford County Sheriff's Office, Jim has been recognized for his expertise in law enforcement and public safety issues.
His experience as a police officer has led to his appointment to numerous criminal justice committees, including the Maryland Commission on Criminal Sentencing, the Harford County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, and the Governor's Advisory Board for Justice Administration. Since becoming County Executive, he has served on the Governor's Commission on Transportation Investment and the Governor's Task Force to Ensure Utility Services.
Jim currently serves as Chairman of the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, 1st Vice President of the Maryland Association of Counties, and Chair of the M.A.C.O. Legislative Committee. County Executive Harkins is also a member of Fannie Mae's Southeast Regional Housing and Community Development Advisory Council.
After many years of community involvement as a volunteer, Jim first ran for elective office in 1986 and won a position on the Harford County Republican Central Committee. He was elected Chairman of the Central Committee the following year, and served until his election to the House of Delegates in 1990.
Jim and the Harkins family are seventh generation Harford Countians. He graduated from Bel Air High School and Harford Community College. He and his wife, Debra, have two daughters, Andrea, 22 and Stephanie, 9. The family resides in the rural community of Whiteford.
Jim Harkins by E-mail: jharkins@co.ha.md.us
Telephone: 410-638-3350
Fax: 410-638-1387
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