About Shamieka Preston
I am Shamieka Preston, a mom, advocate and proud member of our amazing Howard County community. Like so many of you, I balance work, family, and the weekly shuffle of getting my kids to and from their community activities. Through it all, I have come to deeply appreciate what makes our county so special while also recognizing the important work we still have ahead of us together.
When my neighborhood faced a proposed toxic plastics incinerator planned by WR Grace next to our homes, I stepped up to protect my community. That experience opened my eyes to how local decisions are made and how deeply they affect our families. It strengthened my resolve to make sure every voice in Howard County is heard and valued.
I am running for County Council because I believe local government should listen, serve and deliver results. My focus is on building a Howard County that works for every family, every community, and every generation.
I’m proud to be running a publicly financed campaign that is fueled by the people, no big money, or special interests. Choosing public financing means I’m accountable only to you, the residents of Howard County. It reflects my belief that government should work for the people and be funded by the people it serves.
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My commitment is simple: Working for the People of Howard County.
Our Priorities for District 4
Preston for the People - Building a stronger community in Columbia, Maryland
Strong Schools
As a mother of two children in Howard County public schools, one in elementary and one in middle school, and an active PTA member, I understand the importance of a well-funded school system to the success of our community. Every child deserves access to quality education, not by chance, but by design.
I will work to ensure our schools have the resources to support the need to unlock the potential of every child.
Safety and Security
As a daughter of a retired NYPD Police Chief, I have deep respect for the men and women who protect our communities, and I know safety must come first. Every family has the right to feel safe in their home and neighborhood. It’s not just polity, its peace of mind.
Stability for Working Families and Local Business
As a working mom, I understand the daily balance between work, family, caring for loved ones and maintaining a quality life. Our families and small businesses form the backbone of Howard County, and both deserve stability and opportunity.
I’ll work to:
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Strengthen our local economy.
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Support working families with policies that can make life more affordable.
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Ensure seniors can live securely and comfortably in the communities they helped build.
Good Government
When government spends your hard-earned tax dollars, you should know your money is being used wisely. Good government is transparent, responsive, and accountable.
I will work to restore trust in local government by ensuring decisions are made with respect for the people we serve.
Caring for Our Seniors
Our seniors are the heart of this community. They’ve given so much, and they deserve to age with dignity, security and with a sense of community support and belonging.
Dignity means:
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Keeping the cost of living manageable.
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Ensuring safe neighborhoods and accessible healthcare.
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Encouraging intergenerational connections that strengthen community ties.
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I will work for policies that honor our seniors.
Environment
We have a sacred responsibility to protect the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the green spaces that make Howard County so beautiful.
I will support sustainable growth, green infrastructure, and policies that protect our environment because our children deserve nothing less than a healthy, thriving community. Every neighborhood should have a voice before decisions are made that affect their future.
District 4 Areas
Celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of our neighborhoods
