Howard County, January 3, 2026
Kelly Madigan, the inaugural Inspector General of Baltimore County, has resigned to take up the same role in Howard County starting January 5, 2026. Her departure comes amid governance challenges and public controversy surrounding her position. Madigan will lead Howard County’s newly established Inspector General’s office aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency in local operations. Meanwhile, Steven Quisenberry will serve as Acting Inspector General for Baltimore during the transition period, ensuring continued oversight.
Kelly Madigan Resigns as Baltimore County Inspector General
New Role in Howard County Aims for Enhanced Oversight
Ellicott City, Maryland – Kelly Madigan, the first Inspector General of Baltimore County, has announced her resignation, effective January 5, 2026, as she prepares to take on a new role as Howard County’s first Inspector General. This transition reflects a significant shift in local governance as Howard County establishes its own Inspector General’s office, aimed at ensuring greater accountability and transparency in county operations.
Madigan’s departure comes in the wake of a challenging period marked by uncertainty regarding her position. In May 2025, Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier initiated an open hiring process for the Inspector General role, leading Madigan to understand that her term had lapsed. This announcement ignited public backlash, particularly when the Baltimore County Council rejected Klausmeier’s nominee for the position, fostering further instability in governance. Madigan remained in a holdover capacity until her resignation was finalized, demonstrating a level of resilience amid turmoil.
Kelly Madigan’s New Challenge in Howard County
In her new capacity, Madigan will be responsible for establishing the Office of the Inspector General in Howard County. This office is designed to oversee county operations and investigate claims of fraud, waste, and abuse, thus aiming to bolster trust between the administration and the community. The selection of Madigan by the Howard County Inspector General Advisory Board underscores her qualifications, stemming from her notable track record in Baltimore City, where she was pivotal in uncovering instances of mismanagement and fiscal irresponsibility.
Background Context of the Resignation
Madigan’s resignation is notable as it highlights both the challenges of maintaining oversight in complex bureaucratic environments and the importance of clarity in leadership roles. The events that led to her departure involved a lack of direction from the Baltimore County Executive and mixed signals from the Council regarding her future, ultimately leading to her decision to pursue an opportunity that provides clear expectations and responsibilities.
The Acting Role Transition
As Madigan transitions to her new role, Baltimore County will not be left without oversight. Deputy Inspector General Steven Quisenberry has been appointed as the Acting Inspector General during this interim period. His experience and existing familiarity with the office will be crucial as the county navigates the upcoming transition and seeks to maintain accountability in its operations.
Significance of the Office in Howard County
The establishment of the Inspector General’s office in Howard County represents a progressive step towards increased governmental accountability and efficiency. As municipalities strive for greater transparency in their operations, such oversight can help safeguard taxpayer dollars and enhance public trust. Madigan’s expertise in investigating fraud and waste will be invaluable as she leads this new initiative, demonstrating the potential benefits of well-regulated oversight mechanisms in local governance.
Conclusion
Kelly Madigan’s career took a significant turn as she steps into the role of Howard County’s first Inspector General. As she embarks on this new journey, her commitment to transparency and accountability remains pivotal for Maryland’s local governance. Support from community members and local businesses will be essential in fostering an environment conducive to economic growth and integrity in Howard County. Residents are encouraged to engage with their local government initiatives and uphold the values of transparency that Madigan aims to instill.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Kelly Madigan?
Kelly Madigan is the former Inspector General of Baltimore County and will become Howard County’s first Inspector General on January 5, 2026. She has a background in uncovering instances of waste, fraud, and abuse within government operations.
Why did Kelly Madigan resign from her position in Baltimore County?
Madigan resigned due to the uncertainty surrounding her role after Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier initiated an open hiring process for the Inspector General position, leading to public outcry and the rejection of her reappointment by the Baltimore County Council.
What is the role of the Inspector General in Howard County?
The Inspector General in Howard County is responsible for providing oversight into county operations and investigating claims of fraud, waste, and abuse, ensuring transparency and accountability within the county government.
Who will serve as Acting Inspector General in Baltimore County during the transition?
During the transition, Deputy Inspector General Steven Quisenberry will serve as Acting Inspector General in Baltimore County.
What is the significance of establishing an Inspector General’s office in Howard County?
The establishment of the Inspector General’s office in Howard County is a significant step toward enhancing transparency and accountability within the county government, with Madigan’s leadership expected to build trust and ensure the efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Resignation of Kelly Madigan | Kelly Madigan resigns as Baltimore County Inspector General to assume the role in Howard County. |
| Background of the Resignation | Details the events leading to Madigan’s resignation, including the open hiring process initiated by Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier and the rejection of her reappointment by the Baltimore County Council. |
| New Role in Howard County | Madigan’s new responsibilities as Howard County’s first Inspector General, focusing on establishing the Office of the Inspector General and providing oversight into county operations. |
| Acting Inspector General in Baltimore County | Deputy Inspector General Steven Quisenberry will serve as Acting Inspector General during the transition period. |
| Significance of the Inspector General’s Office | The importance of the Inspector General’s office in enhancing transparency and accountability within the county government. |
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