Program Description

  Administration and Support

The Office of the Director provides for overall management of departmental programs to ensure safe and efficient operations, including contract administration management for the department, continuity of operations, oversight of operational programs for the County's Integrated Solid Waste Management System (ISWMS), and communications and public engagement.

The Office provides strategic direction and support on IT systems and infrastructure for departmental operations and programs, and oversees the human resources, contract management, and communication and engagement activities. The Office provides for management of partnerships with multiple County departments with which the department cooperates, including the Departments of Permitting Services, Transportation, and General Services, as well as external groups including faith-based institutions, the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission, and the WSSC Water.

The Office is responsible for operating and capital budget development, revenue generation from the Water Quality Protection Charge and Solid Waste Fees, and overall financial management. DEP's programs and operations are funded through the General Fund, the Water Quality Protection Fund, and the Solid Waste Enterprise Funds.

The work includes the following focus areas:

• Maintain all funds in a financially prudent manner and maintain structural stability given the responsibilities and risks associated with all programs and operations.
• Develop and evaluate capital and operating budgets in a strategic and economically responsible manner.
• Perform detailed financial analysis during the annual rate calculation process for a more equitable rate structure, structural stability, budget flexibility, and financial risk mitigation.
• Review and develop policies and procedures that strengthen internal controls.
• Collaborate with organization stakeholders using metrics that assess the strategic health of the business, the alignment of programs with the business strategy, and the balance of the program relative to business needs.
• Use quantitative and financial models and forecasting tools to analyze the fiscal impact of proposed strategic changes. Assist with execution of procurement actions on a timely basis and at the best possible value.
• Facilitate funding for the maintenance of computer/automation equipment, and related technologies in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

The DEP Communications team is responsible for increasing media hits, growing the department's social media audience, improving the DEP web experience, and reaching new and diverse audiences through public engagement.

The Department of Housing and Community Affairs provides staff to respond to resident complaints dealing with: storage and removal of solid waste; illegal solid waste dumping activities in the County; storage of unregistered vehicles on private property throughout the County; storage of inoperable vehicles on private property; improper screening of dumpsters, particularly those in shopping areas; and control and regulation of weeds throughout the County.

"Clean or Lien" provides for the removal of dangerous or unsightly trash, perimeter grass, and weeds on properties which the owners have failed to maintain as required.