Dear Friends, 

In Howard County, we dream big, we seize opportunities, and we join together to deliver an excellent quality of life for every member of our community. It was an honor to welcome Governor Wes Moore to Howard County along with many of our community partners to announce our new, transformative Lakefront Library.

This new location for the library project also enables us to greatly expand mixed-income housing opportunities at a dedicated location in Downtown Columbia.

The Lakefront Library project is for the people and will serve as a transformative civic and educational center for all in Howard County. It will be a hub where education, the arts, and nature all converge to spark creativity, critical thinking, and community connections.

we started writing the next great chapter in our history, and there is more to come.

Read more here.

Promoting Acceptance and Inclusivity

April is Autism Acceptance Month which is a perfect time for us to work together as a community to ensure we promote inclusivity, fight the stigma, and raise awareness. I had a great time joining the Howard County Autism Society and all of the others organizers and supporters for their second Autism in the Park event at Blandair Regional Park. This inclusive event helps us celebrate our diversity and reaffirms our commitment that our neighbors of all ages and abilities have the best opportunity to live, work, play, grow, and thrive in Howard County.

As Autism Acceptance Month begins, we are reminded of the progress we have made to ensure an inclusive community and continue our work to help it grow. Together, we can ensure a healthy environment full of acceptance where all our community members can thrive.

Bold, yet Prudent

Last week, I submitted my proposed 2024 Capital Improvement Plan to the Howard County Council which includes $379 million in funding for important county-wide projects. Our bold, yet prudent investments will advance critical projects to deliver an excellent quality of life for all to live, work, play, and grow. These efforts help maintain Howard County’s position as one of the best managed jurisdictions in the nation, as illustrated once again by our AAA bond rating. 

Due to our sustained fiscal discipline, we are making historic progress in education, public safety, transportation, and more to build a better future for all in Howard County. Read more here.

Education & Sharing

Education is a key to building the strength, resilience, and prosperity of our community. It is what helps us ensure that our future leaders have the needed skills to make our community thrive, for all. Education & Sharing Day reminds us to renew our focus on moral and ethical education, while also encouraging our young people to become their best selves.

It was an honor to join Rabbi Yanky Baron, Chabad of Ellicott City, Lubavitch Center for Jewish Education, and many others to proclaim April 2 Education and Sharing Day in Howard County. This blessed day reminds us of the value of working alongside our young people and those who want them to thrive, to co-create a community where everyone is welcomed, supported, and encouraged to be their best self. We honor the legacy of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson by reaffirming our commitment to supporting and encouraging the development of our children through education.

Celebrating The Golden Year

It was a pleasure to attend the Maryland School for the Deaf, Columbia Campus Golden Gala to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its Columbia Campus. This illustrious campus opened in 1973 to offer an educational program for our deaf and hard of hearing community. During its inaugural year, only 15 students were enrolled in the program. Today, there are nearly 200 students enrolled, ranging form infants through eighth grade.

In Howard County, we strive to ensure that every person, regardless of age or ability, has the opportunity to live their best life. The Maryland School for the Deaf – Columbia Campus helps us achieve that goal through its innovative and rigorous academic programs that impact our entire community. I want to especially thank School Superintendent John Serrano, Columbia Campus Principal Dawniela Halischak, and the entire Maryland School for the Deaf community for their ongoing commitment to providing opportunity for all our students. 

Education remains at the forefront of everything that we do, and together, we continue our diligent work to ensure every person can live, work, play, grow, and thrive in Howard County and beyond!

Exploring Financial Decisions

April is Financial Literacy Month, and the perfect time to refresh ourselves on vital financial goals. I had a wonderful time joining Making Change and many of our community partners to kick-off Financial Literacy month at our Annual Money Matters Fair. Thank you to Jasmine Brewer and every volunteer who worked hard to make this event a success.

With continued economic challenges, many of our residents are struggling financially and it's important to provide adequate resources so every member of our community can thrive.

Raising Awareness for MS

During MS Awareness Month in March, we recognize and join with advocates and community members who work around the clock to increase awareness for Multiple Sclerosis. It is due to the courage and openness of community members, like Maryland’s very own First Lady, Dawn Moore, that we can increase our understanding of this condition. It takes strength, vulnerability, and bravery to share such a personal journey, and I’m heartened that my dear friend Dawn willingly and gracefully shares her inspirational story. 

We proudly proclaim March as MS Awareness Month in Howard County to support the resources and research needed to treat and end this disease.

A New Floss-ophy

Women’s History Month was the perfect time for us to celebrate our phenomenal women-owned businesses who help make our community thrive. One such business who achieves it with a smile, is Dr. Keisha Judd at Judd Dentistry in Columbia. Judd Dentistry offers superior care, centered around the overall wellness of patients. 

To learn more about how this wonderful woman-owned business provides a big picture view of dentistry, please click here.

Local Minority Business Resource Workshop

Are you a local minority-, women- or disabled-owned business? If yes, I invite you to join our Office of Procurement and Contract Administration, the Howard County Economic Development Authority and myself as we host a Local Minority Business Resource Workshop this Thursday, April 6^th from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Kenneth S. Ulman Innovation Hub at 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive in Columbia. The goal of this event is to connect local and minority businesses to valuable business development resources beneficial to their business growth. This workshop will provide attendees with a great opportunity to connect with various organizations and agencies that provide the tools and resources needed to assist you in growing your business, as well as meet with prime contractors to learn about subcontracting opportunities.

To attend this workshop, simply RSVP by emailing localoutreach@howardcountymd.gov.

Honoring Those We Lost

Last week marked three years since the first Howard County residents lost their lives to COVID-19. This day marks a somber moment in the shared history of our county, in which more than 400 of our neighbors passed away due to coronavirus. These were our colleagues and our family members; our close friends and loved ones. They were all part of our Howard County community.

To honor those who have lost their lives to COVID-19, I am announcing my intention to fund a COVID-19 Memorial at Meadowbrook Park in our upcoming budget. This memorial will serve as a reflective space where members of our community can commemorate those who we lost during this challenging time. Together, we will continue to move forward, as a community, to recover, rebuild, and reflect on this period of our shared history.

First of All, Servants of All, We shall Transcend All

I had a wonderful time joining my Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc for our Alphas in Annapolis event. This year, in addition to County Executive, our Brothers serve in various seats on the Senate, County Council, and Boards of Education, and now also as Maryland Governor. This was an incredible opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of public service in our communities, our counties, and our state. I know that together, we will continue to move onward and upward. 

Thank you to my Brothers Senator Alonzo Washington, Senator Charles Sydnor, and the Alpha Phi Alpha Delta Lambda chapter for their efforts to bring this event to fruition. First of all, servants of all - we shall transcend all.

Honoring Our Vietnam War Veterans

Our veterans who served in the Vietnam War put their lives on the line for the sake of our country. As a proud son of a Vietnam War Veteran, I understand first-hand the impact our veterans have in our community. Our collective support of our veterans is vital and goes a long way in making a difference in the lives of these former soldiers. It was a pleasure to host a flag raising ceremony to honor those who served.

Watch the ceremony here.

Explore. Experience. Excel.

Our Summer Youth Employment Program is now accepting applications! This six-week PAID program aims to teach and develop practical workforce readiness skills for residents between the ages of 14 and 24.

This empowering program gives the tools and resources to be successful in work. Young people can explore interests, gain mentorship and establish a professional network. For the duration of the program, participants become contingent employees of Howard County Government or private sector businesses in Howard County, are offered competitive pay and may work up to 25 hours per week.

Learn more here.

Youth Opportunity Fair

The Youth Opportunity Fair is back! Join the Howard County Office of Workforce Development and community partners for a job fair dedicated to our young people on Saturday, April 15, 2023, from 11 am – 2pm at Oakland Mills High School. This event is centered around networking and directly connecting youth and young adults to local community resources, volunteer, internship, and employment opportunities. Help us spread the word and engage youth in the workforce.

Vendors are still being accepted for this event. If your organization or department is interested in participating in this event as a vendor, please sign up here.

Join My Team!

My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.

• Deputy Chief Technology Officer with HCDFRS - This position provides computer technical services for the Fire & Rescue Department. 
• Energy Analyst with the Office of Community Sustainability - This role supports the County's energy management programs, energy and utility use and cost reduction efforts, and the processing and tracking of utility, energy, and fuel billing. 
• Director of DPZ - This position performs executive level planning and zoning work under executive direction. Work includes directing the general operation of the Department of Planning and Zoning, advising the County Executive and County Council on related issues, and developing and monitoring the department and related capital budget program.

I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.

Applicants Sought for Commission on Disabilities

Our Commission on Disabilities plays a vital role in supporting the needs of persons with disabilities in Howard County by addressing challenges with housing, transportation, recreation, employment and more. If you are interested in taking part in our ongoing efforts to ensure that people of all ages and abilities feel welcome and empowered in our great county, I encourage you to apply today to join our Commission on Disabilities. At this time, we are specifically looking for those who have a disability, are relatives of a person with a disability or are members of the general public to serve on the Commission.

To learn more about Howard County’s Commission on Disabilities, including how to apply and eligibility requirements, please click HERE. The deadline to apply is next Friday, April 14^th.

Money Matters Month Offers Financial Literacy Activities for All Ages

In recognition of Money Matters Month, our Department of Community Resources and Service’s (DCRS) Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) will be hosting a number of free workshops geared towards teaching financial literacy and how to be money smart. Workshops include:

• Credit: Know the Basics to Build Your Future at noon on April 6^th, where participants will learn about credit reports, credit scores, how to dispute inaccuracies and why a healthy credit report is important to obtain affordable housing and other credit needs. To register for this virtual workshop, click HERE.
• Beginners Guide to FinTech Products at noon on April 11^th, during which representatives from the Cash Campaign of Maryland will discuss financial apps, such as CashApp and Chime, which millions of people use to manage their money each day. With new apps popping up and the space of financial technology, a.k.a. “FinTech,” continuing to grow, it can be hard to keep up with new consumer trends. During this virtual workshop, participants will get insight into the types of FinTech products that exist, the problems they seek to solve and how to protect yourself when navigating this space. To register, click HERE.
• Finally, at 11:00 a.m. on April 12^th, OCP will host Play SCAMO: Protect Yourself From Scams and Fraud at the County’s Glenwood 50+ Center. Through this Bingo-style game, participants will learn about common types of scams and fraud they could encounter online, by mail or via email or text messages. To register to participate, simple give our Glenwood 50+ Center a call at 410-313-5440.

April Children and Families Workshops Offered for Parents

This month, DCRS’s Office of Children and Families (OCF) will offer the following free in-person and virtual workshops focused on “Grow with Baby! Hatchlings: In the Nest,” “Eat, Learn Grow for Families – Social Emotional Development,” “Early Intervention: Finding the Help your Child Needs” and “Parenting with Empathy.”

Grow with Baby! Hatchlings: In the Nest is an informative and fun early literacy program featuring songs and engaging activities for parents of babies six months and younger. This four-week program will take place from 11:00 a.m. to noon on Mondays from April 17^th through May 8^th at DCRS’s offices at 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive in Columbia. Participants are encouraged to attend each session of this program and will receive a free take-home gift each week. To sign-up to participate, click HERE.

On April 19^th, OCF will host a virtual Eat, Learn Grow for Families – Social Emotional Development workshop geared towards helping parents/guardians better understand the social emotional development and skills children need to manage emotions and build relationships. Participants will explore children’s literature and activities to promote problem-solving and conflict resolution, manage stress and ways to support social emotional development at home. Set to take place from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the 19^th, to register for this workshop, click HERE.

It has been proven that early intervention is the best approach to helping children. If you are worried your child may be falling behind or developmentally delayed, I encourage you to check out OCF’s virtual workshop, Early Intervention: Finding the Help your Child Needs, on April 20^th at 7:00 p.m. Participants will learn about the free steps for assessment and evaluation with early childhood early intervention programs and options for eligible children and families. Please note, this workshop is for families of children birth to age five. To register for this workshop, click HERE.

Finally, OCF will wrap-up April with its Parenting with Empathy workshop on April 25^th at 7:00 p.m. Empathy is the ability to recognize and understand the feelings of others. Geared towards caregivers of children birth to five years old, this virtual workshop will explore empathy and discuss ways you can spark empathy in your child through everyday interactions. To register to participate in this workshop, click HERE.

For more information about these workshops and other programs being offered by OCF this month, check out OCF’s March issue of its Parent Pages monthly publication today.

Month of the Young Child and Month of the Military Child

In addition to being Money Matters Month, April is also Month of The Young Child and Month of the Military Child.

To celebrate the Month of the Young Child, our Children’s Discovery Fair is set to return for its 19^th year on Saturday, April 22^nd from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at our North Laurel Community Center. Part of OCF’s “Launch into Learning” initiative – a Howard County Early Childhood Advisory Council campaign, this year’s FREE school readiness event takes us “Back to the Basics” by offering preschool age children (age three to five) fun, hands-on learning activities, while parents/caregivers learn about school readiness opportunities and community resources available to their family. To learn more about this year’s Fair, contact OCF at 410-313-1940, email children@howardcountymd.gov or stay tuned to the "Launch Into Learning, Howard County, MD" Facebook page.

• While the Month of the Young Child focuses on the needs of young children and their families and recognizes the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs, the Month of the Military Child calls upon us to recognize the important role military children play in our armed forces community. During the month of April, DCRS’s Office of Veterans and Military Families reminds us that military children serve right alongside their active-duty parents, and the importance of acknowledging and celebrating their sacrifices and service to our country too. If you know of a military family in your neighborhood or school, please reach out to them and help them feel connected to their community. You can also learn more about the resources available to our military children and families, by clicking HERE today.

AARP Income Tax Preparation Appointments Now Available at a 50+ Center Near You

Now through next Thursday, April 13^th, AARP and the IRS are offering FREE personal Federal and Maryland income tax preparation at our 50+ centers across the county. Offered by appointment only, this service is available to middle- and low-income taxpayers with special emphasis on those 60 and older. Self-employment returns with more than $5,000 in expenses and complex returns are not eligible for this service. Also, please keep in mind, each appointment is for one single or joint return.

Appointments will be available on the following days, times and 50+ center locations:

• Bain 50+ Center – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• East Columbia 50+ Center – Tuesday, 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. and Thursday, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.
• Elkridge 50+ Center – Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Ellicott City 50+ Center – Monday and Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Glenwood 50+ Center – Monday and Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• North Laurel 50+ Center – Tuesday and Thursday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To schedule a tax prep appointment, please call 443-741-2373; do NOT call a 50+ center directly. To your appointment, participants will need to bring the Social Security card for anyone listed on their personal return, their 2021 state and federal tax returns, all 2022 tax records and the purchase cost of investment transactions during 2022 (if any).

All preparers and volunteers have received IRS-approved training and are certified in tax preparation.

Office of Community Sustainability

Celebrate Earth Month with a 20 Minute Cleanup

This Earth Month, take part in the County’s annual spring “20 Minute Cleanup” project. Participating is easy, simply grab your family, friends, neighbors, colleagues or classmates, pick a location, date and time, and head outside to pick-up litter to see what a difference just 20 minutes can make in beautifying our environment. Once you’ve completed your cleanup, be sure to email our Office of Community Sustainability (OCS) at ocs@howardcountymd.gov with the number of people who participated and how many bags of trash and recycling were collected. Pictures are always encouraged and appreciated too.

To learn more about our 20 Minute Cleanup, visit https://livegreenhoward.com/recycling-waste/litter-cleanups/ or contact OCS at 410-313-0700 or email ocs@howardcountymd.gov.   

Office of Emergency Management

Radio Operator Recognized as Emergency Management Volunteer of the Year

CONGRATS again to Howard County resident and scientist Dan Wilt on his receipt of our Office of Emergency Management’s Volunteer of the Year award.

A Howard County resident for nearly 20 years and a member of the Columbia Amateur Radio Association and the Howard County Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES), Dan is a researcher and expert in fiber-optic communication employed at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab. As a member of RACES, Dan volunteered more than 150 hours last year alone at various RACES activities and events. He also spent many more hours developing training guides and plans for his fellow operators to ensure first responders and others could communicate during the worst of emergencies.

For his dedication to county safety and advancing emergency response capabilities, it was an honor to recognize Dan last week with this award. The County’s Emergency Management Volunteer of the Year award annually recognizes an individual who volunteers time through the Howard County Community Organizations Active in Disaster to assist the county in preparing for, responding to and mitigating or recovering from emergency incidents or disasters in Howard County.

Department of Fire and Rescue Services

Brush Fire Prevention

Just as Smokey Bear says, “Remember... Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires,” our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is reminding residents that “Only YOU can help prevent brush fires!” While wildfires occur in every month in Maryland, they tend to peak in the spring and fall. With spring underway, DFRS reminds us to:

• Make sure they discard of smoking materials properly in a deep, sturdy ash tray away from anything flammable;
• NEVER toss cigarette butts out of your car; and
• Always make sure that nothing is dragging from your vehicle as sparks from a vehicle can cause brush fires.

If you come upon a brush fire, move safely away from the area and then call 911 with your location and the location of the fire.

Howard County Health Department

Interactive Food Connection Map

According to the Howard County Health Department’s (HCHD) 2021 Howard County Health Assessment Survey, nearly one in six Howard County residents reported concern about running out of food before they could afford more. As a result, HCHD’s Local Health Improvement Coalition (LHIC) and Epidemiology teams created an interactive food resources map – Howard Food Connection Map. Created as part of the Howard County Food Security Committee's goal to increase access to and awareness of culturally appropriate, accessible, affordable and nutritious food to decrease food and nutrition insecurity among Howard County residents, this map assists users with finding the locations of local food pantries, farmers markets and more throughout the county.

Department of Housing and Community Development

Moderate Income Housing Unit Applications Now Being Accepted

April marks the start of our Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) program open enrollment period for homeownership. Held quarterly throughout the year, this inclusionary zoning program provides individuals and families the opportunity to purchase quality new homes at reduced sale prices and rents to those eligible. Applications are now available online and completed applications can be submitted either online, mailed to 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive, Suite 224, Columbia, MD, 21046, or dropped off at DHCD’s Patuxent Woods Drive office by appointment only. The DEADLINE to apply is 4:00 p.m. Friday, April 28^th.

As part of its April MIHU open enrollment period, DHCD will be hosting an IN-PERSON MIHU Homeownership informational workshop on Thursday, April 13^th at 6:00 at its office’s at 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive in Columbia. For questions/details about the workshop and/or to register email moderateincomehousing@howardcountymd.gov. Additionally, from DHCD’s “Open Enrollment” website, visitors can also find presentations from previous homeownership and rental informational workshops, as well as frequently asked questions and answers explaining the program’s eligibility requirements and application process.

Please keep in mind, if you are interested in DHCD’s MIHU rental program, prospective renters may apply directly to a participating rental community at any time during the year. For more information on the MIHU rental program, including a list of participating communities, visit DHCD’s MIHU rental website.

For questions and/or more information about the MIHU program, contact DHCD’s Housing Opportunities Programs Division at 410-313-6318 and select option two, email moderateincomehousing@howardcountymd.gov or visit DHCD’s open enrollment website. 

Proposals Sought from Community Partners for Housing Opportunities Trust Fund

As our Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and I shared the other week, we are currently seeking proposals from community partners for homeownership and neighborhood initiatives, as well as rehabilitation and multifamily rental housing projects, that are eligible for funding from the Housing Opportunities Trust Fund (HOTF) Notice of Funding Availability. The HOTF is the first financial tool to help implement the actions identified in the Housing Opportunities Master Plan and received an initial allocation of $5 million in my Fiscal Year 2023 budget. DHCD is seeking proposals for initiatives that are bold and impactful to help address Howard County’s affordable housing needs and gaps.

The application is available on DHCD’s website and is due by no later than 4:00 p.m., next Friday, April 14^th.

Office of Human Rights and Equity

National Reconciliation Day: Repairing Community Relations

In honor of National Reconciliation Day, our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) will host a virtual panel discussion today, April 3^rd at 12:30 p.m. to discuss the meaning of equity, reconciliation, the importance of relationship-building and a shared vision of an interdependent and equitable community. The panel will include OHRE’s Equity and Restorative Practices Manager Dr. Denise Boston, Howard Community College’s Director of Equity and Community Engagement Sandy Cos and Howard County Public School System’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Judith Jones.

To watch live, tune to Howard County Government YouTube channel at 12:30 p.m.; no registration is required.

Bystander Intervention and Cultural Awareness Training

Held quarterly, OHRE’s Bystander Intervention and Cultural Awareness (BICA) certification training helps participants learn how to protect and promote the humanity of those who are being targeted or harassed in their presence because of their race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender or sexual orientation. This quarter’s BICA training will take place virtually tomorrow, April 4^th at 5:00 p.m. To reserve you spot before 5:00, click HERE.

MLK Pop Up Pantry

If you or someone you know is in need of fresh produce and/or non-perishable food items, I encourage you to stop by the Ridgely Run Community Center in Jessup from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. next Monday, April 10^th for a pop-up food pantry. Hosted by the Howard County Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission and the Harriet Tubman Foundation of Howard County, this pop-up food pantry is open to all. Registration is not required to attend.

For those interested in volunteering to help with food distribution, the Commission and Foundation ask that you please arrive by 8:30 a.m. on the 10^th.

For questions and/or more information about this event, please call 443-386-0405 or 443-280-1935.

Neighborhood Narratives Workshop

Join OHRE on Thursday, April 20^th at 6:30 p.m. at the County’s North Laurel Community Center for its Neighborhood Narratives Workshop. This workshop is for anyone who is interested in exploring themes of race in literature, stretching their understanding of history, growing in their knowledge of the neuro-psychology behind bias, and most importantly, for anyone who wants to accept the challenge of writing new narratives about the everyday lives of those they come in contact with – their neighbors. To reserve your spot for this in-person session, click HERE today.

For questions and/or more information about this workshop, contact Tessa Hurd at 410-313-7311 or email thurd@howardcountymd.gov.

Seeking Fertile Ground: Agricultural Justice & Earth Stewardship for ALL! Earth Day Celebration

This Earth Day, I have partnered with OHRE and various community organizations to host, “Seeking Fertile Ground: Agricultural Justice & Earth Stewardship for ALL!”

Set to take place Sunday, April 23^rd from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the County’s newly opened Harriet Tubman Cultural Center in Columbia, this event will feature food and agricultural presentations, a food distribution to help those in need, local food trucks and an opportunity to learn more about County resources that ensure land and food justice for all. To take part in this wonderful opportunity to learn, connect and serve our beloved Mother Earth and one another, click HERE to register today.

Reading Human Rights: The Other Black Girl

Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by OHRE and Howard County Library System (HCLS) that encourages literary exploration and community dialogue around a variety of human rights concerns. It explores works of fiction and non-fiction to teach community members the various ways individuals, cultures and communities celebrate their identities and combat injustice.

For its April book discussion – to be held in person at HCLS Miller branch in Ellicott City on Tuesday, April 25^th at 6:30 p.m., OHRE and HCLS will discuss Zakiya Dalila Harris’ The Other Black Girl. The Other Black Girl explores a young African American woman’s experience with workplace discrimination, microaggressions and inter-racial relations. Harris’ novel is described as “the perfect read for anyone who has ever felt manipulated, threatened, or overlooked in the workplace.”

To secure your seat for this month’s event, click HERE today to register.

Department of Planning and Zoning

Planning Board Unanimously Approves HoCo By Design

The Howard County Planning Board has unanimously approved the County's new General Plan, HoCo By Design. HoCo By Design provides a long-term vision for how Howard County will develop and grow alongside our evolving economic, environmental and social conditions over the next 20 years. Many Board members recognized the importance of continued residential growth that complements the county’s neighborhood character and offers affordable housing options. The Planning Board's vote follows a thorough three-year process which yielded extensive community input and data analysis.

Following its vote, the Planning Board has submitted its recommendation to the Howard County Council for adoption. The Council will hold multiple work sessions on HoCo By Design (see the Council’s calendar for additional dates), before voting on the plan in the fall of 2023. All work sessions can be watched live here

For more information about HoCo By Design, visit www.hocobydesign.com or contact our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Community Planners Kate Bolinger at kbolinger@howardcountymd.gov or Sarah Latimer at slatimer@howardcountymd.gov.

Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

This Thursday, April 6^th, DPZ’s Historic Preservation Commission will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. The meeting agenda and instructions on how to watch or participate in Thursday’s meeting can be found on the Commission’s website. To register to join Thursday’s meeting through your computer to view and hear the presentations, you will need to register by noon on the 6^th. Once registered, further instructions and a call-in attendee number will be provided via email.

Those who wish to provide oral testimony are required to sign up online by noon on April 6^th. Please follow the instructions for registering on the “Registering or Joining by Telephone” tab, where there will be an option to sign-up to testify. After you register through WebEx, please email preservation@howardcountymd.gov by noon on the 6^th with the case information that you wish to testify on. Per HPC Rule of Procedure 102.B, only those parties who registered in advance of the April 6^th meeting may participate in the proceedings by asking questions and giving testimony.

Planning Board Meeting

DPZ’s Planning Board will be holding a hybrid meeting, in person at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City and virtually via WebEx, starting at 7:00 p.m. next Tuesday, April 11^th, to hear the following agenda item:

• PB 455 FDP-DC-L-2A Howard Research and Development – An amended Final Development Plan (FDP), Neighborhood Concept Plan (NCP), Neighborhood Design Guidelines (NDG), and Neighborhood Implementation Plan (NIP) for Phase 1 of the Lakefront Neighborhood. The request for the amended FDP proposes 775 dwelling units, and 85,000 SF of retail (a reduction of 44,088 SF of office and 65,000 SF of retail from the existing density approved with FDP-DC-L-1; there is no change to the number of dwelling units). Additionally, the request includes an adjustment to the Downtown Revitalization Phasing Chart to increase the maximum number of dwelling units to be constructed within Phase 1 and an adjustment to the maximum permitted building height. 

To register to testify, click HERE. Registration must be completed prior to 7:00 pm the night (April 10, 2023) before the scheduled meeting to participate. If you do not wish to testify, but simply to watch the meeting, click HERE to watch.

A five-member board, the Planning Board makes recommendations to the Zoning Board or County Council on matters related to planning and zoning and renders a final decision on selected development proposals. Before recommendations or decisions are made, the Board holds a public meeting or hearing to provide interested persons the opportunity to provide comment. For details about procedures for testifying at a Planning Board meeting, click HERE.

To learn more about Howard County’s Planning Board and upcoming meeting dates, click HERE.

Police Department

Howard County Police Department Youth Summer Camps and Programs

Howard County youth, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is NOW accepting applications for its BEARTRAX, Youth Police Academy and P.L.E.D.G.E. (Pride, Leadership, Education, Diversity, Growth, Evaluation) Summer Leadership Camp programs.

Geared towards rising Howard County sixth graders, BEARTRAX is a FREE overnight camp featuring fishing, rock climbing, swimming, hiking, archery, zip lining and more, all while building leadership skills, confidence, team building, life skills and self-esteem.

HCPD's Youth Police Academy (YPA) offers 15 to18 years old a one-of-a-kind experience. Through this FREE one-week overnight-camp, campers train and learn like those in the police academy, while exploring career and leadership opportunities and building life skills.

Finally, HCPD's P.L.E.D.G.E. Summer Leadership Camp is for graduating 8th graders, helping participants develop leadership skills prior to entering high school this fall. During this FREE, one-week day-camp, campers will be challenged to make critical decisions, focus on core beliefs and values, recognize diversity and work toward a common goal.

To learn more about each of these camps, including summer camp dates and for an application, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/police/youth-programs. Applications are due by next Saturday, April 15^th.

Saturday Adoption Hours are Back!

In case you missed it, Howard County Police Department has announced that Saturday adoptions hours at its Animal Control and Adoption Center are BACK! The Center is now open for adoptions from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Saturday. A special thanks to all the Center’s dedicated volunteers who helped make this happen. For adoption information and a list of currently adoptable animals looking for their furever home, click HERE.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Yard Trim Collection Resumes Today!

Our Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Bureau of Environmental Services new curbside yard trim collection season resumed today, April 3^rd. For instructions on how to prepare your yard trim items for collection, what is and is not accepted, and/or to check your collection day, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/curbsidecollections. Keep in mind, curbside recycling and yard trim collection occur on the same day; however, they are collected by separate trucks that may arrive anytime between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on your designated day.

For questions and/or more information about the County’s curbside trash, recycling, food scrap and yard trim collection programs, please contact DPW’s Bureau of Environmental Services at 410-313-6444 or email help@howardcountyrecycles.org.

Saturday Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Resumes

This past  Saturday, April 1^st marked the start of the 2023 Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Saturday season at the County’s Alpha Ridge Landfill. Now through November 26^th, Howard County residents can properly dispose of corrosive, flammable, reactive and toxic products, typically found in most homes, garages and workshops, in the Landfill’s HHW area. For a full list of what items are and are not accepted and how to prepare your HHW items for proper disposal, visit the Bureau’s HHW website today.

Holiday Slide Schedule NOT in Effect Good Friday

Reminder, while County Government offices are closed this Friday, April 7^th in observance of the Good Friday holiday, the County's holiday slide schedule will NOT be in effect. There will be REGULAR Friday trash, recycling, food scraps and yard trim pickup on the 7^th as the Good Friday holiday is NOT one of the six that affects curbside collection.

Document Shredding Dates Announced

MARK YOUR CALENDARS, our Bureau of Environmental Services has announced its 2023 document shredding dates. This year, the Bureau will host four County-sponsored document shredding events, two in the spring (April 15th and April 29th) and two in the fall (October 14th and October 28th). To learn more about these dates, including location and time, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/documentshredding today. For questions, please contact the Bureau at 410-313-6444 or email help@howardcountyrecycles.org.

GreenFest is Back for its 16^th Year

Mark your calendars and be sure to join our Bureau of Environmental Services and Office of Community Sustainability next Saturday, April 15^th for the County’s 16^th annual GreenFest celebration at Howard Community College’s Science, Engineering and Technology Building. This year’s event will feature a compost bin demonstration and giveaways, native plant sale, recognition of this year’s Green awards winners, used sports equipment collection workshops and much more.

The event will also feature the County’s first County-sponsored document shredding event of 2023, held rain or shine in parking lot A from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (OR UNTIL the trucks are full). County residents may bring up to three bags or boxes of paper to be shredded and are asked to ONLY bring items that contain personal information. Junk mail, catalogs and office paper should be recycled with your curbside recycling collection.

Department of Public Works Construction Report

To learn about Department of Public Works (DPW) projects currently underway, click HERE. Searchable by project category and street name, from this site you’ll find additional project details, including news releases about the project. You can also contact DPW’s Customer Service Office at 410-313-3440 or email publicworks@howardcountymd.gov for further assistance.

If you have questions or are interested in finding out about a State road (numbered roadway) project in your area, visit the Maryland State Highway Administration’s (SHA) “Project Portal” website.

Schooley Mill Park Closure Alert

The equestrian ring at our Department of Recreation & Parks’ Schooley Mill Park in Highland is currently CLOSED for renovations. In addition to improvements to the ring, including better drainage, grading and general maintenance, the parking lot will also be renovated to help assist horse trailers and cars. Weather permitting, the work is expected to be completed by June.

Rockburn Branch Park West Tennis Courts Closure

Starting tomorrow, April 4^th, the tennis courts at Recreation & Parks' Rockburn Branch Park West in Elkridge will CLOSE for renovations. Weather permitting, Recreation & Parks estimates it will take a month for the courts and fencing to be replaced. In the meantime, if you are looking to play a pick-up game of tennis, visit Recreation & Parks’ “Parks, Playgrounds & Trails” website, to find information regarding other County parks that have courts.

Community Sports Hall of Fame Nominations Now Being Accepted!

Nomination forms are now being accepted for Recreation & Parks’ 2023 “Community Sports Hall of Fame.” If you know a coach, manager, league official, commissioner or even a behind-the-scene contributor who has gained prominence in or made substantial contributions to community recreational sports in Howard County, I encourage you to nominate them today. Keep in mind, nominees must be either residents of Howard County or their community sports contributions have been made primarily in Howard County. 

Available online, nominations are due (postmarked) by Saturday, April 15^th and can be submitted either via email to bwyman@howardcountymd.gov or mailed to Howard County Community Sports Hall of Fame, Attn: Brian Wyman, 7120 Oakland Mills Road, Columbia, MD 21046. You can also request a nomination form be mailed to you by calling Recreation & Parks at 410-313-4711.

Individuals chosen for this year’s class will be inducted into the Community Sports Hall of Fame at the department’s annual Celebration of Sports banquet in October. Established in 2005, a list of past Howard County Community Sports Hall of Fame inductees can be found online.

Archaeology Fest at PFI 

Celebrate Maryland Archaeology Month with Recreation & Parks this April 22^nd by exploring the archaeology of the Patapsco Female Institute in Ellicott City. Participants will take part in an archaeological dig to look for and catalog artifacts from this time period, as well as take a guided tour of the school ruins and participate in hands-on experimental activities associated with the Victorian Era school. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Cost to participate is $20; children under five are free. When registering, please keep in mind this is an all-day event from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Kid’s Fest

Come experience all that our Department of Recreation & Parks has to offer county youth at this year’s Kid's Fest at Meadowbrook Park in Ellicott City. Set to take place this Saturday, April 8^th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., this exciting event features an egg hunt, sports instruction, games, activities, arts and crafts, food, and much more. Bring the whole family and enjoy fun for all ages. While pre-registration is encouraged, it is not required.

To register and/or to learn more about this year's event, check out www.howardcountymd.gov/kids-fest.

Wine in the Woods Tickets are NOW on Sale!

Tickets for Recreation & Parks’ 2023 Wine in the Woods are NOW on sale! Set to return to Symphony Woods this May, the year’s two-day event (May 20^th and May 21^st) will feature a bigger and better Explorer Village. This year’s Maryland Wine Explored Village area features a curated selection of Maryland-grown wines and allows wine enthusiasts to enjoy fine, local wines in an exclusive section of the festival with a larger glass, food options for purchase, music and separate bathrooms. This year’s Maryland Wine Explorer Pass wristband (please note, there are a limited number of these tickets available), will include everything the Taster Ticket provides PLUS exclusive access to premium wine samples from wineries around the state.

PLEASE NOTE: Tickets are ONLY being sold at www.wineinthewoods.com and Recreation & Parks headquarters in Columbia. Any third-party sales are not authorized and are likely a scam.

Howard County Sheriff's Office

SCAM ALERT!

The Howard County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is WARNING residents of a phone scam currently being investigated by HCPD, in which the caller pretends to be from HCSO, using the name of a REAL deputy and in recent cases, Sheriff Harris' name, to make the call seem more legitimate. Many of the reports received by HCPD are from older residents who say the caller told them there is a warrant out for their arrest for missed grand jury duty. Victims were told they must pay a fine over the phone and are directed to use Green Dot or ReLoadIt prepaid cards.

HCSO is REMINDING residents, its office, as well as HCPD, will NEVER demand payment over the phone. Similar scams have also involved impostors claiming to be with the IRS and BGE. Please keep in mind to ALWAYS be on guard if you don’t know the call, NEVER feel pressured to make a decision on the spot and NEVER, EVER give out personal or financial information over the phone.

If you believe you have been a victim of a telephone scam and lost money as a result of it, please contact HCPD’s non-emergency number at 410-313-2200 or visit HCPD’s website to file an online police report. You can also file a report with the FBI at www.ic3.gov.

If you provided any personal information as the result of a scam, visit the FTC’s Identity Theft website and follow the step-by-step instructions on what to do next.

To learn more about other scams targeting older residents and how to spot/avoid a scam, check out DCRS’s Office of Consumer Protection “Scam Alerts” website.