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Dear Friends,
This past week, I announced new funding that will help expand access to broadband internet to our rural neighbors out in western Howard County. This expansion is part of Transform Howard. Launched in 2021, Transform Howard is a transformational blueprint for digital equity and inclusion in Howard County.
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The rural nature of the western portion of our county has presented challenges for internet service for years. This new $1.7 million funding made possible thanks to a partnership between the County, the State of Maryland and Verizon, will allow for more than 350 homes to gain access high-speed, broadband internet access.
We know how critical digital access is to our community, no matter your age or social economic status, because it provides great opportunity for our residents and businesses to learn, to grow and to become their very best selves. This investment will provide critical connectivity in a rural area that has long struggled with limited internet access and help make us a national model for digital equity for rural communities.
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YEP! Make a Run for It
Through our transformational Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) initiative we are so proud to partner with Howard Community College to offer a free Track & Field program for our young people ages 11-17.
This program will kick off in July and teach the fundamentals of all track and field events - no prior experience with track and field required! All our middle and high school students are welcome to participate.
To learn more, please attend the YEP! Track and Field information session tomorrow, June 27th. Register here.
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Happy 102nd Birthday, Ms. Mann!
Please, join me in wishing our dear resident, neighbor, and friend Ms. Roberta Mann a Happy 102nd Birthday!
She is a descendant of the Native American Cherokee Indians and grew up as one of eight children. She remains a shining, bright star at Lutheran Village at Millers Grant.
Ms. Mann is a member of St. John Baptist Church and continues to impact the lives of many in our community.
Happy Birthday Ms. Mann! Here’s to many more wonderful years ahead.
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Find Your Inner Champion
It’s always exciting when new businesses open in Howard County, and I was so thrilled to welcome Mayweather Boxing and Fitness Columbia MD to the Merriweather District. It is an inclusive, high-intensity fitness experience developed by undefeated, world-class boxer Floyd Mayweather.
This incredible facility also strives to improve member’s strength and confidence, while allowing them to find their inner champion.
Thank you for choosing to open your business in Howard County and we wish you nothing but continued success and prosperity. Learn more about Mayweather Boxing + Fitness here.
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Caribbean Heritage Month
June is Caribbean Heritage Month, and a time to embrace the vibrant diversity that defines our community. This is a time to honor the rich traditions, remarkable history and incredible contributions of our Caribbean community.
The Caribbean culture is a tapestry of colors, rhythms and flavors that captivate our senses and unite us in celebration. From the pulsating beats of reggae and soca to the mouthwatering aromas of jerk chicken and roti, we are immersed in a world of beauty, resilience and warmth. From the struggles against slavery and colonization to the triumphs of independence and cultural preservation, Caribbean people have demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience. Their contributions to art, literature, sports, science and countless other fields have left an indelible mark on our global society.
In Howard County, we stand committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all our residents of all backgrounds. By embracing and promoting Caribbean heritage, we cultivate a sense of belonging and create a stronger, more united community.
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Honoring A Local Literary and Poetic Icon
In recognition of Lucille Clifton’s global impact and local ties, I was honored to join her daughter, Lexi, and the Howard Hughes Corporation to name three streets in the Lakefront District of Downtown Columbia after Clifton’s literary works. Through her literary work, Lucille Clifton impacted the lives of millions and left a profound mark on the world. To our Howard County residents, Lucille was more than a nationally renowned poet and author — she was our neighbor and friend.
The three streets will be named - Rustling Sky Way, Singing Stone Terrace and Distant Star Lane. Through our collective efforts, we honor the profound literary and poetic gifts she bestowed upon our county, state, nation, and the world.
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The Power of Homeownership
As we recognize the transformational power of homeownership this month, I was excited to participate in the award process for four, brand-new Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) townhomes in the Chapelgate community in Marriottsville. The MIHU program provides our neighbors with the opportunity to access affordable homeownership and rental opportunities throughout our community. When complete, Chapelgate will be home to 21 affordable townhomes sold for approximately $296,000.
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Conserving our Environment
This past Thursday, I announced the county’s first land conservation purchase – a 62-acre easement between The Howard County Conservancy and the non-profit Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, made through the County’s Purchased Conservation Easement Pilot Program with the Conservancy.
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The first of its kind in Maryland, this innovative pilot program provides grant funding to the Conservancy to underwrite the cost of acquisitions that protect environmentally significant land owned by non-profits. This program was designed as a win-win for our environment and the organizations that provide fellowship for and service to our community.
The conservation of this ecologically significant site expands our commitment to ensuring our county’s environmental resources are protected for future generations to enjoy.
For more information about this program and/or if you are a non-profit in Howard County that owns land is in interested in applying, click HERE to learn how.
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Repairing Your Forever Home
Do you own a home in Howard County? Are you in need of costly repairs but unable to secure affordable financing?
Through Howard County’s Reinvest, Renovate, Restore (RRR) rehabilitation loan program, the County offers low-interest loans for repairs throughout your entire home. This program offers financial assistance at zero to two percent interest rates based on household income. As we continue to recognize National Homeownership Month, I encourage you to take advantage of the many initiatives that Howard County offers to promote safe, stable and affordable housing.
Together, we will continue our work to ensure that our neighbors can remain in their homes and make critical repairs without becoming financially strained. To learn more, attend our free webinar tomorrow, June 27th at 4:00 pm. To register, email tshelton@howardcountymd.gov. For more information about this program, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/DHCD-RRR.
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Lighting the Flame of Hope
It was a pleasure to join our dedicated athletes of Special Olympics Maryland and Special Olympics MD Howard County for the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run this past week. We're so proud of our Howard County Police Department (HCPD) athlete and honorary police officer Michael Ord, our Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits’ Will Alexion, and all the athletes who participated in this year’s event. Not only does the Law Enforcement Torch Run raise awareness and important funds that allow these incredible athletes to complete, it reignites our own flames of hope.
A special thank you to our teams at HCPD, Howard County Sheriff's Office, Howard County State's Attorney's Office, Maryland State Police and our Department of Corrections for joining us, and to Wegmans and MISSION BBQ for providing refreshments.
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Welcome, Jennifer Jones!
Congratulations to Jennifer Jones, Howard County Economic Development Authority’s new Chief Executive Officer. Jennifer is a tremendous asset to Howard County, with extensive business, private and public sector experience and leadership. Her credentials are outstanding, providing a wide breath of knowledge.
Her training in engineering, business and law are wide-ranging, and bring confidence to many businesses as she has analytic, economic and legal expertise. I am confident that she will excel in this role and help move our economic development into the future.
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To Serve and Protect
I recently had the opportunity to welcome our newest recruits to HCPD. With 31 members, this is the largest police academy since 1993 and was made possible due thanks to our collective investment in HCPD. In my Fiscal Year 2023 budget, I included historic funding for public safety, including $3.7 million to support 24 additional patrol positions. It is truly amazing to see the results of our investment begin to shine with this new police academy.
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Live in Howard County? Need Help and Not Sure Who to Ask?
Our team at Howard County Government remains committed to ensuring a responsive government. If you have questions or concerns, or are trying to access County services, but are not quite sure who to contact, email us at ask@howardcountymd.gov so we can assist you further.
Together, we'll ensure everyone has access to the best quality of life and resources available!
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Investing in STEM, Investing in Our Future
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) reminds us that we must invest in the present and the future. STEM is all around us and part of everything we do. It was wonderful to celebrate our incredible future leaders and innovators at our annual STEM Awards at Howard Community College.
Whether it was a local, regional or national competition, our students took what they learned, and demonstrated what it means to be a visionary leader and strong competitor. From robotics to science bowl to artist showcases, our students are making our community proud and reminding us that the future of Howard County is exciting, and bright. Congratulations to all!
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A Tenacious Crab Feast
I had a great time with former Maryland Delegate Frank Turner, Howard Community College President Dr. Daria Willis and others at the 5th Annual Crab Feast organized by the tenacious Tau Pi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated! I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the men of the Tau Pi chapter for their unwavering support of our community in Howard County. Their dedication to mentoring our youth is truly inspiring and it's evident in the positive impact they have made.
Here's to many more years of community support, mentoring and unforgettable crab feasts!
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Applications Now Being Accepted for PlanHoward Academy Fall Session
Our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) is now accepting applications for its 2023 Fall PlanHoward Academy. Taught by professional planners and attorneys, this award-winning planning course provides residents with a thought provoking, interactive curriculum focused on the underpinnings of land development in Howard County. During this free, five-week course, residents will learn about the land use plans, policies, and procedures that help shape and grow our county. The course includes in-class instruction, hands-on learning exercises, and take-home materials.
DPZ’s 2023 Fall Academy will take place on Tuesdays from September 12th through October 10th from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Howard Community College. Howard County residents with an interest in planning and improving their community’s future are encouraged to apply. Due by Wednesday, July 5th, the application is available online or a paper application can be obtained by stopping by DPZ’s first floor service counter in the George Howard Building at 3430 Courthouse Drive in Ellicott City. A cohort of up to 35 residents will be selected from the pool of applicants.
For questions or more information about PlanHoward Academy, contact Victoria Olivier at 410-313-2350 or email volivier@howardcountymd.gov.
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Join My Team!
My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.
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Body-worn Camera Technician, State's Attorney's Office - This position entails the review of law enforcement body worn camera footage and the shielding of sensitive information contained therein. Performs professional level administrative work, under general supervision from a supervisor. Work includes carrying out administrative and technical tasks related to the review and shielding of body worn camera footage.
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Technical Services Support Specialist IV, DTCS - The ServiceNow Developer will be responsible for development, configuration, and support within ServiceNow, while providing input on design and developmental best practices. The successful candidate will work with management and support staff to implement new features and enhancements to meet the ever-changing need.
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Senior Administrative Analyst, OEM - Apply the principles and practices of emergency management to perform advanced professional administrative work in County programs.
I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.
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Department of Community Resources and Services | |
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Applications Sought for Advisory Board on Consumer Protection
I am currently seeking applicants to serve on the Advisory Board for Consumer Protection, specifically a person representing an economically disadvantaged group or a service provider to individuals who are economically disadvantaged. Our Advisory Board on Consumer Protection plays a vital role in addressing scams, educating residents and protecting Howard County consumers. I encourage residents who are interested in this important work to apply to join this board and support its efforts to improve consumer protection services in Howard County. Please note, the deadline to apply is next Friday, July 7th.
For details on how to apply and more, click HERE.
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HoCo Community Chat, a New DCRS Podcast
Hosted by DCRS Director Jackie Scott, HoCo Community Chat is a new way for residents to engage with DCRS, to learn more about what the department does and to learn how to grow, thrive and live with dignity in Howard County. Take a listen today by clicking HERE.
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Current Scams and Fraud
Each year, millions of older Americans fall victim to some type of financial fraud, including tech support, romance, lottery and sweepstakes scams. For a list of common scams which target older adults, check out the Office of Consumer Protection’s (OCP) Senior Scams fact sheet, available in English, Spanish, Chinese and Korean.
Also, if you’re planning a family vacation this summer, be sure to check out these tips from OCP to make sure your summer travel plans don’t unravel before you depart.
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Calling All Older Adults, Come Get Active this Summer with Howard County
Are you age 50+ and looking for an affordable way to get active and improve your health? If yes, I encourage to you to check out our DCRS Office on Aging and Independence’s (OAI) group fitness classes this summer. Geared towards all abilities, these classes, such as All-in-One and Zumba, are held at our Bain and Ellicott City 50+ Fitness Centers.
With 20 options to fit your schedule included with your group fitness pass, the cost is just $75 a quarter or $35 a month for Howard County residents; the drop-in rate is $10 a class.
To view the full schedule of classes, click HERE today or for questions and/or more information about these classes, contact Michelle Rosenfeld at 410-313-7394 or email mrosenfeld@howardcountymd.gov.
You can also find additional ideas of how to stay active this summer in OAI’s July issue of it’s The 50+ Connection newsletter.
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Office of Emergency Management | |
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Upcoming Old Ellicott City Outdoor Tone Alert Test
Please be advised, our Office of Emergency Management will be conducting a TEST of the County’s Ellicott City Outdoor Tone Alert System on Tuesday, July 11th through Thursday, July 13th to ensure all four towers are operating effectively. Each day of testing will begin around 9:30 a.m. and last no later than 3:00 p.m., with testing occurring at various times throughout these designated testing days. The exercise will test the entire system, including activating Flash Flood Warnings and All Clear Messages, and each test will last from several seconds to three minutes. The test will conclude each day with a voice message saying “This concludes testing of the Ellicott City Tone Alert System. Testing is now complete."
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Department of Fire and Rescue Services | |
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Is Your House Number Visible?
Looking for an easy project to do with your family this summer? Head outside to the street side of your residence and take a look to see if you can easily and quickly find your house number. If not, there’s a good chance neither can our first responders.
Whether the address number is on your house, mailbox or curb, clearly visible numbers make it easier for our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) to find you in the event of an emergency.
Also, don't forget that emergencies happen at night too. So be sure to use reflective numbers or lighting to make sure we can find your residence in the darkness of the night.
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Firework Safety Tips
With the Independence Day holiday a little more than a week away, DFRS and Howard County Police Department (HCPD) are reminding residents that in Howard County, the sale, possession and residential use of ground-based sparklers is illegal. Violators are subject to a fine of up to $1,000. And while handheld sparklers and devices known as party poppers, ignitable snakes and snap ’n pops are legal, they can be extremely dangerous. Parents/guardians should ALWAYS supervise children around fireworks. Handheld sparklers can reach 1,200°F, which can cause significant injuries. Those who do purchase legal fireworks should follow these safety tips from the U.S. Consumer Protection Safety Commission.
Also be sure to dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water and then placing them in a metal trash can to prevent the trash can contents from catching fire.
To report the use of illegal fireworks, please contact the County’s non-emergency line at 410-313-2200 while the offense is occurring.
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National Pet Preparedness Month
With the end of June upon us and another National Pet Preparedness Month in the books, DFRS is reminding residents of the importance of including their pets and livestock in your family emergency plan.
If you have a plan in place for you and your pets/livestock, you will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry when you need to make a decision during an emergency. If local officials ask you to evacuate, that means your pet/livestock should evacuate too. If you leave your pets/livestock behind, they may end up lost, injured or worse.
Also, just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, such as food and water. Have two kits, one larger kit if you are sheltering in place and one lightweight version for if you need to evacuate. Be sure to review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh and up-to-date.
For more tips on how to get started, visit FEMA’s website www.ready.gov/pets today!
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Upcoming Firework Displays
Here's a list of the upcoming fireworks events permitted through the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal that are taking place this month and next in Howard County.
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Tuesday, July 4th, beginning around 9:20 p.m. – Public aerial fireworks for Howard County July 4th celebration at the Downtown Columbia Lakefront
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Saturday, July 8th, beginning at approximately 9:00 p.m. – Private aerial fireworks in the 4600 block of Sheppard Lane in Clarksville
Personnel from DFRS’s Office of the Fire Marshal will be present during each event to ensure safety measures are followed.
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Trainee Class 38 Applications
If you are interested in becoming a firefighter with DFRS, mark your calendars! The department will begin accepting applications for its Trainee Class 38 at 8:00 a.m. on July 31st and will accept applications until 5:00 p.m. on August 4th. During this time, the link to apply will be available at https://governmentjobs.com/careers/howardcounty.
In the meantime, to learn more about a firefighter career with DFRS, check out the department’s “Recruitment” website.
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Department of Housing and Community Development | |
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National Homeownership Month
June is National Homeownership Month and with less than a week to go, we continue to highlight all the different ways that you can realize your homeownership dreams! Howard County’s Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) program offers new and resale townhomes and condos that are sold to qualified applicants at affordable prices. Our Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) also provides down payment and closing cost assistance through its Settlement Downpayment Loan Program (SDLP).
I invite you to join DCHD this June for some of its upcoming webinars and information workshops to learn more about the homeownership assistance opportunities that are available. All events are free, but registration is required:
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Tuesday, June 27th at 4:00 p.m.: Webinar – Reinvest * Renovate * Restore (RRR) rehabilitation loan program, for those who already own a home in Howard County. To register, email tshelton@howardcountymd.gov.
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Thursday, June 29th from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.: In-Person MIHU Workshop at 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive. To register, email moderateincomehousing@howardcountymd.gov.
If you have any questions regarding any of these opportunities, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Department of Housing and Community Development by emailing housing@howardcountymd.gov.
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Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
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Reading Human Rights: Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by our Office of Human Rights and Equity (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 June discussion – to be held in person at HCLS East Columbia branch tomorrow, June 27th at 6:30 p.m., OHRE and HCLS will discuss Glennon Doyle’s memoir Untamed. Untamed is a story about a woman discovering her own identity, sexuality, navigating divorce and forming a new blended family. In Untamed, Doyle encourages her readers to understand that the brokenness or wholeness of a family depends not on its structure, but on each member’s ability to bring their full self to the table. Join us for this powerful conversation on the experience of this LGBTQIA+ author.
To secure your seat for this month’s discussion, click HERE today to register.
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Nominees Sought for Human Rights Commission’s 2023 Awards
If you know an individual or community organization who has made significant contributions to human and civil rights in Howard County, I encourage you to nominate them today for our Human Rights Commission's 2023 James E. Henson, Sr. and Jean W. Toomer Individual, Dr. Murray Simon Student and Colette Roberts Organization awards. To learn more about these awards and/or for a nomination form, visit HERE. The nomination deadline is Thursday, August 31st at 5:00 p.m.
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The Community Athletic Program’s Traveling Trailer is Back!
HCPD's Community Athletic Program (CAP) is back and coming to community area near you this summer! Residents of all ages are invited to meet up with HCPD School Resources Officers at locations throughout the county this summer to check out all the fun, FREE activities CAP's traveling trailer has to offer. To learn more about this program and/or for a complete summer CAP schedule, check out its "Youth Programs" website today!
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National Night Out 2023
Save the date! National Night Out (NNO) 2023 is set to take place on Tuesday, August 1st. This annual community-building campaign aims to enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement by promoting police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie in an effort to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live.
HCPD will kick-off this year’s NNO with a community party at Wilde Lake Middle School from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and will feature food trucks, police and fire displays, DJ, child-friendly activities, games, giveaways and more! All are invited to stop by this kick-off event, or if you are interested in hosting you own community-sponsored, neighborhood party, click HERE to register your party with HCPD. Please note, if you are interested in requiring HCPD or DFRS attendance at your party, you must register by Wednesday, July 5th. Visits from Police and Fire are only available as calls for service allow.
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2023 Collision Avoidance Training Program Schedule Announced
HCPD’s Collision Avoidance Training (C.A.T.) program is an advanced defensive driving and vehicle control program geared towards licensed teenage drivers, age 16 to 20 years old. This one-day program is designed to provide young drivers with the knowledge and understanding of vehicle dynamics, as well as practical exercises that demonstrate how one’s vehicle responds in a given situation and how to regain control of the vehicle.
To participate, students must possess a valid Class C driver’s license (not a permit) and have a car they can use for the driving portion of the program. The cost of the program is $95 and advance registration is required.
For more information, including the 2023 C.A.T. schedule, and/or to register, click HERE. For questions, contact the C.A.T. Program at 410-313-2207 or email CATProgram@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Public Works | |
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Country Meadow Pond Repair Public Meeting
Our Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Stormwater Management Division will hold a public meeting this Thursday, June 29th at 6:00 p.m. at the County’s North Laurel Community Center, to present plans to repair an existing pond located along US 1 in the Country Meadow development. The project will include the removal and replacement of the old metal outlet spillway with a new concrete outlet structure that will have a longer service life than metal and to bring the pond into compliance with current Maryland Department of the Environment requirements. Weather permitting, this project is expected to begin in late fall 2023.
This informational meeting will include an overview of the project design, followed by an open discussion. County staff and the project’s design consultant will be on hand to answer any questions and gather public comments.
Those unable to attend the meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Avinash Dewani with DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-6417 or email adewani@howardcountymd.gov.
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Bureau of Environmental Services | |
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Holiday Slide Schedule in Effect Next Week
QUICK REMINDER, DPW’s Bureau of Environmental Services' "holiday slide schedule" will be in effect next week as Tuesday’s Independence Day holiday is one of the six holidays that affects the County's trash, recycling, food scrap and yard trim curbside collection schedule. As there will be NO curbside collection on July 4th, Tuesday's pickup will slide to Wednesday, Wednesday to Thursday and so forth.
For questions, contact the Bureau at 410-313-6444 or email help@howardcountyrecycles.org.
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Know Before You Throw: Compostable Products
If you participate in our Feed the Green Bin program, you may already be familiar with the terms “BPI Certified” or “ASTM D6400.” These two specifications indicate whether a product is certified compostable in an industrial composting facility. The Composting Facility at our Alpha Ridge Landfill is in fact able to accept packaging that meets either of these specifications. If you see the BPI logo or ASTM D6400 designation, feel free to add these materials to your green bin at home for curbside collection or drop them off at the Landfill’s Residents' Convenience Center.
With that, our Bureau of Environmental Services is reminding residents that biodegradable and compostable have two very different meanings. Unlike certified compostable products, those labeled “biodegradable” don't need to meet the same timeframe requirements for biodegradation. In addition, many non-compostable items are marketed as “biodegradable” causing significant confusion among consumers as well as contamination at industrial composting facilities. For those reasons, it’s important to always check for the BPI and ASTM D6400 labels before disposing your items in your green bin.
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Residential Water Meter Replacement Program Resumes
EFFECITVE IMMEDIATELY, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities has resumed its residential water meter replacement program. As existing water meters in the system are approaching their useful life, with some already failing resulting in the need to estimate water bills, it is vital these meters (at no cost to county water customers) be replaced to ensure accurate and timely water usage data is obtained.
To complete the water meter replacement program in a timely manner, the County has contracted with Vanguard Utility Service for assistance. Residents will receive notification in the mail prior to meter installers arriving in their neighborhood. This notification will include contact information for Vanguard Utility Service so residents can schedule their water meter replacement appointment. Appointments are currently available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday appointments will also be available, but on a first come, first-served basis. Appointments should last no more than 20 to 30 minutes.
To learn more about this program and what to expect, click HERE.
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Public Works Construction Report | |
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Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.
Ellicott City
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Rogers Avenue Water Main Relocation (Capital Project J-4170) – Project to install a new water main along Rogers Avenue from Linwood Drive to Court House Drive. Flagging operations will be in place to direct traffic as needed and signs will be posted to alert residents and motorists of the construction, as a single lane closure may occur during construction hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Additionally, a recorded message at 410-313-4400 will carry details and updates. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by late July 2023.
To learn about 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.
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Department of Recreation and Parks | |
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July is National Park and Recreation Month
Did you know that July is National Park and Recreation Month? In celebration, our Department of Recreation & Parks has a ton of great activities and programs planned to help celebrate Parks and Rec Month all month long, including movie and game nights, Zumba, food trucks, concerts and more.
While details are still being finalized, be sure to check back HERE as July draws closer for more information about upcoming events.
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Solar Fest
Back by popular demand, Recreation & Parks is once again teaming up with the Howard Astronomical League for an evening filled with science, engineering, arts, crafts, games, astronomy and more at our Alpha Ridge Park in Marriottsville. The fun will take place on Saturday, July 8th from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. and will feature a variety of vendors providing interactive and dynamic STEAM activities.
The whole family is invited; however, attendees aged five to 11 are asked to preregister (cost is $5 per child age five to 11) in advance as space is limited. To register and/or to learn more about this event, click HERE.
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Making Memories at Summer Camp
Summer camp season is finally here, and our Recreation & Parks team remains at the ready for you to sign up your little ones for any last-minute camps to help keep their minds and bodies active this summer. With so many different camps being offered, the options and opportunities are endless.
To learn more about what Recreation & Parks still having spots available to keep your child moving, learning, and making new friends all summer long find out more, click HERE today!
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Time for Teens to Kick Back
Attention teens, age 11 to 17 years old! If you are looking for a fun way to spend your free time this summer, be sure to check out Recreation & Parks FREE drop-in program for teens at its three community centers and new Harriet Tubman Cultural Center. Drop-in activities include free pizza and snacks, sports, video games and more. Below, you’ll find the dates, times and locations for this summer’s teen drop-in program:
For more information, click HERE or contact Anthony Lyon at 410-313-0456 or email alyon@howardcountymd.gov.
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Bike Instead of Drive to the County’s July 4th Celebration
Beat the traffic this July 4th by biking to Recreation & Park’s July 4th Fireworks celebration at the Downtown Columbia Lakefront. To help you find your way, our Office of Transportation has compiled a list of biking directions from each of Columbia’s Village Centers, as well as various other areas of the county.
Our friends over at BikeHoCo are also offering their 3rd annual July 4th Bike Corral – think of it as a “coat check” for your bike. While you are enjoying the holiday festivities, they’ll watch your bike. Located across from GrillMarX near Wincopin Circle and Little Patuxent Parkway, the Bike Corral will be open on the 4th from 1:00 to 10:00 p.m. And the best part of all, it’s totally FREE!
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RTA Service Enhancements to Launch in July
In partnership with Baltimore County, our Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) is excited to announce two bus route enhancements set to go into effect on or around Sunday, July 9th. A new bus route, Route 505, will provide stops in Catonsville, Columbia and Ellicott City. Route 505 will originate in Downtown Columbia with stops at the Long Gate Shopping Center and other destinations in Ellicott City, and then travel into Baltimore County with a stop at the Catonsville Walmart off US 40 and North Rolling Road. This stop in Catonsville will create a new connection between RTA and MTA service, while also complementing MTA’s existing Express Bus 150 service and its plans to improve bus service between Catonsville and Baltimore City later this year.
This new connection is just another step in our efforts here in Howard County to promote regional transit connections with our neighbors and encourage more residents in Central Maryland to utilize transit services and complements.
The new Route 505 will replace the existing Route 405, which provided service between Ellicott City, Long Gate Shopping Center and Columbia. Instead, Route 405 will be restructured to provide more local service throughout Ellicott City, including Old Ellicott City. The restructured 405 service will provide connections to the new 505 route, serve as a circulator in Ellicott City, and add service to Pine Orchard Apartments, the Goodwill Store and Renaissance Hills Apartments (west and east of existing service respectively).
For more information about these new RTA route enhancements, please visit www.transitrta.com/routes-405_505_planning/ or call RTA’s customer service line at 1-800-270-9553.
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Connecting Businesses with Talent: Swiftway Service Professionals Hiring Event
Our Office of Workforce Development and the Columbia Workforce Center are hosting a hiring event this Thursday, June 29th from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Workforce Center for Swiftway Services. One of the most recognized, trusted moving companies in the world and a long-standing company in Howard County, Swiftway Services is looking to hire an Operations Manager, Drivers and Movers. If you are looking for a great company to start or grow your career with, I encourage you to check out this event. Be sure to bring your resume as interviews will be conducted on-site.
To RSVP or for questions, contact Elexis Lawson at elawson@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-1072.
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