Dear Friends, 

June marks the start of Pride Month, a time for us to collectively celebrate and recognize the impact that LGBTQIA+ individuals have had on our nation’s history. In Howard County, we are proud to support, uplift and include our LGBTQIA+ neighbors as we work to build a safe and welcoming community for all. This past Thursday, June 1st, we took a giant leap towards our progress in ensuring the rights for all was made, as we raised the LGBTQIA+ flag at the George Howard Building for the first time in County history.

Throughout Pride Month, I encourage residents and visitors to join us at various events to celebrate our vibrant and diverse LGBTQIA+ community.

Taking Care of You

Attention men of Howard County!

Join us at Color Burst Park on Saturday, June 10th, from 4-6pm for an incredible Men's Health Fair. Discover a wealth of valuable information on men's health from our community partners and service providers. Additionally, our Department of Recreation and Parks has exciting games lined up for your enjoyment.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to prioritize your well-being and have a great time. Encourage all of your fathers, brothers, uncles, and the important men in your life to come out to learn more about how to make their health a priority!

Congratulations Adjunct General Birkenhead!

It was an honor to join Governor Moore and many other leaders around our state for the Maryland National Guard Change of Command Ceremony for my friend, and an amazing leader, Brigadier General Janeen L. Birckhead. She is now the 31st Adjutant General of Maryland and is making history as the only Black woman currently leading a state military in the nation. 

It was a pleasure partnering with Brigadier General Birkhead during several COVID-19 mass vaccination sites in Howard County during the height of the pandemic, and I’m certain that she will continue to push for safety and progress with her steadfast leadership with the Maryland National Guard. Please, join me in wishing her the absolute best in her new role. Thank you Governor Moore for your vision and leadership in supporting Adjutant General Birckhead.

Happy Pride, Ellicott City!

It was wonderful to join our LGBTQIA+ friends, business owners, visitors, and neighbors in Ellicott City for the return of the second annual OEC Pride Festival this past week.

Pride Month is a time of love, joy, inclusion and authenticity. I’m so proud to live in a community that supports, uplifts, and celebrates our LGBTQIA+ community. I want to especially thank the OEC Pride Planning Committee and the LGBTQIA+ Commission for their work to promote and build a safe and welcoming environment for all in Howard County.

Wishing everyone a vibrant and happy Pride!

A Visit to Kent County

It was great to join Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Executive Director Michael Sanderson to visit Kent County as part of my MACo President’s tour across Maryland. Home to a scenic peninsula on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Kent County consists of Maryland’s second-largest collection of 18th century structures and more.

It was such a pleasure to join the Kent County Commissioners to discuss our legislative success, the upcoming implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, and how we can work collaboratively to make even more progress. Through our shared efforts, we will ensure that all our Marylanders, have access to the best quality of life.

One Life Lost to Gun Violence is One Too Many

Gun violence is an epidemic that threatens the livelihood of people from all walks of life. While Howard County has one of the lowest gun death rates in the state, one life lost to gun violence is one too many.

In honor of National Gun Violence Awareness day, in remembrance of the millions of lives taken or altered by gun violence, we are lighting the George Howard Building orange throughout the weekend. 

I’m proud to join Moms Demand Action volunteers, gun violence survivors, and students in Howard County in working together toward a future that is free from gun violence.

Magnificent Mustangs

Marriotts Ridge Mustangs Class of 2023- my sincerest congratulations on a significant achievement. 

Be proud of your accomplishments. Today is a day to celebrate your hard work and determination. We have watched you grow into accomplished seniors. There have been many lessons along the way. Take them and use them to navigate your new paths. Kindness and a curious mind are powerful tools that will open up a whole new world. 

For pictures from Thursday's Mustang Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Bold Golden Bears 

We are so proud of you for reaching this momentous milestone. Take a moment today to reflect on the journey that brought you here. You are more than enough. Remember that as you begin the next chapter of your lives. You CAN and you WILL. Believe in yourselves and know we believe in you. Congratulations again!

For pictures from Thursday's Golden Bears Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Resilient Raiders

I, along with your family, friends and community, celebrate you for accomplishing this extraordinary feat. The road may have been long and winding, but it has brought you all to this same destination. You have reached this important goal because YOU have proven to yourselves you can. 

Go forth and remember that the same determination and ability that helped you get here today, will help you with whatever comes your way. Again, congratulations Class of 2023!

For pictures from Thursday's Raider Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Expanding Homeownership Opportunities for ALL

Since taking office, we have increased funding for homeownership opportunities in Howard County by more than 320 percent, including $6.5 million of funding in our Fiscal Year 2024 budget to support Homeownership and Housing Rehabilitation programs.

During National Homeownership Month, I encourage you to learn more about Howard County’s efforts to promote and expand homeownership for families of all incomes and backgrounds. To learn more and to find information on our upcoming webinars, visit HERE.

Glorious Gators

Please join me in congratulating our Reservoir High School Class of 2023!

Today marks the end of one chapter, and the beginning of another. Take a moment today to reflect on all your experiences and the people who helped get you here today. Thank them for this journey for no one got here on their own. While our Gators may have tasted both triumph and disaster, I know that they will not only survive, but thrive in even the thickest of swamps.

For pictures from Wednesday's Gator Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Learning Our Shared History

This past month, we recognized Jewish American Heritage Month and the perfect time to celebrate the vibrant, rich and varied experience of Jewish Americans in our community. It was a pleasure to join Jewish Federation of Howard County's Joel Frankel, and Laura and Bill Salganik, to experience the Howard County History Project: Made From Scratch exhibit. This exhibit explores the unique origin story of Columbia's Jewish Community and how many of our Jewish neighbors continue to thrive today.

To learn more about this exhibit, check out this video or stop by the Howard County Welcome Center, now through July 19th, to see this amazing exhibit in person.

Soaring Hawks

Please join me in congratulating the 2023 graduates of River Hill High School. You should be very proud. The road may have been long and hard, but you have stayed on the road to get here today - that is worth celebrating. 

Whatever the future brings, know that we stand with you all the way. We know the future is brighter because of you. We can’t wait to see the heights you’ll reach. Congratulations Hawks!

For pictures from Wednesday's Hawk Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Spectacular Scorpions

This past Wednesday, we celebrated your years of hard work, dedication, sweat and tears. We are so proud of you for persevering to achieve your goals. As you embark on your next chapter, remember your family and community are standing behind you, supporting you as you continue to reach new heights. Congratulations Class of 2023!

For pictures from Wednesday's Scorpion Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Do you have questions? We have answers! 

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!

Laudable Lions

Please join me in congratulating our Howard High School Lions Class of 2023 who walked the stage at Merriweather Post Pavilion this past week.

What an exciting day Tuesday was, a day to reflect back on all the things you have accomplished. Your family and your community are proud of you for reaching this momentous milestone. You are more than capable of going out into the world and we cannot wait to see all that you will accomplish!

For pictures from Tuesday's Lions Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Gallant Gladiators

Please join me as we all celebrate this tremendous milestone. 

Your family, friends and community stand with you and applaud you for reaching this milestone! You have studied hard, faced challenges, and experienced new situations. You have persevered and made it to this magical moment. Relish this victory, and know you are ready to face your next chapter!

For pictures from Tuesday's Gladiators Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Building the Backbone of our Economy

We know that our small, local, and minority owned businesses are the backbone of our economy. To help ensure all our minority-owned businesses can not only survive, but thrive, the Howard County Economic Development Authority created the Minority Business Directory. This one-stop-shop provides community-driven resources to support our businesses.

To see the directory, please click here.

Limitless Lightning

Congratulations on completing your high school career! For many, it has not been an easy road. Rather, it has be a journey with many bumps and obstacles, but you welcome this new day, your day, having overcome those challenges. As you start this new chapter in your lives, I hope you take with you all the lessons and triumphs you’ve collected during your time at Long Reach and use them to tackle whatever comes your way. Congratulations!

For pictures from Tuesday's Lightning Class of 2023 graduation, click HERE.

Grow and Expand Your Business with us!

• Thursdays June 1st, June 8th, June 15th & June 22nd, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. – E-Commerce Marketing Management: When it comes to a strong selling strategy, simple solutions can often yield the best results. This E-Commerce Marketing Management course is designed to help businesses of all sizes maximize their online presence and drive sales.
• Tuesday, June 6th, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. – Pitch and Mingle Series: The Pitchout: Join the Maryland Innovation Center for our pitch competition featuring entrepreneurs and start-up companies in the community. $10,000 in cash prizes will be awarded!
• Wednesdays, June 7th, June 14th, June 21st & June 28th, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. – Design Thinking for Entrepreneurs: This four-part seminar will give you the tools to cut through ambiguity and move forward confidently. Vance MacEwen, the co-founder of Greatest Possible Good, delivers interactive workshops taking you through the design thinking process.
• Thursday, June 8th, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Business Resource Expo: Learn more about the valuable resources and services that Howard County has to offer at the Howard County Economic Development Authority's Business Resource Expo: Connecting Your Business to County Services. Help your business and come connect with your county-based resources.
• Mondays, June 12th, June 19th, June 26th, July 3rd, July 10th & July 17th, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. – Social Capital Building: The SCES Academy is a one-of-a-kind, six-week program designed to help entrepreneurs increase their social capital with key “Opportunity Guides” – experts in marketing, sales, contract procurement, law, accounting, business development, hiring, financing, and more – who can help your businesses grow.
• Thursday, June 22nd, 1:30 to 5:00 p.m. – The Future of Howard County’s Economy: Spend an afternoon getting insight into Howard County’s economic forecast, and hear economist Anirban Basu’s three-year strategic plan for the Howard County Economic Development Authority, along with a presentation from former NFL executive and current podcast and TV host Michael Lombardi.

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 HR Administrator - The deputy to the Human Resources Administrator assists with carrying out strategic priorities. The position is expected to develop well-designed and innovative programs to attract and retain a talented workforce and to implement County-wide initiatives and policies that reflect best practices and promote a workplace of excellence.
• Deputy DTCS Director - The Deputy CIO-Infrastructure reports to the CIO and is responsible for the County's telecommunications, networks, systems, endpoints, service desk and problem management.
• Exercise Coordinator, DCRS - Administers selected exercise activities in community settings. Determines content and implements fitness programs.  
• Plumbing Apprentice - This is beginning level and semi-skilled work in an apprenticeship program during which an employee develops the knowledge, skills and abilities required to become a journey level Electrician, Plumber or HVAC tradesperson. 
• HVAC Apprentice - This is beginning level and semi-skilled work in an apprenticeship program during which an employee develops the knowledge, skills and abilities required to become a journey level Electrician, Plumber or HVAC tradesperson.

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

Help Protect Vulnerable Older Adults from Abuse, Neglect and Financial Exploitation 

Elder abuse refers to intentional or negligent acts by a caregiver or trusted individual that causes harm to a vulnerable elder. Elder abuse can occur anywhere, and it can take many forms, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse and exploitation, emotional or psychological abuse and neglect (including verbal abuse and threats), abandonment, and self-neglect. ​

To help raise awareness about the abuse, neglect and exploitation of older adults, we join communities worldwide this June 15th to recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) and call for an end to elder abuse. Additionally, in Maryland, this June 12th to June 16th is PROTECT Week, a statewide awareness and public education campaign focused on protecting older Americans from financial exploitation.

In honor of WEAAD and Maryland PROTECT Week, our Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) is hosting a FREE three-part Community Education Series this month to provide county residents with an opportunity to learn more about the signs of elder abuse, so together, we can do a better job of protecting our older residents.

DCRS kicked-off the series on June 1st with a presentation by Maryland Department of Human Services’ Adult Protective Services Director Melisha Harris, on the hidden signs of older adult neglect, whether self-inflicted or by others. The event was livestreamed and can be viewed on DCRS’ Facebook page.

This Thursday, June 8th, DCRS’s Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) Administrator Tracy Rezvani will be joined by representatives from the Howard County Police Department and Office of the State’s Attorney for Howard County, to discuss the life of a financial fraud or scam report, from initial investigation through prosecution. This event will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the 8th at our Ellicott City 50+ Center. To register to attend this event in person, click HERE, or you can watch it live from the comfort of your home on DCRS’ Facebook page.

Finally, DCRS will wrap-up this three-part series from noon to 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 15th at our Bain 50+ Center, with the Founder of the Center for Elder Justice and Education, André Lingham. André will deliver an interactive presentation on financial exploitation using actual cases involving Howard County residents, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session. Again, to register to attend this event in person, click HERE, or to watch live from the comfort of your home, visit DCRS’ Facebook page.

For more information about this series or to request a sign language interpreter or other accommodations to participate, contact the County’s Maryland Access Point office at 410-313-1234 (voice/relay). 

Consumer Tip: Summer Door-to-Door Scams

With the start of summer less than three weeks away, DCRS OCP is reminding homeowners to be aware of door-to-door sales scams. For example, sales pitches that claim double- and triple-pane windows will significantly reduce noise and provide subsequent heat insulation. While it is true that properly manufactured multi-pane windows can achieve savings, scammers make outrageous claims about their products without providing any supporting evidence.

To learn more about current scams, how to spot them and how to protect yourself, check out OCP's “Scam Alerts” website.

Keeping Teens Safe Online

Together, DCRS’ Office of the Local Children's Board has partnered with Turn Around, Inc. to host a FREE online workshop, “Scrolling Safely,” this Thursday, June 8th at 6:00 p.m., in an effort help increase teen awareness about common myths and misconceptions related to behavioral health on social media. Through this workshop, the Board and Turn Around hope to: 

• Empower teens to identify signs of misleading behavioral health information online and learn how to critically evaluate social media content; 
• Encourage teens to seek professional help and support when they or someone they know are experiencing behavioral health issues or are at risk of human trafficking; and 
• Equip teens with accurate resources for behavioral health support and human trafficking prevention.

No registration is required to participate in this event, simply log on Webex to view the presentation on the 8th. 

With School’s Almost Out, Are You Ready for Summer?

Summertime gives children a much-needed break from daily school schedules and assignments; however, it doesn’t mean kids have to stop learning during their summer break. For ideas of how you can help support your child’s continued learning this summer, including opportunities to read for fun as a family and tips and information for parents/guardians on how to deal with the added stress of keeping your kids engaged, safe and happy while school is out, be sure to check out the June issue of DCRS’ Office of Children and Families’ Parent Pages newsletter.

In addition to the newsletter, OCF will also be hosting parent workshops all summer long. In fact, here are two FREE virtual workshops OCF has coming up:

• Monday, June 5th, 7:00 p.m. – Strengthen Your Child’s Coping Skills: Participants will learn strategies to help their child prepare, regulate and deal with life transitions, overwhelming emotions, worry, disappointment, sadness and more. To register, click HERE.
• Monday, June 12th, 7:00 p.m. – Parenting Apart: A Path to Cooperative Co-Parenting in Divorce and Beyond: Individuals facing divorce and separation can learn to create a plan that minimizes conflict and promotes a positive co-parenting relationship. To register, click HERE.

Donate Blood, Help Save Lives!

Did you know that one pint of blood can save up to three lives? Unfortunately, blood donations decline in the summer months due to vacations, family events and holidays. Please consider donating blood tomorrow, June 6th by either stopping DCRS’ MultiService Center or Recreation & Parks’ North Laurel Community Center from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for an American Red Cross Community Blood Drive.

 For questions and/or more information about this event, contact Valerie Mathis at 410-313-0242 or email vmathis@howardcountymd.gov. 

Office of Emergency Management

Staying Connected During Extreme Weather

If you are aware of wildfires or severe weather conditions that are expected or ongoing in your area, it is important to ensure that your cell phone remains charged! Purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.

2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season is Underway

Hurricanes are among nature's most powerful and destructive phenomenon and this past Thursday, June 1st marked the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season. As the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently announced, its Climate Prediction Center is predicting near-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic this year. NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 12 to 17 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which five to nine could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher) and of these, one to four major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). The Atlantic hurricane season runs through November 30th. 

With hurricane season now underway, Howard County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is reminding residents that early preparation and understanding your risk are key to being hurricane resilient and climate-ready. To make sure you, your family and home are prepared should a hurricane strike Maryland this season, visit OEM's website to learn more about our local hazards, including hurricanes. You can also find helpful information and tips about what to do before, during and after a hurricane, by visiting the Federal Emergency Management Agency's website: www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

Department of Fire and Rescue Services

Always Training

In case you notice them high in the sky over the next several weeks, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services' (DFRS) Special Operations team is currently conducting its advanced rope and rigging skills TRAINING EXERCISE atop a 160-foot crane near Lake Kittamaqundi in Downtown Columbia. For this particular TRAINING EXERCISE, a crane operator has experienced a medical emergency and is unable to climb to the bottom on their own.

Swimming Safety Tips

With summer pool season underway, DFRS is reminding parents/guardians to always keep an eye on kids in and around bodies of water. Drowning can be quick and silent.

For more water safety tips, check out the American Red Cross's “Water Safety” website.

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.

Office of Human Rights and Equity

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.

Police Department

The Community Athletic Program’s Traveling Trailer is Back!

Howard County Police Department's (HCPD) 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. 

HCPD will kick off its 2023 CAP summer on Tuesday, June 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the County’s Blandair Park East baseball field pavilion. To learn more about this program and/or for a complete summer CAP schedule, check out its "Youth Programs" website today!

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.

Steps to Take to Prevent Theft from Your Vehicle

With recent vehicle break-ins at park parking lots and trailheads - some even during the middle of the day, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is reminding residents of the following to help prevent theft from vehicle: 



• Never leave your vehicle unlocked; 
• Never leave your purse, wallet or other valuables in your vehicle; 
• Keep any packages and shopping bags out of sight and in the trunk; and
• Be aware of your surroundings and people near your vehicle.

As always, to report suspicious activity, please call 911.

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. C.A.T. classes are scheduled for: June 10th, July 15th, August 19th, September 9th, October 14th, November 4th and December 9th.

The cost of the program is $95 and advance registration is required. For more information and/or to register, click HERE. For questions, contact the C.A.T. Program at 410-313-2207 or email CATProgram@howardcountymd.gov.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Flag Day is June 14th 

Did you know that you can respectively dispose of old American flags at the Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Environmental Services’ Alpha Ridge Landfill? Located in the Landfill’s Residents' Convenience Center is a Flag Retirement drop-off, where worn or tattered flags that can no longer be flown are then collected by representatives from the American Legion Adams, Hanna, Moore Memorial Post 156 to be disposed of in a dignified fashion as required by the U.S. Flag Code. In fact, since this programs inception in 2015, more than 3,000 flags have been retired. 

Holiday Slide Schedule Not in Effect Monday, June 19th 

While County Government offices will be CLOSED on Monday, June 19th in observance of the Juneteenth National Freedom Day holiday, the County’s Alpha Ridge Landfill will be OPEN and there will be REGULAR Monday curbside trash, recycling, food scraps and yard trim collection. The County’s holiday “slide” schedule will NOT be in effect the week of June 19th to June 24th. 

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.

Bureau of Highways

Caution, WET PAINT!

Every spring and summer, as weather permits, DPW refreshes lane line marking paint to ensure that street markings are highly visible and our roadways are safe.

With DPW’s 2023 painting season underway, the department is reminding motorists to show caution and patience when they come upon a paint truck convoy driving slowly in the roadway. To avoid wet paint:

• NEVER pass the paint truck or trail vehicle;
• NEVER change lanes behind the striping truck or trail vehicles;
• DO NOT swerve back and forth to see around the paint truck or trail vehicle; and
• If parked, wait five minutes before driving on the painted areas.

If you have questions and/or for more information, please contact DPW's Bureau of Highways at 410-313-7450 or email highways@howardcountymd.gov.

Bureau of Utilities

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.

Public Works Construction Report

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.

Maryland State Highway Administration

On-Road Emission Study to Begin

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has begun its biennial Remote Sensing Device (RSD) study of on-road motor vehicle emissions throughout the state. Beginning this month, MDE RSD vehicles will be set up along the shoulders of I-95 in Howard County to measure the exhaust emissions of passing vehicles. These emissions sensors are specially designed analyzers that measure vehicle exhaust emissions in a fraction of a second as vehicles pass the roadside sensors. The equipment will be safely positioned out of the traffic pattern and will not alter traffic flow or the vehicles’ mode of operation at the selected monitoring site. Additionally, the monitoring equipment will be staffed by at least one trained operator at all times.   

For questions and/or more information about this program, please contact MDE.

US 1 Road Surface Improvement Work

Reminder, the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) has begun overnight work to improve the road surface on US 1 between Whiskey Bottom Road and the bridge over the Patuxent River, north of Gorman Road in Laurel. During the overnight work hours of Sundays through Thursdays, 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., with occasional daytime work of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., motorists can expect single-lane closures guided by a flagging operation in the work zone.

Following these improvements to US 1, which SHA expects to complete in June, weather permitting, SHA will begin improvement work to the southbound lanes on MD 32 between I-70 and MD 144 in West Friendship. This overnight work on MD 32 will also take place from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., Sundays through Thursdays, and will require a single-lane closure on southbound MD 32 and the closure and detour of the eastbound I-70 ramp to southbound MD 32. The detour includes eastbound I-70 to northbound MD 32, with a U-turn to access southbound MD 32.

SHA works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for our crews as well as our customers. Motorists are reminded to stay alert, focus on driving and, look for reduced speed limits, as well as other driving pattern changes. Drive like you work here and slow down in construction zones.

For more information about these projects, click HERE or contact SHA at 410-545-0303.

Dancing for Fun Mixer  

This month, lace up your dancing shoes and swing by Recreation & Parks’ North Laurel Community Center for its “Dancing for Fun Mixer.” Geared towards residents age 55 and older, classes will be held on Thursday throughout the month, offering participants the opportunity to learn line dancing, ballroom, swing, Latin and more. The cost to participate is $12 and a partner is not necessary. To find a dance class that best fits your schedule this June, click HERE to register.

Making Memories at Summer Camp 

With summer camp season right around the corner, Recreation & Parks remains at the ready to keep your camper’s mind and body active, entertained and learning all summer long. While Recreation & Parks has experienced record enrollment numbers for its summer camps thus far, there are still plenty of opportunities to keep your child moving, learning and making new friends this summer. To check out this summer camp offerings, click HERE.  

Night Fishing at Centennial 

Have you ever wanted to fish Centennial Lake at night? If yes, be sure to sign-up to join Recreation & Parks this Friday night, June 9th from 6:00 p.m. to midnight for its upcoming Nite Bite Fishing event. Offered various days throughout the late spring, summer and fall, this unique opportunity offers novice and expert anglers the chance to fish the lake after hours. Participants will need to bring their own fishing pole, bait, tackle, bug repellant, flashlight or lantern and chair or boat.

Anglers under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult. Cost to attend is $5; this includes fishing and non-fishing individuals remaining in the park after hours. All anglers must be checked in at the Centennial Park South boat launch/ramp by 7:00 p.m. on the 9th; all other park gates will close and lock at sunset.

For complete details on this event, visit www.tinyurl.com/HCRPNiteBiteFishing. 

Summer Solstice Maker’s Mart

Join Recreation & Parks’ Robinson Nature Center this Sunday, June 11th from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for a Summer Solstice Maker’s Mart event. Residents and visitors of all ages are invited to come meet local artisans and shop their handmade and sustainable wares. While in attendance, be sure to also check out Robinson Nature Center’s own gift shop, where members will receive 15 percent off in-shop purchases and non-members, a 10 percent discount during this special event.

Oh, and did I mention that admission to the Robinson Nature Center will be FREE during this entire event. For a full list of participating artisans, click HERE.

If you are interested in being a vendor at this year’s event, check out this online form for additional information on set-up, clean-up and fees, and how to apply.

Roger Carter Community Center 10th Anniversary Celebration 

Happy Birthday! Join us next Saturday, June 17th from noon to 2:00 p.m. as we celebrate our Roger Carter Community Center’s 10th anniversary! The event will feature FREE open swim, indoor laser tag sponsored by Next Level Gaming, climbing wall, refreshments and giveaways. While registration will not be required for this event, space available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note, attendees 16 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult. For questions and/more information about this event, please contact the Roger Carter Community Center at 410-313-2764.