Dear Friends,
I'm elated that Howard County won the National "Culture of Health" prize from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. This prestigious award was a very competitive process – only four communities around our Nation were selected in 2021, and Howard County was the only jurisdiction in the Northeast to win.
This honor is a testament to the hard work of our team and our community in Howard County to positively impact the health and well-being of all our residents. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the forefront multiple physical and mental health challenges in our society, the importance of social determinants of health, and the opportunity to live a healthier, fuller life.
This award would not be possible without all of our partners. This success is our shared success, and we’re thrilled to award this prize funding to the Community Ecology Institute, who are a true gathering place for so many people in our community to foster healthy living.
Read more about this here.
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Dear Friends,
Howard County is a proud home to two amazing Paralympians who won big during the 2020 Paralympic Games this year in Tokyo.
Join us on tomorrow, Tuesday, November 2nd at 4:00 p.m., at the George Howard Building in Ellicott City, for a celebration to recognize and honor our hometown athletes; Tatyana McFadden and Daniel Romanchuk.
Masks will be required for the safety of all attendees.
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COVID-19 Update
Howard County has now reached a significant milestone – 95.1% of our eligible residents have at least one vaccine dose, and 88.5% of eligible residents are fully vaccinated according to the Maryland Department of Health.
Howard County continues to see a decline in our COVID-19 cases and hospital utilization metrics. As of 9:00 a.m. today, our 7-day average positivity rate is 1.91% and our 7-day average case rate per 100,000 of our population is 6.5. There are currently 3 COVID-19 patients in both ICU and Acute Care units. Howard County’s community transmission rate is now considered moderate by the CDC.
As we head into winter, and more folks are gathering indoors, it’s vital to have a highly vaccinated community. We are determined to reach every eligible resident and encourage vaccination as other COVID-19 variants continue to be a concern.
Residents who are unvaccinated are at much higher risk for hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While the vaccines do not protect 100% from becoming infected, persons who are fully vaccinated are more likely to experience mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. If you are already fully vaccinated, you may be eligible for a booster shot. Please check with your medical provider or www.hchealth.org for more information.
We anticipate this week the CDC will provide the guidance needed to administer the vaccine for 5-11-year-olds, and our Health Department and partners are preparing clinics in the coming weeks. Similar to the initial vaccine rollout in April, we anticipate a limited supply for the first few weeks of children’s vaccines.
To find a COVID-19 vaccine clinic near you, including those offering booster shots, visit vaccine.howardcountymd.gov, call 410-313-6284, or contact your medical provider.
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Upcoming Vaccine Clinics
Every person who gets vaccinated is significantly less likely to get severely ill or die from COVID-19. Now we need your help to convince and support the remaining 38,000 of friends, family and neighbors who haven’t gotten their vaccine, to get one.
The Howard County Health Department is offering vaccine clinics across our county. For more information, and to register for an appointment, please click here.
Additionally, Howard County General Hospital is also offering vaccine clinics to residents. For more information on their efforts, please click here.
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COVID-19 Boosters
Do you need a COVID-19 vaccine booster or 3rd shot?
The FDA and CDC have recently authorized booster shots of the Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines for certain individuals. COVID-19 Third Doses (Pfizer and Moderna) are meant for those individuals who are considered moderately to severely immunocompromised.
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Talk to your healthcare provider about your medical condition to help determine which dose is appropriate for you. For more information, and to find a clinic, please visit vaccine.howardcountymd.gov
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COVID-19 Testing
If you have:
- recently been to a large gathering or around someone who has attended a large gathering
- concerned that you've been exposed to COVID-19
- or are showing symptoms
I strongly encourage you to get tested as soon as possible. Please remember that it is possible to have COVID-19 and not have any symptoms.
For more information, please click here.
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Increasing Our Public Safety Response
The new Waterloo Fire Station on Port Capital Drive is starting to take shape. It represents an important win-win for public safety in Howard County. In 2019, we bought the property for $1 so that $3.5 million in cost savings could be used to fund flood mitigation projects in Ellicott City. With this important agreement, we are able to both improve our emergency response service while also ensuring Ellicott City is safe and sound.
Watch this video to see the current progress on the new fire station.
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Let's Stay Healthy
The pandemic highlighted many of the cracks in our community – including access to affordable healthcare. This is especially true for our young people, who often don’t have access to insurance through jobs, and who otherwise find it not affordable.
A 28-year-old in Howard County earning $30,000 per year can sign up on November 1 for a gold health care plan in 2022 for as little $1 per month. Previously this plan would cost $70 per month.
For many of us, these past two years have made it crystal clear that healthcare is a right. It is critical piece of our society, and we must continue to work towards a community where it is guaranteed for all.
Beginning today, residents, including our youth people between the ages of 18 and 25, can access Maryland Health Connections affordable, good health insurance to keep themselves safe. Enroll today here.
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Happy Birthday Wildecats!
Happy 50th Wilde Lake High School! Opened in 1971, it was Columbia’s first high school. Congratulations to all our students, families, alumni and community members. Thank you for the last 50 years cultivating a vibrant learning community that prepares students to thrive in a dynamic world.
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Veteran's Day Parade
Our Veterans are those who risked their lives every day to protect our world and make it a better place. Join us as we salute our community Veterans and their service to our Country at the 7th annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony.
The parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the Merriweather District and travel along Merriweather Drive and Little Patuxent Parkway to Millie Bailey Park.
Immediately following the parade, we will celebrate our Veterans at Millie Bailey Park. Let us honor the important service of our men and women. Learn more here.
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Thank you!
During the last year, we have worked tirelessly to create endless opportunity for those who live and work in Howard County. None of our progress would have been possible without your support, advocacy, and partnership.
I'm so humbled to be recognized as the best elected official in Howard Magazine’s Best of Howard Readers’ Choice awards. While this recognition may have my name and title on it, it is something I share with all you.
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Honoring our Good Scouts
I was pleased to join the Baltimore Area Council Boy Scouts of America at Turf Valley for their annual Good Scouts Award Ceremony. Congratulations to Elizabeth Rendon Sherman for receiving the 2021 Good Scout Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to improve the quality of life in our county while exemplifying the precepts found in the Scout Oath and Law.
Also, congratulations to the team at Howard County General Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine for receiving the Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge for their work protecting the citizens of Howard County every day, especially through the COVID-19 pandemic. As a former Boy Scout and the 2020 winner of the Good Scout Award, it was a special honor to recognize my friend and such a dedicated leader and public servant.
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Celebrating Our Employees
We are strongly committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and remain committed to helping all our employees thrive. It's why we work very closely with programs and organizations like Project SEARCH of Howard County.
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One of our former Project SEARCH interns is Will Alexion, who interned with the Department of Licensing and Permits. He enjoyed the opportunity and learned so much, that he took a full-time position working as an Admin Assistant.
Project SEARCH will be hosting an information session on November 9th at 6:30 p.m. For more information and to register, please click here.
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Let's Innovate!
Progress and transformation are not possible without imagination, and we want to continue to do our part to support and encourage innovative ideas. I'm proud to launch the Transform Howard Innovation Grants, which is $500,000 in grant funding for non-profits to design and implement forward-thinking, emerging, and creative ideas to support the community. These grants will accept applications for five categories focused on students, infrastructure, residents, cybersecurity, and the environment.
Applications are open through November 19th and can be completed online here.
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Keeping Our Waterways Clean
Keeping our waterways in and around Ellicott City clear of debris is a critical component of our Ellicott City Safe and Sound plan. Any rain event of 2” or greater accumulation in a 24-hour period, or an hour of sustained winds over 30mph, triggers an enhanced stream inspection and comprehensive debris removal. This helps prevent flooding during future heavy rains.
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Prior to February 2019, this clean-up would only occur quarterly. Since then it has happened 12 times, most recently with Tuesday's storm last week. Our team at the Department of Public Works was out today clearing debris from Bonnie Branch, Autumn Hills, and as you'll see in this video, along the Hudson Branch in Ellicott City.
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Celebrating our Employees - Gian Miller
In 2019, we formalized our partnership with Project SEARCH of Howard County. Since then, we’ve welcomed 31 interns, many of whom we’ve hired to work for Howard County government and they have become exceptional employees.
One of these employees is Gian Miller of Howard County Recreation and Parks. After his own experience with Project SEARCH, Gian is now mentoring two interns who are currently going through the program.
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We Want to Hear from You!
Howard County has been allocated $63.2 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan. We invite Howard County residents to provide input on how this funding should be used. The survey should take less than 5 minutes.
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Department of Community Resources and Services
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Made with Love: Knit or Crochet Scarves and Hats for Deployed Soldiers
This Friday, November 5th, is your final day to drop-off handmade scarves and hats for our deployed military members at one of 10 locations for our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office of Veterans and Military Families (OVMF) “Made with Love” program. Scarves should be four to six inches wide and 48 to 50 inches long without fringe and hats should fit an adult-size head, and can be made from wool, acrylic or non-flammable fleece, in shades of blues, browns, olive, grays, maroon, black or red/white/blue combinations. Please be sure to pin a note to each scarf or hat with the yarn fiber contents listed, and feel free to include a personal note for a military member as well.
For more information about this initiative, please contact Ms. Lisa Terry with OVMF at 410-313-0821 or lbterry@howardcountymd.gov.
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Medicare Open Enrollment Now Open
Open Enrollment for Medicare’s 2022 health and prescription drug plans is now open, running through December 7th. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries are able to add, drop or switch their plans. Residents who are in need of assistance with reviewing their Medicare Prescription Drug coverage options are encouraged to contact DCRS’ State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) team. To schedule a remote counseling appointment by phone with a certified SHIP counselor, call 410-313-7392 (voice/relay) today.
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November is National Family Caregivers Month
Coordinated by the Caregiver Action Network, the theme of this year’s National Family Caregivers Month is “#CaregiverAnd.” This year’s theme encourages family caregivers to celebrate all the roles and responsibilities which make their lives complete. Caring for others, while juggling the demands of family, home and work life can be overwhelming, that's why it's oh so important for caregivers to incorporate components of self-care into their daily routines to prevent burnout and depression.
As part of National Family Caregivers Month, DCRS’s Office on Aging & Independence’s (OAI) Caregiver Support Program will present a virtual webinar for caregivers, “Explaining the Process: How OAI Supports Our Caregivers, Our Heroes,” on Tuesday, November 30th from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants will learn more about caregiver support options offered through OAI's Home and Community-Based Services, including: Caregiver Support Program; Maryland Access Point; Community Living Program; Senior Care; Medicaid Supports Planning Unit; and Assisted Living and Nursing Home Placements. To register for this FREE event, visit https://oaicaregiverwebinar.eventbrite.com.
For more questions and/or more information, please contact DCRS’s OAI Caregiver Support Program Manager Kathy Wehr at 410-313-5955 (voice/relay) or email kwehr@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Fire and Rescue Services
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Change Your Clocks, Check Your Batteries this Sunday
In addition to Sunday’s Howard County Veterans Day Parade, on the 7th, daylight saving time ends at 2:00 a.m. to be exact. That means it's time to fall those clocks back one hour AND while you are at it, make sure to check your smoke alarms as well. Whether you have the sealed-in, 10-year/long-life battery-operated smoke alarms or hardwired smoke alarms (with battery backups), it is always good to check your smoke alarms to ensure they are functioning properly. Our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is reminding us that our first line of defense against a house fire is a working smoke alarm. Per the National Fire Protection Association, roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Ensure your family's safety by checking your smoke alarms this weekend.
For questions and/or more information about home and smoke alarm safety, reach out to DFRS’ Community Outreach Division at 410-313-2616 or visit its website.
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Adopt a Hydrant
In an emergency, every second counts. Fire hydrants that are blocked, concealed or difficult to and/or your business is interested in helping ensure DFRS has quick and easy access to the fire hydrant(s) in your neighborhood, consider adopting a hydrant today.
To adopt a hydrant or to learn more about this program, email DFRS to outreach@hcdfrs.org with your name, address, email and the tag number for the hydrant you’d like to adopt.
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Protecting First Responders and Others Working Along Maryland Roadways
DFRS is reminding drivers of Maryland’s 'Move Over' law. The law requires drivers approaching (from the rear) an emergency, transportation, service or utility vehicle, as well as waste and recycling trucks, with red, yellow or amber flashing lights that is stopped, standing or parked along the highway to, when possible, move over a lane. This movement should only be done if another lane in the same direction is available and the move can be made safely and without impeding other traffic. If a driver is unable to make a lane change, the law requires drivers to slow to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe for existing conditions while passing the emergency or service vehicles.
Together, we can help ensure a safer work environment for our police officers, fire fighters, emergency rescue personnel, tow service operators, public works personnel and others while working along Maryland roadways.
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Got an Old, Unwanted Car?
DFRS would love to take it off your hands as the Department is currently looking for donations of unwanted cars. These donations help our firefighters train and prepare for incidents involving motor vehicles. Benefits of donating your old car include: a tax deduction; DFRS will tow your car for free; and the knowledge that you are providing an invaluable training opportunity for our first responders. To learn more, click HERE.
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Howard County Health Department
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Howard County Health Assessment Survey Results Are In!
The results from Howard County Health Department’s (HCHD) 2021 biennial Howard County Health Assessment Survey have just been released, revealing several new focus areas. The goal of the study was to assess health-related behaviors and risk factors among the adult population of Howard County. A total of 2,031 residents over the age of 18 were surveyed.
Three key areas were identified as overarching themes under which survey results were grouped. Those areas are: Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder, Chronic Disease and Healthy Lifestyle, and Healthcare Systems and Health Literacy. In the area of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder, findings indicated that symptoms of poor mental health have increased. The increasing trend in respondents having mental health conditions also continues from previous years. Respondents reported mental health concerns in children as well. There has been an increase in binge drinking, vaping and opioid use.
In the Chronic Disease and Healthy Lifestyle category, diabetes, asthma and hypertension continued to rise. More than a third of residents were told to lose weight and more children were told they were overweight. Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption increased and while fruit and vegetable consumption improved, it did not meet daily required amounts. Overall, a majority of Howard County residents remained active during the pandemic with a significant emphasis on exercising outdoors.
In the category of Healthcare Systems and Health Literacy, the use of healthcare systems changed during the pandemic, with increased use of emergency departments and decreased preventative screenings, such as cancer screenings and dental visits. Many respondents reported being caregivers and the use of advanced directives to plan care increased.
Partner organizations (Horizon Foundation, HCHD, Howard County General Hospital and the Columbia Association) will distill the data and develop initiatives and strategies to address areas of improvement specifically related to their areas of expertise. Collaborative efforts have already begun in overlapping areas of concern, like diabetes and mental health.
The survey, first conducted in 2012, and updated in 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2021, was postponed in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Request COVID-19 Vaccination Records
Misplaced you COVID-19 Vaccination Card? Never fear! You can easily request your vaccination records the Maryland Department of Health’s “Maryland MyIR” website. Maryland MyIR is a free website service that allows residents to view and print copies of their official vaccination records directly from ImmuNet, Maryland's immunization information system. ImmuNet is used by healthcare providers to securely maintain vaccination records for Maryland residents of all ages.
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Department of Housing and Community Development
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Financial Aid Available for Those Needing Assistance to Pay Past Due Rent and Utility Bills
If you are in need of rent relief and utility assistance, the County has received an additional $7.7 million in grant funding from the U.S. Treasury’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Assistance is available for Howard County residents experiencing a loss of income, reduction in earnings, medical illness or had to care for family due to COVID-19. The funding can be used to pay past due rent and utility expenses for up to 18 months. Residents that have received assistance previously are eligible to apply for additional assistance from this funding up to a total of 18 months assistance. DHCD is encouraging all residents with COVID-related household income losses to contact one of the non-profit providers as soon as possible to bring rent and utility accounts current and avoid eviction. For details on how to apply, visit DHCD’s "COVID-19 Housing Information" website.
This latest funding is in addition to the previous $9.7 million in grants from the ERAP I announced back in March, which as of October 1st, has assisted 719 households in need.
For homeowners, while this additional funding only supports rental and utility assistance, last month I announced $2 million in American Rescue Plan funding to assist struggling homeowners and prevent foreclosures in Howard County. Homeowners that have fallen behind on their mortgage payments are also encouraged to visit DHCD’s "COVID-19 Housing Information" website for details and an application.
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Office of Human Rights and Equity
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Native American Heritage Month Celebration
November is Native American Heritage Month (NAHM) and OHRE, Howard County Library System (HCLS), local business Nava Be Diné and I have partnered together to recognize the culture, traditions and history of American Indians and Alaska Natives. I invite residents of all ages and backgrounds to join us on Saturday, November 6th for an NAHM celebration featuring dancing, singing, drumming, storytelling, children’s crafts, vendors, Navajo tacos and more. This free event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at HCLS’s East Columbia Branch, located at 6600 Cradlerock Way in Columbia, and will celebrate Native American culture and resiliency.
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OHRE Book Club’s Native American Heritage Month Book Discussion
In addition to the NAHM Celebration on the 6th, OHRE and HCLS will also be hosting a book discussion group on Thursday, November 18th at 6:30 p.m. at HCLS’s Central Branch, on the 2021 Pulitzer Prize winning novel, The Night Watchmen, by Louise Erdrich. Come travel back to 1953 with OHRE and HCLS, as a night watchman fights against Native dispossession from rural North Dakota all the way to Washington, D.C. A bestseller based on the extraordinary life of Louise Erdrich’s grandfather, this is a masterpiece and conversation you do not want to miss. To register to participate, click HERE to place a hold request using your HCLS library card.
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Department of Planning and Zoning
Planning Board Meeting
Our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Planning Board will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting this Thursday, November 4th at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following agenda items:
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ZRA199 – Howard County Councilmember Liz Walsh, request to amend Section 126.0.E of the zoning regulations to require that at least 15 percent of dwelling units in residential developments within the Planned Golf Course Community (PGCC) zoning district be Moderate Income Housing Units (MIHUs).
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. To register for Thursday’s virtual meeting, visit HERE prior to 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, November 3rd.
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Historic Preservation Commission Meeting
Additionally, this Thursday, November 4th, 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 join/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 4th. 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 November 4th. 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 4th 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 November 4, 2021 meeting may participate in the proceedings by asking questions and giving testimony.
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Public Hearing: Rules of Procedure
Our Department of Planning and Zoning (DPZ) held a public hearing today, November 1st regarding proposed amendments to the Rules of Procedures (ROPs) for Administrative Adjustments, Nonconforming Use Confirmations and Temporary Uses Relating to Hybrid and Virtual Hearings and Other Procedures. The amendments allow the Department to conduct public hearings utilizing virtual telepresence technology, establish more flexible petition submission procedures, and generally update administrative processes. If you were not able to attend today’s hearing, DPZ is still accepting written comments may be sent by:
- Mail (c/o Peter G. Conrad, Department of Planning and Zoning, George Howard Building, 3430 Court House Drive, Ellicott City, Maryland 21043); OR
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Email to pconrad@howardcountymd.gov. Comments will be accepted until 11:59 p.m., Sunday, November 7th.
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Police Department
Keep the Roads Safe for Kids by Stopping for Stopped School Buses
School buses across Howard County stop hundreds of times each day to let students on and off. That means that drivers too, have to stop.
Following its latest school bus camera video release, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is once again reminding residents that all Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) buses are equipped with external cameras in order to ensure student safety by discouraging motorists from passing buses illegally. Should you choose to illegally pass a stop bus, you will face a $250 fine. While HCPSS bus routes are planned to limit students’ need to cross the street, they may still have to do so.
So please, help keep the roads safe for our children by stopping for that stopped school bus. If you are not sure when you have to stop for a stopped school bus, check out HCPD’s “External School Bus Cameras” website to learn more.
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Women in Law Enforcement Career Fair
Interested in a career in law enforcement? This Saturday, November 6th, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is hosting a recruitment fair specifically for women seeking a career in law enforcement. The event will offer attendees the opportunity to learn about HCPD and other regional agencies, meet women leaders in the department, and more. This free event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Oracle Building, 7031 Columbia Gateway Drive in Columbia.
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Department of Public Works
River Road Bridge Replacement Public Meeting
Our Department of Public Works (DPW) will hold a public meeting this Wednesday, November 3rd from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Belmont Meeting Room of the Elkridge Branch Library (masks are required), to present plans for a nearby bridge replacement project. DPW’s Bureau of Engineering plans to replace the existing steel bridge number HO-006 over Rockburn Branch, near 6103 River Road in Elkridge, with a new, prestressed concrete beam bridge. During the project, one travel lane will be maintained at all times. Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2022.
The informal, drop-in session will feature the plans for the proposed bridge improvements. County staff and the project’s design consultant team, Whitman, Requardt & Associates, will also be on hand to answer any questions. Those unable to attend the meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Nirav Patel with the DPW’s Transportation and Special Projects Division at 410-313-6153 or email npatel@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Public Works - Construction Report
Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.
Past Project Updates – Completed
Ellicott City
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MD 103 Water Main (Capital Project W-8602) – Project to relocate an existing water main along northbound MD 103, south of and including a portion of eastbound Old Columbia Pike. The project was in response to the Maryland State Highway Administration’s anticipated MD 103 widening project at the site.
To learn about DPW projects currently underway, visit https://bit.ly/2V6K5B6. 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 Public Works' Bureau of Environmental Services
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Sunken Pumpkin?
Not sure what to do with the sunken pumpkin(s) sitting on your front steps? Instead of tossing it out with your trash and sending it to rot in the landfill, our Bureau of Environmental Services has launched a new “Harvest Heap” program to encourage residents to compost their pumpkins instead.
Beginning tomorrow, November 2nd and continuing through Saturday, November 7th, residents can drop their pumpkins off at Clark’s Elioak Farm, located at 10500 Clarksville Pike in Ellicott City, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. In addition, pumpkins (and other food scraps) are always accepted at the Alpha Ridge Landfill's Residents’ Convenience Center, open Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. When at the Center, look for the Hungry Green Hippo food scrap drop-off container. Households with curbside food scrap collection can place their pumpkin(s) in their green bin.
It is estimated that Americans toss out more than one billion pounds of pumpkin with their trash each year. When left to rot in a landfill, organic materials like pumpkins let off methane gas as they decompose.
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Holiday Slide Schedule NOT in Effect Next Week
Reminder, the County’s holiday slide will NOT be in effect next week, despite Thursday’s Veterans Day holiday as Veterans Day is NOT one of the six holidays that affects the County’s curbside trash, recycling, yard trim and food scrap collection services. So, while County Government offices, courts, animal shelter and 50+ centers will be closed on Thursday, November 11th in observance of the holiday, there will be REGULAR curbside collection that day and the remainder of the week. Also, the Alpha Ridge Landfill will be open on the 11th.
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Leaves, Leaves, Everywhere
As the leaves begin to fall, DPW’s Bureau of Environmental Services is asking residents to keep the following in mind. When gathering up your leaves, please don’t blow or rake them into the roadway in hope that they will be swept up by one of the County’s street sweepers. Our sweepers are not designed to pick up leaves, as large quantities of them clog the sweeper's filters and result in the leaves being spread over a large area. Sweeper operators will in fact avoid areas of curb containing an excessive number of leaves.
Also, while our Bureau of Highways crews work hard to maintain storm drains along more than 1,000 miles of County owned roadways, there are a number of simple things residents can do to help keep our storm drains free of debris to prevent roadway flooding and harmful nutrients from reaching the Chesapeake Bay:
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Rake and collect your leaves in paper bags or reusable containers for yard trim curbside collection.
- Mulch your leaves with your mower; they can help nourish your lawn.
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Mix your leaves with grass clippings and vegetable refuse to make compost.
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Participate in the Rake-and-Take program where “rakers” (residents who rake and bag leaves and grass) are matched with “takers” (people who want leaves and grass for composting).
- When rain is in the forecast, check nearby storm drain grates and clear them of debris.
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Household Hazardous Waste Season Ends November 27th
REMINDER: The Bureau’s final Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) day for the 2021 is on Saturday, November 27th. While the HHW season normally runs from April through November, the Bureau does plan to offer special Saturday collections during the winter off-season. Stay tuned to the Bureau’s HHW website for details. The 2022 HHW season will reopen on the first Saturday in April.
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Department of Recreation and Parks
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Historic Ellicott City Autumn Clean Up
Join our Department of Recreation & Parks’ next Saturday, November 13th from 7:30 to 11:00 a.m. for a Historic Ellicott City Autumn Clean Up. Participants will meet at the Roger Carter Community Center and then get to work beautifying our Historic Ellicott City community by picking up litter in and around Main Street, as well as the County’s historic properties in the area. All are welcome to participate. To register for this wonderful volunteer event, visit www.hocovolunteer.org by no later than Saturday, November 6th.
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Holiday Shopping at Mistletoe at Midday Makers Mart
If you would rather “opt outside” for your holiday shopping this year, check out our Recreation & Parks Mistletoe at Midday Makers Mart” on Saturday, November 20th from noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Robinson Nature Center (RNC) in Columbia. This FREE sustainable shopping event will feature local artisans showcasing their handmade, nature-inspired and eco-friendly wares at tables outside and inside the Center.
During the event, participants can also take advantage of a special 10 percent discount off purchases from RNC’s gift shop. The Center will also offr science, space and nature-themed children’s gifts and limited-edition holiday gift kits. For more information and/or to register, click HERE.
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New Adult Seek & Stroll Program
Come enjoy Recreation & Parks’ new Adult Seek & Stroll program! On November 12th, participants will embark a nighttime, nature-based scavenger hunt at Robinson Nature Center from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. Using the GooseChase app, participants will complete a series of missions during which you’ll learn about the stars, nocturnal animals and evening phenomenon. Warm up indoors with a planetarium program. Singles, couples and teams of adults, age 18 year and older, are welcome to partake. Preregistration is requested as space is limited. For questions and/or more information, contact RNC at 410-313-0400.
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Just a Few Spots Left for a Trip to “A Longwood Christmas”
Join Recreation & Parks on December 3rd as they venture to Longwood Gardens to see the conservatory transformed into a holiday wonderful full of poinsettias, magnificent trees, fragrant flowers and more. Enjoy walking the grounds while viewing special exhibits and seasonal plants. Outside, colorful fountains dance to festive music, strolling carolers herald the season with song and a half-million twinkling lights await your arrival. Cost is $109 per person; to register, click HERE.
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“Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations” Trip
Finally, mark your calendar and join Recreation & Parks on December 19th, as its Trips and Tours team travels by bus to The Kennedy Center for “Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations.” This electrifying new musical follows The Temptations' extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This thrilling story of brotherhood, family, loyalty and betrayal is set to the beat of the group's well-known hits, including “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Get Ready,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” and so many more. Tickets are $159 and can be purchased by clicking HERE. The Kennedy Center now requires that patrons present their vaccination card for admittance.
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Improvements to Centennial Park South Area to Begin
REMINDER: A Recreation & Parks project to improve the lower restroom facility, boat rental area and pathway section in Centennial Park South in Ellicott City, is now underway. The project will include the construction of an ADA-accessible parking facility near the lower boat rental/restroom area and the replacement of deteriorating wooden retaining walls. An existing pedestrian pathway will also be reconstructed to meet ADA-accessible standards and widened to allow for emergency access. The pathway will also connect the new parking area to existing pathways, boat ramp, restrooms and the outdoor F. Leonard Dunn Amphitheater. Finally, a micro-bioretention facility with native plants will be constructed to improve water quality within the construction area.
While the South lower restroom facility, boat rental area and pathway section from the boat ramp to the amphitheater will be closed during this time, the South upper restroom facility and the rest of Centennial Park will remain open. A detour route, informational signage and a map will be placed at both ends of the project area and at all Centennial Lake loop intersections.
Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by spring 2022.
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Feedback Still Being Accepted for Dobbin Road Complete Streets Improvement Plan
If you missed our Office of Transportation’s virtual public meeting this past Thursday, where is discussed the design plans for the County’s Complete Streets improvements along Dobbin Road in Columbia, I encourage you to check the project webpage to learn more. The design calls for a shared use pathway, new sidewalk segments and signalized pedestrian crossings along Dobbin Road from Oakland Mills Road to Old Dobbin Lane. Residents can share their feedback with Transportation about the project via a short survey. Please note, the deadline for public comment is next Thursday, November 11th.
This project supports Howard County’s Complete Streets policy to make our roads safe and usable by all modes of transportation, which in turn, promotes community health, sustainability and fiscal soundness. The recommendation also implements portions of Howard County’s Bicycle Master Plan, BikeHoward and Pedestrian Master Plan, WalkHoward.
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Proposed Bike Lanes on Guilford Road, Gerwig Lane and Patuxent Woods Drive Public Meeting
Our Office of Transportation will be hosting a virtual public meeting next Wednesday, November 10th from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., to discuss proposed bike lanes on Guilford Road, Gerwig Lane and Patuxent Woods Drive in Columbia. Improvements include bike lanes and sharrows along segments of these roadways.
To pre-register for this meeting and/or review design plans and the construction schedule for the different segments of the project, visit the project webpage today. You can also share your feedback with Transportation via a short survey, which will be available on the project webpage following the November 10th meeting; the deadline for public comment is November 24, 2021.
If you have questions or require reasonable accommodations to participate in this event, please email Transportation at transportation@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-4312. Accommodations requests must be made at least five business days before the event.
Like the Dobbin Road improvement plans, this project also supports the County’s Complete Streets policy, as well as implements portions of Howard County’s Bicycle Master Plan, BikeHoward.
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Cranksgiving – A Food Drive and Biking Event in One
This November, our Office of Transportation has partnered together with the Downtown Columbia Partnership to present Cranksgiving 2021. A national initiative dubbed “a food drive on two wheels,” all are invited to join Transportation on Saturday, November 13th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a bike ride from their home to the Cranksgiving 2021 drop off site: Azlon Plaza, 6100 Merriweather Drive in Downtown Columbia.
Participants will have a variety of route options to choose from and will be tasked with picking up various food items along the way at nearby grocery stores. There will be t-shirts for Cranksgiving 2021 participants, as well as prizes for those who donate the most food items by the end of the event. To learn more and/or to register for this event, click HERE.
Howard County’s Cranksgiving 2021 is designed to provide active recreation for local residents, raise awareness about the county’s bikeable pathway system and generate food items for individuals and families in need.
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