Howard County COVID-19 Update

November 30, 2020

Dear Friends,

As we continue through the holiday season, it’s important that residents continue to take preventative measures to ensure the safety of our family, friends, and neighbors. To date in Howard County, we have 8,165 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 3,678 total recoveries, and 154 of our neighbors have sadly passed from this virus. Additionally, we administered 12,557 tests last week, surpassing our goal of 6,500 tests per week for the 20th consecutive week.

As of 9:00 a.m. this morning and according to the Maryland Department of Health, our 7-day average positivity rate is 5.69% and our 7-day average case rate per 100,000 of our population is 29.43. While we are lower than the State average for both these measures, which are at 6.5% and 34.2 respectively, it remains an extreme cause for concern for Howard County. It’s vital that we do everything to reverse this trend and work together to reach the CDC’s and the Governor’s goal of a positivity rate below 5% and a 7-day average case rate below 10.

Our unit utilization rates at the Howard County General Hospital are 64% in our ICU Unit, 73% in our Acute Care Unit, and 10% of our ventilators are in use. Today, there are 43 COVID-19 patients in both ICU and Acute Care units. As we see more COVID-19 hospitalizations on the rise, we are in a heightened monitoring state.

We are pleased that many of our residents took preventative measures while celebrating Thanksgiving. However, it remains critical that we continue to take personal actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community, especially as we are in the midst of the holiday season. Wear a face covering, practice 6-feet physical distancing, and wash your hands frequently. It’s that simple.

Read more about our announcement here. For more data and COVID-19 information, please click here.

Community Updates

COVID-19 Restrictions

At this point there is widespread community transmission of COVID-19, and every individual action we take is vital to controlling and limiting the further spread of this virus. Now in effect, all indoor social gatherings must be limited to 10 people or fewer and all outdoor social gatherings must be limited to 25 people or fewer.

Social gathering limits includes weddings, recreational sports and programs, and social/fraternal organizations and association clubs. Additionally, the Department of Recreation & Parks is canceling all upcoming tournaments, and any other programs subject to change will be posted online here.

Small Business Saturday

Small businesses have been among the hardest hit by the coronavirus pandemic, making Small Business Saturday this year more vital than ever. For every dollar spent at a small business in Howard County, 68 cents goes right back into our community.

Our local shops are the foundation of our strong business community and have worked hard to create online shopping options, delivery and pick-up, or ensured you can shop safely in their stores. Thank you to every person who helped show our small local businesses how much we love and appreciate them this past Saturday and throughout this holiday season.

I encourage residents to watch our small business highlights on our YouTube page here.

Welcome Columbia Cafe

Even during a challenging year, small businesses are committed to expanding and serving our residents with quality products and services. I was thrilled to welcome Columbia Cafe, a new halal restaurant, to our community. Columbia Café will add to our county’s cultural diversity and bring people together for good food to be shared with neighbors. Congratulations to the Hasnain family, and thank you for choosing Howard County.

To see their menu, please click here.

Wear a Mask

Face coverings not only protects yourself, but also those around you. The Governor's mask mandate is still in effect throughout the State of Maryland. Please continue to wear a face covering when in public areas, where it's not feasible to physically distance, and when you're around anyone outside of your household.

If we all work together – even when we’re apart – we can keep one another safe.

E-sports competition

Please join me in congratulating Abiola Monk and Alex Petrusan, of Ellicott City, for winning a League of Legends conference championship as part of Howard Community College’s e-sports Program. HCC launched their e-sports program this fall, and it has drawn in many students who are using their talent to build academic skills and career readiness.

As the video game industry continues to grow, I’m thankful for our team and faculty at HCC for establishing this robust program. Read more about them here.

Additional Rental Assistance

As we continue to battle the second wave of this virus, we must put into place adequate support programs and infrastructure to make sure no one falls through the cracks. Howard County will receive an additional $2 million in Community Development Block Grant funding from Maryland to prevent evictions.

With more than 23,000 renters in the county, the need for rental assistance and eviction prevention has exceeded the already $3.5 million in relief we’ve allocated to date. I’m thankful to the Governor for providing this additional funding to ensure that our residents stay safe and housed for the next several months.

Read more here.

Food Distribution Map

Since the beginning of this pandemic, more than 46,000 Howard County residents have filed for unemployment or pandemic assistance, it’s clear access to food and groceries is one of the most urgent needs our residents are facing.

We’ve seen our community organizations, non-profits, and neighbors step-up to support one another, and we saw an opportunity to make it easier for folks to find what they need. This map clearly shows the daily options for groceries, food pantries, and meal pickups, and will hopefully reduce the stress for many people trying to figure out where to find the resources they need.

Visit the map today here.

Government Updates

Budget Department

Resident's Budget Hearing

I invite you to join me and members of my administration next Wednesday, December 9th at 6:00 p.m., for my first Resident’s Budget Hearing for our Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22) budget cycle. We welcome your comments regarding Howard County’s spending priorities as we begin to prepare both the County’s operating and capital budgets for FY22, which runs from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s budget hearing will be held virtually and can be watched live from the County Council’s streaming website; see “Upcoming Events.”

Residents looking to speak at the hearing, can now sign-up online at www.howardcountymd.gov/budgettestimony. Speakers must sign-up individually, and one person may not sign-up for several testifiers. Additionally, individual testimony is limited to three minutes and group testimony is limited to five. Speakers who have a document or record they wish to submit with their testimony are asked to email the file to budgettestimony@howardcountymd.gov, with “BUDGET TESTIMONY” in the subject line.

Also, from the budget testimony webpage, residents will be able to provide online budget testimony; however, please keep in mind, internet testimony is considered public information and, as such, is subject to the Maryland Public Information Act.

This year has been unprecedented in many ways, and our upcoming budget season will be no exception. The ongoing pandemic has caused serious economic consequences and challenges for our fiscal outlook. That is why it is so important we hear from our residents, learn their concerns and gather their input on the county’s priorities as we prepare for this upcoming fiscal year.

Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS)

ADA Art Contest

Today, November 30th, is you LAST DAY to submit your artwork and entry form for our Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) and our Commission on Disabilities 2020 Art Contest. Launched in celebration of the 30^th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DCRS and the Commission sought Howard County artists young and old to submit an original piece of artwork (up to two pieces allowed) that depicts some aspect of the contest theme: “ADA30 · Disability · Equity · Inclusion · One County · Accessible to All.” The theme commemorates this landmark piece of legislation, which guarantees people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to participate in all aspects of American life.

To learn more about this Art Contest and for complete contest rules and entry form, check out www.howardcountymd.gov/ADA today. All artwork and entry forms must be received by no later than 11:59 p.m. tonight, November 30^th.

Office on Aging and Independence

DCRS OAI continues to work hard to offer our older residents the resources they need to remain active and engaged during the COVID-19 pandemic. From exercise, cooking, social engagement and lifelong learning classes, there is something to help get you moving, get cooking and stay social this 2020. Check out OAI’s December Virtual Offering Guide for this month’s activities or visit OAI’s website to learn more about its services. For questions, contact OAI at aging@howardcountymd.gov.

Project Holiday

Help DCRS spread holiday cheer this year by dropping off a new, unwrapped gift at one of three convenient locations set up throughout the county, now through December 7th. DCRS’ Office of Aging and Independence (OAI) is collecting new gifts to help brighten the holidays for our low-income seniors. DCRS’ Office of Children and Families is also gathering new gifts for families with children ages 0 to 5 years old in need. The wish list for children and adults includes body lotion, body wash, books (ages 0-5), deodorant, hair brushes, hair conditioner, scarves, shampoo, shaving cream, slipper socks, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, toiletry gift sets, throw blankets and toys (ages 0-5). Financial donations are also being accepted. For more information, click HERE. We sincerely thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity.

Department of Fire and Rescue Services

Public Help Needed

Our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) is seeking the public’s help to help spread the word. HCDFRS’ Elkridge and Savage fire stations are being inundated with questions regarding COVID-19 testing. While the parking lots at these two stations are being utilized as drive-thru COVID-19 testing locations, these testing sites are NOT being operated by HCDFRS. These two locations are being operated by Quality First Urgent Care. Quality First Urgent Care does not require a doctor’s order or insurance to be tested at either location and while appointments are available, they are not required.

If you have any questions regarding testing at either location and/or to schedule an appointment, please contact Quality First Urgent Care at 301-421-1214 or visit https://quality1urgentcare.com/. You can also contact the Howard County Health Department's Coronavirus Information Line at 410-313-6284 for testing questions. Please DO NOT contact the Elkridge and/or Savage fire station.

Department of Housing and Community Development

Master Plan Task Force

LAST DAY TO COMPLETE HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES MASTER PLAN DRAFT SURVEY: Our Housing Opportunities Master Plan Task Force was created to identify Howard County’s housing affordability issues and offer holistic and sustainable strategies to address them. As part of its Housing Opportunities Master Plan draft process, the Task Force is seeking public feedback regarding its draft recommendations. In addition to the two virtual Open House events the Task Force hosted earlier this month, the Task Force is also providing residents the opportunity to offer feedback via an online survey, available through Monday, November 30^th, or by emailing the Task Force at housingtaskforce@howardcountymd.gov.

To review the Task Force’s draft recommendations, for more information and/or questions, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/housingtaskforce or contact Housing at 410-313-6318 or housingtaskforce@howardcountymd.gov.

Office of Human Rights

Recognizing Women in Need

This past Thursday, November 25^th, our Office of Human Rights recognized “International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.” Violence against women and girls is a major human rights violation. The impact of abuse ranges from long term physical and mental consequences to death and affects women and girls across every social strata and cultural background. Violence disempowers women, robs them of social agency and has terrible long-term effects on the victims, their families and communities.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, please contact HopeWorks of Howard County's 24-hour Sexual, Dating and Domestic Violence line at 410-997-2272.

Police Department

Information Needed

Our Police Department (HCPD) periodically highlights unsolved homicide investigations in the hopes of generating new tips and information. Despite lengthy and complex investigations, family members of these homicide victims are still awaiting justice for their parent, sibling or child.

COLD CASE FILE: Did you work at Commercial Ink Industries of Maryland on Oakland Mills Road in Columbia between 1981 and 1983? If you or someone you know did, HCPD’s cold case investigators need your/their help. HCPD offers rewards of up to $10,000 for information assisting in cold case investigations. Anyone with information is urged to contact 410-313-STOP or email hcpdcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov.

To read about some of HCPD's cold cases, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Departments/Cold-Cases. Detectives are seeking information from witnesses or anyone who may have further knowledge about any of these cases.

Department of Planning and Zoning

HoCo By Design

This past summer, I launched the planning process for the County’s next General Plan, HoCo By Design. This comprehensive long-range plan establishes the policies on how and where the County will develop and grow in response to evolving economic, environmental and social conditions. As part of its General Plan update process, DPZ’s HoCo By Design Planning Advisory Committee will be hosting various Community Ideas Exchange Workshops now through next Monday, December 7^th. The Workshop's 3D virtual room gives participants the look and feel of a real workshop through an immersive experience where visitors can “walk” from station to station. However, unlike an in-person workshop, the 3D virtual room providers visitors with 24/7 access to stations (with the exception of several live “On the Table” events), so visitors can provide input whenever it suits them best

In addition, the Committee has also launched its Better Communities Online game. This map-based, 3D game allows participants to explore the types of growth that could occur, where it could occur and what it would look like. While the game is primarily meant to be educational, it will help the project team understand what types of growth and development county residents and stakeholders want to see over the next 20 years.

To learn more about HoCo By Design, how to become involved and/or to sign-up to receive updates, visit www.hocobydesign.com or follow DPZ’s HoCo By Design Facebook page.

Planning Board

This Thursday, December 3rd, DPZ will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following items:

Public Meeting:

SDP-19-025 Cedar Creek – Approval of a Site Development Plan for a 300-foot long suspension bridge and 35-foot long single span bridge associated with the Cedar Creek community enhancement trail system.

Special Subject:

Discussion regarding further revisions to the Rules of Procedure

The Board recently revised its Rules of Procedures with changes in accordance with the new Virtual Public Meeting setting. Please note significant changes in registration and document submission deadlines in the Board's Revised Rules of Procedure.

To register to testify at this meeting and/or to watch, visit DPZ’s Planning Board website.

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.

Historic Preservation Commission

Additionally, this Thursday, December 3rd, DPZ’s Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. The meeting agenda, HPC Addendum for case HPC 20-83 and instructions on how to join/participate in Thursday’s meeting can be found on the Commission’s website. All cases are public meetings where any member of the public may offer testimony. However, certain cases, such as requests for Certificates of Approval, are contested cases subject to the County Administrative Procedure Act. As such, part of the meeting may be closed to the public in accordance with Open Meetings Act procedures.

For questions, additional information and/or to request accommodations (request must be made at least three working days in advance of the meeting), please contact DPZ at 410-313-2350.

Department of Public Works

On Tuesday, December 15th at 6:00 p.m., our Department of Public Works (DPW) will be holding a virtual public meeting to discuss plans to stabilize a significantly eroded stream (an unnamed tributary to the Little Patuxent River) located behind 3951-3959 Ducks Foot Lane. The project is expected to begin in summer 2021.

The informal meeting will include an overview of the 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. To participate in the meeting by computer, go to www.webex.com and click “join;” the meeting number is 126 719 7053, and “Stormwater” is the password. To participate by phone, call 1-650-479-3207 (note, fees may apply) and enter the access code 126 719 7053.

Those unable to participate in the virtual meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions regarding Capital Project D-1158, should contact Mr. Avinash Dewani with DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-6417 or email adewani@howardcountymd.gov.

Department of Public Works – Construction Report

Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance projects that have been announced.

Elkridge

Furnace Avenue Sewer and Manhole Work – Developer project to install a sewer and manhole near 5635 Furnace. During the project, Furnace Avenue between Bushwacker Way and Railroad Avenue will be closed to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Vehicular traffic will follow a clearly marked detour using Main Street and Railroad Avenue. A recorded message at 410-313-3639 will carry project updates. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed within one week.

Ellicott City

Old Mill Road Sewer Extension (Capital Project S-6699) – Project to connect 9934 Old Mill Road to the County’s public sewer main. The project is not expected to impact the flow of traffic and weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by mid-December.

To learn about DPW Capital 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) website and search by “County” to learn more about State road projects in Howard County.

Recreation & Parks

New Guide Available

Recreation & Parks Winter 2021 Winter Activity Guide is NOW AVAILABLE online, with online registration for Howard County residents set to launch this Wednesday, December 2^nd at 6:00 p.m. From family-friendly special events and programs to sports leagues and enriching classes for active adults, Recreation & Parks is offering something for everyone virtually and in-person this winter season. Note, out-of-county online registration opens Wednesday, December 9^th. For registration and/or more information, click HERE.

Virtual Holiday Mart

Looking for great gift ideas this holiday? Then be sure to join Recreation & Parks’ this Saturday, December 5^th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for its Virtual Holiday Mart! At this LIVE virtual shopping event, shoppers will have the chance to speak with local crafters via video chat while they shop. To learn more, check out www.howardcountymd.gov/holidaymart.

Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who joined our Department of Recreation & Parks’ last month for its annual Family Volunteer Day event! With the help of sixty volunteers, Recreation & Parks was able to remove 120 pounds of litter, 3,000 summer annuals planted and canna roots (set to be reused this spring), as well as cut back dormant perennial plantings and plant 50 new trees at Belmont Manor and Historic Park, Robinson Nature Center, Rockburn Branch Park and Centennial Park. Photos from the event can be found here.

Take Home Nature Kits

This holiday season bring all the educational fun of Robinson Nature Center home with its “Take Nature Home Holiday Kits.” Each educator-curated kit includes instructions and materials for a morning of fun, nature-inspired adventures. Winter 2020 kits include: North Pole Exploration with the Five Senses (geared toward 3 to 5-year old’s); Tis’ the Sweet Season (for 4 to 10-year old’s); and Nature’s Spa Kit (for 11 and older). To purchase your kit today (kits must be purchased by December 5^th), visit https://tinyurl.com/HolidayKitsRNC or call 410-313-0400.

Holidays Across the Globe

Have you ever wondered how the holiday season is celebrated across the globe? On Wednesdays in December, head over to Waverly Mansion for its Living History and Heritage Program’s Time Traveling Kids: Holidays Around the World program. Each week, participants age eight to 12 years old, will discover how familiar (and not-so-familiar) holidays are celebrated in countries such as India, Sweden, Mexico and Italy. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/TimeTravelingKidsHolidays.