Dear Friends,

Until now, EMS clinicians have been limited in their treatment of critically injured patients suffering from significant blood loss. The best method of treatment has been to stop the hemorrhaging before arriving at a hospital. Unfortunately, this has led to loss of critical time and even deaths. However, through this pioneering medical initiative, the Whole Blood Program, I announced this past week, we can save time and save lives. 

While not every trauma patient will need a blood transfusion, the ability to provide whole blood to critical patients increases their chances of survival even before they reach the hospital. We are the first ground-based EMS department in Maryland to administer this groundbreaking medical initiative.

I want to thank Secretary Strickland, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services team, the Shock Trauma Center, Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center and every medical professional who helps saves lives in Howard County. When we all work together, we can envision and implement transformative, cutting-edge, life-saving procedures to make sure all Howard County residents and visitors are receiving the best possible medical care.

Remembering our Fallen Heroes on 9/11

As Howard County solemnly joins the nation in marking the tragic events of 9/11, we remember and honor the lives lost and the heroes who selflessly responded.

Each year, this day serves not only as a reminder of our shared grief but also of our unparalleled unity and resilience in the face of adversity. It underscores the enduring spirit of our community, where we draw strength from one another, and the values that bind us.

As we reflect upon the profound impact of that day, let's continue to foster a culture of understanding, compassion, and mutual respect. Together, we honor the past by building a brighter, more connected future, ensuring the legacy of those we lost guides us toward hope and unity.

A Beacon of Hope

Suicide Prevention Month is the perfect time to be kind, compassionate, say a positive word, and let those around us know that help is available and they are not alone.

This National Suicide Prevention Month, let's come together to support one another and remember those we have lost and their families. To honor those we have lost to suicide, we lit the George Howard Building in purple and teal.

We pledge to be a beacon of hope and support, reminding you of your worth and importance in this world.

Today and every day, I encourage you to lend an open ear, share a moment of understanding, or be there for someone who might be going through a hard time.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, available 24/7, at 988.

Rolling with International Flavors

I had a great time joining Ayub Sabir at The Common Kitchen for the Grand Re-Opening of Let's Roll.

Ayub, a seasoned presence in our Howard County dining scene, is ushering in a delectable new era with his dedication and flair. Let's Roll stands as a culinary tapestry, weaving in mouth-watering selections like Bulgogi Beef with an emphasis on inclusivity, from vegan to gluten-free and halal.

To savor the essence of Let's Roll and to embark on a culinary journey reflective of our county's spirit, I encourage you to dive deeper and delight in their offerings by visiting their website, https://www.letsrollmrld.com/

Kickin It

I had a great time visiting Sung Hong's new martial arts studio in Columbia -Worldclassicmartialarts,llc.

As a world-renowned martial arts grandmaster, Mr. Hong's journey, from his earliest studios in the DMV area in the 1970s to his vast international career, embodies dedication and passion.

With over 50 years devoted to Tae Kwon Do and other martial arts, his contributions, including significant roles in the World Tae Kwon Do Championship and Olympic Training, have left an indelible mark on the martial arts community.

Howard County continues to be enriched by the tireless commitment of individuals like Sung Hong and his family. Their mastery and profound dedication to the community are commendable.

As Mr. Hong focuses on his Columbia studio, simultaneously overseeing his Lebanon establishment, his story stands as a testament to perseverance, discipline, and family values. Learn more at: www.worldclassicmartialarts.net

65th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act

September 9th marked the 65th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1957, a cornerstone in the nation’s journey towards equity and justice. This legislation not only birthed the Civil Rights Commission but fortified the Justice Department with the tools to protect voting rights, honoring the Fifteenth Amendment's mandate. It was a step, albeit early and not fully realized, but a significant one on the path to a society enriched with diversity and mutual respect.

Yet, as we stand together in Howard County, we must acknowledge the distance yet to travel. The battle against systemic barriers and inequities continues, echoing the resilient spirit of organizations like the NAACP and the YWCA in their missions to foster a world free of racism and full of opportunities for all women. Today, we lean into that spirit of tenacity and hope, envisioning a community that uplifts every individual, affirming that the fight is far from over.

As we reflect on this historical milestone, let us also pledge to act, to shape a society where justice is not delayed, but actively lived and breathed each day. Let's stand united, forging a Howard County where every citizen can exercise their right to vote without hindrance, building a home where “until justice just is” is not just a slogan but a reality.

Warfield Pond Park Inclusive Playground

The playground at the beautiful Warfield Pond Park was in need of a refresh that provides children in this community with a safe and modern place to enjoy playing with friends and family. I was overjoyed to unveil the new, inclusive playground where our youngest residents of all abilities can enjoy and thrive.

A Big Dill - Eight New Courts!

We recognize the popularity of pickleball in our community, and know the importance of ensuring adequate facilities are available for our residents. I was excited to join Howard County Recreation and Parks to open eight new pickleball courts at Western Regional Park. Our residents, especially those who are part of our active-aging community, enjoy the exercise, competition, and camaraderie that this sport provides.

A Beacon of Strength, Support and Inspiration

Inspired by her own battle with cancer, Sonia Su created the Kits to Heart care packages symbolizing hope and resilience. These kits underscore our community's commitment to supporting each other during challenging times. Sonia's efforts were recently honored by the L’Oreal Paris Women of Worth network with a $25,000 grant, and we couldn’t be prouder. It’s due to efforts like these that Howard County remains a beacon of support and strength.

Bridging the Gap

I had a wonderful time joining the Community Action Council of Howard County for the 2023 Holland Awards to recognize exemplary individuals and organizations who go above and beyond to support residents. CAC is an invaluable resource that helps bridge gaps in the areas of housing and food assistance, energy and weatherization assistance and early childhood education. Most importantly, they give hope to those who may be in their most desperate hour.

A huge congratulations to Shaun Eddy and the Columbia Lion’s Club for their efforts to support our community. Thank you to Tracy Broccolino and the entire CAC team for their endless efforts to support all our residents in need.

MAP, it’s Not Just Something You Use for Directions  

MAP, formerly known as Maryland Access Point, a free aging and disability resource center, is your link to health and support services in Howard County. Call MAP at 410-313-1234 or email us at map@howardcountymd.gov, and our Office on Aging and Independence experts will provide guidance and information to residents of all income levels in need of assistance to remain in the community and lead full lives.

Plugged In and Informed

In an era where connectivity is paramount for work, school and healthcare, we are committed to ensuring every resident stays plugged in and informed. That’s what makes programs such as the Affordable Connectivity Program, an initiative by the FCC, vital as they ensure that internet access remains within everyone's reach.

This isn't just a call for awareness. It's a call for action. Delve into the details, verify your eligibility and make the move to enroll today. Together, with the right resources and shared knowledge, we can bridge the digital divide.

Explore more and enroll at www.fcc.gov/acp.

Take Action Against Hunger

As we age, proper nutrition and social engagement are essential for maintaining our well-being. That's why our Office on Aging and Independence continues to champion initiatives like the Congregate Meals Program and the Home Delivered Meals Program.  

The Congregate Meals Program does more than just serve food. It fosters a community, promotes healthy aging, and creates volunteer opportunities that make a real difference. It's not just about the meals, but the shared moments and camaraderie that enrich the lives of our older residents.  

For those who may face challenges in leaving their homes, our Home Delivered Meals step in, ensuring every elder in our community has access to balanced meals. More than just a meal, it's often the first touchpoint for our seniors to receive other vital home-based services.  

To find out more about eligibility, locations, and other wellness programs, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/aging-independence/health-promotion-nutrition-services. 

Together, we're keeping Howard County vibrant and healthy at every age!

Help is But a Phone Call Away

During National Suicide Prevention Month, it's essential we stand together, ensuring that those who are struggling know they're not alone. We pledge to be a beacon of hope and support, reminding you of your worth and importance in this world. Today and every day, I encourage you to lend an open ear, share a moment of understanding, or be there for someone who might be going through a hard time.  

A small gesture can change a life's trajectory. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, available 24/7, at 988.

Supporting Agricultural Innovation

Howard County farmers have been at the forefront of innovation for years. HoCo By Design, Howard County’s General Plan, supports policies and regulations that will allow the farming community to continue innovating. 

Leslie Bauer, President of the Howard County Farm Bureau, says, “HoCo By Design respects Howard County’s long history of agricultural preservation and calls for expanded agricultural uses that will allow our farms to grow and thrive for the future.”

To read more about the plan, visit https://www.hocobydesign.com/. 

A Pure Place to Chill

It was wonderful to celebrate the grand opening of Pure Green Juice & Smoothie in Turf Valley! Pure Green provides nutrient-rich superfoods, and transforms them into handcrafted, quality beverages and food. Congratulations on the grand opening of Pure Green's Turf Valley location.  

Here's to a fruitful journey ahead, ensuring Howard County continues to flourish in health and happiness. Learn more about them at https://puregreenfranchise.com/pure-green-juice-bar/maryland/ellicott-city. 

An Upscale Mediterranean Twist 

It was such a delight attending the grand opening of Genova Restaurant in Clarksville Commons! This was a highly anticipated event. Genova replaced the beloved You Pizza and promises to elevate the dining scene with an upscale Mediterranean twist. Owner Roberto Bernades, with roots from both Spain and Italy, introduces flavors reminiscent of home, ensuring every diner experiences the rich confluence of two powerful culinary traditions. 

Thank you to Roberto, Executive Chef Nikolas Anastasiades, and the entire team at Genova for transforming the former pizzeria space into a Mediterranean haven. Learn more about them at www.genovarestaurant.com. 

Scrap It

Tires are a challenging source of waste because of the large volume produced and their durability. Too often, they end up taking up valuable space in landfills. The Department of Public Works will accept scrap tires at the Alpha Ridge Landfill through September 16th from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

This event is a convenient opportunity for our residents to do their part for our environment by having their old tires recycled and given new life in a wide range of products. Learn more at www.howardcountyrecycles.org.

National Blood Cancer Awareness Month

September is National Blood Cancer Awareness Month and an important time to spotlight a group of diseases that affects so many within our community and beyond. As we wear our ribbons and light our landmarks in red this month, let us remember the individuals bravely battling blood cancers, the families standing by their side, and those we've lost. 

Let's use this month not just for awareness but for action. If you can, consider joining a bone marrow registry, donating blood, or supporting organizations that lead the charge against these cancers. Together, through understanding, compassion, and science, we can bring hope to countless lives. Learn more about Blood Cancer Awareness Month at www.lls.org/article/september-blood-cancer-awareness-month. 

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 Human Resources Administrator (Administrative Manager) – Duties include assisting the Human Resources Administrator in carrying the Human Resources function for the County, providing expert advice and guidance to management on human resources programs, policies and related management matters, administering employment policies and collective bargaining agreements to ensure compliance in actions, and more.
• Before and After School Programs - seeking energetic, talented, active and positive staff for our Before and After School Child Care Programs located throughout the County at local elementary schools.
• Health Benefits and Employee Wellness Program Manager - plays a critical role in delivering a comprehensive benefit program that serves both the employee and retiree populations in a competitive and cost-effective manner.
• Fiscal Specialist II - Performs professional accounting work. Responsible for applying generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and procedures to analyze financial data.
• Sports & Adventure Services Coordinator II - Coordinates community sports leagues, youth sports leagues, and camps. Performs extensive community recreation liaison work between the Department and community sport programs. 

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

Let Us Help You LIFT Up Your Small Business

Howard County Economic Development Authority’s (EDA) Leveraging Investment for Future Transformation Fund, or “LIFT” Fund, enables EDA to provide microloans ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 to Howard County small businesses for a three-to-five-year term. The loan program primarily serves small businesses including minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned and other socially disadvantaged groups. The ideal candidate would be a Howard County business that is generating revenue, who is looking for funds to lift and empower their business towards growth.

EDA also has resources at its Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) to supplement the funding, with the goal of better positioning the loan recipient for success. For example, if a small business wants to obtain a microloan and EDA determines that the owner need business coaching/training as a requirement, the owner will find resources available at the MIC.

To learn more about this program and/or to apply, click HERE.

Innovating with EDA

• Thursday, September 14th, 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. – Creating the Blueprint – Workplace Wellness for the Entrepreneur: This seminar will equip entrepreneurs and those who are self-employed with the tools to care for themselves while building their dreams. Participants will learn concrete, yet simplistic tools for health on the go (with an option for more advanced techniques outside of the seminar). Attendees will walk away with tools to help with stress management, health on the go, assurance versus insurance, relaxation and seated movement techniques, and ways to use aromatherapy and plants to support their day-to-day lifestyles.
• Tuesday, September 19th, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. – Driving Revenue: Leveraging Technology to Capture Clients: This five-week series (held Tuesdays, September 19th through October 17th) is structured to have each session build on the previous session to accelerate results. At the end of the program, participants will have a Sales Operations plan specific to their company and offering.
• Thursday, September 21st, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. – 2023 End of Summer Bash: Early bird tickets are now on sale for the Maryland Innovation Center's End of Summer Bash at Merriweather Lakehouse! You can purchase your early bird tickets by September 8th. Ticket sales close September 20th.
• Wednesday, October 4th, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. – HoCo Higher: Growth Accelerator: Are you ready to grow your business and learn the best practices for success? Join the Maryland Innovation Center for this 7-week program on Wednesdays from October 4th through November 15th, with a graduation/pitch competition on December 6th. Come meet and work in person with business coaches who will help you develop a market strategy, generate customers, create a growth plan, identify actionable priorities, find funding pathways and produce a business pitch. Registration closes on October 3rd.
• Thursday, October 5th, 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 four-week course (Thursday from October 5th to October 26th) is designed to help businesses of all sizes maximize their online presence and drive sales. Led by Maryland Innovation Center Mentor Nathan Garcia, Garcia’s course will help participants build their best marketing strategy, whether just starting out or looking to refresh ones skills. 
• Tuesday, October 17th, 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. – Pitch and Mingle Series: The Great Pumpkin Patch: Join the Maryland Innovation Center for its pitch competition featuring five community startups who will present a four-minute pitch, followed by four minutes of Q&A from the panel of judges and audience. At the end, the judges will come together and select the top three companies, who will receive cash prizes with first place receiving $3,000! Spirited in atmosphere and in food and drink offerings, Pitch and Mingle is the perfect opportunity to stir up your social network, mingling with fellow attendees over light fare and libations!

Members Sought for Commission on Aging

Our Commission on Aging plays a vital role in ensuring that our older adult population is supported by policies and programs that help them age in a safe, supportive and nurturing environment. As we expand our efforts to ensure Howard County is a model age-friendly community, I encourage interested residents to apply for our Commission on Aging and join our efforts to make our county a welcoming place for people of all ages.

To learn more about this commission, the eligibility requirements and how to apply, click HERE. The deadline to apply is Friday, September 22nd. 

Vendors and Sponsors Sought for Fall Veteran Owned Small Biz Expo 

Our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office of Veterans and Military Families (OVMF), in partnership with EDA, will host its first-ever Veteran Owned Small Biz Expo this fall to celebrate Howard County Business Appreciation Week and National Veteran’s Small Business Appreciation Week. The Expo will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 28th at EDA’s Maryland Innovation Center in Columbia and will feature live entertainment, food and activities to promote our veteran owned small businesses.

If you are a veteran, active duty or military spouse business owner, and are interested in participating in this inaugural event as a vendor or sponsor, I encourage you to complete OVMF’s initial interest form today. OVMF is primarily seeking businesses that are: 1) owned by a veteran, active duty or military spouse; 2) located/based in or near Howard County or the business owner resides in Howard County; and 3) offer goods to sell or services (including artwork and books) to feature at the Expo. 

Once approved, the registration fee is $25 per table space. Custom sponsorship levels are also available.

This Month’s HoCo Community Chat Episode Focus on Student Behavioral and Mental Health 

For this month’s September episode of DCRS’s HoCo Community Chat podcast, Director Jackie Scott is joined by Community Action Council of Howard County, Inc. President Tracy Broccolino and DCRS’s Office of Children and Families Administrator Erin Bonzon to discuss how the pandemic has affected student behavioral and mental health, as well as resources available to the community with the school year beginning.

Be sure to check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, and if there is something specific you want to hear about, I encourage you to email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov. 

Howard County Health Department

Community Resources at Residents' Fingertips

The Howard County Health Department has announced the introduction of its mobile application to streamline the CAREAPP user experience. The innovative CAREAPP allows anyone to easily find and connect with the more than 2,500 Howard County programs for food, health, housing, transportation, education, employment assistance and more. This free, fully translatable app can be accessed by downloading “CAREAPP Howard County” on any Apple or Android mobile device.

Office of Human Rights and Equity

Human Rights Commission Public Hearing

In addition to last week’s public hearings, our Howard County Human Rights Commission (HRC) will also be holding a public hearing today, September 11th and this Wednesday, September 13th, to hear HRC Case No. 21-12-011 & 21-12-012: Berger & Williams v. Dr. Stephanie’s Relationship Repair Shop. In accordance with the Maryland Open Meetings Act, this hearing is open to the public. 

For more information and/or to attend this hearing, contact HRC Case Manager Claudia Allen at hrc@howardcountymd.gov.  

Copa Com’Unidad Soccer Tournament

Hispanic Heritage Month is around the corner. To celebrate, our very own La Alianza Latina Commission is proud to present their Copa Com’Unidad soccer tournament. This is a co-ed, 18+ tournament, with cash prizes. Even if you’re not playing, join them on Saturday, September 23rd at Troy Park at Elkridge for music, food trucks, resources and of course, fun games.  

To register a team, click HERE.  

Hate Bias Forum for Central Maryland

Our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) has joined forces with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, the Maryland Office of the Attorney General, the Montgomery Office of Human Rights and the Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights to offer a Hate Bias Forum for Central Maryland next Tuesday, September 19th. The forum will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Montgomery College’s Germantown Campus, Room #4067, and will provide community leaders and members of law enforcement with important information in response to the 2021 and 2022 Hate Bias Report for the State of Maryland. The forum will engage local law enforcement, elected officials and community leaders in discussions and information sharing on methods to facilitate more effective reporting as well as responding to bias incidents and hate crimes.

To register to participate in this event, please click HERE.

An Evening with Matthew Berger

I invite you to join OHRE next Wednesday, September 20th as it partners with the Jewish Federation of Howard County, Howard Community College’s (HCC) Social Justice and Equity Center and Howard County Library System (HCLS) to host an evening with Matthew Berger, Senior Advisor for the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism. Come hear about the work the foundation is doing nationally, and learn the tools necessary to raise awareness about hate and injustice to foster change here in Howard County. The event will take place at 6:30 p.m. in HCC’s Smith Theatre. To register to participate, click HERE. 

Reading Human Rights – Inventing Latinos: A New Story of American Racism by Laura E. Gomez

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

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, for its September book discussion – to be held in person at HCLS’s Elkridge branch on Tuesday, September 26th at 6:30 p.m., OHRE will discuss Laura Gomez’s Inventing Latinos: A New Story of American Racism. Inventing Latinos: A New Story of American Racism explores the impact of Latinos’ new collective racial identity in the way Americans understand race. Gomez asks, “Who are Latinos and where do they fit in America’s racial order?” Gomez argues that it is only recently that Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cubans, Dominicans, Central Americans and others are seeing themselves (and being seen by others) under the banner of a cohesive racial identity, and the catalyst for this emergent identity is the ferocity of anti-Latino racism.

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

Department of Planning and Zoning

Planning Board Meeting

Tomorrow, September 12th, our Department of Planning and Zoning’s Cemetery Preservation Advisory Board will hold a hybrid meeting, in person at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City and virtually via WebEx, starting at 10:00 a.m. To learn more about this meeting, click here.

To learn more about our Planning Board and upcoming meeting dates, click HERE.

Police Department

Do You Have Information That Might Help Solve this Case?

On September 3, 2017, 25-year-old Meiko Locksley was found suffering from a gunshot wound around 10:20 p.m. in the 5500 block of Harpers Farm Road in Columbia. He was transported to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, where he was pronounced dead. 

Today, our Howard County Police Department (HCPD) remains committed to solving Locksley’s murder, offering a reward of up to $30,000 for information in the case. While detectives have not identified a suspect, they believe this case was likely not random, and have been looking into every potential motive, including robbery, the possibility that it may have been drug-related or the result of an ongoing dispute. 

Anyone with information, even any small detail that may seem insignificant, but could be the missing piece to this case’s puzzle, are encouraged to contact HCPD at 410-313-STOP or email HCPDcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov.

Applications Now Being Accepted for Youth Advisory Council

If your teen (9th to 12 grade) is in need of community service hours to add to their college applications, HCPD's Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is back and looking for members. YAC is designed to provide youth with a safe and engaging environment to interact with local law enforcement. The group meets monthly with members of HCPD and advises command staff on youth concerns and more. To apply and/or for more information, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/police/youth-programs. The deadline to apply is September 29th. 

SCAM ALERT!

HCPD is warning residents of an ongoing phone scam in which the caller pretends to be from HCPD or Howard County Sheriff's Office (HCSO), us uses the name of a REAL officer or deputy, and then demands money for missed jury duty or an arrest warrant. THIS IS A SCAM! HCPD and HCSO will NEVER demand payment over the phone. If you receive this call, please HANG UP IMMEDIATELY and DO NOT arrange for payment or provide any personal or financial information.  

HCPD has note that there have also been similar scams where impostors have claimed to be with the IRS and BGE. 

If you believe you may have been a victim of a telephone scam in which you have provided payment and/or personal or financial information, please call HCPD's non-emergency number at 410-313-2200 or file an online police report at www.howardcountymd.gov/police/file-online-report.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Know Before You Throw: Medical Supplies

Medication and Sharps: Never flush medication down the toilet. HCPD offers year-round drop-off locations for any unwanted prescription and over-the-counter medications. These items, as well as medical sharps, can also be properly disposed of at one of HC DrugFree’s annual Drug Take Back Day’s. The organization will host its next drive-thru event on Saturday, October 28th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. To learn more, click HERE. 

This photo, which was recently taken from a curbside recycling sample, shows an improperly disposed of sharp. Please remember, sharps are NOT acceptable in curbside recycling. When disposing of sharps in your household trash, please be sure to place them in a rigid plastic bottle (e.g. detergent bottle) to protect the trash crew.

Medication Packaging:

• Over-the-counter pill bottles (typically a #2 plastic) are acceptable in our curbside recycling program and at the Residents' Convenience Center at Alpha Ridge Landfill.
• Orange prescription pill bottles are NOT acceptable in our curbside recycling program. Please consider reusing them or recycling them through mail-in programs like Matthew 25: Ministries or Cabinet Refresh Bag. 
• Blister Packs are NOT acceptable in our curbside recycling program. These should be disposed in your regular household trash.

Durable Medical Equipment: The Loan Closet of Howard County accepts donations of durable medical equipment for all ages. Items like canes, manual wheelchairs, walkers and toilet aids are accepted at their facility on Riverwood Drive and at the Residents' Convenience Center at Alpha Ridge Landfill. Visit their website for donation and loan information. 

Bureau of Environmental Services’ Stormwater Management Division

Woodpark Lane Pond Repair Public Meeting

Our Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Stormwater Management Division will hold a public meeting tomorrow, September 12th at 6:00 p.m., in the Marvin Thomas Room at Howard County Library System’s East Columbia branch, to present plans to repair an existing pond located near 7680 Woodpark Lane in Columbia. The project will include the removal and replacement of the pond’s old metal outlet spillway with a new concrete outlet structure that has a longer service life. The pond will also be brought into compliance with current Maryland Department of the Environment requirements. 

The informational meeting will include an overview of the project design, followed by an open discussion. County staff and representatives from the project’s design consultant will be on hand to answer any questions and gather public comments. 

Those unable to attend the meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Bill Liu with DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-6416 or email bliu@howardcountymd.gov.

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.

Elkridge

• Landing Road Sewer Main Extension (Capital Project S-6698) – Project to construct 400 feet of new sewer main to 5667 Landing Road. Flagging operations will be in place to direct traffic as needed and signs will be posted to alert residents and motorists of the construction, as a single lane closure will occur during construction hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by late October 2023.

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

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

Department of Recreation and Parks

Back to School  

Our team at Recreation & Parks knows that school and work schedules don’t always match up, that’s why we offer so many great before-and-after-school options throughout the year for Howard County youth age five to 12 years old. Be sure to see what’s offered at your child’s school, by clicking HERE today.  

What to Do When Schools are Closed

With a new school year underway, our Recreation & Parks is here to offer its support to students and families when schools are closed. Whether its music, chess, basketball, volleyball, medical/surgical, Transportation STEM Club, cooking, science, KidzArt, Art with Pinot's Palette, Uunior Sports, and Sports and Swim, and more, there are plenty of activities and programs to choose from to keep your kids activity when school is not in session. Click on the following dates to find out what fun activites Recreation & Parks has planned this Friday, September 15th and Monday, September 25th. 

Teen Bollywood is Back!  

Recreation & Parks’ Teen Bollywood Dance Class is back and ready to kick off another six week session beginning Tusday, September 19th. Come join instructor Jaya Mathur as she introduces you to this energetic dance style that originated in Indian films. Techniques include hand, foot and body movements and an overall sense of rhythm. The cost to participate is $79 and participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and to bring a bottle of water. To register, click HERE.

Office of Transportation

Car Free Day

Next Friday, September 22nd is Car Free Day and in recognition of this worldwide event, I and our Office of Transportation are encouraging residents to choose greener methods of travel, that is, finding other ways to get around other than driving alone by car on the 22nd. Greener methods of travel include biking, walking and public transit, as well as carpooling, vanpooling and teleworking. To celebrate, all Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland (RTA) service will be free!

By choosing to use more sustainable ways to get around, residents can reduce their carbon footprint and help reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion. If you think about it, the more people who travel using bicycles, buses, trains, carpools and vanpools, the fewer pollutants we are releasing into the atmosphere. 

If you plan on participating in Car Free Day, please let our Office of Transportation know how you plan to “Skip a Trip” by completing this quick online survey.

BikeAround Downtown

I invite all to hop on their bike and come enjoy the trails and pathways of Downtown Columbia and the surrounding neighborhoods, as our Office of Transportation once again joins the Downtown Columbia Partnership to host the bi-annual BikeAround Downtown, September 23rd and 24th. 

This year’s new course will start off at Color Burst Park in Downtown Columbia, roll across the 29 multi-use bridge, explore Oakland Mills, Blandair Regional Park and the new protected bike facilities on Oakland Mills Road, before winding back to Color Burst Park. This little more than six-mile course is perfect for the family or novice cyclists, as well as our expert riders.

The weekend will include a Block Party celebration on Sunday, September 24th in the Merriweather District from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Our Office of Transportation and others will be on hand to help you learn how to make cycling a bigger part of your transportation, fitness and recreation routines. Be sure to register in advance for this FREE event to secure yourself a BikeAround shirt. Participants can ride the course to or from the Block Party, but it will be open and marked from 9:00 a.m. Saturday morning to 6:00 p.m. Sunday evening. 

Also, new this year, there will be a family ride led by none other than Priscilla the Bike Dog and her League of American Bicyclist-certified instructor human on Sunday, September 24th at 11:00 a.m. 

To learn more about this year’s event, including to register for free, click HERE.