Dear Friends,

As hospitals across the state and country combat long wait times and overcrowding, our urgent cares are available. I encourage residents to consider visiting one of our phenomenal urgent care facilities for non-life-threatening health emergencies, when your primary care physician is unavailable.

Please see a listing of urgent cares in Howard County.

Breaking Walls

We've embarked on a new chapter in Howard County's commitment to mental health with the groundbreaking of the Behavioral Health Unit expansion at the Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center.

Joined by Dr. Shafeeq Ahmed this past Tuesday, December 5th, we celebrated the start of construction on a state-of-the-art 24-bed facility that will enhance our capacity to provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. This expansion is more than just a building, it's a beacon of hope and a promise of support for our community members in need.

Access to Health Care

Everyone should have access to health care, and that’s what makes organizations like Healthcare Access Maryland incredibly vital to our community. I had a great time stopping by the Open Enrollment Community Resource Fair in partnership with our Local Children’s Board in North Laurel. 

Through our continued partnerships, we will continue to ensure that all our residents have affordable access to health care. Together, we can create a safe and healthy community for current and future generations.

Achieving Greatness

Every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, to dream big and to turn those dreams into reality. That's why we are dedicating resources, programs and support to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed. I had a great time joining our aspirational young leaders at the annual Alpha Achievers Youth Leadership Conference at Hammond High School. 

From enhancing our educational systems to supporting innovative youth programs like the Alpha Achievers, we are ensuring that every child in our county has access to quality education and mentorship. It's not just an investment in their future; it's an investment in the future of our entire community. Thank you to Brother Bond and Brother Nelson for hosting this inspirational conference to empower our next generation of leaders.

15 Years of Sweetness 

For 15 years, Marcia and Oh, What a Cake! have been providing our community with mouth-watering custom-made cupcakes, wedding cakes, brownies, cake pops, cookies and more. A Wilde Lake High School graduate, Marcia combines her passion for baking with serving our community delicious goodies. This past Saturday, December 9th, Oh, What a Cake! celebrated its 15th anniversary. Congratulations to Marcia and her whole Oh, What a Cake! team. I wish you the absolute best and ongoing success! 

Shop with a Cop

Every year, our Howard County Police Department (HCPD) volunteers to help our kids in need get a special gift for the holidays. I had a great time joining Chief Greg Der and Howard County Police Officers Association President Jamie Flynn for the annual Shop with a Cop event. The holidays can sometimes be hard for our neighbors who may be struggling in silence. This annual event gives an opportunity for our families to have a bright and merry holiday season. Thank you to our entire HCPD team for hosting this wonderful event.

Allow Me to Reintroduce Myself

It has been my honor to serve as our 2023 Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) President. From Western Maryland to the Eastern Shore, from Southern Maryland, and the Capital region to Central Maryland, our great state is home to so many dedicated and committed public servants who constantly work to make our community a better place for all, regardless of political affiliation or background. 

Our local and regional partnerships remain critical as we continue to travel on the road to excellence, through the eye of the storm. MACo has been and will continue to be the force of bipartisan organizing on behalf of every one of us. Because of our continued collaboration, across this great state, we can face any challenge and embrace the hope on the horizon. 

To the entire MACo team – thank you! It is because of you that we are able to make incredible progress for all our residents and neighbors. I am deeply grateful for your confidence and support of me as your 2023 MACo President. Allow me to reintroduce myself as your 2024 MACo Past President. I know that my dear friend Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski will continue to carry the torch forward and lead the way as your 2024 MACo President.

Online Crime and Traffic Dashboards Launched

In case you missed it, the Howard County Police Department (HCPD) and I recently announced the launch of two new innovative online interactive dashboards to provide the public with updated information about crime reports and reportable traffic stops in alignment with our ongoing commitment to transparency and public safety.

The crime reports dashboard offers searchable options by types of crime, zip codes, time frames, police beats and Columbia villages. Users can easily query the crime report data most relevant or important to their areas, in various formats. The dashboard includes crime reports beginning in 2022, when the FBI revised its mandatory Uniform Crime Reporting procedures. Due to these federal changes, the dashboard cautions users not to compare the new dashboard data to years prior to 2022 for side-by-side comparisons.

Beginning with 2023 data and updated regularly, the traffic stop dashboard includes certain types of violations determined by the state of Maryland, called “reportable stops.” These are interactions with drivers in which factors like race, gender, searches, citations and reason for stop can be obtained. By Maryland law, “reportable traffic stops” do not include checkpoints or roadblocks, radar or laser stops, or the use of license plate reader technology. In these situations, the above-described factors are unknown at the time of the stop.

A Day of Remembrance

This past Thursday, December 7th, we stood in solemn remembrance of the lives lost 82 years ago on December 7, 1941, a day that has lived in infamy and shaped the course of our nation's history. On this Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, let us pause to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

We reflect on the resilience and unity that emerged from the ashes of that tragic day. As your County Executive, I am reminded of the strength found in our unity and the importance of coming together to protect and cherish our shared values and freedoms.

Let us reaffirm our commitment to remembering our past, honoring our veterans, and ensuring that future generations know the cost of peace. To all who served and continue to serve, we owe a debt that can never fully be repaid.

We remember. We honor. We are grateful.

Chag Sameach!

As many of our families gather to light the first candle on the menorah this evening, let us reflect on the enduring message of Hanukkah: the triumph of light over darkness, and of hope over despair. This Festival of Lights is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the steadfast commitment to faith and tradition. 

May the glow from the menorah fill your homes with warmth, your hearts with joy, and your community with the light of unity and peace. To everyone in Howard County and beyond celebrating Hanukkah, I wish you a holiday filled with happiness and love. 

Chag Sameach!

Can I Kick It?

Take a bold step towards a healthier life. Our Howard County Health Department (HCHD) is dedicated to supporting you on your journey to quit smoking or vaping. We understand the challenges that come with this life-changing decision, and we're here to help every step of the way.

We're proud to offer comprehensive assistance to anyone who lives, works or studies in our county. This includes access to FREE nicotine replacement products to help ease your transition and FREE educational resources to empower you with knowledge. It's never too late to make a change for the better. 

Take your first step towards a smoke-free life today by visiting HCHD’s “Tobacco Prevention and Control” website to learn more. Together, let's move forward.

Perfection

Named the ‘Best Places to Raise a Family’ and ‘Best Places to Live in the U.S.,’ and recognized as one of the Best U.S. Cities for Jobs, Safest Cities in America, Happiest Cities in America, Best Cities for People Living with Disabilities and Best City for Summer Jobs, it is no surprise that Columbia has been recognized by the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) as one of its ‘All-Star’ cities, scoring a perfect 100 on HRC’s 2023 Municipal Equality Index scorecard.

In Columbia and in Howard County, we remain dedicated towards building a more inclusive world for our LGBTQ+ residents, where they feel supported, safe, seen, and respected. Since taking office, our team has worked tirelessly to ensure that every member of our community can be their true selves and celebrate who they are. I am truly honored that we have earned this designation for two consecutive years, it is a testament to our collective commitment to cherish and uplift every individual in our community and builds on our continued efforts to support all our residents, no matter who they love.

The Light

Join me, the Jewish Federation of Howard County and our Howard County community for a heartwarming Chanukah Candle Lighting. This special event will take place this Wednesday, December 13th, at 5:00 p.m. at our Harriet Tubman Cultural Center. Together, we'll light the menorah, share in the joy of the season and celebrate the strength and resilience that Chanukah represents.

Let's gather to enjoy this festive time, reflect on the rich cultural traditions of Howard County, and spread the light of unity and peace. Bring your family and friends for an evening filled with warmth and community spirit.

Please Know, You Are Not Alone

As we embrace the holiday season, with its crisp air and festive spirit, we must also be mindful that it can be a time of heightened emotional stress for many. Here in Howard County, our commitment to mental health and suicide awareness is steadfast, particularly during these winter months when support is most crucial.

In the spirit of the season, let’s extend our warmth to those who may be struggling. Resources like the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 are always available. 

Together, as a community, we can offer a beacon of hope and togetherness, ensuring everyone knows they are not alone and that their well-being is our collective priority.

Be Healthy

The Howard County Health Department wants YOU to find healthcare coverage for 2024! Dr. Homayara Aziz from the Howard County Women's Commission and a board-certified ObGyn at Aziz ObGyn highlights the importance of health insurance for women's wellness and preventive care.

During the Maryland Health Connection’s health coverage open enrollment period, now thru January 15, 2024, I encourage you to visit the Howard County Health Department at 8930 Stanford Boulevard in Columbia daily between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for personalized assistance. Or call 410-313-5845 to explore your options for necessary health services, including annual well visits and screenings. 

Don't miss out on the care you deserve!

Let There Be Light

It was a truly magical evening at the Bollman Bridge and Savage Community Tree Lighting ceremony. It was a joy to join our Savage community in celebrating this special tradition, especially as we marked the 10th anniversary of the lighting of the historic Bollman Bridge. 

Crowning this year's Cheermeister, Karsyn Rae Johnson from Bollman Bridge Elementary School, was a highlight of the night. It was fantastic to listen to the carols of the Hammond High School band as we lit the Community Christmas Tree.

Thank you to Savage Mill and the Savage Community Association for hosting these incredible community events. These lights symbolize hope and the bright future ahead for our community. The spirit of the season was truly alive in Savage, with vibrant local businesses contributing to the festive atmosphere.

Van Hollen Visits

It was great to welcome U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen to Howard County to discuss the critical policies and issues affecting Howard County. We kicked off his visit with a roundtable discussion on efforts to improve housing affordability and stability through our HOME initiative and more.

Following a discussion on the status of our comprehensive EC Safe and Sound plan, we joined Maryland Senator Katie Fry Hester, Maryland Delegate Courtney Watson and Howard County Council member Liz Walsh to tour the progress being made in Ellicott City to ensure our town is safe and sound for the next 250 years and beyond. We ended the tour at the Bauder Education Center in Columbia to learn firsthand of the efforts to increase opportunities for our youngest learners with our fantastic partners at the Community Action Council of Howard County, Inc.

With Senator Van Hollen's insights and advocacy, we're poised to bring meaningful progress and enhancements to our residents. Together, we will ensure all our residents have the best quality of life.

Going to the Olympics

Earlier last week, I had the pleasure of joining the new Olympic Indoor Sports opening in Columbia with their owner, Chandra Sabbavarpu. This new recreation center will help make sports and fitness even more fun by offering classes for the whole family. 

Their classes vary from baseball, softball, cricket, and much more. And if you are already a pro, you can use their facilities to play field hockey or box lacrosse or use one of their 14 batting cages. I’m always glad to see new businesses opening up that encourage health and wellness, especially in an enjoyable way. Be sure to check them out!

You can learn more about them at their website at www.olympicindoorsports.com. 

Protect Flu-self

As we observed National Influenza Vaccination Week this past week, I encouraged everyone to remember our collective responsibility to safeguard health in Howard County. Now, more than ever, it's crucial to protect ourselves and our loved ones against COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Vaccinations remain our strongest defense – they're lifesavers and vital in preventing the spread of these illnesses.

For detailed information on vaccination locations and schedules, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/health/seasonal-flu. By choosing to get vaccinated this week, you're not just protecting yourself; you're playing a crucial role in safeguarding our entire community.

Spreading the Magic

It's that joyous time of year again! 

Our annual Toys for Tots distribution is underway, and I'm excited to join Major Pete Smith to call upon the generous hearts of our neighbors to bring smiles to the faces of our children this holiday season.



Families in need of support this holiday season, please contact your school's Pupil Personnel Worker (PPW) to register for the Toys for Tots program or sign up at https://aatft.formstack.com/forms/ifrformhoward2023.

Tree-riffic Holiday Season

Join us for our annual Community Tree Decorating in Elkridge this Thursday, December 14th. This is the perfect opportunity for families of all ages to join our County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, Department of Recreation & Parks, and the Howard County Library System to decorate community trees for all to enjoy. Decorations will be provided.

Following the holidays, these trees will be planted at Rockburn Park, so residents and visitors can enjoy them for years to come. Let’s continue to spread positivity, light, and cheer today, and throughout the holiday season!

Join My Team!

My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.

• Technical Services Support Specialist I - Technology and Communications, Radio Division – Performs intermediate technical level technology and communication services work under regular supervision from a technical superior. Work may include assisting in television production work; providing graphic arts, printing and reproduction services; installing, repairing and maintaining radio, telephone, data and related electronic equipment; performing entry level desktop or GIS support functions; or operating computers and peripheral on-line components of the data processing system.
• Therapeutic Recreation Aquatics Operator - Recreation & Parks – Under the supervision of the Recreation Manager and the Therapeutic Recreation Supervisors, the Pool Operator will operate all aspects of the swimming lesson, open swim and Water Exercise and aquatic program at the Cedar Lane Therapy Pool.
• Sports Supervisor - (Recreation Services Coordinator II) - Recreation & Parks, Bureau of Recreation – This position performs professional level recreation services work, which may include supervision, under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes overseeing the safe and efficient operation of activities at school and department recreational facilities, parks and private recreational facilities; or overseeing the operation of programs in specific functional areas under the direction of a recreation supervisor. Assists in analyzing marketing data for program promotion and customer service. Work also includes the supervision of contingent, part-time staff and volunteers; overseeing the approved budget; and preparing information for recreation supervisor for seasonal and fiscal reports.
• Career Coach - Office of Workforce Development - The position coordinates career exploration resources, identifies and collaborates with partners to develop career exploration activities and administers these activities in the middle and high schools.
• Safety Analyst - (Administrative Analyst II) - County Administration, Risk Management and Safety – Responsible for implementation of the County-wide safety program and compliance with federal and State of Maryland safety and occupational health mandates, regulations and requirements. This position is also responsible for related training and loss control initiatives for all County operations.
• Assistant Facility Manager - (Recreation Services Coordinator II) - Belmont Manor & Historic Park – Assist with the management, coordination and supervision of Belmont Manor and Historic Park and The Waverly properties. As needed, attends industry related events with General Manger to enhance properties exposure as premier event venues, networks with professionals, build positive business relationships.
• Sports League Staff - Officials – The Recreation & Parks Department Flag Football League Staff performs entry level work in supporting the operation of a sports league or program and does related work as required. An employee in this position handles fundamental assignments and skills to help ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable atmosphere for all sports participants. The employee works directly with participants in a variety of age groups, skill levels, and programs. Work is subject to detailed instructions, established routines, and/or standardized practices and procedures.

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

Applicants Sought for Advisory Board on Consumer Protection

Our Advisory Board on Consumer Protection plays a vital role in addressing new scams and consumer issues and needs, as well as protecting our Howard County consumers. If you or someone you know who is interested in this important work and who has worked with or is currently employed by a consumer interest group or organization, I encourage you to apply today to join this board and support its efforts to improve consumer protection services here in Howard County.

To learn more about the Board, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, click HERE today. Please keep in mind, the deadline to apply is this Friday, December 15th.

Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day 

December 21st marks not only the first day of winter and longest night of the year, but also Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day. This Thursday, December 21st, I invite you to join our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office of Community Partnerships (OCP) and the Howard County Coalition to End Homelessness to honor and remember those who have passed away while homeless or have had a history of homelessness. This memorial event will take place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Oakland Mills Interfaith Center at 5885 Robert Oliver Place in Columbia. To attend, visit https://2023HChomelessmemorial.eventbrite.com today to register. 

For those who are not able to join us but still wish to remember those lost, this event will be livestreamed. For questions and/or more information, please contact Cara Baumgartner at 410-313-6211.  

Offering Free Family Workshops 

Now available, DCRS’s Office of Children and Families’ (OCF) December issue of its Parent Pages newsletter. This month’s issue features a plethora of free family workshops, including “Una Guía Para Padres Sobre Comportamientos Desafiantes” on Wednesday, December 13th at 7:00 p.m. and “Navigating your Child’s Mental Health Journey” on Monday, December 18th at 7:00 p.m. The mission of these workshops is to assist parents and guardians in their parenting role by providing education that enhances caregiver skills, knowledge and behavior with a vision for all children to start life with a strong foundation.

To learn more about these free family workshops and/or to register, visit OCF’s website.

HoCo Community Chat Drops December Episode

For this month’s December episode of DCRS’s HoCo Community Chat podcast, Director Jackie Scott is joined by OCP Administrator Rose Burton, Department of Housing and Community Development Director and Coalition to End Homelessness Board Chair Kelly Cimino and Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center Executive Director and Coalition to End Homelessness Board member Dr. Marianna Izraelson to discuss homelessness in Howard County. I encourage you to tune in this month, especially as we approach winter and commemorate Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day on December 21st, to learn more about this problem that members of our community sadly face and the resources available to help those in need.

Be sure to stay tuned on Buzzsprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, and if there is something specific you want to hear discussed, email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov. 

Support the Howard County Diaper Project and Help Howard County Families in Need

Did you know that one in three families in America struggles to afford diapers for their children? No family should have to choose between paying for food or clean diapers. 

Help give local parents peace of mind this holiday season by donating today to this year’s Diaper Drive. Hosted by OCF and the Community Action Council of Howard County, Inc., every dollar contributed to the Howard County Diaper Project will go toward purchasing diapers and wipes to distribute to low-income families in need. Donate today by clicking here.

For questions and/or more information about the drive, contact OCF at 410-313-2273 or email children@howardcountymd.gov. 

Final Medicare Presentation this Week 

To assist Howard County Medicare beneficiaries of any age decide on, review or switch their health coverage, DCRS’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) team is here to help. Whether you are new to Medicare or have had it for some time, our trained staff and Certified Medicare Counselors provide free, unbiased assistance for questions and concerns. This Thursday, December 14th, SHIP will host its last educational Medicare presentation remotely via WebEx, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. To register to participate, call 410-313-7392.

Office of Community Sustainability

Partnership Offers Residents Free Home Energy Efficiency Upgrades 

Thanks to a partnership between our Office of Community Sustainability (OCS) and Civic Works, a community-based nonprofit, Howard County residents (homeowners and renters) are eligible for a free home energy efficiency checkup. Interested residents can receive free energy efficiency upgrades such as LED light bulbs, an advanced power strip, faucet aerators, low-flow showerheads, hot water pipe insulation and even a smart thermostat. Income eligible residents may also qualify for Civic Works’ free whole-house weatherization services, in addition to their free energy efficiency checkup. 

This partnership seeks to bring energy savings to Howard County residents while reducing environmental impacts and improving home health.

To schedule your complimentary home visit from a Civic Works energy advisor, visit https://energyprograms.civicworks.com/free-quick-installs/ to sign-up today.

Online Dashboard Moves Howard County Climate Action Forward

OCS has launched a new information and tracking platform, the “Climate Forward Dashboard,” for local climate issues. The dashboard reflects our commitment to keeping the community informed about our progress in implementing the “Howard County Climate Forward: Climate Action and Resiliency Plan,” launched this past June. 

Our new dashboard allows residents to track County efforts in the four main mitigation areas: energy, transportation, waste and nature-based solutions, as well as our climate resiliency efforts in the areas of emergency management, infrastructure, water and ecosystem services. 

In addition to tracking the County’s progress toward our climate change mitigation and resiliency goals, Howard County residents can also use the Climate Forward Dashboard to learn more about small (and large) steps they too can take in their own lives to fight climate change.

Office of Emergency Management

Winter Storm Warning, Winter Storm Watch and Winter Weather Advisory, Do You Know the Difference?

With the first day of winter less than two weeks away, our Office of Emergency Management is offering up this winter weather reminder about the difference between a Winter Storm Warning, Winter Storm Watch and Winter Weather Advisory. 

A Winter Storm Warning is used when heaving snow, heavy freezing or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring.

A Winter Storm Watch issued when there is a potential for significant and hazardous winter weather within 48 hours.

A Winter Weather Advisory is issued for snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle or sleet which will cause significant inconveniences, but not serious enough to warrant a warning.

To learn more about these U.S. National Weather Service thresholds, click HERE.

Department of Fire and Rescue Services

Keep that Water Level Constantly Above the Cut

Whether you’ve already decorated or are just starting to put up your holiday decorations, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is reminding residents to water your Christmas tree DAILY. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2017 and 2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 150 home fires that started with Christmas trees per year. While Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are much more likely to be serious. Protect your family and property this holiday, with these Christmas Tree Safety tips.

When the Christmas is over, or your tree is dry, be sure to recycle it through our Bureau of Environmental Services’ Merry Mulch program. Be sure to stay tuned to www.howardcountymd.gov/merrymulch for details about the Bureau’s 2023-2024 Merry Mulch season.

Child Toy Safety Tips

A great safety reminder about toys and gifts from DFRS to help keep your family safe this holiday season: 

• Be sure to pay attention to age recommendations on toy labels;
• Pick toys that suit your child's interests and skills;
• Keep toys with small parts out of reach for children under three; and 
• Remember to provide safety gear like helmets for riding toys and ensure kids always use them.

Howard County Health Department

Community Flu Vaccine Clinics

It's nearly winter and that means it's respiratory virus season. To help, the Howard County Health Department (HCHD) is once again offering its free seasonal flu shot clinics. For a list of upcoming flu clinic dates and registration information, visit HCHD's Seasonal Flu webpage today. Individuals can also call 410-313-6284 for registration assistance.

Department of Housing and Community Development

Proposals Sought for Transformative Homeownership and Neighborhood Initiatives

As I recently announced, our Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is currently accepting proposals for the second round of funding for its Housing Opportunities Trust Fund (HOTF). Through this Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), DHCD is seeking innovative proposals from community partners for homeownership and neighborhood initiatives, as well as rehabilitation and multifamily rental housing projects, that are bold and impactful to help address the County’s affordable housing needs and gaps.

Earlier this year, I presented the first round of HOTF awards for transformational homeownership and rental initiatives, allocating $5 million in my Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 budget. The largest award of $1.6 million was presented to Patuxent Commons to create brand new, energy efficient rental housing units that will be affordable and accessible for families, older adults and persons with disabilities in our community. 

With twice as much allotted in my FY 2024 budget for HOTF, this second round of applications further emphasizes our commitment to provide resources for residents of all income levels to be able to live, work, play and thrive in Howard County. I encourage those who have fresh, new ideas to help address housing affordability in our community to bring those ideas forward with this application.

Office of Human Rights and Equity

A Celebration of Kwanzaa

As the holidays continue, I’d like to invite you, your family and friends to join our Office of Human Rights and Equity and myself at our annual Kwanzaa celebration on Wednesday, December 27th at 5:30 p.m. at our Harriet Tubman Cultural Center. Come immerse yourself in the rich traditions and cultural significance of Kwanzaa, as we come together to honor African American heritage and values. Experience the warmth as we gather to light the Kinara and explore the Seven Principles and Seven Symbols of Kwanzaa.

To register to attend this FREE event, click HERE today.

Department of Planning and Zoning

Route 1 Tax Credit Program

Our Department of Planning and Zoning is accepting applications for this year’s Route 1 Tax Credit program! If you own a commercial or industrial property on the Route 1 Corridor, you may be eligible to receive up to $100,000 of tax credit for qualified façade and landscape improvements visible from the Corridor area. Eligible improvements include building façade upgrades, new signage, exterior painting and lighting, screening and landscaping, and other options. 

For more information or to apply, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.

Police Department

Staying Safe on the Roads and Shopping this Holiday Season

Throughout this holiday season, HCPD will be working to ensure your safety on the roads, at shopping centers and malls, and in your neighborhoods. While our officers will be doing all that they can to keep you safe, here are some tips and best practices on how you too can stay vigilant and safe on the roads and when shopping (whether in-person or online) this season. 

Remember: 

• When shopping, travel with a group or in pairs, and schedule shopping trips during the day.
• Stay alert, especially when carrying packages or walking on a parking lot or in a garage.
• Avoid carrying too many packages, and leave one hand free to access keys or a phone quickly.
• Park in a well-lit parking space, and select an area where there are other cars and foot traffic.
• Don’t leave cell phones, purses or other valuables in a parked car – especially in plain view.
• When loading packages into the car, use the trunk instead of the back seat.
• Beware of strangers approaching you unsolicited. Walk in another direction if you feel uncomfortable.
• When the holidays are over, don’t put boxes for electronics or valuables in plain view on recycling day, break them down first.

When shopping online, remember these tips from HCPD to protect yourself from online scammers and “porch pirates”:

• Only shop on secure, reputable websites. Beware of deals that seem too good to be true on websites you do not recognize. Also be cautious when opening unfamiliar e-mails advertising deals as they may be phishing attempts. 
• Once your purchases are made, track shipments and request to receive notification when they are delivered. Request that the delivery service leave the package in a less-obvious location, like a side or back door, that cannot be seen from the sidewalk.
• If you are not home when the package arrives, ask a trusted neighbor to take the package inside until you get home. Or, if permitted, have the shipment delivered to your work. 
• Consider installing a doorbell camera to be notified whenever someone comes to your door.

Finally, as always, report suspicious activity in your neighborhood to HCPD by calling 911 or the non-emergency number at 410-313-2200. Your one call could help your neighbors from being victimized.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

How to Recycle Holiday Lights

Not sure what to do with those broken or working holidays lights that just you don't want anymore? Check out these quick tips from our Department of Public Works' Bureau of Environmental Services about how to donate your working holiday lights and how to recycle your broken strands through these drop-off and mail-in programs. 

Please keep in mind, holiday lights should NOT be placed in your curbside recycling as these "tanglers" get wrapped around recycling equipment and jam the screens at the processor.

Transfer Station Closure Alert

Starting next Monday, December 11th through Saturday, December 16th, the Transfer Station at our Alpha Ridge Landfill in Marriottsville will be CLOSED for scheduled maintenance. The closure will affect all traffic headed to the Transfer Station, including:

• All commercial trash and construction debris;
• All residential construction debris; and
• All box trucks and trailers of residential trash.

Any vehicles bound for the Transfer Station will be instructed by Landfill staff on where to proceed for unloading. Visitors are asked to please follow all verbal and posted instructions from staff. While Landfill staff will do their best to ease the flow of traffic, visitors should plan for the possible longer than usual wait times. 

All other Landfill operations, including the Residents’ Convenience Center and Wood Waste Area, will be unaffected

We thank you for your cooperation as we work to improve our Landfill's future operations.

Bureau of Utilities

Cryptosporidium Update

An independent, certified water quality laboratory has once again confirmed that there is no detection of Cryptosporidium in the County's drinking water samples. The County's Department of Public Works (DPW) will continue to conduct weekly testing of our public water system to confirm the quality of our water through December. 

For the most up-to-date information regarding this matter, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Cryptosporidium. 

Public Works Construction Report

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

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

Department of Recreation and Parks

What to Do When Schools are Closed 

With the holidays fast approaching, our Department of Recreation & Parks is here to help with its School's Out programming days to make sure you don't get caught off guard when schools close early or are closed this month. From Circus Camp to Medical Me, Art Workshops at Pinot's Palette, Drama Workshops with the Drama Learning Center, Abrakadoodle, Winter Mix, Learn Now Music, Magnus Chess Academy, STEM, Club SciKidz, Stemtree and more, there are plenty of activities and programs to choose from to keep your kids active when school is not in session. 

To learn more about what fun Recreation & Parks activities has planned this month, click on the following dates (December 13th, December 26th, December 27th, December 28th, December 29th and Winter Break Full Week activities: December 26th through December 29th). 

Get Chilly With it at Frozen Fest 

Come get your chill on with Recreation & Parks’ Robinson Nature Center staff this weekend, December 16th and December 17th, as it hosts it annual Frozen Fest. Set to take place each day from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., come help decorate a life-sized gingerbread house, investigate frozen experiments, learn about winter constellations in the planetarium, create tracks in the snow, see an outdoor puppet show and embark on a winter walk through the woods. Following all the frozen fun, participants are invited to come warm up by the fire while they roast a marshmallow and enjoy other winter-friendly fun. 

Finally, between 10:00 a.m. and noon each day, there will be a photo opportunity with snow globe Santa. 

Preregistration is recommended and all children must be accompanied by a registered adult. The cost to participate is $7 for Robinson Nature Center members and $10 for nonmembers. Children under two are free. To learn more about this frozen spectacular, check out our Frozen Fest event page.  

Climbing with Santa 

Help Santa get ready to shimmy down the chimney as he completes his final workout before Christmas, as he makes a special appearance at our Roger Carter Community Center on Friday, December 22nd from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

Participants will rotate through stations, including photos with Olaf and the Grinch (be sure to bring your own camera), a Christmas craft and snack and hot cocoa, before joining Santa for a fun game on the climbing wall (all climbers will stay under five feet traversing the wall; no ropes will be used). 

This program is intended for children ages five to 10 years old. The cost to participant is $7 per child, which will be collected at check-in. Preregistration is required to attend.

Playground Closure Notice

Starting today, December 11th through next Monday, December 18th, the playground at Schooley Mill Park in Highland will be CLOSED for maintenance. Weather permitting, the playground is expected to reopen next Tuesday, December 19th. We thank you in advance for your cooperation. 

During this time, we encourage residents and visitors to check out one of our many other playgrounds; for a list, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/recreation-parks/parks-playgrounds-trails.

Winter Activity Guide Now Available

Howard County residents, online, in-person, mail-in and over-the-phone registration is now open for you for Recreation & Parks’ 2024 Winter Activity Guide! With hundreds of great programs, activities and events to choose from, there is something for everyone to help chase those winter blues away. 

For out-of-county residents, online registration for you begins next Wednesday, December 13th at 6:00 p.m., with in-person, over-the-phone and mail-in beginning the following day at 8:00 a.m.

All Aboard the Holiday Train Garden!

This holiday season, I invite each and everyone of you to stop by our Department of Recreation & Parks’ Baltimore and Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum to enjoy train models set up throughout the museum, including the year-round exhibit in the Freight House. Geared towards all ages, all are sure to love this annual holiday tradition. 

To learn more about our Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum, including its hours of operations, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/ecborail.