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Dear Friends,
As part of our Housing Opportunities Meant for Everyone (HOME) initiative, Howard County, in collaboration with Bridges to Housing Stability, is now offering a helping hand to families and students within the Howard County Public School System who face the challenges of homelessness.
The new Family Home Start Program provides housing assistance and creates pathways to stable housing for families through a security deposit guarantee, first month’s rental subsidy, housing search resources and case management support. This essential program is a commitment from our county to provide not just temporary relief, but a foundation for long-term stability. By offering security deposit and rental assistance, we're taking a significant step towards ensuring that our students and their families have the stable housing they need to thrive.
For more information and to apply for this crucial assistance, I encourage you to visit https://bridges2hs.org/family-home-start/.
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Now Hiring, Election Judges
Are you ready to make a difference in our democratic process? Howard County is looking for Election Judges, and this could be your chance to contribute! As an Election Judge, you get the unique opportunity to be directly involved in the election process, and get paid for your efforts.
If you're 16 or older and a registered voter in Maryland, you're eligible to become an Election Judge. We're looking for people who are ready for a rewarding 15-hour day, can work outside their home precinct, are able to sit and stand for extended periods, and have proficiency in English. Some positions may require lifting items weighing between 10 to 25 lbs.
Sign up today and be a part of this crucial democratic process! Learn more at http://tinyurl.com/ElectionJudge24.
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Year of the Dragon
Lunar New Year is special time of renewal as we celebrate harmony, good fortune, and our incredible diversity.
We kicked off our Lunar New Year Celebration at the Mall in Columbia and showcased the beautiful cultures and vibrant heritage of our community.
Through celebrations like these, we are demonstrating our efforts to cherish and embrace our differences. Special thank you to every person who helped us blaze into the Year of the Dragon.
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Be an Ambassador!
Our new Community Ambassador program launched at our Harriet Tubman Cultural Center. When we created the pilot of program a couple years ago, I was excited to see the care and compassion of our neighbors to help ensure all our residents thrive. Our community ambassadors will be at the forefront of these efforts. Special thanks to our amazing partners from the Police Department, Department of Fire and Rescue Services, and Sheriff’s Office for hosting the first session on Safety.
I know that our new ambassadors will help ensure that our community remains safe and engaged. It’s not too late to join this cohort! If you have a kind and positive attitude and want to make a positive difference, I encourage you to join them for their next session on Housing and Human Services at 6:00 p.m. on February 21st at the East Columbia Branch Library.
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A Call for Peace
After careful review of the feedback received from our community, I sent a letter to President Biden urging him to use his position and influence to secure an immediate ceasefire and the immediate release of all remaining hostages and political prisoners in the war in Israel-Gaza. I am deeply appreciative of every person who provided thoughtful feedback during this deliberative process.
Full text of the letter can be read HERE.
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A Historical Community Leader
During Black History Month, we uplift the exceptional community partners who work tirelessly to make Howard County a great place to grow and thrive. One such leader is none other than, Dr. Daria Willis. She is the phenomenal president of Howard Community College and is the first Black person to serve in the role. This month she is celebrating two years of leading our college and has made a positive impact in the lives of numerous students and families.
Especially during this month, when we’re celebrating history and culture, it is most fitting to celebrate Dr. Willis and her ongoing commitment to fostering belonging and success among the student body. Under her leadership, I know HCC will continue to be a model for our state and nation. This Black History Month, please join me in celebrating, Dr. Daria Willis.
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Energizing Local Businesses
I was thrilled to join our local small business owners to celebrate the continuing partnership between Howard County and BGE. Just this past October, 30 Howard County businesses received a total of $600,000 in the second round of grants through BGE’s Energizing Small Business Grant program. To date, nearly 90 Howard County small businesses have received grants totaling more than $1.7M since the launch of this program in 2021.
During the event, BGE’s CEO and President, Carim Khouzami, announced they are extending the grant program this year. We are grateful for BGE’s investment into our community!
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Little People, BIG DREAMS
I had a wonderful time stopping by Swansfield Elementary School for its annual Black History Month Read-In. Ms. Reymann’s class was so engaged as we read Amanda Gorman's Little People, BIG DREAMS, in which we explored the incredible life of the esteemed poet that led her to performing at the inauguration of President Biden. Thank you to Ms. Reymann, Ms. Wilkins, Principal Esposito, and the entire Swan community for having such a wonderful celebration.
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The Countdown is On
T-minus 24 days and counting till we are celebrating the grand opening of the long-awaited, state-of-the-art East Columbia 50+ Center. This transformational project represents Howard County's commitment to provide the best services and facilities that will benefit our older adults and our entire community. Together, we will continue our efforts to ensure people of all ages can thrive.
Watch this sneak peak of this fantastic facility!
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Bringing the HEAT!
I recently stopped by a Howard County Heat game to congratulate the team for winning the Orlando Championship for the second year in a row. This team is comprised of members from our Department of Fire and Rescue Services and the Howard County Police Department. Please, join me in congratulating them on their efforts and for their commitment to serving our community.
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Join My Team!
My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.
I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.
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You Are Not A-Loan
Powered by Howard County Economic Development Authority’s (HCEDA) and part of Maryland’s Video Lottery Terminal Small, Minority and Woman-Owned Business Account initiative, the Catalyst Fund is locally managed source of capital used to finance start-ups and expanding businesses statewide whose projects will create permanent jobs and leverage private sector investment. Loan funds can be used for normal business uses such as working capital, equipment, real estate, franchise fees and inventory purchases, and loan amounts vary pending availability of funds.
If you are a growth-oriented business in the pre-banking stage and are interested in learning more about the Catalyst Fund Loan program, visit https://hceda.org/business-support/catalyst-loans/.
Also, HCEDA is now also offering it Collateral Assistance Fund to Howard County businesses. This fund assists companies in satisfying the collateral requirement to secure a catalyst loan.
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What’s Open and Closed this Presidents’ Day
Howard County Government offices, 50+ centers, courts and animal shelter will be closed next Monday, February 19th in observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday. There will be regular Monday trash, recycling and food scrap curbside collections on the 19th, and the Alpha Ridge Landfill will be open.
County parks, the Gary J. Arthur, North Laurel and Roger Carter Community Centers, Cedar Lane and Schooley Mill Park Activity Rooms, Meadowbrook Athletic Complex, Kiwanis-Wallas Hall and the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center will be open on the 19th. However, the Robinson Nature Center, Belmont Manor & Historic Park, Firehouse Museum, Patapsco Female Institute and the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum will be closed. All historic sites in Ellicott City, except the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum, are closed for weekend tours until the first weekend in May.
The Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) will operate on a regular weekday schedule on the 19th; for more information on RTA, call 1-800-270-9553 or visit www.transitrta.com. All parking regulations and fees will be in effect on February 19th.
The 9-1-1 Center, Police and Fire departments remain staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For emergencies, call 9-1-1; for non-emergencies, call 410-313-2200.
County operations will resume on Tuesday, February 20th at regular business hours.
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Department of Community Resources and Services | |
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Black History Month and Romance Scams
In recognition of Black History Month, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Director Jackie Scott is joined by Harriet Tubman Foundation of Howard County President Bessie Bordenave and Howard County’s Harriet Tubman Cultural Center Director Kori Jones for this month’s HoCo Community Chat podcast episode to discuss the importance of Black History and why it should be celebrated all year round, not just in February.
In addition, Director Scott wraps up this month’s podcast with Office of Consumer Protection Investigator Lila Boor and Center for Elder Justice and Education Founder and President Andre Lingham to discuss romance scams and their prevalence during the Valentine's Day season.
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.
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Here to Support our Caregivers
This Friday, February 16th is National Caregivers Day and I encourage you to take some time out of your day to recognize and thank the incredible caregivers in your life and in our community.
Despite their selfless commitment to loved ones, caregivers often face numerous challenges and uncertainties. To empower our caregivers so they are able to navigate their caregiver journey confidently, DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) has partnered with Trualta. Trualta offers on-demand assistance to caregivers tailored to their needs, with resources ranging from educational modules to personalized coaching and access to a supportive community. To learn more about how Trualta can support you or someone you care about, visit https://hococaregivers.trualta.com/ today.
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Winter Wellness Fitness Challenge Kicks off this February
Embark on a transformative journey with DCRS’s OAI this winter season by taking part in its FREE Winter Wellness Fitness Challenge. This eight-week fitness challenge – which runs now through March 28th at our 50+ Centers, offers participants a variety of fitness classes to join to meet a 16 workout goal. Beyond physical fitness, this challenge fosters a sense of community among older adults and provides a supportive environment to help participants prioritize their well-being this winter.
As we embrace the warmth of togetherness and vitality this season, I encourage you to join OAI for this enriching experience of connection, health and personal growth. To register, click HERE or for more information, call 410-313-1404 or email slively@howardcountymd.gov. You can also learn more about the challenge by checking out the latest issue of The 50+ Connection.
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2024 Parent’s Guide Now Available
DCRS’s Office of Children and Families’ (OCF) annual Parent’s Guide to Howard County offers parents, caregivers and others information about the most up-to-date resources and services available in our community to help all children grow and thrive. Inside the 2024 Parent’s Guide to Howard County, readers will find information about programs that support positive family engagement, including OCF’s new Family Support Center that serves Howard County families of children from birth to age five.
OCF has also released the February issue of its Parent Pages Newsletter. This monthly newsletter provides parents/guardians with a information regarding upcoming free workshops and programs geared towards them and their children. Workshops are offered in both English and Spanish and discuss topics ranging from “Discipline and Communication” to “Setting up your Child for Success in Kindergarten.”
For questions, more information about available service or if your family needs additional assistance and support, please contact OCF’s CARE Line at 410-313-2273 today.
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2024 Howard County Resource Guide Now Available
DCRS's OAI's annual Howard County Resource Guide contains up-to-date information about health and wellness, financial planning, legal services, housing options and more to help county residents age well and plan for their future. You can find OAI’s 2024 Howard County Resource Guide online or pick up a hard copy at one of OAI’s 50+ Centers and Howard County Library System branches.
| Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
OHRE Newsletter
Our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) offers a variety of virtual and in-person events and trainings each month. To keep up with all of its offerings, I encourage you to sign up for OHRE’s newsletter to stay in the know and learn more about its monthly programming, trainings, commissions and so much more.
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2024 Humanity Matters Conference
Mark your calendar and join OHRE on Monday, May 6th for its social justice conference, “Humanity Matters.” The conference will take place at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the 6th and will bring together human and civil rights professionals in government, education, non-profits and for-profit businesses.
The conference will feature panel discussions and various breakout sessions, as well as a keynote address by Chad Lassiter – Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission Executive Director and member of the Presidential Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans.
Through this conference, OHRE hopes each attendee will gain practical tools they can implement into their daily work, new connections they can tap into for collaboration and the inspiration to continue to innovate and produce substantive and transformational work.
The cost to participate is $125 per ticket and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. However, for groups interested in buying 10 or more tickets, please contact Dr. Denise Boston with OHRE at equity@howardcountymd.gov to inquire about the group rate discount. Please keep in mind, there will be no refunds for tickets purchased beginning March 15th.
To reserve your spot at this year’s Humanity Matters social justice conference, click HERE.
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Important OHRE Commission Public Meeting Dates
Under our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) are five Commissions committed to furthering human rights and equity throughout Howard County in their own very distinct capacities. Each month, these Commission’s host meetings, public hearings and/or retreats open to the public to discuss ongoing/upcoming matters, events, programs and so on. For dates, times and details regarding this month’s Commission meetings, please see below:
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Tuesday, February 13th, 5:30 p.m. – AAPI Commission meeting. To attend, email AAPI@howardcountymd.gov.
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Thursday, February 17th, 7:00 p.m. – Human Rights Commission monthly meeting. To attend, email HRC@howardcountymd.gov.
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Monday, March 4th, 5:30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 12th, 5:30 p.m. – Human Rights Commission Public Hearing regarding HRC Case No. 21-12-012 Rolonda Williams v. Stephanie Knarr, LLC, operating as Dr. Stephanie’s Relationship Repair Shop. To attend, email HRC@howardcountymd.gov.
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Thursday, March 14th, 6:30 p.m. – LGBTQIA+ Commission meeting. To attend, email LGBTQIA@howardcountymd.gov.
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Tuesday, March 19th, 6:15 p.m. – La Alianza Latina Commission monthly meeting. To attend, alianzalatina@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Planning and Zoning | |
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Planning Board Meeting
Our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Planning Board, will be holding a hybrid meeting, in person at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City and virtually via WebEx, starting at 7:00 p.m. this Thursday, February 15th, to hear the following agenda item:
To register to testify, click HERE. Registration must be completed prior to 7:00 pm the night (February 14, 2024) before the scheduled meeting to participate. If you do not wish to testify, but simply to watch the meeting, click HERE to watch.
A five-member board made up of Howard County residents, 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 certain 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.
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Share Your Feedback About the Future of Gateway
Stay in the know about DPZ’s Gateway Master Plan and share your voice! To view the January 25th Open House presentation and to share your thoughts in the Gateway comment form, open through tomorrow, February 13th, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/gateway! From this same page, you can also sign up to receive all future Gateway Master Plan update.
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Route 1 Tax Credit Program
DPZ 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: www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.
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Teen Defensive Driving Training Program is Back!
PARENTS and GUARDIANS of TEEN DRIVERS, registration is NOW OPEN for Howard County Police Department’s (HCPD) Collision Avoidance Training (C.A.T.) program’s 2024 calendar year. With classes lined up for March 16th, April 20th, May 11th, June 8th, July 27th, August 24th, September 21st, October 12th, November 2nd and December 14th and held at the County's James N. Robey Public Safety Training Center in Marriottsville, this program teaches participants how to better handle their vehicles in various situations through hands-on techniques. This defensive driving and vehicle control program is geared towards young drivers, age 16 to 20, and was developed by the National Traffic Safety Academy and adapted from law enforcement training.
To participate in this one-day course, drivers must possess a valid Maryland "Class C" driver’s license (no learner's permit) and have a registered vehicle to drive during the practical exercises. Howard County residency is NOT a requirement. The cost is $95 (scholarship opportunities are available) and advance registration is required. To register, click HERE.
For questions, more information about or to inquire about registering your teen driver, contact HCPD's C.A.T. program at 410-313-2207 or catprogram@howardcountymd.gov.
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SCAM ALERT
HCPD is warning residents of an ongoing phone scam in which the caller identifies themselves as being from HCPD or Howard County Sheriff's Office, uses the name of a REAL officer or deputy, and demands money for missed jury duty or an arrest warrant. THIS IS A SCAM! Neither HCPD nor the Sheriff's Office will ever demand payment over the phone.
If you receive this call, HANG UP immediately, DO NOT arrange payment and DO NOT give out any personal or financial information. If you believe you may have been a victim of a telephone scam ((shared personal or financial information), call police at 410-313-2200 or file an online police report at www.howardcountymd.gov/police/file-online-report.
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Department of Public Works | |
Bureau of Environmental Services | |
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Holiday Slide Schedule NOT in Effect Next Week
The County's Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Bureau of Environmental Services' holiday slide schedule will NOT be in effect next week, despite Monday’s Presidents’ Day holiday as Presidents’ Day is not one of the six holidays that affects curbside collection. Those six holidays are: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. There will be REGULAR Monday curbside trash, recycling and food scraps collection on Monday, February 19th.
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Special Household Hazardous Waste Days
While the Bureau of Environmental Services' regular Saturday Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) schedule is on hiatus until the first Saturday of April, the 6th, the Bureau is hosting three SPECIAL HHW collection days this winter at the Alpha Ridge Landfill. With the first two completed, the Bureau’s FINAL SPECAL HHW event will take place on Saturday, March 2nd On this day, Howard County residents can properly dispose of HHW items at the Landfill.
To learn more about this program and what is accepted/not accepted, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/HHW.
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Tips on How to Keep Pipes from Freezing as Temperatures Dip
With winter underway and below freezing temperatures already making themselves known, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities is offering residents tips on how to keep pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. These tips are especially important for water pipes located in a crawlspace or on an outside wall, or garage, attic or any other unheated building, which are subject to sub-freezing temperatures.
If your pipes do freeze, the Bureau recommends opening the cold-water faucet nearest the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. Then, use a gentle heat source, such as a light bulb or hair dryer, to thaw the pipe. DO NOT use an open flame.
To learn more, click HERE.
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Public Works Construction Report | |
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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.
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Department of Recreation and Parks | |
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Winter Scavenger Hunt
Come show off what you know about Howard County through our Department of Recreation & Parks’ winter scavenger hunt! Gather up a team of two to six individuals (adults and kids are welcome) to take part in this Amazing Race vibe adventure.
To participate, your team must register by noon next Friday, February 23rd to receive your scavenger hunt instructions and list of tasks to complete throughout the weekend. An awards ceremony will follow at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 2nd at Ledo Pizza in Clarksville.
The cost is $10 per team member. To learn more and/or to register, click HERE.
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Registration for Recreation & Parks’ Summer Camp Guide Begins this Week
Online, over-the-phone, mail-in and in-person registration for Recreation & Parks' 2024 Summer Camp Guide is now open for all! From art, chess, Lego, magic and sports camps, there is something to keep your child’s mind and body active during the summer months.
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What to Do When Schools are Closed
Recreation & Parks is always here to help when school’s are scheduled to dismiss early or scheduled to be closed with its School's Out programming days. From Circus Camp Stars with Michael Rosman, Learn Now Music, Club SciKidz, Magnus Chess Academy, Stemtree, Medical Me, Abrakadoodle, Squash, Sports and Swim, Drama Learning Center, Charm City Cakes Cooking 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 Monday, February 19th.
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Wine in the Woods
Be sure to mark your calendars as Recreation & Parks’ annual Wine in the Woods event is set to return to Symphony Woods by Merriweather Post Pavilion on May 18th and May 19th. Celebrating its 30th year, I invite you to come celebrate the charm and character of an event that has aged to perfection.
Tickets are set to go on sale in March, so be be sure to stay tuned to www.wineinthewoods.com to learn more and stay in the know about this always popular event.
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Transportation Open House Materials and Survey
If you missed our Office of Transportation’s first annual Transportation Open House this past week, but still want to view the materials discussed and complete the accompanying survey, visit HERE. On this page, visitors will find the materials presented at the previous Active Transportation and Transportation Priorities Open Houses, as well as additional information on topics including safety, Complete Streets, transit and regional planning, and roadway maintenance and operations.
Additionally, the accompanying survey offers visitors an opportunity to share their feedback and comments regarding the County's overall transportation priorities, approaches to solving common transportation challenges and specific projects with Transportation. This survey will help us develop our annual Transportation Priorities Letter that we send to the Maryland Department of Transportation each spring.
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Transportation Demand Management Plan
With the release of its updated Downtown Columbia Transportation Demand Management Plan (TDMP), Transportation and the Downtown Columbia Partnership are currently seeking your feedback on the plan, now through tomorrow, February 13th.
The initial plan was completed in July 2018 and an update was being drafted in the spring 2020; however, additional work since then was sought to incorporate changes that occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
To provide feedback on the TDMP, click HERE. To learn more about Transportation Demand Management (TDM) and the County’s TDM program, Go Howard, click HERE.
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Office of Workforce Development | |
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How to Navigate a Job Fair
Howard County youth aged 14 to 24 years old, I invite you to check out our Office of Workforce Development’s (OWD) “How to Navigate a Job Fair” event on Saturday, March 2nd to learn more about navigating the workforce and successfully securing employment. Set to take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Oakland Mills Middle School, this FREE event will teach participants how to:
- Navigate a job fair;
- Dress to land the job you want;
- Write a winning resume;
- Complete a job application and
- Enhance your interviewing skills.
As space limited, pre-registration is required for this event. To register for this upcoming event – a preparatory step and precursor for OWD’s upcoming Youth Opportunity Fair on April 6th, click HERE today.
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