Dear Friends,

A valuable tool in our efforts to fight climate change, our Feed the Green Bin curbside food scraps program has diverted more than 3,000 tons of food scraps from households since its launch in 2013. Last year alone, we recaptured more than 400 tons of organic waste. Here in Howard County, we understand that small actions to reduce our environmental footprint make a big difference. That is why I recently announced the expansion of our Feed the Green program.

The expansion includes 6,330 homes in the following areas: King’s Contrivance, Cherry Tree Park, Emerson, Hammond Village, Hunters Creek Farm, Jamestown Landing, North Laurel, Reservoir Overlook, Twin Oaks, Warfields Range, Wellington Farm and Wincopia Farms. In the coming weeks, residents in the newly covered areas will be receiving a postcard in the mail with instruction on how to sign-up to participate. Those who do, will receive their green bin during the week of November 13th. 

Organic waste makes up roughly 30 percent of our local solid waste stream. Diversion of food waste from decomposition in landfills reduces methane emissions, which have 25 times the global warming impactful of carbon dioxide. To learn more about the County’s Feed the Green Bin program and how you can help make a difference in protecting our environment, click HERE today.

The Capital for a Day

I greatly enjoyed welcoming Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, and their entire cabinet to Howard County.

It was a wonderful opportunity to host them alongside President Willis at Howard Community College, Howard County Economic Development Authority CEO Jennifer Jones at the Maryland Innovation Center, Community Action Council of Howard County President Tracy Broccolino and our partners throughout our community.

It was also special to tour Ellicott City and discuss our partnership in progressing our Ellicott City Safe and Sound plan to ensure our historic town can, and will, prosper for another 250 years and beyond!

From our innovative businesses and critical infrastructure projects, to our investment in education and entrepreneurship, we are grateful to have the support of the Moore/Miller administration and their phenomenal team. I’d like to give a special thanks to our dedicated HCC culinary students who prepared a delightful breakfast and helped us ensure that together, we left no pastry behind.

Bringing in the New Year

In celebration of Rosh Hashana last week, I'd like to extend my warmest wishes for a wonderful new year. May this time of reflection, renewal, and hope bring blessings, joy, and a year filled with promise.

The sound of the shofar is not just a call to introspection for those observing, but a universal reminder of the cyclical nature of life, the importance of new beginnings, and the bonds that tie us all together.

May you and your families be inscribed and sealed for a good year, filled with health, happiness, and peace. Shana Tova!

Expanding Innovation Opportunities

Howard County Economic Development Authority’s (EDA) Agricultural Marketing Program is dedicated to guiding you in securing grants and financing to kick-start or diversify your agricultural venture. Grant applications can be challenging, but remember, with teamwork and a thorough review of your business plan, we enhance our chances of success.

Our Howard County Agricultural Grant for Innovation and Expansion (AGIE) is tailored for our local agricultural producers. This opportunity can fund anywhere from $1,000 to $20,000, aiding in areas such as R&D and infrastructure. Applications run from August through June and completed applications are due by June 15th and should be emailed to kljohnson@hceda.org. To learn more about the AGIE and/or to apply, check out EDA’s Grants & Financing website. 

You Are Not Forgotten

It’s been 44 years since we first commemorated POW/MIA Recognition Day, and the message is still the same – You Are Not Forgotten. 

On September 15th, we honor America’s prisoners of war, those still missing in action and their families. On every POW/MIA Recognition Day since 1982, its flag has flown just below the stars and stripes at the White House – the only other flag to ever do so. 

To our POWs who made it home, we thank and ask you to stay on top of your benefits, as they change often. To learn more, visit our Office of Veterans and Military Families’ website or contact that office at 410-313-0821 or email veterans@howardcountymd.gov for assistance.

Every 40 Seconds …

In moments of profound emotional distress, always remember that it's courageous to voice your feelings. Engaging in an open and empathetic conversation can be the bridge to understanding and healing. As we observe Suicide Awareness Month, I want every member of our Howard County community to know that you are surrounded by care and support. For immediate assistance, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, available around the clock, at 988.

mes de la Herencia Hispana

September 15th marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month – a time to celebrate the Latino community's profound contributions, rich histories and diverse cultures. Established in 1968, this national commemoration continues to be a significant moment of reflection and celebration. The theme for this year is “Building Prosperous and Healthy Communities.” Howard County is honored to be home to over 25,000 Latino residents. Throughout the month, we will highlight Latino businesses, celebrate organizations, and host a festival in their honor. We deeply value the enduring contributions of our Latino community that enrich our county.

Quince de Septiembre marca el comienzo del Mes de la Herencia Hispana, un momento para celebrar las profundas contribuciones, las ricas historias y las diversas culturas de la comunidad latina. Establecida en 1968, esta conmemoración nacional sigue siendo un momento significativo de reflexión y celebración. El tema de este año es "Construyendo comunidades prósperas y saludables". Howard County tiene el honor de ser la residencia para más de 25,000 residentes latinos. A lo largo del mes, destacaremos a los negocios latinos, celebraremos organizaciones y organizaremos un festival en su honor. Valoramos profundamente las contribuciones duraderas de nuestra comunidad latina que enriquecen nuestro condado.

Planning Howard

It was a pleasure to open the Fall 2023 session of PlanHoward Academy at Howard Community College. This award-winning initiative, recognized by the National Association of Counties in 2019, empowers residents to understand the intricacies of our county's land development process, fostering a culture of active civic engagement. More than 160 residents have already immersed themselves in this educational journey, and as we delve into the planning stages of "HoCo By Design" — our blueprint for the next 20 years — we look forward to even more residents joining the conversation. 

I'd like to express my gratitude to Howard Community College for their unwavering support and to our Planning and Zoning staff for sharing their expertise. To our current academy participants, I eagerly anticipate the insights and contributions you will bring to our community's future. Together, we're charting the path for a prosperous Howard County.

Commissioners Unite

I had the privilege of joining our remarkable commissions at the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center with our award-winning Office of Human Rights and Equity. The energy, commitment and leadership on display was palpable. I was inspired to hear the pressing matters concerning Howard County residents and see how our commissions plan to address them collectively. 

From our longstanding Human Rights and MLK Commissions to the inaugural La Alianza, LGBTQIA+, and AAPI Commissions – it's clear that together, we're stronger. Thank you to all our commissioners for your service, for dedicating your time, treasure and talent. Because of all of you, we are a thriving Howard County. Special thanks to Yolanda Sonnier for steering the ship and to our incredible team members who ensure our community's voices are heard.

A Balanced Framework

Infrastructure in Howard County supports the daily needs of the community and the delivery of essential services. To ensure that sustainable funding sources are available to address the County’s ongoing infrastructure needs, Howard County’s next General Plan, HoCo By Design, prioritizes maintenance projects in the County's Capital Improvement Program, which directly funds these projects.

Ellen Flynn Giles, citizen member of the Howard County Spending Affordability Advisory Committee, says, “the plan provides a balanced and responsible framework for our County’s finances and infrastructure.”

Read more about the plan here: www.hocobydesign.com.

Accessible and Inclusive Park for All

I'm excited to unveil the newly renovated, inclusive playground at Warfield Pond Park in Glenwood. This modern space replaces a 25-year-old playground and is designed for residents of all abilities. It features swings, accessible merry-go-rounds, an interactive communication board, musical elements, and a unique rubber surface.  

With upgrades extending beyond the playground—including improved walkways, ADA-friendly tennis court access, and more—this project showcases our dedication to accessible and inclusive recreation for all.

How You Can Help

Struggling with emotional pain can be isolating. If someone you know is grappling with despair, depression, or thoughts of self-harm, you may wonder how to provide support. Interestingly, a recent poll suggests most Americans acknowledge that suicide can be prevented, and they'd actively assist someone they know is vulnerable. However, the fear of making things worse hampers our efforts. Dr. Doreen Marshall, Vice President of Programs at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, highlights that you don't need professional expertise to provide aid.

I’ll Dink to That

In our ongoing commitment to enhancing recreational opportunities, I'm delighted to open eight new pickleball courts at Western Regional Park, representing the largest pickleball installation in Howard County history. These courts and the community's enthusiasm solidify our county's dedication to fostering health, camaraderie, and fun. 

A special acknowledgment goes to the Howard County Pickleball Association. Their growing membership of over 1,000 residents showcases the sport's rising appeal. Thank you for your continued support in making Howard County a vibrant hub for recreation.

There’s No Place Like Home

I was pleased to join Home Skincare and Wellness as they celebrate their first year of business in Howard County! As a woman-owned business, they take great pride in being located at the Lisbon Warfield house, which has a long history of independent woman ownership and entrepreneurship. From skincare and acupuncture to sound bath meditation and yoga classes, Home Skincare and Wellness helps rejuvenate all who visit. The first Saturday of every month features $5 community yoga, and they will host a community wellness expo on Saturday, October 21st, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

To learn more about them at https://homeskincareandwellness.com.

A Beacon of Beauty and Wellness

I was delighted to join Heather Zade and the dedicated team at the grand opening of Adora Aesthetics in Clarksville. This cutting-edge facility, tucked away in the sustainable Clarksville Commons, spans a comprehensive suite of beauty and rejuvenation treatments. With Heather's recognition as one of the Top 100 injectors in the U.S. and her commitment to natural beauty enhancement, Adora Aesthetics will be a beacon of beauty and wellness in our region. 

Congratulations, and I wish you continued growth and success! Learn more at https://adoraaestheticsmd.com.

A Vibrant Future for All

Once each decade, Howard County updates its General Plan, a long-range, visionary document that guides land use, growth and development decisions. The HoCo By Design General Plan forges a collective vision for our future based on a comprehensive approach to community engagement that seeks to hear from every voice in the County—including numerous community organizations, interest groups, government boards and commissions, and the general public. 

Jackie Eng, Housing Affordability Coalition Coordinator, believes “strong collaboration between all sectors of the community... will be key to achieving a vibrant future for all Howard County residents.” 

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

Family Freedom Festival

It was a pleasure to join the Maryland Department Veterans of Foreign Ward and Auxiliary in welcoming National president Carla Martinez and celebrating its first Family Freedom Festival. Our veterans’ organizations are tremendous partners in our community and champions of our veteran servicemembers who have sacrificed and protected us. This event highlights our outstanding community efforts that support our past service members and a new generation interested in giving to others.

Thank you to the Yingling-Ridgley VFW and Auxiliary Post 7472 for hosting this incredible event. Let us continue to thank those in service, those who have served, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to guarantee our freedoms of today.

A Pace Above the Rest

It was an honor to support our Howard County Police Department and Howard County Police Foundation at our Annual Police Pace. For years, the Foundation has funded scholarships for Howard County students, police employees, and the children of our police department employees. Together, we are creating safer communities through inclusive outreach and comprehensive investments in public safety.

As we continue to honor our public safety officials for their courage and determination to serve, please join me in giving them our thanks for all they do for our residents, neighbors and visitors to ensure that we are safe and feel safe.

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 III - Performs advance level technical work under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes maintaining the patching and installation of software on desktop computers and laptops through the use of Microsoft technologies as well as maintenance and administration of software used at a county wide level. 
• Technical Services Support Specialist IV - Serves as the liaison for technology related issues with the Department of Finance. This position develops and maintains the Department’s databases, reports and queries. The position plans, directs, maintains, and administers cloud-based and software applications; and also coordinates hardware for the Department of Finance. This position troubleshoots issues and assists in the creation of workflows for system processes. 
• Public Works Safety Manager - Responsible for implementation of the Department of Public Works safety program, OSHA compliance, training, and enforcement of safety practices that’s regulated by Federal, State, and County regulations.
• 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.
• Specialized Class Instructor - Teen Programs – to teach, organize and supervise an instructional class in a specific area of expertise, including creative and dramatic arts, dance, movement, cooking and general children’s recreational classes.

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

• 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 this Friday, September 22nd. 

Age-Friendly Ecosystem Summit

Join our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Age-Friendly Howard County for the 2023 Age-Friendly Ecosystem Summit. Hosted by George Washington University’s School of Nursing, Aging-Friendly Howard County will be presenting at this year’s virtual summit, which features four sessions from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on September 26th and 27th and October 3rd and 4th. Each session focuses on a theme that cuts across all age-friendly domains: ageism, inclusivity, communications and creativity. Speakers will present their age-friendly initiatives through the lens of the session theme.

To learn more about the summit and how to participate, click HERE. 

An age-friendly community is safe and secure, has affordable and appropriate housing and transportation options, and offers supportive community features and services.  The Age-Friendly Howard County initiative seeks to create a livable community where everyone feels safer, welcomed and engaged. To learn more about Howard County’s Aging-Friendly Action Plan, click HERE. 

Vendors and Sponsors Sought for Inaugural Veteran Owned Small Biz Expo 

DCRS's 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. 

Office of Emergency Management

Nationwide Emergency Alert Test Set for October 4th 

On Wednesday, October 4th at 2:20 p.m., FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will be conducting a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). This national test will help ensure that the WEA and EAS continue to be effective ways to warn the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level.

The WEA portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones and will be initiated using FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), a centralized internet-based system administered by FEMA that enables authorities to send authenticated emergency messages to the public through multiple communications networks. The test message will display in either English (“THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”) or in Español (“ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”), depending on the language settings on your cell phone. If your cell phone is on and within range of an active cell tower from a participating wireless provider, you should receive the national test. Wireless providers will transmit the national test for 30 minutes, but your phone should only receive it once.

The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. 

To learn more about this national test, click HERE.

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

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 this 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 tomorrow, 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 this 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 next 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

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. on Thursday, September 21st, to hear the following agenda item:

• PB 457/SDP-23-026 – Patuxent Owner LP: Request to construct a four-story, 76-unit apartment building and associated improvements. This plan is a Housing Commission Housing Development project and processed pursuant to Section 128.0.J of the Zoning Regulations.

To register to testify, click HERE. Registration must be completed prior to 7:00 pm the night (September 20, 2023) 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 citizens, 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.

Police Department

Help is Here

On a recent morning, PFC England and Officers Omesh, Amaya and Ely responded to a nine-story parking garage in Columbia and found a man hanging off the ledge of the top floor. They quickly ran to him, grabbed him and pulled him to safety. Thanks to their quick response, bravery and exemplary work, these four were able to save a life and prevent a terrible tragedy from taking place. GREAT JOB all!

If you, or someone you know is in a crisis, please call or text 9-8-8, the 24/7 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

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 next Friday, September 29th. 

Department of Public Works

Plumtree Branch Stream Restoration Public Meeting

Howard County Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Stormwater Management Division will hold a public meeting on Thursday, September 28th at 7:00 p.m., in Linden Hall at 4765 Dorsey Hall Drive in Ellicott City, to hear community feedback on the Dunloggin-Plumtree Branch stream project located behind Dunloggin Middle School. The meeting will include a brief overview of the current project design, followed by an opportunity for the public to provide comments. 

County staff and representatives of an independent third-party environmental design/construction firm will hear public input. Based on community input and a review the project’s current design, the firm will provide guidance to the County on how it can further tailor the project to reduce impacts to the existing environmental conditions while pursuing the objectives of stream stabilization and downstream nutrient reduction.

Those unable to attend the meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Mark Richmond with DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-6413 or email msrichmond@howardcountymd.gov.

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 a new school year underway, our Recreation & Parks team 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, Junior Sports, or Sports and Swim, there are plenty of activities and programs to choose from to keep your kids active when school is not in session. Click on the following dates to find out what fun activities Recreation & Parks has planned next Monday, September 25th and Monday, October 9th. 

Happy Birthday Robinson Nature Center 

Come help us celebrate our Robinson Nature Center’s 12th birthday with an Anniversary Open House event this Sunday, September 24th from noon to 5:00 p.m. See what's new, including updates to the Nature Center’s Discovery Room, additions to its Nature Place outdoor play area and more. During this FREE event, participants will also have the opportunity to meet animals, get their face or hand painted, see an outdoor puppet show or planetarium show (limited seating), and enjoy an array of other fun activities. 

Parking is limited onsite, so the Nature Center will be offering attendees complimentary shuttle service to and from the event’s off-site parking location at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory on Sanner Road. 

To learn more about this Anniversary Open House event, click HERE or call the Robinson Nature Center at 410-313-0400.

Splashpad Closing Soon 

HEADS UP! While the splashpad at Roger Carter Community Center will remain open through the end of this month (splashpad hours of operation are: Monday through Friday, noon to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. and 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.), it is set to close for the season the first week of October and will reopen in the spring. 

To learn more about the Roger Carter Community Center, click HERE.  

Office of Transportation

Car Free Day

This 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, this weekend, 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.