Dear Friends,

I’m thrilled to announce the completion of more than 85 infrastructure projects and transportation enhancements, right in time for the school year.

From unveiling 20 new projects that include crosswalks, ADA ramps, sidewalks, pathways, and informative signage, to breathing new life into more than 65 existing crosswalks, our team at DPW and the Office of Transportation have been hard at work.

These improvements, particularly the Montgomery Road sidewalk project in Elkridge, resonate with our collective goal of creating an environment where our residents of all ages and abilities, can safely connect to schools, parks, neighborhoods, and key destinations across Howard County.

Let's Grow our Canopy

Planting a tree is one of the best things we can do to protect our environment and to combat the ongoing effects of climate change. Howard County Recreation and Parks created the Tree Canopy Program to improve tree planting in communities with lower tree canopy coverage.

By planting a tree, we are improving our living space by reducing excessive heat cause by concrete surfaces, reducing stormwater runoff and flooding, reducing air pollutants related to asthma, and more!

To learn more about how you can participate in this tree-mendous program, visit at www.howardcountymd.gov/natural-resources.

Hitting the Net

Through our innovative Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) initiative, Howard County is partnering with the Ellicott City Soccer Club to expand and grow their free soccer program for children with physical, intellectual and emotional disabilities. Through this program, students receive one-on-one mentoring and training as they participate in a safe and supportive soccer program led by adult and youth volunteer mentors.

The Ellicott City Soccer Club is currently enrolling youth and accepting volunteers for their Fall 2023 students. To learn more and register, please visit: https://ellicottcitysc.org/special-needs/.

Commemorating the March on Washington

Sixty years ago on August 28, 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke to millions of Americans and, honestly, the world, at the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. During the event, Dr. King declared that “now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” 

We continue to make significant progress in carrying our Dr. King’s vision, however, we still have work ahead to ensure equal justice, equal rights, and more opportunities for all. We must continue to work tirelessly to expand this vision so that our tomorrow can and will represent every person and every community. Together, in Howard County and across Maryland, we will continue our fight for jobs, freedom, and expanded opportunity to make Dr. King’s dream a reality.

If You Can’t Take the Heat, Stay Off the Ice

It was so much fun joining our Howard County Firefighters and Police Officers for the annual Howard County Heat Ice Hockey game! This was the first time the game returned following the COVID-19 pandemic, and this year’s benefit game supported the Howard County Heroes Fund. This fund provides financial assistance to career firefighters or their families who have experienced catastrophic injury or death in the line of duty, death through common accident or sickness, the significant illness of the firefighter or a member of his/her family, or a significant catastrophic loss. 

It was so great to see the friendly rivalry return. Huge congratulations to the Howard County Firefighters for winning the inaugural Howard Cup and thanks to all our first responders for their investment in the safety of our community.

The Hutt Company, Bringing More Than 30 Years’ Experience

Another impressive business that I had the chance to visit was Lou Hutt’s accounting and law firm, The Hutt Company. Lou founded these firms 25 years ago, and ever since they have seen enormous success. He provides financial management and advisory services to not only individuals, but also enterprises, with a special emphasis on regulatory and tax compliance in addition to financial oversight and risk management.

This earned him recognition from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which named Lou as the Accounting Advocate of the Year. We’re pleased that he’s made his home right here in Howard County. This Black Business Month, please join me in celebrating Lou and all of his and Hutt Company as a whole’s amazing accomplishments.  

To learn more about them, visit https://thehuttco.com. 

Gain Releaf

If yes, you may qualify to participate in our Stream Releaf program! Through its expansive Stream Releaf program, our Department of Recreation & Parks helps create and enhance riparian forest buffers to improve water quality and wildlife habitat throughout our county. Stream buffers help prevent bank erosion and dissipates the energy and friction of moving water.

Learn more about how you can gain releaf through this program at www.howardcountymd.gov/natural-resources.

Tree-nsform Your Property

Planting trees can help improve water quality by reducing stormwater runoff, intercepting and storing rain water, increasing infiltration through root systems, reducing soil erosion, and filtering pollutants. Through Recreation & Parks' Turf to Trees program, you can help alleviate the damaging effects of stormwater runoff by increasing tree coverage throughout our county.

Learn more about how you can tree-nsform your property at www.howardcountymd.gov/natural-resources.

A Commitment to Brotherhood

I had a wonderful time at the annual Cook Out with Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Tau Pi chapter! Their commitment to brotherhood and community support is truly remarkable. This event was a culmination of friendship being essential to the soul. Together, we're reaching our collective potential through these strong community partnerships. Thank you to all the Men of the Tau Pi Chapter for hosting another wonderful event!

More Supplies for Students in Need

Every year, Beyond the Badge Foundation collects backpacks and school supplies for our kids and families in need.

When these efforts first began, they had the goal of collecting 200 backpacks. This year, they not only had a goal of “3000 strong,” but surpassed this goal by collecting nearly 3,900 backpacks for students across Maryland.

This important initiative helps to build and strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and our community, by making a difference in the lives of those in need. I’m especially grateful for my good friend Howard County Police Department PFC Raymond Peele for leading this substantial effort, and all the volunteers who are helping to stuff these backpacks today.

Celebrating Women's Equality Day

On Women’s Equality Day (August 27th), we highlighted the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, while continuing our work to build a more equitable world for all, which must continue tomorrow, and every day.

Even though the 19th Amendment was ratified in 1920, many women of color were still unable to exercise their right to vote. These women rallied alongside white suffragists, but many women of color remained disenfranchised for years.

Women’s Equality Day reminds us of the hurdles overcome by the women who faced violence and discrimination in their efforts to continuously advance women’s rights. Today, we celebrate accomplishments and progress made over the last 100 years as we continue the work ahead to ensure that all women, of all backgrounds, have access to equal rights.

Howard County is a Doggone Fantastic Place for All!

We celebrated National Dog Day last week in Howard County! Together, we're 'pawsitively' making our community a 'barking' great place for our four-legged friends.

Let's 'raise the woof' and celebrate our furry friends who make our days brighter. Bear and I encourage you to keep 'barking' up the right tree, together!

Candles That Smell Good Enough to Eat

This month we have been celebrating that diligent work of some of our local Black entrepreneurs. One of those include our very own HoCo Higher graduate, Tahj Rivera Singh.

She started her food-themed candle business in 2002 and has since found growing success. Boasting over 100 sweet and decadent products to choose from, the candles are all soy based with a lovely fragrance. You can either by private label or wholesale. This Black Business Month, drop by and sniff out your favorite near the JCPenney in the mall.

Learn more at www.candelicioso.com

Tell us!

Together, we can make Howard County the best place to live, work, play, and grow for all. If you have suggestions for additional safety improvements or transportation projects, we encourage you to Tell HoCo.

Our team stands ready to review and act on your requests, ensuring that our roads and streets remain safe and interconnected throughout the county. Together, we shape our community. Learn more at howardcountymd.gov/tell-hoco

Intimidated as a First Time Home Buyer?

We are prioritizing expanding homeownership and wealth creation opportunities. Each month, our Howard County Department of Housing Community Development (DHCD) will offer a Homebuyer Education Workshop to promote more successful homeownership in Howard County. These classes provide a great opportunity to learn about local housing resources and help realize your vision of homeownership.

Classes include one 4-hour group workshop, as well as 2 hours of one-on-one counseling with a HUD-approved credit counselor. Registration is required to participate in these classes. To learn more and sign up, please visit https://www.howardcountymd.gov/housin.../homebuyer-education

Cut the Smoke--Quitting Is Possible

If you or someone you know is looking to quit smoking or vaping, support is readily available. The Howard County Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program provides a comprehensive and evidence-based cessation program in line with the renowned American Lung Association’s Freedom From Smoking Curriculum.

Not only can residents benefit from educational materials, but they also have the opportunity for a no-cost visit with a dedicated Nurse Practitioner.

During this visit, nicotine replacement therapies, including patches, lozenges, and gum, will be available to help with your journey towards a smoke-free life.

If you live, work, or study in Howard County, this is your chance to make that positive change. Reach out at 410-313-6265 and take that first step towards a healthier future. We are with you every step of the way.

Summer Produce Finds at Jenny's Market

As the summer season hits its height and families host the last summer BBQs and plan the last pool days, Jenny’s Market is an excellent place to get the season’s finest produce.

Residents can experience fresh fruits and vegetables and craft honey from Jenny’s Market in West Friendship. This family-owned market is a one-stop shop for all your needs, including flowers, home-canned relishes, pickles, and other local favorites.

I had a wonderful time visiting with their proud owner, Linda Heigh, and see first-hand their impressive shop. This Black Business Month I encourage you to pay them a visit! Learn more at jennysmarket.net

Who You Gonna Call?

Do you live in Howard County, need help, and are not sure who to ask?

Our team at Howard County Government remains committed to ensuring a responsive government. If you have questions or concerns, or are trying to access County services, but are not quite sure who to contact, email us at ask@howardcountymd.gov so we can assist you further.

Together, we'll ensure everyone has access to the best quality of life and resources available!

Calling all Howard County Businesses!

Howard County is home to more than 10,000 businesses, and each of them helps us foster the best quality of life for all.

If you are a local Howard County businesses, big or small, I encourage you to sign up to partake in our annual Business Appreciation Week celebration with Howard County Economic Development Authority.

I encourage all businesses to take this opportunity to share your stories and experiences by signing up for an appointment.

Learn more by visiting here.

Celebrating Howard County's Poets

Howard County is home to a vibrant and diverse literary scene that celebrates and uplifts the creative works of so many local authors and poets.

For National Poets Day, we celebrated the accomplished local poets that have shared their works with our community and the world.

Earlier this year, I was honored to join our literary community as we commemorated local author and former Poet Laureate of Maryland, Lucille Clifton, by naming three streets in Downtown Columbia after her works.

Let’s continue to honor and recognize the incredible poets who have shared the beauty and meaning of poetry with our community.

Sweet Success in Howard County

August is National Black Business Month and I’m so glad that I got to visit one of the sweetest business owners in Howard County, Marcia Thibodo, the proud owner of Oh, What A Cake! in Dobbin. The bakery specializes in custom cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and uniquely flavored brownies, all served with love and a smile.

Marcia and her team can provide a sweet treat after work or a delicious wedding cake to celebrate. We’re so proud of all our business in Howard County, but especially those that nourish our sweet tooths. This month please join me in celebrating Marcia by dropping by Oh! What a Cake.

For more info on how to place an order, check out her website at ohwhatacake.com

All Aboard the TRAIN Commission

I was honored to be sworn in to serve on the Maryland Commission on Transportation Revenue and Infrastructure Needs (TRAIN). The Commission will be at the forefront of conversations on transportation policy and funding, helping to lead Maryland into the future.

As President of the Maryland Association of Counties and its representative on the Commission, I’m meeting with local leaders across our state and have seen first-hand that our transportation needs are regional and cross county borders. I look forward to collaborating with Governor Wes Moore, Secretary Wiedefeld, our State Delegation, and the entire TRAIN Commission to make this Maryland’s decade of transformational transportation opportunities.

Join My Team!

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

• Administrative Analyst II - County Administration, Risk Management - the 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.
• Deputy HR Administrator (Administrative Manager) - County Administration - Office of Human Resources - The deputy to the Human Resources Administrator assists with carrying out strategic priorities. The position is expected to develop well-designed and innovative programs to attract and retain a talented workforce and to implement County-wide initiatives and policies that reflect best practices and promote a workplace of excellence.
• Social Worker, MSWC - (Human Services Specialist III) - Circuit Court, Family Services - This is professional social work position for the Circuit Court. The social worker will triage family law cases for determination of appropriate case management in family law case, including children in need of assistance (CINA) cases, termination of parental rights (TPR) cases, guardianships, and adoptions. Additionally, the social worker will conduct investigations/evaluations, document review, crisis interventions and other work as directed in all family law case types. The position performs intermediate professional level human services work, which may include supervisory responsibility, under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior.
• Before and After School Programs: Teachers, Aides, and Directors – Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks is currently seeking energetic, talented, active and positive staff for its Before and After School Child Care Programs located throughout the county at local elementary schools. Work hours are 7:00 to 9:30 a.m. and/or 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. It is preferable that potential candidates be available for morning AND afternoon shifts; however, if unable, candidates must be available every morning OR afternoon for program consistency.

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

Let Us Help You LIFT Up Your Small Business

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

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

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

Innovating with EDA

• Thursday, August 31st, 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. – Understanding Product Development: From Idea to Market Launch: Physical product development requires large investments. Understanding the process, possible pitfalls and defining the requirements early in the process will help improve chances for success. A Maryland product development expert will share his experience and detail the steps taken to make an idea into a manufacturable product. Bring your idea, problems and be ready for an interactive discussion.
• Wednesday, September 6th, noon to 1:00 p.m. – Creating a Well-Designed Retirement Plan For Your Small Business: Join us as we look at a case study of a solopreneur with $200,000 in revenue and how a well-designed retirement plan helped him minimize taxes and get on the path to early retirement. Learn how these tools can help you prepare for retirement as well.
• Thursday, September 14th, 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. – Creating the Blueprint – Workplace Wellness for the Entrepreneur: This seminar will equip entrepreneurs and those who are self-employed with the tools to care for themselves while building their dreams. Participants will learn concrete, yet simplistic tools for health on the go (with an option for more advanced techniques outside of the seminar). Attendees will walk away with tools to help with stress management, health on the go, assurance versus insurance, relaxation and seated movement techniques, and ways to use aromatherapy and plants to support their day-to-day lifestyles.
• Tuesday, September 19th, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. – Driving Revenue: Leveraging Technology to Capture Clients: This five-week series (held Tuesdays, September 19th through October 17th) is structured to have each session build on the previous session to accelerate results. At the end of the program, participants will have a Sales Operations plan specific to their company and offering.
• Thursday, September 21st, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. – 2023 End of Summer Bash: Early bird tickets are now on sale for the Maryland Innovation Center's End of Summer Bash at Merriweather Lakehouse! You can purchase your early bird tickets by September 8th. Ticket sales close September 20th.
• Thursday, October 5, 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. 

Labor Day Holiday Closings

Howard County Government offices, courts, animal shelter, 50+ centers and the Alpha Ridge Landfill will be closed in observance of the Labor Day holiday next Monday, September 4th. As there will be no Monday curbside trash, recycling, yard trim or food scrap collection on Labor Day, the County’s holiday "slide” schedule will be in effect for the remainder of the week.

While county parks and the Roger Carter Community Center (note, the center closes at 5:00 p.m., and the pool at 4:30 p.m.) will be open on the 4th, the County’s Department of Recreation & Parks’ Cedar Lane and Schooley Mill Activity Rooms, Gary J. Arthur and North Laurel Community Centers, Kiwanis-Wallas Hall, Meadowbrook Athletic Complex, Robinson Nature Center, county historic sites and the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center will be closed on Labor Day. 

The Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) will operate on a “Sunday” schedule on the 4th. For more information on RTA, call 1-800-270-9553 or visit www.transitrta.com. All Howard County parking regulations and fees will be in effect on Labor Day. 

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, please call 410-313-2200.

County operations will resume on Tuesday, September 5th at regular business hours.

Vendors and Sponsors Sought for Fall Veteran Owned Small Biz Expo 

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

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

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

Nominate a Veterans Day Parade Grand Marshal

With the start of fall fast approaching, DCRS’s OVMF is seeking Grand Marshal nominations for this year’s Howard County Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony. 

The Grand Marshal is an honorary title bestowed upon an individual who represents the values and moral fiber of what it means to be a member of our Howard County community of veterans and military families. The Grand Marshal will be recognized at the parade and lakefront ceremony and will participate in the parade itself, whenever possible, riding or walking with the Grand Marshal float.

If you know of someone who you think is fitting of the Grand Marshal role and emulates this year’s parade theme, “Veterans Serving Veterans,” I encourage you to nominate them today! The deadline to submit your nomination and supporting documents is Friday, September 8th. 

The year’s Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony will take place on Sunday, November 12th, starting at 9:30 a.m. in Downtown Columbia.

HoCo Community Chat en Espanol Drops First Episode

Hosted by Cris Oviedo, producer and talent of the podcast Conectados, DCRS hosted its first HoCo HoCo Community Chat en español this month.

DCRS's chats en español mirror the topics of the English version of DCRS’s podcast by engaging our Hispanic residents and partners in great conversations on how to life their best lives in Howard County.

This month, Oviedo and guest, Montgomery County Consumer Protection Investigator Michelle Escobar, talked about scams and consumer protection.

You can check out DCRS’s monthly HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, and if there is something specific you want to hear, I encourage you to email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov.

Howard County Health Department

Accepting Grant Applications for Tobacco Use Prevention Projects

The Howard County Health Department is seeking to fund faith-based organizations and community-based organizations to reach populations identified as having a known health disparity related to tobacco/vape use, diabetes and chronic disease, and to advance health equity efforts. Applications are due by this Friday, September 1, 2023.

For more information and/ore to apply, visit: www.howardcountymd.gov/health/tobacco-and-chronic-disease-grant. 

Office of Human Rights and Equity

Reading Human Rights – The Other Americans by Laila Lalami

Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) and Howard County Library System (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.

For its August book discussion – to be held in person at HCLS's East Columbia branch tomorrow, August 29th at 6:30 p.m., OHRE will discuss Laila Lalami’s The Other Americans. The Other Americans is a family saga, a murder mystery and love story informed by the treacherous fault lines of American culture. Lalami’s book explores the lives of characters deeply divided by race, religion, and class.

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

Meet Me at Equality

In addition to its “Unleashing the Activist Within” training, OHRE will also celebrate the March on Washington’s 60th anniversary this August with a screening of Dr. James Rada’s documentary, Meet Me at Equality: The People’s March on Washington. Scheduled to take place this Thursday, August 31st at 6:30 p.m. at HCLS’s Miller branch, Meet Me at Equality: The People’s March on Washington explores the history of the civil rights movement and the struggle for equality. Through personal interviews and historical footage, the film features the courageous actions of historians and elders who were activists who fought for equal rights and attended the famous March on Washington.

Following the screening, OHRE will lead a thought-provoking discussion, where participants will learn more about the challenges and triumphs of those who continue to work to create a more inclusive and equitable community nationwide. 

To register to participate in this enlightening and educational event, click HERE.

Nominees Sought for Human Rights Commission’s 2023 Awards

If you know an individual or community organization who has made significant contributions to human and civil rights in Howard County, I encourage you to nominate them today for our Human Rights Commission's 2023 James E. Henson, Sr. and Jean W. Toomer Individual, Dr. Murray Simon Student and Colette Roberts Organization awards. To learn more about these awards and/or for a nomination form, visit HERE. The nomination deadline is this Thursday, August 31st at 5:00 p.m.

Department of Planning and Zoning

Every Voice, One Vision

HoCo By Design, Howard County’s General Plan update, sets priorities and informs many of the County's future decisions for land use, transportation, agriculture, facilities, housing, and economic development.

The Plan incorporates an equity lens and identifies various policies and actions to facilitate a more equitable future for all.

HoCo By Design highlights values, policies, and initiatives that continue strengthening Howard County’s position as a self-sustaining, diverse employment center for the region.

The Plan encourages a healthy jobs-housing balance and opportunities for growth through mixed-use activity centers. It also supports our industrial sector, modern agriculture, job diversity, and enhanced access to employment training and education, with ongoing investment in small businesses and local business districts.

To learn more, visit www.hocobydesign.com. To read the graphic summary, click HERE.

Police Department

SCAM ALERT!

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

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

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

Keep Our Kids Safe this School Year, Drive Smart

With the 2023-2024 school year now underway, HCPD is working hard to ensure children, parents and teachers all arrive safely. Through its annual back-to-school initiative known as H.A.S.T.E. (Helping Arriving Students Through Enforcement), HCPD officers will focus on enforcing driver and pedestrian safety in school zones. Read the full news release here.

For the first three weeks of the school year, increased traffic patrols will be in place on roadways surrounding elementary, middle and high schools. Officers will focus on drivers who are speeding, failing to stop for pedestrians or driving distracted in those areas. They will also be checking for seat belt and child safety seat use to ensure all occupants are properly restrained.

HCPD is also reminding all drivers that buses serving the Howard County Public School System have been outfitted with external cameras. Launched last school year, HCPD’s External School Bus Camera program aims to ensure student safety by discouraging motorists from passing buses illegally. The state of Maryland’s fine for illegally passing a school bus is $250.

Additionally, HCPD’s Speed Camera Program is designed to encourage drivers to slow down in school zones and has fines set at $40. The cameras are rotated among various school zones in the county, which are posted in advance and updated every week on the program’s website. 

Finally, all HCPD crossing guards have been outfitted with new lighted stop signs in an effort to improve visibility and the safety of students and guards. The signs were funded by fines collected through HCPD’s Automated Enforcement programs.

HCPD will continue to conduct traffic safety education and enforcement efforts throughout the school year.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Holiday Slide Schedule in Effect Week of Labor Day

As a quick reminder, remember, there will be NO curbside trash, recycling, yard trim or food scraps collection on Monday, September 4th. Due to the Labor Day holiday, the County's holiday "slide" schedule will be in effect that week, with collection taking place one day later that week. That is, Monday collection will slide and be picked up on Tuesday, Tuesday on Wednesday and so forth. Additionally, while bulk item collection will slide with trash collection, scrap metal collection will remain as scheduled and will not slide. To ensure collection, all items should be placed out by no later than 6:00 a.m. on your collection day.

For more information about the County’s holiday “slide” schedule, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/holidayschedule. 

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

Set Your Alarms, Our Annual Tree Giveaway is Back! 

With 2,600 trees available this year, our annual tree giveaway is set to return next Tuesday, September 5th. Like last year, Howard County residents will have two chances to snag themselves a free tree, with the first half going at 2:00 p.m. and the second half at 7:00 p.m. Residents are reminded that these trees go fast, so please be sure to sign up immediately at this time.  

To learn more about these year’s tree giveaway, click HERE (scroll to “Annual Tree Giveaway” under “Forestry”). As noted on the page, tree pick-up locations and dates remain to be determined for 2023. However, there will be at least one weekday and one weekend pick-up date for residents to choose from, and Recreation & Parks hopes to add hourly pickup time slots this year to avoid traffic and congestion at pickup locations.

If you missed last year’s tree giveaway and would like to receive notifications prior to this year’s giveaway, please sign up HERE for notification.

Back to School 

With today being the first day of school, it’s not too early to start thinking about extracurricular activities for your children.

The team at Recreation and Parks knows that school and work schedules don’t always match up. That’s why they offer so many great before-and-after-school options throughout the year. Be sure to see what’s offered at your child’s school HERE.  

Robinson’s Rainbows Kick Off Night 

If you love the outdoors and making new friends, I invite you to join our Robinson Nature Center on September 8th as its Rainbows outdoor group kicks off the news school year with its first-ever evening drop-off program. Geared to children aged seven to 14 years old, come join members of our LGBTQ+ community for an outdoor adventure, including a night hike, nocturnal games and melting s’mores around the campfire. This FREE event will take place on the 8th from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. To register to participate, click HERE. 

Have you Registered for our Fall Activity Guide Yet?

All registration for Recreation & Parks' 2023 Fall Activity Guide is NOW AVAILABLE for Howard County residents and for non-county residents. With a plethora of sports, activities and seasonal events scheduled this upcoming season, there is something to keep everyone active and entertained. 

Whatever you decide to do, I hope you will join us this fall!