Dear Friends,

I am so excited that Howard County is leading the "charge" by becoming the first county in Maryland to increase workplace electric vehicle charging! We are only the 15th jurisdiction in the nation to take this pledge.

It is a part of a U.S. Department of Energy-funded initiative to help employers and public officials establish and expand workplace charging programs.

There are currently nearly 90 EV charging stations on Howard County-owned property alone, with more than 60 of those available to the public. We are actively seeking federal, state, and private funding to support EV charging infrastructure expansion and are partnering with Maryland Energy Administration, Maryland Department of Transportation and others to identify and prioritize sites for additional EV chargers on private and public properties. 

Howard County's Climate Forward plan aims to increase EV use in the community to at least 26 percent of passenger cars and eight percent of passenger trucks by 2030. EVs currently represent two percent of new residential vehicle purchases in the County.

As we remain focused on expanding energy independence, Howard County is leading by example to achieve our ambitious climate action goals, including reducing the County’s greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2030.

Because transportation accounts for more than half of Howard County’s greenhouse gas emissions, we remain committed to accelerating the adoption of EVs and increasing access to EV chargers within the County government and the community.

Ringing in the New Year

As the New Year, with new possibilities, is upon us, we warmly wish everyone a season of joy, renewal, and hope. Reflecting on a year of resilience and unity, we look forward to a brighter, more positive, supporting, and prosperous 2024.

Together, we'll continue to build a community where we create the best place to live, work, play, grow, and thrive for all.



May this New Year bring health, peace, and happiness to you and your loved ones. Here's to a wonderful 2024 filled with community achievements and personal milestones. Happy New Year!

A Ray of Sunshine

Please join me in congratulating Howard County Police Department’s very own PFC Raymond Peele for being named a 2023 Community Quarterback Winner by the Baltimore Ravens! PFC Peele earned this award for his work with the Beyond The Badge Foundation, which he founded seven years ago.

Through Beyond the Badge, PFC Peele helps distribute backpacks, school supplies, coats, and more to students and families in need across our community. We are so fortunate to have public servants who are committed to not only giving to our local community, but who also bridge the gap wherever needed.

Congratulations, and lets go Ravens!!

Protecting Our Seniors

In Howard County, we stand vigilant against caregiver fraud to protect our seniors. Home health aides, family members, and housekeepers can sometimes betray trust.

If you suspect fraud, take action by calling Howard County’s Police Senior Liaison at 410-313-6089. For more information on how to prevent and address elder abuse, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer-protection.

Healthcare: a Universal Necessity

Health care is a vital component of our lives, forming the foundation of a thriving community.

Lanlan Xu, as the Chair of the Asian American & Pacific Islander Commission, underscores the necessity of self-care and wellness. As open enrollment is ending soon, NOW is the time to remind one another that securing health coverage is a priority.

This is the moment to ensure that health care is accessible to all, leaving no one behind. Together, we have the power to provide the security and health that everyone deserves.

For more information on available healthcare options and to enroll, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/health.

Poetic Justice

Howard County's first Poet Laureate program is a new venture in partnership with the Howard County Arts Council and the Howard County Poetry & Literature Society (HoCoPoLitSo).

This program celebrates our unwavering commitment to the arts and provides a platform for a Poet Laureate to advocate for the importance of poetry, literature, and the arts in our vibrant community.



The Poet Laureate, serving as an artistic leader for two years, will help integrate poetry into the daily life of our residents and will be instrumental in celebrating and promoting our local literary arts. The deadline to apply is nearing!

Learn more and apply today at https://www.hocoarts.org/.../grants/hoco-poet-laureate

Know Before You Throw

Do you know what is recyclable?

For everything you can and can't put in your blue bin, make sure you check out Howard County's recycling guidelines. Please remember, due to the New Years Holiday, Howard County is operating on a slide schedule for trash and recycling pick-up.

Don't Throw Away Your Shot

Getting a flu shot is more important than ever. It can help protect you and your loved ones. The flu vaccine can also reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.

There are many places where you can get your flu shot. Learn more at Howard County Health Department's website here.

Don't Suffer in Silence

As we move to the promise of the New Year, it's important to acknowledge that reaching out and sharing your feelings is a sign of courage.

Engaging in heartfelt conversations can be a significant step toward understanding and healing. It’s okay to not be okay during the holiday season. Please remember that you are not alone; support and care are always available.

If you find yourself in need of immediate assistance or someone to talk to, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is ready to help at 988, 24/7.

Askin All The Questions

Remember, our email is always open for every inquiry, including questions about county services, events, or support resources. For information or assistance, simply send your questions to ask@howardcountymd.gov.

Together, let’s ensure that everyone has the information they need for a peaceful and joyful transition into the New Year.

A Healthier Howard

The Howard County Health Department has released its report card, and there is reason to celebrate. According to the report card, there was an almost 40% reduction in tobacco smoking among adults since the last report card released two years ago. Additionally, cancer deaths have lowered and opioid overdose cases have slowed down.

The pandemic especially highlighted that we must remain vigilant in monitoring health trends and keeping concerns about equality at the forefront of our efforts to support Howard County as a healthy and safe place to live, grow, and raise a family.

Increasing Access to Healthcare for All

Health care is critical piece of our society, and we must continue to work towards a community where it is guaranteed for all. Dr. Oquendo-Berruz reminds us of the importance of taking care of ourselves.

During open enrollment, I encourage you to reach out to your family, friends, and neighbors to remind them that there's no better time to sign up for health care than right now.

Together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes without the care they need. Learn more about how to get insured at www.howardcountymd.gov/health

Merry Mulch

Help us keep holiday trees out of the landfill this holiday season by recycling your tree through the County's Bureau of Environmental Services' annual “Merry Mulch” program. Since 1993, our Merry Mulch program has kept thousands of trees out of the landfill, helping to save money and the environment. All collected live trees will be delivered to the Bureau's Composting Facility and recycled into compost and mulch.

To learn more about this program and how you can participate, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/merrymulch.

Rebuilding Brumbaugh House

Recently, I met with the leaders of the Elkridge Heritage Society, who took me on a tour of an important community landmark – The Brumbaugh House, which earlier this year suffered water damage from a serious plumbing issue. I'm glad to provide a $20,000 grant to help them repair the Brumbaugh House and advance its goal of turning the house into a museum that preserves and shares the rich history of that community.

To learn more about their work, or how to help, please visit ElkridgeHeritage.org.

Habari Gani!

I was filled with immense gratitude and pride to join our community for our annual Howard County Kwanzaa Celebration.

We gathered, we celebrated, and we lit up the Kinara, not just with candles, but with hope, unity, and the vibrant spirit of our community. This year was particularly special as we focused on the heart and future of our community - our young people. The young presenters who graced the stage were nothing short of inspiring, embodying the principles of Kwanzaa with such eloquence and passion.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Office of Human Rights and Equity, Howard County Recreation and Parks, Howard County Housing & Community Development, Howard County NAACP, African American Community Roundtable, Council of Elders, The Links, Incorporated, and the Harriet Tubman Foundation for their commitment to diversity and inclusion.

To everyone who joined us, thank you for making this celebration a memorable one. Let's carry the light of this Kwanzaa into the new year and continue to build a community where everyone is valued and respected. Habari Gani!

Giving Back

In the wake of the winter solstice, as the days slowly grow longer and the brisk air reminds us of the season's change, the importance of community support and nourishment stands paramount.

I had the honor of collaborating with our Howard County family to bring a measure of holiday warmth as we provided food baskets to our neighbors in need.

It was a genuine joy to engage with so many at the MultiService Center in Laurel and the 50+ Center in Elkridge. The unity and willingness of our community to support each other is a profound testament to the spirit of Howard County. Through the collective efforts of the Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services, holiday food assistance reached 1,500 families at seven different locations.

I am equally proud of the Oakland Mills High School students whose initiative to operate a Food Pantry—extending beyond food to include essential baby supplies—speaks volumes about the empathy and leadership among our youth. Lending support to their cause was an enriching experience.

I am constantly inspired by the deep well of generosity that characterizes our community. The shared commitment to lifting each other up, especially during the holiday season, truly defines the heart and soul of Howard County.

A Passion for Fashion

I had the chance to visit Monica Blakely from Passion For Ezra to learn more about their unique creations. Based in Columbia, they can provide anything from customized shoes to accessories. In fact, earlier this year, a Passion for Ezra masterpiece was spotted on Kansas City Chief Travis Kelce's mom. Monica’s business was responsible for Ms. Donna Kelce's fantastic custom jacket at the Super Bowl and some other exclusive gear.

Additionally, Passion for Ezra has been instrumental in spreading holiday cheer throughout our community by hosting festive events and offering opportunities for cherished photos with Santa. We’re glad to have such creative and involved entrepreneurs in Howard County. Please continue supporting our small, local businesses this holiday season and beyond!

Learn more about Passion for Ezra at https://passionforezra.com

Remembering the Homeless Lives Lost

On the longest night of the year, I joined the Howard County Coalition to End Homelessness in its Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day event to remember the lives lost in Howard County this year who were homeless or had a history of homelessness.

This year, we honored 15 individuals and one long-time volunteer of the Day Resource Center. A special thank you to Coalition Board Chair Kelly Cimino, DCRS Director Jackie Scott, Melissa DiMartino, Kathy Piet, Rabbi Michael Hess Webber, Deacon Paul Gifford, Melissa Fitzgibbon, Jennifer Broderick, Cheryl Rowe, Joan Washington, and Karl and Lilia Anderson for sharing their empowering words in honor of those we lost.



Let’s continue to strive to make homelessness a brief and temporary situation in our county. For more information about the Coalition and their efforts to end homelessness in Howard County, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/coc.

Reigniting the Magic

This year, we helped reignite the magic with our community-driven Toys for Tots campaign and rolling out bikes with Free Bikes 4 Kidz Maryland.

This wonderful event proves that in Howard County, we don’t just light up trees, we light up lives.

Health Insurance Isn't Just for Backup

Health is vital, especially as we age. In Howard County, we prioritize your well-being with proper nutrition, activity, and crucial health insurance.

Take Mae Beale's story to heart—her 2016 journey shows how insurance offers both emotional and financial peace.

We're committed to helping you get the coverage you need. Health insurance isn't just a backup—it's your everyday ally for health.

Ready for a healthier future? Please visit https://www.howardcountymd.gov/health for information and support in getting insured.

Protecting our Farmlands

I am committed to supporting our local agriculture and growing our commitment to protecting more farmland. Our farms provide locally grown food, minimize our environmental footprint, and grow jobs. The enhanced Agricultural Land Preservation program builds on our promise of support to our farmers and residents. I am confident that these new terms will make our program more competitive and attractive to farmers who want to preserve their land for future generations; and I am thrilled to welcome the Winkler property into the program. Read more here.

Restructuring Local Government

I recently announced plans to submit a request to the Howard County Council to reorganize the County’s Departments of Community Resources and Services (DCRS), County Administration (DCA), and Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

Now, we must meet the moment to embrace tomorrow’s opportunities through the bold solutions of today and that is what we are accomplishing by establishing these new Offices that create greater efficiency and capacity.

Transforming government operations during this pivotal time is necessary to secure the best opportunities for our current and future generations.

Read more at https://www.howardcountymd.gov/News122023

Increasing Inclusion One Playground At a Time

We are proud to offer more sensory-friendly playgrounds here in Howard County. We recently unveiled the new amenities at Centennial Park in Ellicott City to help everyone of all abilities enjoy the state-of-the-art playgrounds in Howard County. Read about the improvements here.

Newly Created Office of Agriculture to Help Local Farmers

I recently announced the creation of Howard County Government’s new Office of Agriculture (OoA), which will become, only the third in Maryland.

Located at West Friendship Park, the new OoA will bring agricultural resources closer to Howard County’s farming community. The office will bring together various agricultural programs and staff in a shared space to enhance coordination and impact and will provide co-working opportunities for the agriculture-facing functions of the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA), Department of Planning and Zoning (DPZ) and University of Maryland Extension.

Additionally, OoA will also work with the County’s Department of Recreation & Parks to provide agriculturally-focused recreational programming and learning opportunities for residents at the park. 

Rolling Into Healthcare

In Howard County, the tapestry of life is woven with moments both planned and unforeseen. Our commitment to you is steadfast – to provide the healthcare coverage you deserve, precisely when life demands it.

As the calendar turns, let’s take this chance to safeguard our health for the year ahead, in 2024.

Open Enrollment stands as your gateway to peace of mind and health security. Until January 15th, 2024, our team is poised to support you in selecting a healthcare plan tailored to the rhythms of your life. Join us at 8930 Stanford Blvd. in Columbia, each day from 8 AM to 4 PM, for a helping hand in navigating your choices.

Should you prefer the comfort of your home while exploring your options, assistance is but a phone call away at 410-313-5845, offering you the same thoughtful guidance remotely.

Your well-being anchors our efforts in Howard County. Together, let's assure that every member of our community, and each of our cherished families, steps into the new year with the assurance of comprehensive health coverage.

Join My Team!

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

• CAD Administrator (Technical Services Support Specialist II) - Police, Communications Division - Provides information technology management services for the Police Department. Under general direction, perform the full range of system design, development, implementation, and maintenance activities related to the County's mapping, development and building plans, digital alarm system, and CAD and NetViewer systems.
• Summer Camp Counselors – Sports Camp participants spend their day playing a variety of sports indoors and outdoors, arts and crafts and endless fun in the sun while the camp staff guide them throughout the day and ensure their safety. Activities will encourage and support movement, personal growth, and build confidence. Campers will be taught basic to advanced sport-specific skills and enjoy a variety of summer camp activities. All hired staff will have to pass a background check. This summer, we're looking for energetic and responsible camp counselors to help children (ages three to 15 years) develop confidence!
• Summer Camp Directors/Assistant Directors – Sports Camp participants spend their day playing a variety of sports indoors and outdoors, arts and crafts and endless fun in the sun while the camp staff guide them throughout the day and ensure their safety. Activities will encourage and support movement, personal growth, and build confidence. Campers will be taught basic to advanced sport-specific skills and enjoy a variety of summer camp activities. All hired staff will have to pass a background check. This summer, we're looking for energetic and responsible camp counselors to help children (ages 3-15 years) develop confidence!
• Technical Services Support Specialist IV - Work includes maintaining, supporting, and using the multiple and complex operating system components and subsystems used by the Data Operation Center or performing highly complex programming analysis and systems design.
• Technical Services Support Specialist I - Technology and Communications, Radio Division – Performs intermediate technical level technology and communication services work under regular supervision from a technical superior. Work may include assisting in television production work; providing graphic arts, printing and reproduction services; installing, repairing and maintaining radio, telephone, data and related electronic equipment; performing entry level desktop or GIS support functions; or operating computers and peripheral on-line components of the data processing system.
• Therapeutic Recreation Aquatics Operator - Recreation & Parks – Under the supervision of the Recreation Manager and the Therapeutic Recreation Supervisors, the Pool Operator will operate all aspects of the swimming lesson, open swim and Water Exercise and aquatic program at the Cedar Lane Therapy Pool.
• Sports Supervisor - (Recreation Services Coordinator II) - Recreation & Parks, Bureau of Recreation – This position performs professional level recreation services work, which may include supervision, under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes overseeing the safe and efficient operation of activities at school and department recreational facilities, parks and private recreational facilities; or overseeing the operation of programs in specific functional areas under the direction of a recreation supervisor. Assists in analyzing marketing data for program promotion and customer service. Work also includes the supervision of contingent, part-time staff and volunteers; overseeing the approved budget; and preparing information for recreation supervisor for seasonal and fiscal reports.
• Career Coach - Office of Workforce Development - The position coordinates career exploration resources, identifies and collaborates with partners to develop career exploration activities and administers these activities in the middle and high schools.
• Sports League Staff - Officials – The Recreation & Parks Department Flag Football League Staff performs entry level work in supporting the operation of a sports league or program and does related work as required. An employee in this position handles fundamental assignments and skills to help ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable atmosphere for all sports participants. The employee works directly with participants in a variety of age groups, skill levels, and programs. Work is subject to detailed instructions, established routines, and/or standardized practices and procedures.

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

Maryland Access Point hosts Prepare to Care, an Event with Family Shared Aging Options

The Office on Aging and Independence, through Maryland Access Point, is hosting Prepare to Care, a program designed for adult children to learn about services and programs available for aging family members.

Attendees will learn how to start the caregiving conversation, how to design a plan and ways to assess needs. Resources and services will also be provided for assisted living and nursing facility options. Learn how to help your loved ones age in place and thrive.  

The program will be held January 23, at the Loan Closet of Howard County, 7125 Riverwood Drive, Suite D1, Columbia.

If interested, register at 410-313-1234 and visit www.howardcountymd.gov/map for more information. 

2024 Howard County Child Care Fair

Attend the 2024 Howard County Child Care Fair to learn more about early childhood programs, including childcare centers, preschools, infant programs, summer camps, and more!

Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to speak directly with representatives from childcare programs throughout the county. Parent educators from the Office of Children and Families will hold information sessions on “How to Choose an Early Childhood Program.”

This event will be held January 28, at the North Laurel Community Center, 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free. Registration is highly recommended and can be done through this link.

For more information, or to request a sign language interpreter or other accommodations to participate in this event, call the CARE Line at 410-313-2273 (voice/relay) or email children@howardcountymd.gov. 

HoCo Community Chat Focuses on Human Trafficking Prevention Month in January

For this month’s episode of DCRS’s HoCo Community Chat podcast, Director Jackie Scott is joined by Ashton Petta, manager of the Office of Human Trafficking Prevention; and Eric Kruhm, a lieutenant with the Howard County Police Department Vice and Narcotics Unit, and a member of the Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinating Council.

Together, they take on the heavy topic of human trafficking to recognize Human Trafficking Prevention Month, discuss what trafficking looks like today, and address resources available and ways to make our community and country a safer place.  

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.  

Medicare Open Enrollment Counseling Now Available

To assist Howard County Medicare beneficiaries of any age, decide on, review, or switch their health insurance, DCRS’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) team is here to help.

Whether you are new to Medicare or have had it for some time, our trained staff and Certified Medicare Counselors provide free, unbiased assistance for questions and concerns.

SHIP Medicare appointments are available at Bain 50+ Center Monday through Friday, during regular business hours. To schedule an appointment or register today, call 410-313-7392.

Office of Community Sustainability

Partnership Offers Residents Free Home Energy Efficiency Upgrades 

Thanks to a partnership between our Office of Community Sustainability (OCS) and Civic Works, a community-based nonprofit, Howard County residents (homeowners and renters) are eligible for a free home energy efficiency checkup.

Interested residents can receive free energy efficiency upgrades such as LED light bulbs, an advanced power strip, faucet aerators, low-flow showerheads, hot water pipe insulation and even a smart thermostat. Income eligible residents may also qualify for Civic Works’ free whole-house weatherization services, in addition to their free energy efficiency checkup. 

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

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

Online Dashboard Moves Howard County Climate Action Forward

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

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

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

Office of Emergency Management

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

With winter underway, our Office of Emergency Management is offering up this winter weather reminder about the difference between a Winter Storm Warning, Winter Storm Watch and Winter Weather Advisory. 

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

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

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

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

Howard County Health Department

Community Flu Vaccine Clinics

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

Department of Housing and Community Development

Proposals Sought for Transformative Homeownership and Neighborhood Initiatives

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

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

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

Department of Planning and Zoning

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, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.

Office of Transportation

Transportation Open House

I invite you to attend our new Transportation Open House on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 from 4:30-7:30PM at the Kenneth S. Ulman Innovation Hub.

This expanded event replaces our Active Transportation and Transportation Priorities Open Houses and includes the additional topics areas of transportation safety, Complete Streets, transit and regional planning, and roadway maintenance and operations.

The Open House will also provide the public the opportunity to comment on the County's overall transportation priorities, approaches to solving common transportation challenges, and specific projects. For more information, click HERE.

In the event of inclement weather, the event will be held February 6, 2024.

Police Department

Online Crime and Traffic Dashboards Launched

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

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

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

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Holiday Slide Schedule in Effect this Week

Remember, the County’s holiday "slide" schedule is in effect this week as there was no Monday curbside trash, recycling, yard trim or food scraps collection yesterday, January 1^st, New Year’s Day. Monday’s collection will be picked up on today, Tuesdays 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. 

How to Recycle Holiday Lights

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

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

Bureau of Utilities

Cryptosporidium Update

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

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

Public Works Construction Report

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

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

Department of Recreation and Parks

Recreation & Parks Job Fair: Apply, Interview and Get Hired All in One Day!  

Join Recreation and Parks this Saturday, January 6th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at its headquarters in Columbia (7120 Oakland Mills Road), for a unique job fair experience. Attendees will have the opportunity to apply, interview and be hired in person on the spot, all in one day. Opportunities range from summer jobs to seasonal and part-time employment, with jobs ranging from summer camp counselors, lifeguards, front desk, park maintenance, scorekeepers, licensed child care, sports coaches and more. Those 16 years and older are welcome to attend.

If attending, please be sure you bring bring two forms of government-issued identification, i.e. a driver’s license, passport, social security card, birth certificate, etc., and your resume, although not required, one is preferred.

To learn more, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/recreation-and-parks-job-fair. 

What To Do When Schools Are Closed 

Be sure to start 2024 on the right foot. Don't get caught off guard when schools are closed. 

Recreation & Parks has a plethora of programs for our youngest learners. They have 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.

Don't miss your chance to keep your child active, learning, and having FUN. Sign up today! 

FULL DAY: Monday, January 15 | Monday, January 22 

EARLY DISMISSAL: Wednesday, January 17 

Choose Fitness in 2024

Start the new year strong! Rec & Parks has an extensive range of fitness classes designed to cater to all.

Discover the perfect workout for you, from heart-pumping cardio sessions to Zen-inducing yoga classes – they've got it all!

In Howard County, we believe in affordable fitness for everyone, offering budget-friendly classes without compromising quality. Whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or a complete beginner, these classes are crafted to be inclusive and welcoming.

Register HERE and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you!  

Sneak Peek of 2024 Summer Camp Guide

Get a sneak peek of the Recreation & Parks 2024 Summer Camp Guide! Remember: Many camps fill quickly so start planning your summer adventure now!

View the guide online at www.howardcountymd.gov/rap. Print copies start arriving in your mailbox or at county various locations in mid-January. In-county online registration begins January 31, and February 1 for in-person.