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Dear Friends,
The Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center (HCMC) is our only hospital, and my team has continuously supported their efforts to deliver top notch and timely medical care to our residents. We have partnered with our hospital on progress ranging from behavioral health expansion to pandemic-related infrastructure and staffing support. Since I have had the honor to serve as your Howard County Executive, we have provided more than $12 million to the hospital during Fiscal Year 2020 to Fiscal Year 2024, compared to $1.8 million between Fiscal Year 2016 to Fiscal Year 2019.
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Now, as our hospital works to address strains on its emergency department due to increasing patient volumes that hospitals all throughout the state, region and nation are experiencing, we will do even more. That is why we are now committing an additional $15 million so that our hospital can build a much needed 29-bed observation unit that will enhance emergency department capacity and reduce wait times for patients. With the necessary matching funds, this new unit could be underway as early as next year and open in 2027. I would like to thank HCMC, under the leadership of Dr. Shafeeq Ahmed, for partnering with us for this critical and innovative addition. | |
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A Strong Economy
We are facing a pivotal time for Howard County’s future. This post-pandemic era has left us with an uncertain global economy, but here in Howard County we are embracing a brand new day and setting a strong foundation for the future. Let me unequivocally say that here, in Howard County, the State of Business is strong.
We are resilient, we are embracing economic vitality, we are establishing an unshakeable foundation for our shared future.
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Aging-In-Place Tax Credit
Eligibility for the tax credit requires a minimum age of 65 years old, and at least 30 years, as of June 30th preceding the tax year, residing in a dwelling with an assessed property value up to $650,000.
Retired service members of the United States Armed Forces with 20 years of active service, or their surviving spouses, are also eligible for the credit. However, the surviving spouse must not be remarried.
The number of years qualifying individuals may receive the credit is eight years. The credit will automatically renew unless the homeowner is no longer eligible. Applications for the Aging-in-Place credit for tax year 2024 (July 1, 2024- June 30, 2025) will be available on March 1st. The deadline to apply is June 30, 2024.
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Guilty As Charged
This past week, I joined Howard County State’s Attorney Rich Gibson, Howard County Police Chief Gregory Der and Sheriff Marcus Harris to provide an update regarding the “59 Hoover Criminal Gang” case. A Howard County jury has found 36-year-old Jeremi Quentin Lewis guilty of 1st-degree murder in the 2021 shooting death of 21-year-old Jaden Ealey and eight other crimes stemming from his leadership of a criminal organization that occurred from May 2020 to March 2022.
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Thanks to the tremendous work of our law enforcement officers and our judicial system, our community is a little safer today. We will not tolerate violent crimes that terrorize our neighbors. I’d like to thank our Howard County Police Department, Howard County Sheriff’s Office and Howard County State’s Attorney’s office for their combined efforts to hold the responsible parties accountable.
To learn more about this case and Tuesday’s announcement, click HERE.
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Library Leader is a Trailblazer
During Black History Month, we recognize the trailblazing leaders who helped shape Howard County. This week, we recognize our fearless President and CEO of the Howard County Library System.
Tonya Aikens is a beacon of inspiration at HCLS and a dedicated professional with a passion for fostering community engagement. Her influence extends beyond books and has been instrumental in creating ways to help people of all backgrounds and abilities learn and grow. From children’s reading initiatives to adult literacy programs, Tonya helps ensure that the library remains an inclusive space that nurtures intellectual curiosity. Under her leadership, the library’s impact has reached far beyond the library walls and expanded opportunity into our neighborhoods.
As a leader, mentor, and advocate, Tonya continues to leave an indelible mark on the cultural and educational landscape of Howard County. This Black History Month, please join me in celebrating her passion, purpose, and amazing leadership.
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Livable Homes Tax Credit
The Livable Homes tax credit is available for certain types of accessibility features installed in a principal residence. The feature must have been installed in an existing primary residence. The amount of the credit is equal to 100% of the eligible cost or $2500, whichever is less. The application for tax year 2024 is due April 1, 2024.
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Keeping Howard County Safe
Howard County is one of the safest places in America, in part, because of our efforts to invest in our Howard County Police Department. I had a wonderful time welcoming our HCPD Recruit Class #49. These 22 new recruits will begin their rigorous and challenging training, upholding the high standards set by their fellow officers and academy classes. Please, join me in wishing this new class of public servants the best during their training and thank them for their service to our community and beyond!
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Celebrating Dr. Gray's Lasting Impact
As we progress through the commemoration of Black History Month, it remains essential to recognize and honor influential individuals within our community and the lasting impact they’ve had.
One noteworthy figure is Dr. C. Vernon Gray, a source of inspiration who etched his place in history in 1982 by becoming the first African American to win a seat on the Howard County Council. Dr. Gray served admirably for two decades, holding the position of Council Chair for five terms.
A steadfast servant amid the county's growth and transformations, Dr. Gray has been a resident of Columbia for more than 47 years. During which he has consistently prioritized the needs of our most vulnerable community members. Today and every day we celebrate Dr. C. Vernon Gray.
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Senior Tax Credit
The Senior Tax Credit, a credit of 25% of the county property tax, is available to residents aged 65 and older with a combined household income of $102,200 or less and net assets under $500,000, not including the value of their home.
Applicants with income less than $60,000 are required to apply for the State of Maryland Homeowner Property Tax Credit.
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Small Businesses are the Backbone of Our Economy
We are creating a brand new day for our small, local businesses in Howard County. These businesses are the backbone of our economy and are the force that helps drive Howard County into the future. We are resilient and embracing economic vitality. We are defined by the promise of this brand new day that will set an unshakeable foundation for our shared future.
Listen to these small businesses as they share their stories: Advantage Awards and Engraving, GameOn Columbia, Sweet Cascades, One Rock Farm & Pharmacy, Saval Foodservice, Skintonic, Taqueria La Patrona, K-9 and Coffee, and Passion for Ezra.
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Trash, Bay, Watershed Protection Fee Hardship Tax Credit
Homeowners with limited income may qualify for a 60% credit against the Trash Fee and Watershed Protection Fee and an exemption from the State Bay Fee.
A family of four may qualify with income up to $78,000 for tax year 2024. Renters may also qualify for an exemption from the State Bay Fee.
The deadline to apply for this tax credit is June 30, 2024. Seniors who receive the Senior tax credit will receive the hardship credit.
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Who You Gonna Call?
Do you live in Howard County, need help, and 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!
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Tell Me Why
Tell HoCo is an easy way for anyone in Howard County to report non-emergency issues while on-the-go, such as potholes, damaged street signs, graffiti, street maintenance, street light issues, damaged trees, and more. By working together, we can resolve the small problems before they become big ones.
Submit a report by visiting howardcountymd.gov/tell-hoco.
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Bringing You HOME
Our new Community Ambassador cohort is in full swing! Our next session will focus on housing and human services. Join them tomorrow, February 21st at 6:00 p.m. at Howard County Library System's East Columbia branch! Ambassadors will be learning from the experts in our departments of Housing and Community Development, Community Resources and Services, and Social Services.
It's not too late to become a Community Ambassador! There is still time to join this cohort. You can register now at humanservicesambassador.eventbrite.com.
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Sledge House Media
This Black History Month, we are celebrating the contributions of our Black entrepreneurs in Howard County. Not only have Christina and Edward Sledge created a successful media company, but they have done so while centralizing diverse stories and perspectives. Sledge House Media has developed various publications, audiobook experiences and even short films. I was glad to hear about their brand-new children’s book, A Day at Shea, which was inspired by Edward's childhood. Be sure to keep a look out for all their upcoming work! You can learn more about them at www.sledgehousemedia.com.
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The Wait is Over!
More than two years ago, we broke ground in East Columbia for the long-awaited 50+ Center, where approximately 40% of Howard County’s older adults reside. The current East Columbia 50+ Center, built in 1994, is approximately 3,800 sq. ft. and is collocated within the East Columbia Library. Plans to renovate and expand the center began in 2014, with the first phase being identified in 2015. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that we began to make real progress.
In fewer than two weeks, we will be cutting the ribbon on this new, state-of-the art 29,000 square foot, freestanding building. Join us as we celebrate progress in our collective commitment to provide the best services and facilities for our residents of all ages.
But until then, here’s a little sneak peak of the new facility.
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A Champion Gladiator
Our scholar athletes continue to make us proud across the county and state. Please, join me in congratulating our Glenelg High School Gladiators for being the Class 2A State Champions for Girls Field Hockey. This is their third straight state champion for field hockey, and they continue to run toward even higher achievements. Congratulations!
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Family HOME Start
In Howard County, we believe that a stable home is the cornerstone of a child's ability to learn, grow and succeed. Last year, we faced the harsh reality that nearly 500 of our students in our school system were experiencing homelessness. Housing instability is a barrier to the educational and personal growth of our young people, and addressing this challenge is a major component of our HOME package.
Through a strategic partnership with Bridges to Housing Stability, we have launched a robust security deposit and rental assistance program. This program is specifically designed to provide support to families within the Howard County Public School System experiencing homelessness. It is a transformative step towards ensuring that no student's potential is limited by housing instability.
Providing our children and their families with the housing security is not just an investment in their future—it's an investment in the future of our entire community. I encourage families in need to reach out and take advantage of this program. For more information and to apply for assistance, please visit: https://bridges2hs.org/family-home-start/.
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New Central Library Community Meeting
Public libraries are critical community amenities that serve as hubs for learning and gathering for people of all ages and abilities. We’ve explored several options for our Central Library in Downtown Columbia during the past several years with various stakeholders, and now we want to hear from you about how a future library can best benefit Columbia and all of Howard County.
Join us for one of our upcoming public conversations regarding the upcoming plans for this exciting project. We want your input! The more community voices, the better. Let’s work together on a library plan we can all be proud of and embrace!
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Sew Far, Sew Good
During Black History Month, we’re highlighting many black-owned businesses that significantly contribute to our local economy and community. One such business is Leona's Sewing Studio in Savage Mill. Not only do they offer sewing classes for all ages, as well as bridal services, but they do also so while maintaining a commitment to their broader cause.
Leona’s Sewing Studio’s main philosophy is their commitment to the mental, physical health and well-being of women and they show that creating these community spaces and through their philanthropic work. This Black History Month, please join me in celebrating one of our awesome community leaders. Learn more about them at https://www.leonasews.com/.
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Finding The Light
I had a great time visiting Boy Scout Pack 108 to help them achieve their Arrow of Light rank. As a former boy scout, I understand the level of dedication and leadership it takes to embody being a Scout. Our engaging conversation ranged from the aspects of a leader to our favorite comic books and superheroes. A special thank you to their Den Leader Raj K and the entire pack for such a fruitful visit.
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A Construction Powerhouse
I had the chance to drop by O'Donnell Metal Deck to congratulate them on their recent expansions. Every year they are becoming more and more of a national powerhouse in the construction industry by producing the very best metal decking. Though they have offices all around the country, we’re glad that their national sales office is right on Main Street in Elkridge. Special thank you to Jamie Peace, their head of operations, for giving us such a warm welcome.
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It’s Skinsational!
During these cold months, self-care continues to be a great way to feel rejuvenated. That’s why we are lucky to have Skinsational Scents, a skin and body care brand that specializes in organic, high-quality ingredients. They started out as a kiosk on their college campus in 2002, specializing in acne skin care and have gone on to include much more. At their location in Savage Mill, you can find anything from hair and body care to aromatherapy and fragrance oils. During Black History Month, we are even more lucky to highlight this skinsational business.
Learn more about them at https://www.skinsationalscents.com/.
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Are You Ready to be a Changemaker?
Howard County is home to many people and organizations who find creative solutions to the most difficult of challenges. Now is the time to showcase your efforts to make our community a better place for all. If you are someone who innovates, cultivates, and uplifts, I strongly encourage you to partake in our 2024 Changemaker Challenge. Share your out-of-the-box ideas before February 20th at https://changemakerchallengehc.org/.
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Listening Session Update
After thorough consultation with our newly formed Interfaith Advisory Council and careful consideration of extensive community feedback, the community Listening Session scheduled for this coming Monday, February 26th, has been postponed. This decision is rooted in a strong commitment to ensuring our community's dialogue on such complex issues is both constructive and healing.
We are deeply grateful for the guidance the Interfaith Advisory Council has provided and the candid feedback we have received from our community during these last few weeks. It has been invaluable and has highlighted the need for a more suitable setting for meaningful and respectful dialogue and that promotes unity and understanding.
For updates on a future listening session, stay tuned to our “Events” website. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please reach out to the County’s Office of Constituent Services at 410-313-2013 or email constituentservices@howardcountymd.gov.
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Serving Democracy
Are you ready to make a difference in our democratic process? Howard County is looking for Election Judges, and this could be your chance to contribute! As an Election Judge, you get the unique opportunity to be directly involved in the election process, and get paid for your efforts.
If you're 16 or older and a registered voter in Maryland, you're eligible to become an Election Judge. We're looking for people who are ready for a rewarding 15-hour day, can work outside their home precinct, are able to sit and stand for extended periods, and have proficiency in English. Some positions may require lifting items weighing between 10 to 25 lbs.
Sign up today and be a part of this crucial democratic process! Learn more at http://tinyurl.com/ElectionJudge24.
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Join My Team!
My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.
I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.
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You Are Not A-Loan
Powered by Howard County Economic Development Authority’s (HCEDA) and part of Maryland’s Video Lottery Terminal Small, Minority and Woman-Owned Business Account initiative, the Catalyst Fund is locally managed source of capital used to finance start-ups and expanding businesses statewide whose projects will create permanent jobs and leverage private sector investment. Loan funds can be used for normal business uses such as working capital, equipment, real estate, franchise fees and inventory purchases, and loan amounts vary pending availability of funds.
If you are a growth-oriented business in the pre-banking stage and are interested in learning more about the Catalyst Fund Loan program, visit https://hceda.org/business-support/catalyst-loans/.
Also, HCEDA is now also offering it Collateral Assistance Fund to Howard County businesses. This fund assists companies in satisfying the collateral requirement to secure a catalyst loan.
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Department of Community Resources and Services | |
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Black History Month and Romance Scams
In recognition of Black History Month, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Director Jackie Scott is joined by Harriet Tubman Foundation of Howard County President Bessie Bordenave and Howard County’s Harriet Tubman Cultural Center Director Kori Jones for this month’s HoCo Community Chat podcast episode to discuss the importance of Black History and why it should be celebrated all year round, not just in February.
In addition, Director Scott wraps up this month’s podcast with Office of Consumer Protection Investigator Lila Boor and Center for Elder Justice and Education Founder and President Andre Lingham to discuss romance scams and their prevalence during the Valentine's Day season.
Be sure to stay tuned on Buzzsprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, and if there is something specific you want to hear discussed, email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov.
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Student Essay Contest Celebrates Women's History Month
Calling all Howard County high school students (public, private and home schooled), I invite you to celebrate Women’s History Month with us this March by participating in our Commission for Women’s annual Student Essay Contest. This contest helps us recognize the achievements of women, past and present, who have championed for change in promoting equity, diversity and inclusion. This year’s essay contest theme is based on the National Women's History Project theme, “Celebrating Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.”
For more information, including contest rules, submission guidelines and application, visit the Commission for Women’s website at www.howardcountymd.gov/CFW. The deadline to submit your essay and application is 5:00 p.m. this Friday, February 23rd. Prizes include gift cards for the top three entries: $200 for first place, $100 for second place and $50 for third place.
For questions, contact DCRS at 410-313-6400 (voice/relay) or email women@howardcountymd.gov.
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Launch of New Nonprofit Excelerator Program
I invite you to join DCRS’s Office of Community Partnerships this coming Monday, February 26th at 4:00 p.m. for the launch of its new Nonprofit Excelerator Program.
Made possible thanks to an innovative collaboration with the Association of Community Services of Howard County and the Community Foundation of Howard County, this three-year program will be a catalyst for growth, sustainability and impact for our local nonprofits. The program will offer local nonprofits the opportunity to gain knowledge, acquire new skills and explore valuable tools to help their organization excel.
To learn more about this exciting new program, be sure to join us on this February 26th at the NonProfit Collaborative of Howard County in Columbia for this kickoff event, to be followed by a reception. To attend, click HERE today to register.
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Winter Wellness Fitness Challenge Kicks off this February
Embark on a transformative journey with DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) this winter season by taking part in its FREE Winter Wellness Fitness Challenge. Available at our 50+ Centers now through March 28th, this challenge offers participants a variety of fitness classes to join to meet a 16 workout goal. Beyond physical fitness, this challenge fosters a sense of community among older adults and provides a supportive environment to help participants prioritize their well-being this winter.
As we embrace the warmth of togetherness and vitality this season, I encourage you to join OAI for this enriching experience of connection, health and personal growth. To register, click HERE or for more information, call 410-313-1404 or email slively@howardcountymd.gov. You can also learn more about the challenge by checking out the latest issue of The 50+ Connection.
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2024 Parent’s Guide Now Available
DCRS’s Office of Children and Families’ (OCF) annual Parent’s Guide to Howard County offers parents, caregivers and others information about the most up-to-date resources and services available in our community to help all children grow and thrive. Inside the 2024 Parent’s Guide to Howard County, readers will find information about programs that support positive family engagement, including OCF’s new Family Support Center that serves Howard County families of children from birth to age five.
OCF has also released the February issue of its Parent Pages Newsletter. This monthly newsletter provides parents/guardians with a information regarding upcoming free workshops and programs geared towards them and their children. Workshops are offered in both English and Spanish and discuss topics ranging from “Discipline and Communication” to “Setting up your Child for Success in Kindergarten.”
For questions, more information about available service or if your family needs additional assistance and support, please contact OCF’s CARE Line at 410-313-2273 today.
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2024 Howard County Resource Guide Now Available
DCRS's OAI's annual Howard County Resource Guide contains up-to-date information about health and wellness, financial planning, legal services, housing options and more to help county residents age well and plan for their future. You can find OAI’s 2024 Howard County Resource Guide online or pick up a hard copy at one of OAI’s 50+ Centers and Howard County Library System branches.
| Office of Community Sustainability | |
LED Light Bulb Exchange Program Expands!
Today, I announced the expansion of the County’s Office of Community Sustainability’s (OCS) free light-emitting diode (LED) light bulb exchange program to all Howard County Library System (HCLS) branches. Offered in partnership with HCLS, Howard County residents can visit any local HCLS branch to exchange used incandescent and compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs for new, energy efficient LED bulbs.
While supplies last, Howard County residents can visit the circulation desk at any HCLS branch to exchange their used CFL or incandescent light bulbs for up to four free, new LED bulbs (an A19 bulb shape). All types of bulb shapes will be accepted for exchange, except for tube lights.
| Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
OHRE Newsletter
Our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) offers a variety of virtual and in-person events and trainings each month. To keep up with all of its offerings, I encourage you to sign up for OHRE’s newsletter to stay in the know and learn more about its monthly programming, trainings, commissions and so much more.
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Black History Month Author Event
Join OHRE, the Howard County Library System (HCLS), the African American Community Roundtable of Howard County, the Howard County Chapter of the NAACP and the Continental Societies, Inc. Columbia, Maryland Chapter on Wednesday, February 28th at 6:00 p.m., as they come together to celebrate Black History Month with a feature author event at HCLS’s Elkridge branch. Author Jonathan McKinney will share his memoir, The Little Black Boy, which discusses his personal story of growing up on Detroit’s East Side and the challenges he faced during an era marred by gangs, crack, violence and systemic racism. The Little Black Boy is a story of survival, redemption and the power of forgiveness.
Light refreshments will be served and the first 20 people to arrive will receive a free signed copy of McKinney's book. Copies will also be available for purchase and signing at the event, and copies can also be borrowed using your HCLS Library Card.
To sign-up to participate in this FREE event, click HERE.
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2024 Humanity Matters Conference
Mark your calendar and join OHRE on Monday, May 6th for its social justice conference, “Humanity Matters.” The conference will take place at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the 6th and will bring together human and civil rights professionals in government, education, non-profits and for-profit businesses.
The conference will feature panel discussions and various breakout sessions, as well as a keynote address by Chad Lassiter – Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission Executive Director and member of the Presidential Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans.
Through this conference, OHRE hopes each attendee will gain practical tools they can implement into their daily work, new connections they can tap into for collaboration and the inspiration to continue to innovate and produce substantive and transformational work.
The cost to participate is $125 per ticket and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. However, for groups interested in buying 10 or more tickets, please contact Dr. Denise Boston with OHRE at equity@howardcountymd.gov to inquire about the group rate discount. Please keep in mind, there will be no refunds for tickets purchased beginning March 15th.
To reserve your spot at this year’s Humanity Matters social justice conference, click HERE.
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Important OHRE Commission Public Meeting Dates
Under our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) are five Commissions committed to furthering human rights and equity throughout Howard County in their own very distinct capacities. Each month, these Commission’s host meetings, public hearings and/or retreats open to the public to discuss ongoing/upcoming matters, events, programs and so on. For dates, times and details regarding upcoming Commission meetings, please see below:
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Monday, March 4th, 5:30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 12th, 5:30 p.m. – Human Rights Commission Public Hearing regarding HRC Case No. 21-12-012 Rolonda Williams v. Stephanie Knarr, LLC, operating as Dr. Stephanie’s Relationship Repair Shop. To attend, email HRC@howardcountymd.gov.
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Thursday, March 14th, 6:30 p.m. – LGBTQIA+ Commission meeting. To attend, email LGBTQIA@howardcountymd.gov.
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Tuesday, March 19th, 6:15 p.m. – La Alianza Latina Commission monthly meeting. To attend, alianzalatina@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Planning and Zoning | |
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Stay in the Know About the Future of Gateway
Stay in the know about our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Gateway Master Plan by visiting the Plan's website, www.howardcountymd.gov/gateway, where you can also sign up to receive future Gateway Master Plan updates.
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Route 1 Tax Credit Program
DPZ is accepting applications for this year’s Route 1 Tax Credit program! If you own a commercial or industrial property on the Route 1 Corridor, you may be eligible to receive up to $100,000 of tax credit for qualified façade and landscape improvements visible from the Corridor area. Eligible improvements include building façade upgrades, new signage, exterior painting and lighting, screening and landscaping, and other options.
For more information or to apply: www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.
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Teen Defensive Driving Training Program is Back!
PARENTS and GUARDIANS of TEEN DRIVERS, registration is NOW OPEN for Howard County Police Department’s (HCPD) Collision Avoidance Training (C.A.T.) program’s 2024 calendar year. With classes lined up for March 16th, April 20th, May 11th, June 8th, July 27th, August 24th, September 21st, October 12th, November 2nd and December 14th and held at the County's James N. Robey Public Safety Training Center in Marriottsville, this program teaches participants how to better handle their vehicles in various situations through hands-on techniques. This defensive driving and vehicle control program is geared towards young drivers, age 16 to 20, and was developed by the National Traffic Safety Academy and adapted from law enforcement training.
To participate in this one-day course, drivers must possess a valid Maryland "Class C" driver’s license (no learner's permit) and have a registered vehicle to drive during the practical exercises. Howard County residency is NOT a requirement. The cost is $95 (scholarship opportunities are available) and advance registration is required. To register, click HERE.
For questions, more information about or to inquire about registering your teen driver, contact HCPD's C.A.T. program at 410-313-2207 or catprogram@howardcountymd.gov.
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SCAM ALERT
HCPD is warning residents of an ongoing phone scam in which the caller identifies themselves as being from HCPD or Howard County Sheriff's Office, uses the name of a REAL officer or deputy, and demands money for missed jury duty or an arrest warrant. THIS IS A SCAM! Neither HCPD nor the Sheriff's Office will ever demand payment over the phone.
If you receive this call, HANG UP immediately, DO NOT arrange payment and DO NOT give out any personal or financial information. If you believe you may have been a victim of a telephone scam ((shared personal or financial information), call police at 410-313-2200 or file an online police report at www.howardcountymd.gov/police/file-online-report.
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Department of Public Works | |
Bureau of Environmental Services | |
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Holiday Slide Schedule NOT in Effect this Week
The County's Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Bureau of Environmental Services' holiday slide schedule is NOT be in effect this week, despite Monday’s Presidents’ Day holiday as Presidents’ Day is not one of the six holidays that affects curbside collection. Those six holidays are: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. There was REGULAR Monday curbside trash, recycling and food scraps collection on February 19th.
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Special Household Hazardous Waste Days
While the Bureau of Environmental Services' regular Saturday Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) schedule is on hiatus until the first Saturday of April, the 6th, the Bureau is hosting three SPECIAL HHW collection days this winter at the Alpha Ridge Landfill. With the first two completed, the Bureau’s FINAL SPECAL HHW event will take place next Saturday, March 2nd. On this day, Howard County residents can properly dispose of HHW items at the Landfill.
To learn more about this program and what is accepted/not accepted, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/HHW.
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Residential Water Meter’s Replacement Program
With 16,000 meters left to be replaced, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities continues its residential water meter replacement program as existing water meters in the system approach the end of their useful life. It is vital these meters replaced to ensure accurate and timely water usage data. .
To complete the water meter replacement program quickly and efficiently, the County has contracted with Vanguard Utility Service. Residents will receive notification in the mail prior to meter installers arriving in their neighborhood with instructions on how to schedule an appointment.
To learn more, click HERE. For questions or concerns, contact the Bureau of Utilities at 410-313-4900.
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Tips on How to Keep Pipes from Freezing as Temperatures Dip
With winter underway and below freezing temperatures already making themselves known, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities is offering residents tips on how to keep pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. These tips are especially important for water pipes located in a crawlspace or on an outside wall, or garage, attic or any other unheated building, which are subject to sub-freezing temperatures.
If your pipes do freeze, the Bureau recommends opening the cold-water faucet nearest the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. Then, use a gentle heat source, such as a light bulb or hair dryer, to thaw the pipe. DO NOT use an open flame.
To learn more, click HERE.
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Public Works Construction Report | |
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Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.
Columbia
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Old Columbia Road Bridge Guardrail Replacement – Project to perform critical guardrail replacement on the approach and department of the one-lane bridge over the Middle Patuxent River on Old Columbia Road near Rocky Creek Drive. Signs will be posted in the area to notify residents and motorists of the road closure and corresponding detour, which will have motorists using Johns Hopkins Road to US 29 to MD 32 to Shaker Drive to get around the work zone. While this closure is not expected to impact school bus service in the area, Howard County Public School System's Office of Student Transportation has been notified. Weather permitting, the work is expected to take six hours to complete.
To learn about DPW projects currently underway, click HERE. Searchable by project category and street name, from this site you’ll find additional project details, including news releases about the project. You can also contact DPW’s Customer Service Office at 410-313-3440 or email publicworks@howardcountymd.gov for further assistance.
If you have questions or are interested in finding out about a State road (numbered roadway) project in your area, visit the Maryland State Highway Administration’s (SHA) “Project Portal” website.
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Department of Recreation and Parks | |
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Winter Scavenger Hunt
Come show off what you know about Howard County through our Department of Recreation & Parks’ winter scavenger hunt! Gather up a team of two to six individuals (adults and kids are welcome) to take part in this Amazing Race vibe adventure.
To participate, your team must register by noon this Friday, February 23rd to receive your scavenger hunt instructions and list of tasks to complete throughout the weekend. An awards ceremony will follow at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 2nd at Ledo Pizza in Clarksville.
The cost is $10 per team member. To learn more and/or to register, click HERE.
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Spring/Summer Activity Guide Registration Up Next!
With online, over-the-phone, mail-in and in-person registration fully underway for Recreation & Parks' 2024 Summer Camp Guide, now is the time to start thinking about the department’s spring and summer activity, event and program offerings. From cooking and fitness classes, to sports, lifelong learning, camping, dance, science, technology, LEGO and more, there is something to keep everyone in your family active this spring and summer.
To start your planning, check out a digital copy of Recreation & Parks’ Spring/Summer 2024 Activity Guide. Online registration for the guide begins 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 6th for Howard County residents; with mail-in, over-the-phone and in-person starting the next morning. For out-of-county residents, online registration begins for you on Wednesday, March 13th at 6:00 p.m., with all other registration forms available the following day.
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Out of this World
Join our Recreation & Parks’ Robinson Nature Center team on Friday, March 8th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. as the team celebrates International Women’s Day with its “Out of this World – Women in Space” event! Come enjoy a night sky planetarium show, hands-on astronomy activities and space themed crafts, as participants learn all about women in space science careers and their journeys. Attendees will also learn all about NASA’s upcoming Artemis mission that will send the first woman to the moon!
This program is geared towards participants age six and older and the cost to participate is $17 per person. To register for this space-tacular event, click HERE.
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Wine in the Woods
Be sure to mark your calendars as Recreation & Parks’ annual Wine in the Woods event is set to return to Symphony Woods by Merriweather Post Pavilion on May 18th and May 19th. Celebrating its 30th year, I invite you to come celebrate the charm and character of an event that has aged to perfection.
Tickets are set to go on sale in March, so be be sure to stay tuned to www.wineinthewoods.com to learn more and stay in the know about this always popular event.
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Transportation Open House Materials and Survey
If you missed our Office of Transportation’s first annual Transportation Open House, but still want to view the materials discussed and complete the accompanying survey, visit HERE. On this page, visitors will find the materials presented at the previous Active Transportation and Transportation Priorities Open Houses, as well as additional information on topics including safety, Complete Streets, transit and regional planning, and roadway maintenance and operations.
Additionally, the accompanying survey offers visitors an opportunity to share their feedback and comments regarding the County's overall transportation priorities, approaches to solving common transportation challenges and specific projects with Transportation. This survey will help us develop our annual Transportation Priorities Letter that we send to the Maryland Department of Transportation each spring.
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Office of Workforce Development | |
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How to Navigate a Job Fair
Howard County youth aged 14 to 24 years old, I invite you to check out our Office of Workforce Development’s (OWD) “How to Navigate a Job Fair” event next Saturday, March 2nd to learn more about navigating the workforce and successfully securing employment. Set to take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Oakland Mills Middle School, this FREE event will teach participants how to:
- Navigate a job fair;
- Dress to land the job you want;
- Write a winning resume;
- Complete a job application and
- Enhance your interviewing skills.
As space limited, pre-registration is required for this event. To register for this upcoming event – a preparatory step and precursor for OWD’s upcoming Youth Opportunity Fair on April 6th, click HERE today.
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