Dear Friends, 

I was ecstatic to join our cOMmunity to celebrate the much anticipated ribbon cutting for the new Talbott Springs Elementary. This new building will accommodate nearly 590 of our students with a unique layout that offers access and convenience. It will provide students, educators, and families with a new modern energy efficient building that we expect will be certified as LEED silver and it is 34,000 square feet larger than the school it is replacing, allowing for a more robust education program to serve all our pupils.

Howard County is a premier place to live and grow, which is why families choose to raise their children here. As the father of daughters who both attended Talbott Springs Elementary School, this celebration is especially exciting as our community starts its 50th year with TSES.

Thank you to our local advocates, Talbott Springs Elementary School PTA, Howard County Public School System, Board of Education, our state and local officials, Oakland Mills Village, and our phenomenal Principal Nancy Thompson who helped push this project forward! Through our work together, we are building facilities that will foster excellent environments for teaching and learning, and I cannot wait to see the new heights our Eagles will continue to reach in this brand-new facility.

Happy First Day of School!

Today marks the first day of a new school year in Howard County!

Our classrooms are where we learn about the world around us, and about ourselves. We welcome our students back for a new school year that is sure to be successful. We also welcome back our talented and committed educators who give their all on behalf of our children and their families. 

I wish all of our students, educators, and parents at Howard County Public School System, Howard Community College, and beyond the best school year ever!

A New Cricket Pitch 

Cricket’s popularity has boomed over the past several years in Howard County, and I was excited to cut the ribbon on a new cricket pitch at Lake Elkhorn Middle School. This new pitch is foundational for the growth of our youth cricket league. We have some of the best sports fields and engagement in our state, and we look forward to expanding Howard County’s reputation as the place to play cricket. 

Read more here.

The Legacy of Elliott Finklestein

Giving to our world.

Giving the voiceless a voice.

Legacy lives on.

I was touched attending the dedication of a bench in Tiber Park on Main Street Ellicott City for Elliott Finkelstein, who was serving as the Chairperson of our Howard County Commission on Disabilities when he passed away late last year and began every meeting with a Haiku. Elliott was a dedicated and impassioned advocate for individuals with disabilities and was always finding new ways to support our community. He served on the Planning Advisory Committee for HoCo By Design, was a tutor for the literacy project of Howard County Library System, and served on the board of the Jewish Federation of Howard County. His impact will be timeless.

Improving Accessibility 

Our parks are part of what makes us special and what makes this a great place to call home. As we have seen, especially during the pandemic, more of our residents and visitors are spending time outdoors and utilizing all our parks have to offer.

These improvements will continue to make Centennial Park, Howard County’s largest regional park, more functional and accessible to our residents of all ages and abilities. It’s so important that we continue to build reliable infrastructure and public facilities that will last for generations. This especially includes our public outdoor spaces, our beautiful pathways, waterways and other amenities which now can be enjoyed by even more people.

Read more about our improvements here. 

Celebrating Women

I enjoyed joining our Howard County Office of Human Rights and Equity to celebrate the legacy and contributions of women throughout history in Howard County and beyond. The progress and long march toward equality for women has never been a straight line and too many remain silent in times of challenge and controversy. Even now, there are unrelenting attacks on women’s rights in our country, which will impact our neighbors, friends, and family. 

Our country and our community will not and cannot live up to its greatest potential without women. Our success and our growth as a community, is directly tied to the expansion of rights for women. In Howard County Government, we are proud to not only talk the talk, but walk the walk with a representative and reflective Cabinet which is encompassed of approximately 50% women. Our success is because of the tenacity, determination, and important work of women in critical leadership positions and we will continue to make incredible progress so future generations can thrive.

Tasty Jamaican Treats

In Howard County, we are home to a diverse culinary scene where you can find something for everyone. At Althea's Almost Famous, you can find recipes that are born from past generations with flavors that transport you to Jamaica with every drop. As we continue to celebrate Black Business Month in Howard County, I encourage you to visit them to try something new! 

Find their menu and schedule here.

Blue Crabs Right to Your Door!

During Black Business Month, we’re highlighting our local black-owned businesses that help our economy thrive. R&L Crab Columbia was born when LaShone and RaeShawn noticed that no one delivered steamed crabs, one of Maryland delicacies. I was so excited to welcome them to Howard County and wish them much success in the future. 

To learn more about how you can order traditional blue crabs, please click here.

Talk to Someone

Seeking help when needed is a sign of strength — not a weakness. It’s okay to not be okay. Speaking with trained mental health professional can make a difference. 

You are not alone. Talk to someone today by calling or texting the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988.

Kicking It!

Since 1996, Sensei Stanley Crump, a 5th degree Black Belt, has been facilitating mentorship programs and teaching karate to members of our community. During Black Business Month, I was thrilled to visit Okinawan Karate Dojo EC,MD to thank them for their commitment to our community. 

Please, continue to support our local businesses! Learn more about their services here.

Our New Mathletics Building at HCC

In Howard County, we’re so grateful to have premiere educational facilities which helps our students of all ages thrive. I recently joined Howard Community College President Dr. Daria Willis to tour the new Mathematics and Athletics Facility. 

This innovative, multi-disciplinary space will provide a home for both mental and physical exercise, a place to break down barriers and provide opportunity for the future. We are proud to partner and invest in a place where learners of all ages have the resources to thrive.

Welcome Bamyan!

I was happy to join Councilman Opel Jones, Oakland Mills Village Board Member Warren Wortman, and Village Manager Sandy Cedarbaum to welcome Bamyan Halal Meat & grocery store to our cOMmunity. This new store offers a variety of meats and groceries that are often harder to find. 

Thank you to Naseer Sultani and his family for choosing Howard County as your hOMe. I wish you continued success! Learn more about the store here.

Scam Watch - False emergencies 

It's important to watch out for possible scams and to keep you and your family safe. If someone phones or emails claiming to be a friend or relative and that they have been arrested, are in the hospital, or in need of cash, please DO NOT send money, cryptocurrency, or gift cards to strangers. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. 

Learn more about how to stay safe here. 

OAI Offers Free Support Programs for Caregivers and Older adults with Chronic Conditions



 Living Well is a free, six-week chronic disease self-management program (CDSMP) that can help you manage chronic health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Small groups meet weekly to discuss topics like nutrition, exercise, communication with family and health care providers, feelings of frustration, and more. 

"A class like this is a great benefit for anyone diagnosed with prediabetes or diabetes,” says Mayme Grant, a recent participant. "I feel more confident now in planning for my diabetic treatment."

Now you can attend Living Well from the comfort of your own home, via Webex.The virtual workshop series will be held on six Wednesdays, September 14 through October 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Caregivers are encouraged to attend, too. To register, contact Akasha Dotson at 410-313-3507 (voice/relay) or email ADotson@howardcountymd.gov. Living Well programs are a collaboration of the Howard County Health Department, Howard County Office on Aging and Independence, and Howard County General Hospital.

DCRS Leads Innovatively

Our dedicated Howard County employees and partners have demonstrated their commitment to innovation to serve our community. The Department of Community Resources and Services continues to show their commitment through their various programs, some of which received 2022 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties. Read more here.

Power Tools for Caregivers



Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC) presents topics and self-care tools to help caregivers reduce personal stress; change negative self-talk; communicate more effectively in challenging situations; manage emotions; make tough caregiving decisions; and better understand dementia. Whether you choose to attend in person at the Ellicott City 50+ Center starting September 14 at 6:00 p.m., or participate online via Webex, starting October 17, don't miss the opportunity to improve your relaxation and exercise habits, boost your physical and mental well-being, and enjoy the support and company of other caregivers. For more information or to register, contact Kathy Wehr, caregiver support program manager, at 410-313-5955 (voice/relay) or kwehr@howardcountymd.gov.

Protect Yourself from Scams with Help from the Office of Consumer Protection

Learn about the latest scams and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim! Join Tracy Rezvani, administrator of the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) for two informative presentations in September: "How to Safely Use Cash Apps" - think Venmo, PayPal, Zelle – at the Glenwood 50+ Center, 2400 Rt. 97 in Cooksville, on Tuesday, September 13 at 10:00 a.m. and "Sneaky Scams" at the North Laurel 50+ Center, 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road in Laurel, on Friday, September 30 at 11:00 a.m. To attend, sign up at the centers' front desk. For more information, or assistance with a consumer issue, contact OCP at 410-313-6420 (voice/relay) or consumer@howardcountymd.gov.

Do you knit or crochet? Handmade with Love, a Howard County Initiative of Operation Gratitude needs your support!



The Howard County Office of Veterans and Military Families is collecting homemade SCARVES and HATS for currently deployed military members. Drop off your handmade items no later than Friday, November 4, at one of the locations listed on the flier. Pin a note to each scarf or hat with the yarn fiber contents listed, and feel free to include a personal note for the recipient. Our soldiers are deeply touched by the care and effort when they receive gifts, especially handmade items from supportive fellow Americans. Scarves should be 4” to 6” wide x 48” to 50” long (no fringe) while hats should fit an adult-size head. Materials can be wool, acrylic or non-flammable fleece in subtle shades of blue, brown, olive, gray, maroon, and black. Red/white/blue combinations are also acceptable. For more information, contact Lisa Terry at 410-313-0821 (voice/relay) or email veterans@howardcountymd.gov.

Family Institute Workshops

The Howard County Family Institute is an education, information and community outreach program of DCRS’ Office of Children and Families. As families enjoy this last month of summer, The Family Institute will host a series of virtual workshops in August to help prepare for a smooth transition into the fall. Here is the schedule of upcoming workshops: 

• Wednesday, August 31, 12:00 p.m. – Discipline and Communication in the Elementary Years  
• Managing a child’s school schedule and dealing learning frustrations can be difficult for the whole family. Participants will learn how to proactively prevent meltdowns by preparing their home and routine to encourage a child’s success. Click HERE to register.

For a full description of each workshop, visit The Family Institute website or contact the Office of Children and Families if you have questions via email at children@howardcountymd.gov. 

Office of Emergency Management

Youth Preparedness Month

As emergencies and disasters can happen at any time and anywhere, it is important to take into account every member of your family, even the younger members, when planning your family's disaster response and recovery efforts. This month, during Youth Preparedness Month, our Office of Emergency Management will be sharing helpful information of how to ensure all members of your family are prepared on its Facebook and Twitter social media pages. You can also find information, resources and games to help teach your kids about disaster awareness on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's website at www.ready.gov/kids.

Nominations Sought for 2022 Human Rights Award

The nomination deadline for Howard County Human Rights Commission’s 2022 Jim Henson and Jean Toomer Individual, the Dr. Murray Simon Student, and the Colette Roberts Organization awards has been extended to Wednesday, August 31^st. Presented annually, these awards honor individuals and community organizations who have made significant contributions to human and civil rights in Howard County.

The nomination form can be found online or a hard copy can be requested by contacting the Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) by calling 410-313-6430 or emailing hrc@howardcountymd.gov. Self-nominations are accepted.

Winners will be recognized at the 2022 Human Rights Commission Awards Ceremony on October 19^th at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center.

For questions and/or more information about this year’s award, contact OHRE at 410-313-6430 or email hrc@howardcountymd.gov. To learn more about the Human Rights Commission, check out the OHRE’s Commissions and Workgroups website.

Again, the nomination deadline is now August 31, 2022.

OHRE Leads Innovatively

Every program and initiative that received recognition from the National Association of Counties reflects the solutions that our Howard County government team has brought to the toughest challenges. This is exemplified through the work of our Office of Human Rights and Equity who received two extraordinary 2022 Achievement Awards! Read more here.

Department of Planning and Zoning

Planning Board Meeting

Our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Planning Board will be holding a virtual meeting via WebEx, starting at 7:00 p.m. this Thursday, September 1^st, to hear the following agenda item:

·        ZRA 202 BFEA - Curtis Farm LLC  – A request to amend Section 131.N.27—Historic Building Uses to allow additional Historic Venue Uses, including weddings, parties and similar assembly events, in the RC, RR, R-ED, R-20, R-12, R-SC, R-SA-8, R-A-15, R-APT and R-MH Zoning Districts as a conditional use, under certain conditions.

To register to testify, click HERE. Registration must be completed prior to 7:00 pm the night (August 31, 2022) before the scheduled meeting to participate. If you do not wish to testify, but simply to watch the meeting, click HERE to watch.

A five-member board, the Planning Board makes recommendations to the Zoning Board or County Council on matters related to planning and zoning and renders a final decision on selected development proposals. Before recommendations or decisions are made, the Board holds a public meeting or hearing to provide interested persons the opportunity to provide comment. For details about procedures for testifying at a Planning Board meeting, click HERE.

To learn more about Howard County’s Planning Board and upcoming meeting dates, click HERE.

Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

Also, this Thursday, September 1^st, DPZ’s Historic Preservation Commission will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. The meeting agenda[WH1]  and instructions on how to join/participate in Thursday’s meeting can be found on the Commission’s website. To register to join Thursday’s meeting through your computer to view and hear the presentations, you will need to register by noon on September 1st. Once registered, further instructions and a call-in attendee number will be provided via email.

Those who wish to provide oral testimony are required to sign up online by noon on September 1^st. Please follow the instructions for registering on the “Registering or Joining by Telephone” tab, where there will be an option to sign-up to testify. After you register through WebEx, please email preservation@howardcountymd.gov by noon on the 1^st with the case information that you wish to testify on. Per HPC Rule of Procedure 102.B, only those parties who registered in advance of the September 1^st meeting may participate in the proceedings by asking questions and giving testimony.

Police Department

Police Focus on Roadway Safety as Kids Head Back to School

As students prepare to return to school today, HCPD is working to ensure that children, parents and teachers all arrive safely. Through its continuing back-to-school program H.A.S.T.E. (Helping Arriving Students Through Enforcement), HCPD will focus on enforcing speed, seat belt and child safety seat laws in school zones. Traffic patrols will be in place on roadways surrounding elementary, middle and high schools for the first two weeks of the school year. Officers will be working to identify drivers who are speeding in those areas, as well as checking for seat belt and child safety seat use to ensure all occupants are properly restrained.

HCPD will also be utilizing its speed camera in school zones to encourage drivers to slow down with fines set at $40. The cameras are rotated among various school zones throughout the county, which are posted in advance and updated every week.

Additionally, HCPD is reminding motorists that all buses serving the Howard County Public School System are equipped with external cameras in order to ensure student safety by discouraging motorists from passing buses illegally. When you see the bus lights flash yellow, slow down, when the lights flash red and the stop sign is extended, stop! If you are not sure what you should do if you come upon a stopped school bus when driving on a highway or multi-lane roadway, click HERE to learn more.

While HCPSS bus routes are planned to limit students’ need to cross the street, they may still have to do so. Please do your part to keep our roads safe for children, by stopping for that stopped school bus. Remember, the citation fine for failing to stop for a school bus is $250.

Applicants Sought for the Police Accountability Board Administrative Charging Committee

I and the County’s Police Accountability Board are seeking applicants interested in serving on the Administrative Charging Committee. Administrative Charging Committee members are responsible for: reviewing the findings of each law enforcement agency's investigation forwarded to the Committee; reviewing any relevant information regarding the complaint; authorizing a police officer to appear before the committee accompanied by a representative to give testimony; determining whether a police officer should be administratively charged; recommending discipline in accordance with Discipline Matrix; and issuing written findings and provide them to the head of the relevant law enforcement agency.

The Committee shall meet at least once per month, and appointees will be expected to attend all meetings of their respective boards. All residents interested in volunteering their time should complete the application available on the County’s website and attach a resume. Also, note there is 40-hour training requirement for members of the Committee. Candidates will also be asked to complete a background check and complete a disclosure statement. The deadline to apply is September 16, 2022.

Department of 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.

Rec & Parks Leads Innovatively

Every program and initiative that received recognition from the National Association of Counties reflects the solutions that our team has brought to the toughest challenges. Please join me in congratulating our Department of Recreation and Parks for receiving a coveted five NACo Achievement Awards for their various programs! Read more here.

Registration for Fall Activity Guide Now Open

Registration is now open for all Howard County and out-of-county residents for our Department of Recreation and Parks' 2022 Fall Activity Guide. Whether you are looking for a program for when school’s out or a new class for you or a loved one, there’s something for everyone in this year’s Fall Activity Guide. To view the guide online or for details on how to register for a program, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/rap.

County residents who have not received a hardcopy of the Fall Activity Guide in the mail and would like one, are invited to stop by our Recreation & Parks headquarters at 7120 Oakland Mills Road in Columbia or one of our community centers to pick one up. 

Nite Bite Fishing 

Nite Bite fishing is back at Centennial Lake. Join our Department of Recreation & Parks this Friday, September 9^th at the Centennial Park South Boat Launch for a unique opportunity to fish the lake after hours (from 6:00 to 11:00 p.m.). Bring your own fishing pole, bait, tackle, bug repellant, flashlight or lantern, chair, or boat, and take part if this one-of-a-kind experience. All ages are welcome; however, anglers under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

On-site registration only, but participants are asked to please RSVP HERE for any of the Nite Bite Fishing dates. Please keep in mind, all anglers must check in on site by no later than 7:00 p.m. 

For complete boating and fishing regulations for Centennial Lake, click HERE.

Truck or Treat 

Tickets are now on sale for the annual Recreation & Parks Truck or Treat. A “wheely fun” way to celebrate fall and community, come dressed in your favorite costume to trick-or-treat at all of the trucks, tractors, emergency vehicles and more, while meeting some of your hometown heroes. Tickets are $5 per child ages two and older (under two are free); however, please note, a limited number of tickets are available for each 75-minute time slot. To register for this Spooktacular event, click HERE. 

Office of Transportation

RTA Fixed Route Service Free Rides for 60+ Population and Persons with a Disability

Did you know residents 60 years of age and older or persons with a disability can take the Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland’s (RTA) fixed route service for free? Individuals just need to complete a RTA Certified FREE Ride Card Application and submit it either via email or mailed or dropped off in person at the RTA’s Administrative Office. Once received, applications will be reviewed within 48 hours and the applicant will be contacted to have their picture taken for their RTA Certified Bus Rider ID, completed weekdays, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30p.m. The ID can be processed in five minutes while rider waits in the lobby or it can be mailed.

To learn more about this free ride program, contact RTA Mobility at 1-800-270-9553, press option 3, then option 6.

OoT Leads Innovatively

Our Office of Transportation team was awarded two National Association of Counties Achievement Awards for their work engaging the community on bike and pedestrian improvements and the free bus pass program with the RTA. Read more here.