Dear Friends,

For every minute that someone is in sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), their chance of survival can decrease to between seven and 10 percent. Tragically, across our nation, survival from sudden cardiac arrest is only around 10 percent. We are taking another step forward in being a model community for cardiac arrest survival by expanding our Automated External Defibrillator (AED) program and placing AED’s in more locations throughout our county to ensure bystanders and loved ones have the means to act fast to improve a sudden cardiac arrest patients’ survival. 

Through this expansion, 17 new AED SaveStations are being added throughout our Department of Recreation & Parks' regional park system, improving access to AED units to ensure the best possible outcome for anyone suffering a SCA. Additionally, each Howard County Park Ranger vehicle has been equipped with an AED, approximately 100 AEDs have been deployed in our Police Department patrol vehicles and each Howard County Government building has a least one AED.

To learn more about this announcement, how to locate an AED in Howard County and how to sign-up for our Department of Fire and Rescue Services FREE Hands-Only CPR course, where you learn how to use an AED, click HERE.

Together, we can save more lives because we know that every second matters.

Calling all Young Poets

Last year, we announced the creation of Howard County’s inaugural Poet Laureate and Youth Poet Laureate program through a partnership with the Howard County Arts Council and the Howard County Poetry & Literature Society (HoCoPoLitSo).

Today, we are excited to open the application for our first Youth Poet Laureate position!

The Youth Poet Laureate will act as will act as an ambassador for literacy, arts, and youth expression in our community.

They will demonstrate a passion for poetry and its power to connect our communities through local public readings and participation in civic events. Applications are open now through May 30th, 20224. To learn more and apply, visit here.

Oh! The Places You'll Go!

During National Read Across America Day, we celebrated the impact of Dr. Seuss on generations of people, young and young-at-heart. We remain incredibly fortunate to be home to many engaged and enthusiastic readers. Through the power of reading, we can travel to magical places from the comfort of our homes and there’s no better day to spend time reading than on cold, rainy days.

Whether it’s with one fish, two fish or Thing 1 and Thing 2, I encourage you to explore the world beyond the pages. Together, we can, and we will, continue to encourage reading among our young people and ensure there’s always many places for them to go!

Give Me a W-I-L-D-E-C-A-T-S

Nothing brings me more joy than cheering on our scholar athletes as they make their mark on the world. One such team is our Wilde Lake High School Cheerleading team who won the 2024 Howard County Winter Championship. This win is even more important as many on the team couldn’t compete during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please, join me in congratulating these fantastic young women, and let’s continue to cheer them on as they embark on their next endeavors.

Celebrating Progress

As we wrapped up Black History Month, it was an honor to have had the opportunity to celebrate the progress we have made, together, with my good Brother Governor Wes Moore. Under a powerful portrait of Frederick Douglass, a former slave in Maryland turned national Abolitionist leader and Brother of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., we acknowledge the historic struggles our community has faced, the triumphant progress we have made, and the work still to be done as we create an even better future for all.

During this celebration of Black excellence, we are reminded of Frederick Douglass’ powerful words, “Without a struggle, there can be no progress.” Today, and every day of the year, let us continue to do the hard to create even more progress where no resident is left behind and future generations can thrive.

Going for Goal

Please join me in congratulating our Howard Lions boys soccer team for clinching their first state semifinal birth since 2014. Our scholar athletes continue to make us proud with their efforts to score their goals. While they may not have won the state championship this time, once again they won our hearts with their ongoing determination and resilience. Congratulations!

Every Little Thing Will Be Alright

Don’t worry, be happy, Howard County has once again been named home to one of the happiest cities in America! 

This continued recognition speaks to our ongoing efforts to ensure we are offering all our residents the best the quality of life. People want to live, work, play and grow here because of our quality schools, flourishing hub of arts and culture, recreational activities and green space, robust businesses and the strong sense of community. As we continue to build a diverse and inclusive community, Columbia and Howard County as a whole, will continue to thrive. On this gloomy day, let’s shine a bright light on the things that bring us joy.

Can You Handle The Heat?

Our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) personnel are the ones who run toward danger while most others are running away. It is their dedication and passion for serving that helps keep our community safe every day. Between Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 and 2019, we had an increase of 56 authorized positions in DFRS. Between FY 2020 and 2023, we saw an increase of 67 authorized positions. In FY 2024, we added 26 sworn positions to our DFRS personnel. Over the last five years, that means we have added 123 sworn fire and rescue services personnel!

Just last week, we graduated 35 new members from our Trainee Class 37, bringing our total authorized positions to 584. These public servants underwent a rigorous and challenging training, completing basic firefighter courses EMT and special operations. Please, join me in thanking the DFRS’s training division for their hard work and wishing our new recruits a long, safe and successful career. Let’s thank them for their service to our community and beyond!

Linked Through Legacy

As we reflect on the remarkable event at the Peabody Institute with the talented students from the Peabody Conservatory and the esteemed members of The Links, Incorporated, I'm filled with an immense sense of pride and optimism. This celebration was not just an event; it was a powerful homage to the enduring legacy and contributions of African Americans through the universal medium of music and art.

This event underscored the significant role of our young people in shaping a future that respects our past while creating new pathways of understanding, unity, and artistic expression. The collaboration between The Links, Incorporated, and the Peabody Conservatory highlights how community and art can unite to forge something truly impactful and meaningful. Together, we can celebrate the beauty in our diversity, the power of our unity, and the boundless potential within our collective creativity and passion.

Having More Than Hope

During our most difficult times, it is the spirit of hope that helps us get through even the darkest of days. It was a pleasure to celebrate our collective light during “More Than Hope,” an event supporting Luminus’ ongoing efforts to empower new Americans. Through this compelling experience of compelling speakers, soul-stirring music, and captivating dance performances addressing themes of belonging and social injustice, we are reminded that, together, we can be the beacon of light for our neighbors.

A huge thank you to the volunteer organizers, Leslie and Jay, for this powerful event. A special thank you to CEO Gabriel Moreno and the entire Luminus team for reminding us of the power of hope for our refugees and asylum seekers.

Celebrating Our Black History

I am proud that our community has made this past month such a special time of reflection, celebration and communion as we honored the history on contributions of our Black community. I was thrilled to be able to attend the 2nd Annual Black History Fest at our acclaimed Harriet Tubman Cultural Center to celebrate our history and culture. This year’s theme was “Reaching Beyond Limitations,” which is exactly what all the inspiring people who spoke at the event have done. Not only are they continuing to break barriers in their respective industries, but they are also setting an amazing example for all of us. 

Special thank you to Gabrielle Demuren for planning this event!

A Flowerful Good Time

I had a flowerful time during the annual Howard County Library System’s Evening in the Stacks. This year, proceeds help sustain HCLS’ early childhood initiatives that serve our budding learners, our community’s most precious blooms. We are so lucky to have one of the best library systems in our country, and it is only due to the support of our community to help every resident blossom. 

Thank you to the leadership of CEO Tonya Aikens, the entire HCLS board, and all library staff for their dedication to empowering our next generation of leaders. Together, we will continue our efforts to help all our residents, of all ages and abilities, to reach beyond their imagination.

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. 

Join My Team!

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

• Outreach and Communications Manager – (Human Services Specialist III) – Office of Human Rights and Equity – Develops and implements systems, educational programs and events to address and combat discrimination and to promote better human relations in Howard County.
• Administrative Assistant - County Executive's Office – Assist in the determination of the potential impact of proposed legislation to the County's operations and finances as well as write briefings including recommendations of various courses of action.
• Communication & Marketing Liaison – (Technical Services Support Specialist I) – Department of County Administration – Provides assistance to the Director of Communications in assigning, coordinating, approving and overseeing all phases of production for the development of print and electronic communications with the general public and county government employees.
• Data Analytics Analyst (Technical Services Manager I) – Department of Technology and Communications Services, Project Management – Responsible for gathering, analyzing, and visualizing data to support evidence-based decision-making within the government.
• CAD Administrator (Technical Services Support Specialist II) – Police Department, Communications Division – Provides information technology management services for Howard County Police Department, and more.
• Therapeutic Recreation Aquatics Operator - Department of Recreation & Parks – Oversees all aspects of the swimming lesson, open swim and Water Exercise and aquatic program at the Cedar Lane Therapy Pool.
• Career Coach - Office of Workforce Development – Coordinates career exploration resources, identifies and collaborates with partners to develop career exploration activities and administers these activities in the middle and high schools. 

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

Calling All Entrepreneurs

Join the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) for our pitch competition featuring entrepreneurs and startup companies in the community. $7,000 in prizes will be awarded!

Spirited in atmosphere and in food and drink offerings, Pitch and Mingle is the perfect opportunity to stir up your social network, mingling with fellow attendees over light fare and libations. Come support the community's entrepreneurs, participate in the selection process, and make connections at the MIC.

So how does it work? Five startups are selected to present a four-minute pitch. This is followed by four minutes of question and answer from the panel of judges and audience. At the end, our judges will come together and select the top three companies! These winners will receive cash prizes with first place receiving $3,000! In addition, there will be a "Crowd Favorite" award which is selected by the audience.

Registration for this event is required. Food and drink are included.

Expand Your Business!

Howard County business owners, this is your opportunity to gain resources and meet with community partners including Office of Procurement, Maryland Technology Development Corporation - TEDCO, Maryland Department of Commerce, Howard County Office of Workforce Development and more!

Don't miss the dedicated information session on our LIFT Fund, a fantastic opportunity for small business owners, including minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, and socially disadvantaged groups. Learn about microloans ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 tailored to your success with terms of three to five years. From networking opportunities with industry professionals to informative workshops and presentations, our Business Resource Expo has something for everyone.

Mark your calendar for this Thursday, March 7th, 2024, and join us for the HCEDA Business Resource Expo! Register today here.

Boards and Commissions

Applicants Sought for Ethics Commission

Our system of representative government is dependent upon our residents maintaining the highest trust in their public officials and officers. Our Ethics Commission plays a vital role in ensuring this trust is maintained and that our officials and officers are upheld to the highest standards and maintain the highest ethical stance. If you are interested in being a member of our Ethics Commission, I encourage you to apply today. To learn how, click HERE.

A Grand Opening Affair

More than two years ago, we broke ground in East Columbia for the long-awaited 50+ Center, where approximately 40 percent of Howard County’s older adults reside. The old Columbia 50+ Center, built in 1994, was approximately 3,800 square feet and was collocated within Howard County Library System’s East Columbia branch. 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. 

This week on March 7th, we will be cutting the ribbon on this new, state-of-the art 29,000 square foot, freestanding building at 11:00 a.m. Join us as we celebrate progress in our collective commitment to provide the best services and facilities for our residents of all ages. The new Center will resume its normal operating hours and programming schedule this Friday, March 8th. 

Please note, the old East Columbia 50+ Center will be closed Monday, March 4th through Wednesday, March 6th, as DCRS staff move equipment and supplies into our new facility. While all regularly scheduled programming will be cancelled during the closure, the AARP Tax Aide services and the New Release Cinema program held in partnership with the East Columbia branch will still take place tomorrow, March 5th. 

Let’s Talk Nutrition and Women’s History

In honor of March being National Nutrition Month and Women’s History Month, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Director Jackie Scott is will host two HoCo Community Chat podcast episodes this month. Jackie will first be joined by DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence’s (OAI) Health and Wellness Manager Courtney Harangozo and registered dietician and OAI partner Carmen Roberts to discuss National Nutrition Month, how their positions help our residents and what nutrition looks like in our county.

Jackie will return later on this month with HoCo Community Chat to honor Women’s History Month, so be sure to stay tuned on Buzzsprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts. If there is something specific you want to hear discussed, email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov. 

It’s National Consumer Protection Week

It’s National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) (March 3rd through March 9th), a time dedicated to helping people better understand their consumer rights and avoid frauds and scams. In honor of NCPW, our Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) created a newsletter that doesn't just recount our victories against scams, but arms you with the knowledge you need to stand guard and stay protected. Through this invaluable resource, we are just one stop closer to creating a safer Howard County. 

To check out this latest OCP newsletter, click HERE.   

Here to Support our Caregivers

Despite their selfless commitment to loved ones, caregivers often face numerous challenges and uncertainties. To empower our caregivers so they are able to navigate their caregiver journey confidently, DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) has partnered with Trualta. Trualta offers on-demand assistance to caregivers tailored to their needs, with resources ranging from educational modules to personalized coaching and access to a supportive community. To learn more about how Trualta can support you or someone you care about, visit https://hococaregivers.trualta.com/ today.

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. 

Office of Community Sustainability

LED Light Bulb Exchange Program Expands!

As I recently 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.

Department of County Administration

We Want to Hear From You!

The County and our design consultant, Arcadis, will host a series of in-person and virtual community meetings this month to gather community feedback about how a new, future Howard County Library System Central branch can best benefit Downtown Columbia and all of Howard County. There are five potential sites being considered that will be presented to the public as options, including a site in the Merriweather District, two different sites in the Lakefront District, a site at The Mall in Columbia and the existing Central branch site.

To learn more about these meetings and how you can participate, click HERE. 

Department of Finance

Aging in Place Tax Credit

Aging in Place tax credit applications are now open! To be eligible for this tax credit, applicants must at least 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.

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. The deadline to apply will be June 30, 2024.

Learn more about our tax credits at www.howardcountymd.gov/finance/tax-credits. 

Livable Homes

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 percent of the eligible cost or $2,500, whichever is less. The application for tax year 2024 is due April 1, 2024. 

To learn more about how to apply for this credit, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/finance/tax-credits.  

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.

Trash, Bay, Watershed Protection Fee Hardship Tax Credit

Homeowners with limited income may qualify for a 60 percent 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.

Office of Human Rights and Equity

Trans Day of Visibility Celebration

Trans adults, trans teens, their families and allies, I invite you to join our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) and LGBTQIA+ Commission on Sunday, March 31st for the County’s first-ever Trans Day of Visibility Celebration. Featuring an all-inspiring talent show, open mic, great food and opportunities for community connection, this event aims to bring together our local trans community to elevate trans voices in an affirming environment. To sign up to attend this celebration on the 31st, set to begin at 4:00 p.m. at Busboys and Poets in Columbia, click HERE today.

If you're interested in performing at the celebration, click HERE for an application. The deadline to apply to be a performer is next, Sunday, March 10th. 

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. 

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: 

• 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. 
• Thursday, March 14th, 6:30 p.m. – LGBTQIA+ Commission meeting. To attend, email LGBTQIA@howardcountymd.gov. 
• Tuesday, March 19th, 6:15 p.m. – La Alianza Latina Commission monthly meeting. To attend, alianzalatina@howardcountymd.gov. 

Department of Planning and Zoning

Planning Board Meeting

Our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Planning Board, will be holding a hybrid meeting, in person at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City and virtually via WebEx, starting at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 7th, to hear the following agenda item:

• Continuation of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Capital Budget and the FY2025-FY2034 10-Year Capital Improvement Master Plan – The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on new and substantially modified capital projects that have been requested by County agencies to be included in the County Executive’s proposed FY2025 Capital Budget and the FY2025-FY2034 10-Year Capital Improvement Master Plan.

To register to testify, click HERE. Registration must be completed prior to 7:00 p.m. the night before (March 6th) the scheduled meeting to participate. If you do not wish to testify, but simply to watch the meeting, click HERE to watch.

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

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

Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

Also, this Thursday, March 7th, DPZ’s Historic Preservation Commission will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. The meeting agenda and instructions on how to watch or participate in Thursday’s meeting can be found on the Commission’s website.

Stay in the Know About the Future of Gateway

Stay in the know about DPZ's 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.

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.

Police Department

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.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Yard Trim Curbside Collections and Household Hazardous Waste Saturdays at the Landfill to Resume this April

Our Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Bureau of Environmental Service’s curbside yard trim collection season is set to resume Monday, April 1st. If you aren’t sure what day of the week you receive curbside yard trim collection, click HERE to check your collection day. Also, in case you need a little refresher about what items are and are not accepted with yard trim and how to prepare your yard trim for collection, visit the Bureau’s website here. If you have yard trim you need to dispose of before the week of April 1st, you can stop by the Wood Waste Area at Alpha Ridge Landfill (ARL) to recycle your yard trim or set it out with your curbside trash collection. 

Remember! Residents in the Bureau’s “Feed The Green Bin” curbside food scrap collection area, you receive year-round food scrap and yard trim collection combined.

Finally, Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Saturdays at ARL resume Saturday, April 6th. Starting on the 6th through November 30th (Saturday’s ONLY), Howard County residents can safely and properly dispose of corrosive, flammable, reactive or toxic products typically found in most homes, garages and workshops, that are considered HHW. To learn more about this program and what you need to know about HHW before visiting the ARL, click HERE.

Shredding Dates for 2024

Our Bureau of Environmental Services has announced its County-sponsored document shredding dates for 2024: Saturday, April 13th and Saturday, October 19th. On these dates, county residents can bring up to three bags or boxes of paper documents – we are talking Federal and State tax documents, credit card and other household bills, medical records, pay stubs, mortgage documents and insurance bills (documents that include account numbers, passwords, PINs, signatures, Social Security numbers and date of birth), to these events to be shredded onsite. 

To learn more about these dates, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/documentshredding today. 

The Bike Shed

Have an old kid’s bike in storage you aren’t sure what to do with? Did you know, the Residents' Convenience Center at ARL features a bike shed where residents can drop-off old bikes to be cleaned up, refurbished and given new life by Bikes for the World and Free Bikes 4 Kidz Maryland. In fact, in 2023, of the more than 2,600 bicycles Free Bikes 4 Kidz Maryland gave away, at least 1,000 donated bikes came from the County’s ARL bike shed. 

To learn more about ARL’s Residents’ Convenience Center and its bike shed, click HERE.

Save the Date for GreenFest 2024

Save the date, as the County’s annual GreenFest celebration is set to return for its 17th year on Saturday, April 13th at Howard Community College. This year’s event will feature a compost bin demonstration and giveaways, native plant sale, recognition of this year’s Green awards winners, used sports equipment collection workshops, light bulb exchange, the Repair Café and more. To learn more about this year’s event, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/community-sustainability/greenfest. 

Stormwater Management Division

Public Meeting Scheduled to Highlight Relaunch of Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program

Are you a property or business owner located in high-risk flood zone in Howard County? If yes, I encourage to join DPW’s Stormwater Management Division next Monday, March 11th at 7:00 p.m. as it hosts hybrid public meeting to discuss the relaunch of our Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program. 

Initially launched in 2019, this grant program assists property owners and businesses located in high-risk flood zones across Howard County with making improvements to primary buildings or structural stream crossings and removing debris from property adjacent stream channels. Through this expanded grant program, Howard County will match 50 percent of flood proofing costs up to a maximum match of $6,000 for property owners and $3,000 for businesses.

The meeting on the 11th will be hosted in-person in the Columbia/Ellicott City Rooms of the George Howard Building in Ellicott City and virtually via Webex and will help the community navigate and understand the 2024 Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant application process. 

To participate in the meeting virtually, the Webex webinar number is 2316 832 5979 and the password is “prevention” or 77383684 from phones and video systems; to join by phone, call 1-650-479-3207 and when asked, enter the access code: 231 83 25979. 

Those unable to attend either the in-person or virtual meeting, who would like to view the meeting materials and/or have questions, should contact DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-0522 or email stormwater@howardcountymd.gov. 

To learn more about this program, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/bureau-environmental-services/flood-protection.

Transportation and Special Projects Division

Snowden River Parkway and Broken Land Parkway Intersection Improvements Public Meeting

DPW’s Transportation and Special Projects Division will hold a public meeting this Thursday, March 7th from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at Hammond High School in Columbia, to present plans for an intersection improvement project at Snowden River Parkway and Broken Land Parkway. This project will facilitate the safe and efficient flow of local commuter, bicycle and pedestrian traffic movements from the westbound MD 32 off-ramp onto Broken Land Parkway and at the intersection of Snowden River Parkway and Broken Land Parkway.

To learn more about this project and meeting, click HERE.

Bureau of Utilities

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.

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

Spring/Summer Activity Guide Registration Up Next!

With online, over-the-phone, mail-in and in-person registration fully underway for our Department of 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., this 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.

Light the Night 5K for Suicide Prevention

Join us March 22nd for the 3rd Annual Light the Night 5K for Suicide Prevention at Oakland Mills High School. Together, Recreations & Parks, the Howard County Health Department, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Maryland Chapter, Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center and Bullseye Running, have partnered together to host this annual event that helps raise awareness for suicide and suicide prevention resources in our community. To learn more about this year’s race and/or to register, click HERE.

Kid's Fest is Back!

Recreation & Parks’ annual Kid’s Fest is back and ready to have a blast with your family and friends. Set to take place Saturday, March 30th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Meadowbrook Park, this year’s event will feature sports instruction, games, inflatables, activities, arts and crafts, food, an egg hunt, and so much more. While online preregistration is encouraged (cost is $8 per child age two to 12), cashless onsite registration will be available (day of the event cost is $10 per child age two to 12). 

To learn more about this year’s Kid’s Fest and/or to register, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/kids-fest.

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 this month, so be be sure to stay tuned to www.wineinthewoods.com to learn more and stay in the know about this always popular event.

Office of Workforce Development

Summer Youth Employment Program Applications Open

Howard County youth and young adults aged 14 to 24 years old, applications are NOW being accepted for our Office of Workforce Development's Summer Youth Employment Program. This six-week program offers participants the opportunity to learn valuable skills and gain hands-on experience in various employment settings, while earning a competitive wage. 

To learn more about this program and/or to apply, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/youth-services today!