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May 3, 2021
Dear friends,

As we continue to encourage residents to get vaccinated, Howard County leads the state with the percent of residents 16+ who have received their first dose. As of 9:00 a.m., 71.9% of Howard County residents 16+ have received at least one dose and 51.3% are fully vaccinated according to the Maryland Department of Health.

All residents 16+ are now eligible to receive a vaccine. To schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine at a mass-vax site in Maryland, including the site at the Mall in Columbia, please visit covidvax.maryland.gov or call 1-855-634-6829. Residents may also schedule with the Howard County Health Department at vaccine.howardcountymd.gov or by calling 410-313-6284. Please note, many of our local sites are now offering walk-up appointments.

To date in Howard County, we’ve had 19,026 cases of COVID-19 and 239 deaths. As of 9:00 a.m. today, our 7-day average positivity rate is 2.8% and our 7-day average case rate per 100,000 of our population is at 9.3. There are currently 29 COVID-19 patients in both ICU and Acute Care unit.
 
We all want to be back where we were before the pandemic. The only way we can achieve that is by Staying COVID Safe and getting vaccinated. Let’s continue to protect each other!
Community Updates
Welcoming Vice President Kamala Harris

I was honored to join Vice President Kamala Harris and Dr. Anthony Fauci to tour the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore to mark 100 days of the Biden-Harris Administration. As we navigate through the greatest health pandemic we have seen in a century, it is imperative that we work together to get residents tested and vaccinated. I’m grateful to President Biden, Vice President Harris, and their entire Administration for their continuous efforts to speed up the delivery of vaccines. 

In Howard County, we continue to make significant progress to get shots into arms with over 55% of residents receiving at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, nearly 38% of residents are fully vaccinated, 100% of our super seniors, those ages 75 and older, have received at least one shot, and 99% of Howard County Public School educators who wanted a vaccine have received one. Howard County currently leads Maryland in first doses administered and vaccines administered to residents 65+. These positive metrics are only due to our robust collaboration with the Biden-Harris Administration as well as our State partners.

Maryland has weathered an uncertain economy throughout this pandemic, and the American Rescue Plan, another Biden-Harris priority, will help bring $63.1 million of federal funding to Howard County. This robust funding is vital to our current COVID-19 response and our long-term recovery. I’m grateful for the advocacy of the President, Vice President, and our entire federal delegation for helping us set a successful path to recovery.  

We continue to urge residents that the only way we can end this pandemic, is if we get vaccinated. Please reach out to a family, friend, neighbor, or anyone around you, and encourage them to get vaccinated today. Many sites are now offering walk-up availability. To see a full list of vaccination sites, please visit COVIDVax.Maryland.gov.
50+ Center Reopening Update

Our 50+ centers are an invaluable resource for social engagement, health and wellness, and life planning. Howard County 50+ centers have now resumed limited, in-person services at 50% capacity. 100% of our super seniors, those ages 75 and older, and 92% of residents between the ages of 65 and 74 have received at least one dose of the vaccine, which provides an additional safety measure for our 50+ centers. 

I want to thank our team at the Office on Aging and Independence for their work during last year amid the pandemic to maintain these essential resources for our residents, and for their thoroughness in overseeing the safe reopening of these programs to our communities.

Older adults are encouraged to make an appointment to visit our 50+ centers by calling (410) 313-5400.
Mask Order Update

Per the Governor's recent order, Maryland residents can now unmask outdoors alone, at small outdoor gatherings, or when dining outside with friends from multiple households. 

It’s important for all residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Find a vaccination site near you at COVIDVax.Maryland.gov.
Beyond the Badge - Backpacks for Students

Created four years ago by five Maryland police officers, the Beyond The Badge Foundation works to build and strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the community, by making a difference in the lives of those in need.

Beyond the Badge collected 827 backpacks and other school supplies for elementary school students. These bags will be donated to students at Veterans Elementary and Forest Heights Elementary. Thank you to PFC Ray Peele and his wife Monica for spearheading this important initiative, and special thank you to Howard County Police Department and Bushel and a Peck Kitchen & Bar to their support!
Pfizer Vaccine Available!

We strongly encourage our youth, those between the ages of 16 and 18, to register for our vaccine clinic on Wednesday, May 5th, at Howard Community College between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. While walk-ups will be available on Wednesday, we encourage our youth to register to secure a vaccine dose. 

Please share this information with young people in your life, and encourage them to register TODAY. Let’s bring this pandemic to an end, together!
Clarksville Commons Farmer's Market

Farmer's Markets are beginning to open for the season! 

I was thrilled to visit Clarksville Commons for the opening day of its weekly Farmer's Market. Every Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. through November 6th, residents can visit to buy farm-fresh produce, baked goods, and more! 

Clarksville Commons is now also a part of the Maryland Market program, which allows them to match up to $10 per household, per market for SNAP-eligible foods.
 
To learn more, please click here.
HoCo Vaccine Progress

In Howard County, 100% of our adults older than 75, 92% of our adults between the ages of 65 and 74, and 76% of our residents between the ages of 50 and 64 have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Together, Let's StayCOVIDSafe and get vaccinated! Find a vaccination site near you by calling 1 (855) MD-GOVAX.
Total Residents 65+ Vaccinated

In Howard County, we are committed to ensuring our most vulnerable populations, including older adults, receive the COVID-19 vaccine as quickly, safely, and efficiently as possible. Howard County is currently leading the State with 81.9% of residents age 65 and older who are fully vaccinated, according to the Maryland Department of Health.

We will continue to StayCOVIDSafe by working together. To register with the State, please call 1 (855) MD-GOVAX. To register with the Howard County Health Department, please call (410) 313-6284.
Population Vaccinated by County - Fully Vaccinated

To date, 40.4% of Howard County residents are fully vaccinated according to the Maryland Department of Health. We continue to work with the Howard County Health Department and the State to ensure residents receive the vaccine safely and efficiently, as we receive supply.

Let's StayCOVIDSafe and get vaccinated!
AAPI Heritage Month
Our Asian-American and Pacific Islander or AAPI community serves a vital role in contributing to the economic and cultural vibrancy that makes our County one of the most attractive locations to live, work and play in the country. This month, we honor and celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and we are grateful for the tremendous generosity of our AAPI community.

We are glad to recognize AAPI heritage and history in Howard County, Maryland, and beyond. Happy AAPI Heritage Month!
COVID-19 Resource Updates
Older Adults Resource Guide

We know how difficult this past year has been for our community, and there is a lot of hope on the horizon that we will be able to gather together again soon. It's more vital than ever that we make sure our older adults, caregivers, and adults with disabilities have the support and connections they need to thrive.

Our Office on Aging and Independence has compiled a free resource guide for older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers that includes information about aging in place, housing, and health & wellness.

Be sure to check it out at https://tinyurl.com/HoCoResource and share it with family, friends, or loved ones that are looking for resources in Howard County.
Auto Insurance Forgiveness Program

Finefix, the State's fine forgiveness program for auto insurance, will end on July 31st, 2021. All remaining account balances must be paid by then. Enrollment ended on December 21st, 2019, but over 23,000 Maryland Drivers enrolled in the program had their uninsured fines reduced by over 80%. 

For more information, and to learn about payment plans please click here.
Mobile Testing Sites - NEW HOURS!

Our Mobile Testing sites are now open from noon through 7:00 p.m. These mobile sites are more accessible to our community, provide quick test results, and improve our ability to contain COVID-19. 15-minute rapid testing and 24-hour PCR testing is available to residents at no cost at each of these five locations:
  • Long Reach Village Center 
  • North Laurel Community Center
  • Recreation and Parks Headquarters 
  • The Elkridge 50+ Center
  • Normandy Shopping Center

Please StayCOVIDSafe and get tested!
Residents can now walk up to several State Mass Vaccination sites to receive their vaccine:
  • M&T Bank Stadium
  • Hagerstown Outlets
  • Wicomico Civic Center
  • Baltimore Convention Center
  • Greenbelt Metro Station

Please note, the process for no-appointment lines may take longer and there is no guarantee of receiving a vaccine. To pre-register at a State site, please call 1(855) MD-GOVAX or visit COVIDVax.Maryland.gov
Vaccinating Our Youth

Currently, residents as young as 16 are approved to receive the Pfizer vaccine. Pfizer is the only vaccine, at this time, that can be administered in the United States to people under 18. State Mass Vaccination Clinics are more than likely to administer the Pfizer vaccine. I strongly urge parents and guardians to ensure our youth ages 16 and 17 get vaccinated.

We need to do everything we can to keep our families and community safe. We encourage residents age 16, 17, 18, and older to register for a vaccine TODAY by calling 1 (855) MD-GOVAX or visiting COVIDVax.Maryland.gov. Please note, you must specify your age when creating an appointment.
Maryland Vaccination Sites

While there continues to be limited vaccine allocated to County Health Departments, we encourage ALL residents 16+ to visit one of many available locations to receive their vaccines. The State has implemented several Mass Vaccine sites to administer vaccines to residents. Pre-registration is now available to residents in all phases and all residents 16+ are eligible to receive the vaccine.

How to Register:
  1. Visit coronavirus.maryland.gov/pages/vaccine and click on “Pre-register for a vaccination at a mass vaccination site” tab
  2. Answer the required questions and enter the necessary information
  3. Fill out the health screening
  4. Select your preferred mass vaccination site
  5. Certify your information is true by checking the final box.

For more information and to register at any mass vaccination sites or pharmacy, please visit COVIDVax.Maryland.gov or call 1 (855) 634-6829.
COVID-19 Relief
Mortgage Relief for Residents

We are proud to announce a new foreclosure prevention program with $1.4 million supported through pandemic assistance funding. Residents impacted by COVID and not able to pay their mortgage payments should contact the Department of Housing and Community Development to complete an application for mortgage assistance. Applications are available here.

Residents with pending or approved forbearance plans with their mortgage lender are eligible to apply for assistance. Please note, the moratorium on filing of Notices of Intent to Foreclose also ends on 3/31.
Tax Resources

Applications for the Aging in Place and Senior Tax Credits are now available! These tax credits provide financial incentives to allow residents to stay in their homes while offering more affordable aging in place.

Homeowners can use the county's Credit Eligibility Calculator to explore all available tax credits and relevant information regarding the application and screening processes. The Credit Eligibility Calculator can be found here.

Please, share this information with an older adult in your life. For more information, you can also call the Department of Finance at (410) 313-2195.
Government Updates
Department of Community Resources and Services
Beware Fake COVID-19 Vaccination Cards

Our Department of Community Resource and Services’ (DCRS) Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) is WARNING residents of scammers who are selling fake COVID-19 vaccination cards online. To avoid getting the vaccine, individuals are buying these fake vaccination cards as a card may be required by the travel industry in the future as proof of vaccination in order to travel. This false and deceptive marketing practice threatens the health of others.
 
Additionally, remember to NEVER post pictures of your vaccination card on social media as it contains your name and date of birth. This information can be used to commit identity theft and other frauds against you. For more helpful consumer protection tips from OCP, click HERE.
Best Buy Geek Squad Phishing Email Scam

In addition to the fake COVID-19 vaccination card scam, OCP is also alerting residents to a phishing email scam making its rounds. The email appears, which appears to be from Best Buy’s Geek Squad, although it is not, is regarding an automatic membership renewal. The email asks the recipient to call if they do not want to renew; HOWEVER, calling the number sets the scam in motion, potentially allowing the scammer access to your computer and your bank account. NEVER allow access to your computer or accounts to anyone that you do not know and NEVER buy gift cards for a business to cover a debt. If you get an email from a business or organization asking about a transaction you did not initiate, contact the business directly using a phone number you find on their website, NOT the number in the email.
 
If you receive an email phishing scam, you can report it to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting https://Reportfraud.FTC.gov.
Employment Scams in Howard County

Additionally, OCP is ALSO sharing a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warning about a number of employment related scams currently being seen in our community. According to the FTC, scammers advertise jobs the same way legitimate employers do — online (in ads on job sites and social media), in newspapers and sometimes on TV and radio. They promise you a job, but what they want is your money and your personal information. Examples of job scams include work-from-home job scams; nanny, caregiver and virtual personal assistant job scams; mystery shopper scams; job placement service scams; and government and postal jobs scams. To learn more about these job scams and how to avoid them/what to look out for, check out the FTC's website today.
Consumer Protection Advisory Board

It is vital our residents have the support and knowledge necessary to be aware of the fraudulent campaigns and scams that can plague our community, whether through phone, email or social media. That is why our Consumer Protection Advisory Board is vital to our community, as Board members help advise DCRS' Office of Consumer Protection and myself on policies, programs and practices that can improve consumer protection-related services in the county. If you are a Howard County resident, are 18 years of age or older, have an interest in consumer issues and are able to attend the Board’s meetings, held the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m., I encourage you to apply today. To learn how, click HERE. Board member applications are being accepted now through Friday, May 14th.
Stay Active, Try Something New this May with OAI

Howard County older residents, if you are looking for something to keep you active and engaged, check out OAI’s monthly Virtual Offering Guides! Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, OAI has been working hard to provide older residents with various activities, from exercise and cooking classes to social engagement and lifelong learning classes, to help keep you moving, cooking and staying social while at home. To learn about the virtual offerings OAI has going on this month, check out its the May Virtual Offering Guide, available online now. for a list of this month’s offerings. For questions, contact OAI at aging@howardcountymd.gov.
Department of Fire and Rescue Services
Staying Safe When Outdoors Enjoying the Warmer Weather

Warmer weather has finally arrived and it's a great time to get outdoors with your family … especially before the cicadas arrive. Enjoying outdoor activities like riding bikes or visiting the playground can be fun as long as everyone stays safe while doing so. To help ensure your outdoor play is all fun and no injury, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) along with Safe Kids Worldwide is offering up these bike and playground safety tips.
 
Bike Safety

  1. Did you know a properly fitted helmet can reduce your risk of head injury by at least 45 percent? Yet sadly, less than half of children 14 and under usually wear a helmet. To ensure you are wearing your helmet correctly, check out Safe Kids Worldwide’s Helmet Fit Test. Remember, your helmet should sit on top of your head in a level position, and should not rock forward, backward or side to side. Your helmet straps must also always be buckled, but not too tightly.
  2. Ride on the sidewalk when you can. If not, ride in the same direction of traffic and as far to the right-hand side as possible.
  3. Wear bright colors and use lights, especially when riding at night. Also, reflectors on your clothes and bike will help you be seen.  
  4. Ride with your children and stick together until you are comfortable that your kids are ready to ride on their own.
  5. Use hand-signals and follow the rules of the road. Be predictable by making sure you ride in a straight line and don’t swerve between cars.
 
Playground Safety

  1. Falls are the most common type of playground injury, accounting for more than 75 percent of all playground-related injuries. Lack of or improper supervision is associated with about 45 percent of playground-related injuries. So be sure to always actively supervise your children when they are on a playground.
  2. Take your kids to playgrounds with shock-absorbing surfaces, such as rubber, synthetic turf, sand, wood chips or mulch. If your child falls, the landing will be more cushioned than on asphalt, concrete, grass or dirt.
  3. Dress appropriately for the playground. Remove necklaces, purses, scarves or clothing with drawstrings that can get caught on equipment and pose a strangulation hazard. Even helmets can be dangerous on a playground, so save those for bikes.
  4. Teach children that pushing, shoving or crowding while on the playground can be dangerous.
Move Over Law Reminder

HCDFRS is reminding drivers of Maryland’s 'Move Over' law. The law requires drivers approaching (from the rear) an emergency, transportation, service or utility vehicle, as well as waste and recycling trucks, with red, yellow or amber flashing lights that is stopped, standing or parked along the highway to, when possible, move over a lane. This movement should only be done if another lane in the same direction is available and the move can be made safely and without impeding other traffic. If the driver is unable to make a lane change, the law requires drivers to slow to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe for existing conditions while passing the emergency or service vehicles.
 
Together, we can help ensure a safer work environment for our police officers, fire fighters, emergency rescue personnel, tow service operators, public works personnel and others while working along Maryland roadways.
Youth Invited to Learn What it Takes to be a Firefighter at 1st Alarm Fire Camp

HCDFRS is NOW accepting applications for its 2021 1st Alarm Fire Camp. Hosted by the St. Florian's Brigade, the 1st Alarm Fire Camp is geared towards youth interested in learning more about the fire service and what it takes to become a firefighter. Campers will take part in a burn demo, CPR training, obstacle courses, running emergency scenarios and more, all while focusing on team building and developing life skills.
 
This year's camp will take part in two separate, one-day sessions based on age group:

  • Ages 8 to 11: Saturday, July 10th from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Ages 12 to 14: Saturday, July 17th from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
 
To more information and/or for an application form, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/GirlsFireCamp. All CDC recommended COVID-19 safety guidelines will be followed at camp.
Vote Sowell for 2021 American Hero Dog

This is your last week to vote for HCDFRS’ accelerant detection canine Sowell for the American Humane's 2021 American Hero Dog award. This is the highest honor in all the canine world, and we’d love to be able to recognize Sowell for a job well done. In case you need a little convincing on why Sowell deserves this awesome honor, here's a little background information on our four-legged co-worker.
 
In 2019, K-9 Sowell met HCDFRS Captain Craig Matthews and they bonded instantly. Since then, Sowell has been hard at work, responding to more than 70 fire scenes (including fatal fires, homicides involving fire and building and vehicle fires) a year across Maryland. With his keen sense of smell (one might say he has the nose for the job), Sowell is able to sniff out a wide variety of ignitable liquids often used to accelerate a fire. Thanks to his scent discrimination abilities, Sowell is able to quickly identify evidence within a few minutes compared to the countless hours his human fire investigator friends would spend digging through fire debris to locate evidence at a fire scene. When not working a fire scene, you can find Sowell training, making public appearances to raise awareness of fire safety deterring the crime of arson, playing ball or enjoying a good old belly rub.
Howard County Health Department

Request COVID-19 Vaccination Records

Misplaced your COVID-19 Vaccination Card? Never fear! You can easily request your vaccination records the Maryland Department of Health’s “Maryland MyIR” website. Maryland MyIR is a free website service that allows residents to view and print copies of their official vaccination records directly from ImmuNet, Maryland's immunization information system. ImmuNet is used by healthcare providers to securely maintain vaccination records for Maryland residents of all ages.
Free COVID-19 Testing in Columbia

FREE COVID-19 testing is now available every Monday and Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at HCHD’s headquarters at 8930 Stanford Boulevard in Columbia. Testing is performed using the FDA-approved Azova saliva test kit … yes, it is far more comfortable than traditional nasal swab PCR testing, but similarly effective. Once swabbed, results are available within two to four days.
 
If you or a loved one believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please get tested today. To book your appointment for this location, visit https://howardcounty.azova.com
Police Department
Don’t Make Your House an Easy Target for Burglars, Secure Your Doors

When spending time outside, whether playing with your kids or pet, just relaxing or doing yardwork, you might think it’s okay to leave your garage door open or slider unlocked while you're right outside. However, HCPD is reminding residents to ALWAYS keep your doors, including garage doors and rear sliders, closed and locked, including that interior door in your garage.
 
In warmer months, HCPD typically sees an increased number of burglaries in which criminals walk into open garages and through the unlocked interior door leading inside the house. Detectives also see an increase number of cases in which burglars walk into homes by opening unlocked rear sliding glass doors. And while you might think leaving that sliding glass door in the back of your house unlocked is okay, this door has actually been a popular point of entry for burglars, who will move on from a locked door until they find one that is unsecured and easily opened.
 
In an effort to keep homes and neighborhoods secure, HCPD is offering up the following tips:

  • Always keep all doors, including your garage door and rear slider, closed and locked. Ensure that the door leading from your garage to the interior of your home also is locked.
  • Always lock your vehicles and remove valuable property. Remember that a garage door opener in an unlocked car is like a key to your home!
  • Keep valuables in an unexpected place. For example, don’t keep your most valuable jewelry in your jewelry box. Burglars want to get in and out quickly, so don’t make it easy for them to find your valuable or sentimental items.
  • Always report suspicious activity or people by calling 911.
 
Also, HCPD is also reminding residents to always keep vehicles locked, whether at home or away from home, and never leave anything valuable in plain sight.
Applications Still Being Accepted for HCPD’s P.L.E.D.G.E. Summer Leadership Camp

Rising Howard County 9th graders, have you applied yet for HCPD’s P.L.E.D.G.E. (Pride, Leadership, Education, Diversity, Growth, Evaluation) Summer Leadership Camp? This FREE, one-week day-camp that helps rising 9th graders develop leadership skills prior to entering high school. Lessons and activities challenge campers’ ability to make critical decisions, focus on core beliefs and values, recognize diversity and work toward a common goal. This year’s P.L.E.D.G.E. Leadership Camp will run July 19th through July 23rd and July 26th through July 30th. To apply, click HERE; applications are due by June 1st.
Help Identify Destruction of Property/Hate-Bias Suspect from Glenwood Middle School Incident

HCPD continues to seek the public’s help to identify the suspect in a destruction of property/hate-bias incident that occurred on March 12th around 7:49 p.m. at Glenwood Middle School. The suspect spray painted over the word “Black” on the school marquee that read “Black Lives Matter at GMS.” The suspect vehicle, seen in this video, is believed to be a gray SUV. Anyone with information is asked to contact HCPD at 410-313-STOP or email HCPDCrimeTips@howardcountymd.gov.
Department of Planning and Zoning
DPZ’s Planning Board will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting this Thursday, May 6th at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following item:
 
 
The Board recently revised its Rules of Procedures with changes in accordance with the new Virtual Public Meeting setting. Please note, significant changes in registration and document submission deadlines in the Board's Revised Rules of Procedure.
 
To register to testify at this meeting and/or to watch, visit DPZ’s Planning Board website.
 
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.
Office of Procurement and Contract Administration
Expression of Interest Issued for Ellicott City Safe and Sound North Tunnel Final Design
 
My team and I are seeking responses from qualified firms with experience and successful completion of a rock tunnel, as our Office of Procurement and Contract Administration issues Expression of Interest (EOI) for the final design of the Ellicott City Safe and Sound plan's North Tunnel. The extended North Tunnel is one of the most impactful projects in our Ellicott City Safe and Sound plan, keeping floodwater off the street and preserving the history of our town. Even as we deal with the challenges of a global pandemic, we continue to make progress to protect Ellicott City from flooding for generations to come.
 
Of note, firms will also be required to demonstrate success in construction cost estimating and scheduling. To view the EOI and/or more information, click HERE.
Department of Public Works
Tomorrow, May 4th, our Department of Public Works (DPW) will hold a virtual public meeting starting at 7:00 p.m., to discuss the planned construction of a new 2.5-million-gallon elevated water storage tank near 8490 Washington Boulevard in Jessup. As part of the project, a 2,000-foot access roadway (Ridgelys Run Road) and related utilities will also be installed at the site. Construction is expected to begin in June 2021.
 
The informal meeting will include an overview of the design followed by an open discussion. County staff and the project’s design consultant will be on hand to answer any questions and gather public comments. To participate in the meeting by computer, go to www.webex.com and click “join;” the meeting number is 160 282 2769, and “Howard” is the password. To participate by phone, call 1-650-479-3207 (note, fees may apply) and enter the access code 160 282 2769. 
 
Those unable to participate in the virtual meeting who would like to view the proposed plans and/or have questions regarding the project, should contact Ms. Kerri Dinsmore with DPW’s Utility Design Division at 410-313-5819 or email kdinsmore@howardcountymd.gov.
Applicants Sought for Public Works Board
 
Maintaining and advancing reliable and accessible infrastructure is a priority of my and our Public Works Board is critical to achieving these goals. If you are interested in being a part of the team that makes recommendations to our Director of Public Works, the Howard County Council and me regarding the plans and policies under the jurisdiction of our Department of Public works (DPW), I encourage you to apply today for the Public Works Board. To learn more about how to apply, including eligibility requirements, click HERE today. Deadline to apply is Friday, May 14th.
Department of Public Works Construction Report

To learn about DPW projects currently underway, visit https://bit.ly/2V6K5B6. 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 Public Works Bureau of Environmental Services

Commercial Landfill Permit Update
 
As of May 1, 2021, commercial account holders and contractors at Alpha Ridge Landfill must pay disposal fees at the scale house for each transaction. While a credit card is preferred, cash and checks will be accepted. The only accounts that will be billed will be those with an active credit account and deposit on file. For a credit card application, please see the “Commercial Permits” tab on DPW’s Alpha Ridge Landfill website. Finally, billing for April 2021 charges and other previous billing must be paid by May 31st. For questions, for more information and/or to speak to someone further, contact DPW’s Bureau of Environmental Services at 410-313-6444 and/or email landfillpermits@howardcountymd.gov.
Online Training to Get a Free Rain Barrel Now Available
 
While all in-person rain barrel workshops remain canceled at this time due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Bureau of Environmental Services has launched a new online training portal for Howard County residents interested in receiving a free rain barrel (limit one barrel per household). All you need to do is complete the online training and then, once complete, pick up your free rain barrel from the County’s Alpha Ridge Landfill. Note, rain barrel pickups are held on certain Saturdays from May to September at the Landfill’s gazebo. Residents are reminded that when collecting your rain barrel, please be sure to wear a face-covering and follow social distancing protocols.
Disposing of Takeout Containers
 
Ordering takeout from local restaurants and food establishments is a great way to support our local businesses during this difficult time; however, you might be wondering what to do with/how to dispose of those take out containers. Whether it's plastic clamshells, cardboard boxes or rigid plastics, not all takeout containers are recyclable. To help you navigate the best disposal options for the many types of carryout containers, I invite you to check out our Bureau of Environmental Service’s Sustainable Shopping webpage, where you’ll find information about each type of container and how to dispose of/reuse it.
 
If you see something missing from the list, the Bureau invites you to email them a photo of the container and they will let you how to recycle or dispose of it.
Department of Recreation and Parks
Howard County Recreation & Parks Article in “Parks & Recreation” Magazine
 
In this month’s “Parks & Recreation” magazine, readers will find a featured piece by Christine DiGioia, Event Coordinator for our Department of Recreation & Parks’ Gary J. Arthur Community Center, about how her department safely and responsibly held special events during the COVID-19 pandemic. As Christine highlights, through a five-step process, Recreation & Parks was able to modify its procedures to successfully develop a new event plan and still host events, such as its loved “Truck or Treat” during a global pandemic. I applaud the department and its staff for their perseverance and commitment to finding ways to make the best out of the situation, all while putting the safety of all first.
Oriole Advocates Sports Equipment Donation
 
Special thanks to Recreation & Parks employees Jim McCoy and Mark Fisher for helping to coordinate the department’s recent donation effort of gently used sports equipment to the Oriole Advocates’ Cardboard-to-Leather (C2L) program. The program provides new and used sports gear to disadvantaged youth athletes locally, domestically and around the world. Since its inception in 2006, approximately 17,000 youth, ranging in age from 5 to 7 years old, have benefited from the C2L equipment donations.
Free Hero Hustle Fitness Course Now Open at Gary J. Arthur Community Center
 
Recreation & Parks has transformed its annual one day, staff-led “Hero Hustle” event into a FREE, self-guided superhero fitness course at the Gary J. Arthur Community Center (GJACC). Throughout the month of May, junior crimefighters are invited to test their superhero powers along a one-mile walk from GJACC to Western Regional Park and back again. Come show off your skills and run fast like The Speedster, stretch like Miss Elastic and learn to crawl through a web like Arachni-Kid, all while donning your favorite superhero costume.
Robinson Nature Center Resuming Regular Hours of Operation

Beginning this Wednesday, May 5th, our Robinson Nature Center will be resuming its normal operating hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Wednesdays through Saturdays; noon to 5:00 p.m., Sundays; and closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Please keep in mind, capacity at the Robinson Nature Center is still at 50 percent and health screening forms, face masks, and physical distancing are required for all visitors.
Ghostly Guides at Waverly Mansion
 
Tickets are still available for Recreation & Parks’ Ghostly Guides at Waverly Mansion this Saturday, May 8th. All who are brave enough and aren’t afraid of no ghost, are invited to come take a moonlight tour of the former home of Governor John Eager Howard, hear tales of paranormal experiences at the Mansion and try out firsthand some ghost hunting equipment to draw your own ghostly conclusions. For more information and/or to register for this spooktacular event, click HERE.
Virtual Glow Dance Party Take-Home Kits Now on Sale
 
Join our Department of Recreation & Parks for a groovy Virtual Glow Dance Party next month with its latest take-home kit. Perfect for the whole family, each kit contains everything you need for a fun evening at home, including a LIVE virtual dance party, two personal pizzas, popcorn, glow necklaces and themed activities. Kits will be available for pickup from Recreation 7 Parks’ headquarters in Columbia on Saturday, May 15th. To reserve your kit today, click HERE.
Office of Transportation

Celebrate Bike Month with Virtual Bike to Work Week Event and Love to Ride Challenge

Mark your calendars! This year’s annual Bike to Work Week celebration will take place Monday, May 17th through Sunday, May 23rd. Organized by the Baltimore Metropolitan Council (BMC) and its member jurisdictions, Bike to Work Week is a socially distanced cycling challenge to encourage commuting by bike.
 
Participating riders qualify for free t-shirts (limited to the first 1,500 riders), giveaways and prizes, all while discovering the advantages of a cleaner, healthier commuting option. Participants who register for the event may ride any time during the week and pick up their event shirt and other giveaways at participating bike shops throughout the region. To register, visit biketoworkmd.com today.
 
To make Bike Month even more fun, BMC is offering cyclists a free online cycling challenge and encouragement program called “Love to Ride.” This fun, friendly and free competition between workplaces, clubs and individuals uses prize drawings, leaderboards and virtual networking to challenge users to get more people cycling. The program is year-round and features special prize challenges in May for Corporate Challenge participants. To register and/or for more information about “Love to Ride,” check out www.lovetoride.net today.
Change Your Routine. Take the Bike, Instead of the Car
 
Pssst, have you heard? Howard County Bikeshare has launched a Car-to-Bike Challenge. Through the end of this month, Howard County Bikeshare is challenging you to switch up your routine and instead of hopping in your car to get to your destination, hop on your bike (or ours) instead. And when you get to your final destination, be sure to take a picture of your bike there and post it to social media using the hashtag #CarToBikeChallengeHC to be entered to win some awesome prizes.
Bikeshare Survey
 
Our Office of Transportation is looking for ways to improve Howard County’s Bikeshare system and is seeking to gather public feedback through a short survey. Your feedback will help Transportation improve its system now and in the future. To learn more about Howard County Bikeshare, visit https://howardcountybikeshare.com/.