Dear friends,
It’s never been easier to get vaccinated, and now is your chance. Howard County leads the state with the percent of residents 16+ who have received their first dose. As of 9:00 a.m., 77.2% of Howard County residents 16+ have received at least one dose and 62.7% are fully vaccinated. Our vaccination efforts have made an incredible impact on the spread of COVID-19 in our community, with the lowest metrics since the beginning of the pandemic.
To date in Howard County, we’ve had 19,227 cases of COVID-19 and 239 deaths. As of 9:00am today, our 7-day average positivity rate is 1.25%, the lowest since we’ve begun tracking this metric and our 7-day average case rate per 100,000 of our population is at 3.5, the lowest since March 2020. There are currently 9 COVID-19 patients in both ICU and Acute Care unit.
All residents 12+ 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. Be sure to check out the clinic schedule, there are many smaller pop-up clinics in the coming weeks at local businesses, community centers, and more. Please note, many of our local sites are now offering walk-up appointments.
StayCOVIDSafe by getting vaccinated today and encourage family and friends to get their shots too – let’s get back to normal, together.
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Restrictions and Mask Mandate Update
Howard County leads Maryland in the percent of our eligible population fully vaccinated (62.7%) or with at least one dose (77.2%). Our vaccination progress, coupled with a record low positivity rate of 1.25% and daily average case rate of 3.5 per 100,000 residents, indicates we can lift additional restrictions.
Howard County has aligned with the Governor’s latest recommendations to open outdoor entertainment, sports venues, indoor entertainment, and all indoor and outdoor dining 100% as of Saturday, May 15.
Additionally, Howard County followed the Governor’s recommendation and lifted its mask mandate on Saturday, May 15, with the exception of public transit, in schools, day-cares and medical facilities. Following recent CDC guidance, and considering more than 75% of Howard County residents 16+ have received their first vaccine dose, we feel confident relaxing the mask mandate that was in place.
With that said, I strongly encourage residents who have not yet been fully vaccinated to continue wearing masks until they have received their vaccine. It’s never been easier to get vaccinated, and we have sites around Howard County ready to get shots in arms. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect you and your loved ones.
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Upcoming Vaccine Clinics
The FDA and the CDC approved the Pfizer vaccine for our youth ages 12 to 15. We are pleased to provide our Pfizer vaccine clinics for our youth. Appointments are available on first-come, first-serve basis. All youth under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and should bring a form of identification (birth certificate, school ID, passport, etc.).
While appointments are recommended, walk-up is also available while supply lasts. Please note, appointments will confirm that you (or your child) receives a vaccine. Walk-up vaccine is also available for those who previously missed their second dose appointment.
Howard Community College
4950 Campus Dr., Columbia, MD 21044
PFIZER VACCINE CLINIC (Anyone 12+)
North Laurel Community Center
9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd., Laurel, MD 20723
Moderna (18+)
Howard Community College
4950 Campus Dr., Columbia, MD 21044
PFIZER VACCINE CLINIC (Anyone 12+)
Celebration Church
7101 Riverwood Dr., Columbia, MD 21046
Moderna (18+)
North Laurel Community Center
9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd., Laurel, MD 20723
Moderna (18+)
Foxborough Estates
8542 Foxborough Dr., Savage, MD 2076
J&J Single Dose Vaccine (18+)
Howard Community College
4950 Campus Dr., Columbia, MD 21044
Moderna (18+)
Country Meadows Apartments
9713 Queen Annes Lace, Laurel, MD 20723
J&J Single Dose Vaccine (18+)
Howard County Health Department
8930 Stanford Blvd., Columbia, MD 21045
Moderna (18+)
Oakland Mills Interfaith Center
5885 Robert Oliver Pl., Columbia, MD 21045
Moderna (18+)
North Laurel Community Center
9411 Whiskey Bottom Rd., Laurel, MD 20723
Moderna (18+)
Grassroots Day Resource Center
10390 Guilford Rd., Suite A, Jessup, MD 20794
Moderna (18+)
Call 410-313-6284 to register
Long Reach High School
6101 Old Dobbin Ln., Columbia, MD 21045
Moderna (18+)
For more information, and to register for an appointment, please click here. |
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Mass Vaccination Site - Mall in Columbia
The State mass vaccination site at the Mall in Columbia is providing the Pfizer vaccine Wednesday – Sunday, from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Walk ups are available as supply allows and appointments guarantee that you (or your child) will receive a vaccine.
Let's stay safe and get vaccinated!
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Business Certification Workshop
Local and minority businesses are a pivotal drivers in our economy. In order to foster a climate that encourages economic opportunities for local and minority businesses, creates a thriving local economy, and stimulates economic development within the County, Howard County Government has established a Local Business Initiative program and Equal Business Opportunity program.
Howard County is committed to creating a competitive and balanced economic environment within the County by ensuring community growth through these programs. This certification workshop on Monday, June 14th at 10:00 a.m. will highlight many of the benefits of registering as a local and/or minority owned business as well as provide insightful information on small business programs and contracting opportunities with Howard County Government.
To register, please email LocalOutreach@Howardcountymd.gov
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Congratulations Golden Bear!
Please join me in congratulating Hammond High School senior Mohamed Elhassan for receiving numerous national and international accolades for his poetry and artwork. We are so grateful to have incredible students who are making incredible strides in our community and beyond.
Mohamed earned a silver national medal from the Scholastic Art & Writing Award and his illustration was selected for the cover of international literary journal, Waxwing.
I’m certain that these accomplishments are only a fraction what’s to come, and I couldn’t be more proud of our Golden Bear. Congratulations!
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North Columbia Fire Station
The County Council and I are jointly requesting that the Board of Education permit staff explore the use of property at the HCPSS Central Office for the North Columbia Fire Station.
The potential placement of the North Columbia Fire Station at the HCPSS Central Office property would allow efforts to replace the deteriorating Banneker Fire Station to proceed forward, address dense demand for emergency services in the MD-108 corridor, provide significant distance between the fire station and residential dwellings and eliminate the need to use existing park space for the fire station at Cedar Lane Park East.
Read our entire letter here. |
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HoCo RISE Business Grants - NOW AVAILABLE
During the past year, our small local businesses have pushed forward through extraordinary circumstances and unforeseen obstacles, and the very least we can do is continue to provide additional support and funding to ensure they can thrive as we emerge from this pandemic.
I'm proud to announce applications are NOW open for the 4th round of HoCo RISE Business Grants for restaurants and hotels. Applications are open through 11:59 p.m. on May 24th, 2021. I encourage our small businesses to apply as soon as possible here.
As we’re getting vaccinated and are more comfortable doing the things we love, be sure to visit our small businesses and support your old favorites or try something new.
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Welcome Chosun Hwaro
Our Asian American and Pacific Islander community contributes greatly to the strength of our community. I was so pleased to welcome Chosun Hwaro Korean BBQ to Howard County. As a major restaurant from Las Vegas, this authentic Korean BBQ is the largest in Nevada and now in Maryland.
Please, continue to support our small, local, minority owned businesses. To see their menu, please click here. |
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New Cut Road has Reopened!
This project was a massive undertaking to ensure that New Cut Road was restored safely and resourcefully. I’m so grateful to the many Public Works employees who have dedicated their time and energy to this project and seen it through. For our residents, businesses, and visitors to Ellicott City, this is another milestone as our town bounces back and continues to be resilient.
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Camp Ilchester Update
Promoting green infrastructure and preserving open space are priorities of our administration. As such, we have been closely monitoring discussions by the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland regarding the sale of Camp Ilchester.
While we are concerned about the prospect of the sale of Camp Ilchester and its 19-acres of green space, we are encouraged that the Girl Scouts have committed to exploring preservation options as part of its considerations for the future of the property.
We are supportive of the preservation of this property as green space and are looking forward to working with the Girl Scouts and other community stakeholders to that end.
Read GSCM's statement here. |
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Congratulations Sweet Elizabeth Jane!
It was a wonderful day in Ellicott City to celebrate Sweet Elizabeth Jane’s 10th anniversary. Since 2011, Tammy and the entire SEJ team has provided an illustrious vintage-inspired lifestyle store where residents and visitors can find clothing, accessories, home goods, and fun gifts for the entire family. Congratulations on 10 years, and I look forward to celebrating another 10 years and beyond!
Now more than ever, it’s important to continue supporting our small, local businesses as they recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about Sweet Elizabeth jane here. |
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1-Year of Dimensional Hair
Last Spring, in the midst of a global pandemic, Nina took a chance an opened Dimensional Hair Studio in Columbia. A year later, they continue to thrive and provide beautiful services to residents across the state. Please join me in congratulating them on their 1-year anniversary!
Please, continue to support our small, local businesses as they embark on the road to recovery. Learn more about the services offered at https://www.dimensionalhairstudio.com/
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Total Residents 65+ Vaccinated
Howard County is currently leading the State with 84.4% of residents age 65 and older who are fully vaccinated, according to the Maryland Department of Health. We remain committed to ensuring our most vulnerable populations, including older adults, receive the COVID-19 vaccine as quickly, safely, and efficiently as possible.
We will continue to StayCOVIDSafe by working together. To schedule an appointment with the State, please call 1 (855) MD-GOVAX.
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Population Vaccinated by County - Fully Vaccinated
Howard County leads the state with 62.7% of eligible residents 16+ 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.
There are hundreds of provider locations including regional State-run mass vax clinics, retail pharmacies and hospital operating clinics where residents can receive a vaccine. Walk-in vaccinations are available for eligible residents 12+ at The Mall in Columbia, Wednesday - Sunday from 8am - 4pm.
Let's StayCOVIDSafe and get vaccinated!
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Residents 16+ Vaccinated by at least one dose
According to the Maryland Department of Health, 77.2% of eligible Howard County residents 16+ have received their first dose of the COVID-19 Vaccine. This percentage includes those who may have received a first dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.
The only way we can go back to normal is if we look out for one another, StayCOVIDSafe, and get vaccinated.
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COVID-19 Resource Updates |
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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.
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Mobile Testing Sites
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!
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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.
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Department of Community Resources and Services |
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Howard County 50+ Centers Open for Business
In case you haven’t heard, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) 50+ Centers have reopened for limited, in-person services at 50 percent capacity. At this time, a majority of the services offered at our 50+ Centers will be by appointment only, including Maryland Access Point information and assistance, State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counseling, exercise and nutrition consultations, fitness equipment rooms, AARP tax assistance, and Grab & Go meal distribution. However, social activities such as discussion groups, lifelong learning, art and do-it-yourself activities, billiards, pickleball, walking groups and health and wellness offerings will have phased returns in the future with limited capacity and new protocols for staff and participants to minimize the transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
To schedule an appointment today, please call 410-313-5400 at least two business days in advance between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. For additional details and information, check out www.howardcountymd.gov/aging.
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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 the May Virtual Offering Guide, available online now. for a list of this month’s offerings. For questions, contact OAI at aging@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Fire and Rescue Services |
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Smoke and Combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarms RECALLED for Failure to Alert Consumers of Fire
Our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is spreading the word about this IMPORTANT recall alert concerning Kidde TruSense Smoke and Combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarms due to the risk of failure to alert consumers to a fire. The recalled units are Kidde Model Series 2040, 2050, 2060 and 2070 Smoke and Combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide alarms (the model number is printed on the back of the alarm).
Only alarms with the TruSense logo or “AMBER=FAULT” printed on the front of the alarm are included in this recall. While no incidents or injuries have been reported, consumers should immediately contact Kidde (toll-free at 844-796-9972, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or Saturday’s, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. or visit www.kiddetsalarmrecall.rsvpcomm.com or www.kidde.com and click on “Support” and then “Product Alerts”) for a free replacement alarm. Consumers should keep using the recalled alarms until they install replacement alarms.
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A Closed Bedroom Door is a Powerful Tool Against Fire
Did you know, closing your bedroom doors when you go to sleep can help protect you and your family from deadly smoke and fire. Thanks to modern synthetic materials and furniture that now make up our homes, fire is up to seven times faster. Forty years ago, you had an average time of 17 minutes to escape a house fire; now, you have just three minutes. A closed door is a powerful tool that can: stop a fire from growing and spreading; help keep smoke and heat out; help keep your home (and all your stuff) safe; keep the temperature down; and SAVE YOUR LIFE.
So, before you go to bed tonight and every night, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) is reminding residents to close before you doze.
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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.
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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.
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Mental Health Awareness Month
This Mental Health Awareness Month, our Howard County Health Department is reminding residents you are not alone, we are here for you. Throughout the month of May, the Health Department will be sharing ways to check in on your mental health and ways to get help on its social media channels (Facebook and Twitter). You can also find helpful information, resources and more on the Health Department’s Bureau of Behavioral Health website at www.howardcountymd.gov/gethelp. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please contact the Bureau of Behavioral Health today at 410-313-6202 OR contact Grassroots 24/7 Crisis Assistance line at 410-531-6677 (local) or 2-1-1 (statewide).
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May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know that more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the United States than all other cancers combined? Protect yourself this Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and all year long, by finding out what you need to know about skin cancer, understanding how to spot skin cancer early, knowing your skin cancer risk and more at www.skincancer.org.
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Office of Human Rights and Equity |
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Nominations Sought for 2021 Human Rights Commission Awards
The Howard County Human Rights Commission is seeking nominations for its 2021 Human Rights Commission Awards, which honors individuals (students and adults) and organizations that have made significant contributions to eliminating or eradicating discrimination, while advancing human and civil rights in Howard County. This year’s theme, “We Are More; Uplifting the Human Spirit,” speaks to the need for us to come together as a human family to create a better life for all people. Nomination forms can be found online HERE or you can request a paper copy be mailed to you by contacting our Office of Human Rights and Equity at 410-313-6430 or email hrc@howardcountymd.gov. The nomination deadline is August 15, 2021.
This year’s winners will be recognized at the 2021 Human Rights Commission Awards Ceremony on October 19th at the Howard County Conservancy.
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Department of Planning and Zoning |
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HoCo By Design Team Wants to Know, What is the Essence of Columbia?
In case you missed it last week, our Department of Planning and Zoning (DPZ) HoCo By Design team wants to know what you think the essence of Columbia is in terms of its design and community character. Share your thoughts with DPZ’s team at one of two identical virtual meetings, either tomorrow Tuesday, May 18th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. or Wednesday, May 19th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., to kick off its series of design sessions focused on the New Town/Columbia area. These sessions will identify and prioritize important aspects of community character to preserve, enhance, transform, or strengthen in the New Town/Columbia area for the new General Plan.
The events this month will focus on important design or development choices for the area that will help reinforce a comprehensive and consistent character for the community. Ideas generated at the meeting will be tested in several locations using two- and three-dimension design concepts developed by the project team, and presented to the community for review and feedback in June and August.
Once each decade, Howard County updates its general plan, a long-range, visionary document that guides land use, growth and development decisions. From now through the end of 2021, the county’s Department of Planning and Zoning is leading a community outreach effort to create a new general plan, called HoCo By Design. County officials want to hear from every voice to create one vision for the new general plan. To learn more about HoCo By Design and how you can participate, visit www.hocobydesign.com.
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Design Advisory Panel Portal Capital Meeting
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Plan #21-04, Port Capital, 7720 Port Capital Drive, Elkridge
To register in advance to participate in this meeting, click HERE. If you only want to listen to the meeting, call 1-650-479-3207 at the meeting time. When prompted, enter 160 679 6870# as the event access code.
The DAP process encourages excellence in project architecture and site design to improve design compatibility with surrounding development, to promote revitalization and to enhance property values. You can use DPZ’s DAP interactive map to see which properties may be subject to DAP review. For DAP’s Rules of Procedure, click HERE. For questions and/or more information about DAP, contact the DPZ at 410-313-2350 or email dap@howardcountymd.gov.
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Planning Board Virtual Meeting
DPZ’s Planning Board will be holding a VIRTUAL meeting this Thursday, May 20th at 7:00 p.m. to hear the following item:
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FDP-41-A-1, Howard Research and Development Corporation, on behalf of Enterprise Homes, LLC (southwest side of Twin Rivers Road between Green Mountain Circle and Trumpeter Road, Columbia) - the petitioner requests approval of the Final Development Plan to increase the number of allowed apartment units to 153 (as approved with ZB-1120M), increase the allowable building height to 47 feet, and to revise the boundary line between Lot 2 and Lot 3 with no net change of lot area for either lot.
Please note, the Board has revised its Rules of Procedures with changes in accordance with the Virtual Public Meeting setting, particularly to the Board’s registration and document submission deadline process.
To register to testify at this meeting and/or to watch, visit DPZ’s Planning Board website. Those interested in participating must register by 7:00 p.m., May 19th.
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.
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Going Above and Beyond to Protect ALL Residents in Howard County
Last Monday, PFC Charles Toler added “eagle rescue” to his calls for the day in Howard County’s western end. Using only a sweatshirt and a cardboard box, PFC Toler was able to corral the injured bird from the park-and-ride on MD 32 in West Friendship. The bald eagle was then delivered to a group of volunteers from a Raptor and Owl Rescue who will hopefully be able to nurse the bird back to health. Thank you PFC Toler, for going above and beyond to protect ALL the residents of Howard County.
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Private Animal Shelters Animal Control Registration
Protecting animals is Howard County Police Department’s Animal Control Divisions top priority. That’s why the Division supported new legislation, set to take effect this coming June, requiring private shelters to be registered with Animal Control to ensure an appropriate standard of care. Private shelters are defined as a non-governmental facility for domesticated animals (not including livestock and poultry) for the purpose of re-homing, rehabilitation or permanent housing. The goal is to ensure all domesticated animals in Howard County are receiving adequate care and oversight. Starting June 6th, private shelters will be required to renew their registrations annually and can start the registration process by clicking HERE.
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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.
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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.
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Department of Public Works
Caution, WET PAINT!
Every spring and summer, as weather permits, our Department of Public Works (DPW) refreshes lane line marking paint to ensure that street markings are highly visible and our roadways are safe. As painting season has begun, DPW is URGING motorists to show caution and patience when they come upon a paint truck convoy driving slowly in the roadway. To avoid wet paint:
- NEVER pass the paint truck or trail vehicle;
- NEVER change lanes behind the striping truck or trail vehicles;
- DO NOT swerve back and forth to see around the paint truck or trail vehicle; and
- f parked, wait five minutes before driving on the painted areas.
If you have questions and/or for more information, feel free to contact DPW's Bureau of Highways at 410-313-7450 or email highways@howardcountymd.gov.
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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.
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Department of Public Works Bureau of Environmental Services
Commercial Landfill Permit Update
REMINDER: Commercial account holders and contractors at Alpha Ridge Landfill must pay for disposal fees at the scale house for each transaction. While 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.
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Maryland State Highway Administration
As previously shared, Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) has begun a resurfacing project on MD 32 at Dorsey Run Road in Annapolis Junction, to improve the driving surface, enhance safety on the roadway and the exit ramps and upgrade area drainage by installing new underdrains. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
Electronic message boards, signs, barrels and cones are in place to alert motorists of the work and guide them through the work zone. SHA crews will work both daytime and overnight hours to complete the project, resulting in occasional overnight single-lane closures on MD 32 between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Dorsey Run Road will also experience day and overnight single closures. Finally, SHA will close one ramp at a time to perform work that will require a total ramp closure until work is completed. The eastbound MD 32 ramp to Dorsey Run Road will be the first ramp closure starting this week.
SHA works hard to maintain safe traffic mobility in work zones for our crews as well as our customers. Motorists are reminded to stay alert, focus on driving and, look for reduced speed limits, as well as other driving pattern changes. Drive like you work here and slowdown in construction zones.
For more information about this project, click HERE and/or contact SHA at 410-545-0303.
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Department of Recreation and Parks |
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Blandair Regional Park Phase 3 Ribbon Cutting
The NEWS all Howard County youngsters have been waiting to hear is finally here! This Friday, May 21st at 10:30 a.m., I will join our Department of Recreation & Parks to help cut the ribbon on the completion of the County’s Blandair Regional Parks phase three, which includes the new “play-for-all” playground, backyard games area and other amenities. Following the ceremony, all will be open to the public.
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NOW HIRIING Assistant Pool Manager and Lifeguard/Swim Instructor
Looking for a job? Our Department of Recreation & Parks’ Roger Carter Community Center is looking for an Assistant Pool Manager and Lifeguard/Swim Instructor. To apply, visit https://tinyurl.com/RCCCHiringPool today. For questions and/or more information, please contact Justin Smith at 410-313-2752 or email jcsmith@howardcountymd.gov.
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Nite Bite Fishing at Centennial Park
Calling all who love the sport of fishing, starting this month, our Department of Recreation & Parks invites you to grab your fishing gear and join the department down by Centennial Lake at Centennial Park for some afterhours “Nite Bite Fishing” fun. Fish the lake for just $5 during this all-ages, biweekly event. For more information about Nite Bite Fishing, including a list of dates, click HERE.
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Meet You There!’ with Pinot’s Palette in Ellicott City
Join Recreation & Parks’ Trips & Tours team on Thursday, May 20th for a ‘Meet You There!’ visit to Pinot’s Palette in Ellicott City. During a fun, instructor-led painting session, participants will be inspired by the works of renowned artist Claude Monet, as they paint a take-home masterpiece on a 16” x 12” canvas with acrylic paints (included in program fee). To register, click HERE.
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Office of Transportation
Celebrate Bike Month with Virtual Bike to Work Week Event and Love to Ride Challenge
Trade in your four wheels for two this week (May 17th to May 23rd) for this year’s annual Bike to Work week celebration. 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.
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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.
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