The Safest City in America

October 11, 2022

Dear Friends,

Since becoming Howard County Executive in 2018, I have remained committed to creating the safest communities through inclusive outreach and comprehensive investments in public safety, while improving transparency and accountability. This accolade is a testament to the excellent quality of life we cherish in Howard County.

I want to thank our police officers, firefighters and paramedics, social workers, community advocates, and engaged residents for working together to achieve this honor for our community once again. Public safety and keeping our community safe remain a top priority. I recognize that we still have work to do to make sure every community in Howard County is and feels the safest it can be.

Also, Columbia was named the Best Place to Live in Maryland by Money Magazine last week. Being named the best place to live in Maryland and the sixth-best in the nation is a testament to our continued investment in our quality of life. Columbia is a flourishing hub of arts and culture, jobs and economic vitality and is an example of sustainability and green living.

We’ve always known how special Columbia is, and it’s wonderful to see it receive these well-deserved recognitions. Join me tomorrow, October 12th, at 6pm for the 2022 State of the County address where we will discuss all that we have accomplished, together.

Community Updates

More Trails for All

We continue to make historic investments for our parks to be more functional and accessible to all. Last week, I was proud to announce the completion of a 1,250-foot universal access pathway at Haviland Mill Park that allows visitors to view the Patuxent River from an observation deck.

This pathway, with its boardwalk, bridges, natural surfaces, and dry stack stone walls creates a fully accessible trail loop that will allow visitors of all abilities to better enjoy our treasured wetlands.

Read more about the rating here.

It's OK to not be OK

The pandemic made one thing very clear: mental health is just as important as physical health. Yesterday was World Mental Health Day, and a good time to remember that you are not alone. The work to battle the stigma surrounding mental health continues and it starts with each of us. Recovery is not one and done. It is a lifelong journey that takes place one day, one step at a time. Please, remember to take care of yourself today, and every day.

Help is always available. Learn more about the services available here.

2022 State of the County

Howard County remains one of the best places to live, work, play and grow in part because of our collective work and transformative vision. From investing in our educational system, expanding our environmental initiatives, prioritizing public safety and growing our economy, we remain a regional and national leader.

Join us as I deliver my 2022 State of the County address on Wednesday, October 12th at 6pm at the Johns Hopkins APL Kossiakoff Center: 11100 Johns Hopkins Road, Laurel, MD 20723.

Celebrating our Egyptian Heritage

I had a great time joining Saint Mary Coptic Orthodox Church of Maryland in Cooksville for their Annual Egyptian Festival. We enjoyed good food, entertainment, and more with our thriving community. Thank you for your ongoing efforts to make Howard County the best place to live, work, play, and grow for all!

Make Your Plan to Vote

The 2022 Gubernatorial election is just corner. Early Voting runs from October 27th through November 3rd, when the polls are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

On Election Day, the polls are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. To ensure your entire ballot counts, you must always vote at your assigned polling place. Find your polling place here.

The deadline to request a mail-in ballot is November 1st. To request your ballot and learn more about voting by mail, please click here.

A Timely Tribute

Throughout its long history, Ellicott City has demonstrated strength, entrepreneurship and resiliency. Time Capsules are a fun and unique way to honor the past, capture the present, and leave our footprints for generations to come. I was thrilled to join the EC250 Board, EC250 Time Capsule Committee and many friends to unveil our Sestercentennial Time Capsule.

The plaque marking the site will be inlaid into a stone once used to as the foundation of the courthouse, another way we pay tribute to our past and rich history. This time capsule is a fitting way to recognize the 250th anniversary of this historic community, and we are taking bold steps to make sure Ellicott City remains vibrant for at least another 250 years.

Homecoming with the Bears

Although Morgan State University lost their homecoming game, I’m so proud of their dedication and determination. As an alumnus and second generation Bear, I was so proud to join them for their annual gala.

Thank you President Dr. Wilson for his transformational leadership which includes reaching historic rates for graduation in the universities history and the continuation of Morgan’s status as the number one HBCU in production of Fulbright Scholars and grantees. Due to his leadership, we can ensure all our students are successful for generations to come.

Hopping Our Economy

Howard County is a proud home to seven breweries and two distilleries. These businesses help fuel our local economy and are an important asset to our community. I was thrilled to stop by the 6th Annual Hops & Harvest Festival with my good friend Senator Guy Guzzone, Visit Howard County, and Columbia Association. I'm so grateful for the efforts of Chad D'Amore, Nina Basu, and everyone at Inner Arbor Trust for making this event a success.

This year's lineup featured more than 100 Maryland beers, wines, and spirits, unlimited tastings, live entertainment, artisan, vendors, fresh local eateries, games and more!

Analyzing Our Budget Reserve

Howard County Government's policy reserve has steadily growth to $33.3 million in FY2021, and successfully achieved its multi-year goal of building 3% of policy reserve on top of the 7% charter-mandated reserve at the end of FY2021.

Today on Freetown Farm

Freetown Farm was once a dream and now it is a vibrant and growing reality as our only farm in East Howard County. I’m so happy to see it received a well-deserved recognition this morning on the Today Show! Freetown Farm is so important because it doesn’t just feed peoples bellies, but it feeds their souls.

Congratulations to my friend and visionary Chiara D’Amore and everyone at The Community Ecology Institute for your constant dedication and commitment to helping our community thrive!

Watch the segment here.

Putting an End to Violence

1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we celebrate the stories of survivors, mourn those who we have lost, and do our part to end the cycle of violence.

Prevention can only happen when we work together to challenge and change the beliefs, attitudes, and culture which allows them to exist. To learn more about domestic violence, what you can do to help, or if you wish to seek help, call Hopeworks at (410) 997-2272.

Not your Average Thrift Store

We’re so grateful to have such a growing business community, and I’m always so happy to see more entrepreneurs wanting to invest in Howard County. I was glad to visit Mary and Tim at Uptown Cheapskate to welcome them to Howard County. Uptown Cheapskate is not your average thrift store. They focus on upcycling modern clothing while protecting our environment and expanding the availability of education world-wide.

Learn more here.

Taking Care of Our Bodies

Did you know that one in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime?

October is breast cancer awareness month, and the perfect time to get tested and understand the importance of preventative care. Like many of our neighbors, I have people in my life who have been affected by cancer. The Howard County Health Department's Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) is striving to reduce this number, as well as cervical cancer deaths, through education, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and patient navigation services.

Learn more here.

Ongoing Partnerships

Howard County Police Department Chief Gregory Der and I recently met with Minister and Consul-General Seijoong Kwon, Counselor Superintendent General Lee Yong-seok, and leaders in the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to strengthen our ongoing strong partnership focused on education, business and safety throughout our community.

Our Korean community partners continue to contribute to our economic, social and cultural vibrancy with more than 12,000 Korean American residents choosing Howard County to live, play, work and grow. Our relationship with the Embassy of Korea demonstrates our mutual commitment to the continuation of Howard County’s excellent quality of life for all.

Government Updates

Department of Community Resources and Services

Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October: Attend the 2022 Commission on Disabilities Employer Awards Ceremony

Observed each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities past and present and showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices. To mark NDEAM, our Commission on Disabilities who host its annual Commission on Disabilities Employer Awards Ceremony next Wednesday, October 19^th at 1:00 p.m. at Belmont Manor & Historic Park in Elkridge. This awards ceremony recognizes employers whose hiring and/or accommodation practices, staff development and advancement possibilities value diversity and provide equal opportunities for employees with disabilities. This year’s ceremony guest speaker is Katie Collins-Ihrke, Executive Director of The Arc of Howard County.

All are invited to attend. To reserve your seat, please contact Erica Lewis at 410-313-6402 or email ealewis@howardcountymd.gov by October 4^th.

Consumer Protection Forum

Join DCRS’s Office of Consumer Protection’s (OCP) this Saturday, October 15^th from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Elkridge 50+ Center for a free public form on the “Hot Topics in Consumer Protection and Advocacy”. The forum will feature presentations from local, state and federal leaders on key consumer issues, including economic crimes, elder abuse, the scamdemic, and expected post-disaster scams and frauds, as well as anticipated, pending and recent federal and state legislation. The event will also feature a Resource Fair, attended by representatives from Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Maryland, Maryland Department of Human Services, Maryland Insurance Administration, Maryland Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation and more.

Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. and light refreshments will be served. As space is limited for this free event, pre-registration is requested; however, walk-ins are welcome. For questions and more information about this event, contact OCP at 410-313-6420 (voice/relay) or email consumer@howardcountymd.gov.

Handmade with Love

If you knit or crochet, the OVMF’s initiative, Handmade with Love, needs your support. OVMF is currently collecting homemade scarves and hats to send to currently deployed military members. Scarves should be four to six inches wide by 48 to 50 inches long (no fringe), while hats should fit an adult-size head. Materials can be wool, acrylic or non-flammable fleece in subtle shades of blue, brown, olive, gray, maroon and black. Red/white/blue combinations are also acceptable.

Handmade items should be dropped off by no later than Friday, November 4^th at one of designated locations listed on the flier. Please be sure to pin a note to each scarf or hat with the yarn fiber contents listed, and feel free to include a personal note for the recipient if you would like. As you can imagine, our soldiers are deeply touched by the care and effort when they receive gifts, especially handmade items from supportive fellow Americans.

For more information, contact Lisa Terry at 410-313-0821 (voice/relay) or email veterans@howardcountymd.gov.

Champions of Change Conference

On Saturday, November 19^th, DCRS’s Office of Children and Families and Office of the Local Children's Board will host its 2022 Champions of Change Conference, "Cultivating Change to Advance Equity for All”. Champions of Change focuses on increasing capacity and collaboration among early educators, human service providers, community members and youth. Champions of Change concentrates on the interconnectedness of racial equity, mental health and trauma, social and emotional well-being, child/youth development and collective impact. We believe that by increasing our knowledge, awareness and attention on the unconscious, we can begin to create change within ourselves, our organizations and in our collective communities.

This year’s event will take place at the Turf Valley Conference Center in Ellicott City from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will feature two engaging keynote speakers, 16 educational break-out sessions and a vendor resource fair. Those interested in attending are encourage to register now to take advantage of the early bird registration discounted price of $75.00, which ends October 15^th. After the 15^th, the registration cost goes up to $60.

In addition to Saturday’s main event, a bonus pre-conference workshop and happy hour will be offered Friday, November 18^th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Turf Valley.

For more information about this event and/or to register, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/champions or call 410-313-6400.

Department of Fire and Rescue Services

Chalk It Up to Fire Safety

All October long is Fire Prevention Month; however, this week is Fire Prevention Week and in recognition of this week, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is calling on residents to help spread the word about fire safety. Now through October 13^th, I encourage you, your family and friends to head to the end of your driveway or nearby sidewalk abutting your property and chalk a message about fire safety for all to see. Not sure what to write? Check out DFRS’s “Chalk It Up to Fire Safety” website. From this same link, be sure to submit a picture of you chalk drawings to DFRS and don’t forget to include your address so the department can send you a token of appreciation for helping spread the word on fire safety.

Howard County Health Department

Annual Community Survey

Now through this Friday, October 14^th, the Howard County Health Department’s (HCHD) Behavioral Health Bureau is seeking your feedback on how behavioral health services in the county could be improved. I invite you to share your feedback with HCHD through this survey (also available in Spanish and Korean) to make sure your voice heard. As noted by HCHD, this survey collects NO private information.

Walktober

This October, I encourage you to get up and move with the Howard County Local Health Improvement Coalition and local partners for Walktober. This month-long walk/move event celebrates Maryland’s official state exercise and promotes walking for improved health for residents of all ages and abilities. To find out what Waltober inclusive events and walkinars are scheduled in Howard County this October, as well as a list of walking maps to help keep you moving around the county all year long, click HERE.

Let's Walk, Roll, Ride and Move HoCo!

Have You Gotten Your Flu Shot Yet?

HCHD is encouraging people of all ages to get a seasonal flu shot from a healthcare provider, local pharmacy, retailer or big box store. The flu vaccine can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school (even virtual school) due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths, and is particularly important for people with a chronic medical condition who are most vulnerable to developing serious complications from the flu. According to the CDC, nine out of 10 adults hospitalized last flu season with the flu, had at least one reported underlying medical condition.

If you or someone you know is still in need of their flu vaccine, visit HCHD’s "Seasonal Flu" website today for details regarding its flu vaccination clinics.

Department of Housing and Community Development

Applications Now Being Accepted for MIHU October Open Enrollment Period

Our Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is now accepting applications for its Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) program October open enrollment period. Held quarterly, DHCD’s MIHU is an inclusionary zoning program that offers quality new homes at reduced sale prices and rents to income eligible families.

To purchase an MIHU home, individuals must apply to DHCD during an open enrollment period to be placed in the database. To qualify, an applicant’s household income may not exceed 80 percent of Howard County’s median income (example: maximum $96,928 for a four-person household to as much as $127,945 for an eight-person household). Applicants must meet credit score requirements and household income must be sufficient to qualify for a mortgage based on industry standards. Sale prices for available MIHU homes, currently range from $254,985 for a new condominium to $384,916 for a new townhouse. Actual sale prices may vary depending on the size and amenities of the unit. More details regarding our MIHU homeownership program will be available HERE or contact DHCD at 410-313-6318 (select option two) or email housing@howardcountymd.gov.

To rent an MIHU unit, a qualified applicant’s household income may not exceed 60 percent of the Howard County median income (example: maximum $50,887 for a one-person household and $72,696 for a four-person household). MIHUs are rented on a first-come, first-served basis, are interspersed throughout each community and residents enjoy the same amenities of community life as market rate tenants. Visit DHCD’s MIHU rental website for more information.

MIHU homeownership applications are now available online and completed applications can be either submitted online, mailed to 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive, Suite 224, Columbia, MD, 21046, or dropped off at DHCD’s Patuxent Woods Drive office by appointment only. Applications are being accepted through 4:00 p.m., Monday, October 31^st.

Members Sought for Housing and Community Development Board

I am currently seeking applicants – particularly members of our realtor community, to fill two vacancies on our Housing and Community Development Board. Members serve three-year terms and the Board meetings six times a year (currently virtually). Interested applicants should send a resume and brief letter explaining why they want to serve on the Board to Kimberly Pruim, either by email to kpruim@howardcountymd.gov or by mail to: Howard County Government, Office of the County Executive, Attn: Kimberly Pruim, 3430 Court House Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043. The names of eligible applicants will be submitted to the County Executive for approval and then to the County Council for confirmation.

For more information on the Board, contact DHCD at 410-313-6318 or visit www.howardcountymd.gov/DHCD-Board.

Office of Human Rights and Equity

Thinking Different: Creating a Neurodivergent Community

Join our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) Community Outreach Coordinator Marla Moore this Thursday, October 13^th at 6:30 p.m. at our Roger Carter Community Center for a seminar on the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments for Neurodivergent people throughout our communities. This seminar is part of our Department of Recreation & Parks’ Active Aging Program’s speaker series. To register, click HERE.

For questions and/or more information regarding this event, please contact Tessa Hurd at 410-313-7311 or email thurd@howardcountymd.gov.

Human Rights Commission Award Ceremony

A night to recognize individuals, students and organizations for their efforts in the area of human rights, social justice, and community uplift, I invite all to join our Howard County Human Rights Commission on Wednesday, October 19^th at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center for its annual awards ceremony. Beginning with a light reception at 6:30 p.m. the awards ceremony will begin at 7:00 p.m. Arrival at 6:15 p.m. is strongly encouraged. You can register for this event by clicking HERE.

Reading Human Rights: What’s Mine and Yours

Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by OHRE and the Howard County Library System (HCLS) that encourages literary exploration and community dialogue around a variety of human rights concerns. For its October book discussion, OHRE and HCLS will discuss Naima Coster’s novel, What’s Mine and Yours.

To secure your seat for this event, set to take place Thursday, October 20th, at 6:30 p.m. at HCLS’ Savage Branch, click HERE to register.

OHRE Listening Sessions

This past Thursday, OHRE held its first listening session in its series this month in an effort to offer residents the opportunity to share how OHRE can better serve the people of our great county. Responsible for protecting and promoting the human rights of all people, it is important to us that we hear from people of all backgrounds, lifestyles and belief systems as your voice matters in creating an equitable and inclusive community.

If you were unable to join OHRE yesterday, I encourage you to attend one of their upcoming listening sessions later this month (click on a date to register):

Thursday, October 27^th at 6:00 at the Roger Carter Community Center;
Friday, October 28^th at noon at the North Laurel Community Center; and
Monday, October 31^st from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Gary J. Arthur Community Center.

For questions and/or more information about these listening sessions, contact OHRE at 410-313-6430 or email ohre@howardcountymd.gov.

Department of Planning and Zoning

Design Advisory Panel Meeting

This Wednesday, October 12^th, our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Design Advisory Panel (DAP) will hold a meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. VIRTUALLY to hear the following item:

Review of Plan No. 22-20 Baltimore National Pike Flagship Carwash in Ellicott City

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 2305 661 8940 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.

Feedback Sought on HoCo By Design’s “County in Motion” Draft Chapter

As part of its process to create a new General Plan, called HoCo By Design, DPZ HoCo By Design project team has been releasing its draft HoCo By Design planning theme chapters throughout this year to gather community review and feedback. The policies presented in each chapter are draft statements based on data, best practices, and community feedback DPZ has received to date. Feedback we receive from you, our community, will further be used by DPZ to refine the draft policies.

This past month, DPZ’s project team released its fifth planning theme chapter – “County in Motion: Fostering Modern Mobility Choices.” This chapter highlights the need to manage and provide a safe, equitable, and fiscally sustainable transportation system for all users that is responsive to changing local, regional, and national transportation trends. Residents are invited to share their input on DPZ’s latest HoCo By Design draft chapter, particularly regarding the chapter's recommended policies and actions, via the County in Motion Comment Form, open now through Thursday, October 13^th.

For more information on DPZ’s HoCo By Design’s Draft Chapter Release: Life Outdoors, visit www.hocobydesign.com/county-in-motion, or contact DPZ’s Community Planners Kate Bolinger at kbolinger@howardcountymd.gov or Sarah Latimer at slatimer@howardcountymd.gov.

First Issue of the DPZ Digest Now Available

DPZ recently launched its new quarterly newsletter, the DPZ Digest, which allows readers to learn more about the department’s work in the community, as well as receive timely information about DPZ’s programs and initiatives. To ensure you are among the first to hear about DPZ’s latest news, I encourage you to subscribe today to receive the DPZ Digest straight to your inbox.

Police Department

Maryland’s Move Over Law Expands

REMINDER: Maryland’s expanded Move Over Law is now IN EFFECT, requiring all motorists to make a lane change or slow down when approaching ANY stopped, standing or parked vehicle displaying warning signals – including hazard warning lights, road flares, or other caution signals including traffic cones, caution signs, or non-vehicular warning signs. The expanded law is in place to protect law enforcement, emergency responders and any motorist that may encounter a roadside emergency and must stop near travel lanes.

To learn more about Maryland's Move Over Law, visit the State’s Zero Deaths Maryland website.

Body Worn Cameras

Did you know that HCPD’s Body Worn Cameras (BWC) record video from the 60 seconds prior to their activation. Additionally, all uniformed HCPD officers who regularly interact with the public are now equipped with a BWC. Also, School Resource Officers (SROs) will only turn on cameras when necessary for a law enforcement purpose.

To learn more about HCPD's BWC program, including answers to frequently asked questions and its BWC policy, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/police/body-worn-cameras.

Department of Public Works-Construction Report

Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.

Savage

Junction Industrial Park Pond Retrofit (Capital Project D-1177) – Project to improve a stormwater management pond adjacent to 10000 Junction Drive. This project is not expected to impact the flow of traffic and weather permitting, is expected to be completed by late July 2023.

To learn about our Department of Public Works (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.

Maryland State Highway Administration

SHA Begins Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Project on US 1

This month, SHA will begin a project to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety and mobility at the following four key intersections along US 1 in North Laurel and Elkridge:

Brewers Court – installation of a new pedestrian-activated countdown crossing signal, a protected pedestrian refuge space in the median and new continental crosswalks;
Guilford Road – construction of a shared-use path for pedestrians and bicyclists along southbound US 1 between Guilford Road and the existing sidewalk (approximately 1,100 feet to the north), new continental crosswalks and upgraded pedestrian crossing signals;
Rowanberry Drive – construction of new concrete sidewalk along northbound US 1 between South Hanover Road and Old Washington Road, new continental crosswalks and upgraded pedestrian crossing signals; and
Doctor Patel Drive – installation of a new pedestrian-activated countdown crossing signal, a protected pedestrian refuge space in the median and new continental crosswalks.

The project will begin at the Guilford Road/US 1 intersection, during which time, motorists can expect daily off-peak single-lane closures between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Weather permitting, the entire project is expected to be completed by summer 2024.

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, and asked to drive like you work here and slowdown in construction zones.

This project is a priority for Howard County and is a result of a pedestrian and mobility study undertaken by the County several years ago. To learn more about this project, click HERE or contact SHA at 410-545-0303.

Bureau of Environmental Services

Holiday Slide Schedule Not in Effect ths Week

Although Howard County Government offices were CLOSED yesterday, October 10^th in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, there was REGULAR Monday curbside trash, recycling, yard trim and food scrap collection on the 10^th. Therefore, the County’s holiday slide schedule is NOT in effect this week. The Indigenous Peoples’ Day is not one of the six holidays that affect curbside collection. Those six holidays are New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

To learn more about the County’s holiday slide schedule, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/holidayschedule.

Upcoming Document Shredding Events

No need to worry if you missed DPW’s Bureau of Environmental Services document shredding event this past Saturday, as the Bureau will be hosting a second event at the end of the month on Saturday, October 29^th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (OR until the trucks are full) at the Long Gate Park & Ride, located off MD 100 Exit 1A in Ellicott City. The event will take place rain or shine and will allow Howard County residents the opportunity to bring up to three bags or boxes of paper to be shredded onsite. Please note, residents are asked to ONLY bring items that contain personal information. Junk mail, catalogs and office paper can be recycled with your curbside recycling collection.

For more information and/or questions about these events, please contact the Bureau at 410-313-6444 or visit www.howardcountymd.gov/documentshredding.

Know Before You Dispose of Those Leaves

With autumn officially underway and the leaves getting ready to change colors, our Department of Public Works is reminding residents to keep the following in mind when dealing with those fallen leaves.

Do not blow or rake leaves into the roadway in hope that they will be swept up by County street sweepers. Our sweepers are NOT designed to pick up leaves as large quantities of them will clog the sweeper's filters and result in the leaves being spread over a large area. Sweeper operators will in fact avoid areas of curb containing an excessive number of leaves.

Also, while Howard County crews work hard to maintain storm drains along more than 1,000 miles of County owned roadways, there are some simple approaches residents can take to help keep our storm drains free of debris to prevent roadway flooding and harmful nutrients from reaching the Chesapeake Bay:

Rake and collect your leaves in paper bags or reusable containers for yard trim curbside collection.
Mulch your leaves with your mower; they can help nourish your lawn.
Mix your leaves with grass clippings and vegetable refuse to make compost.
Participate in the Rake-and-Take program where “rakers” (residents who rake and bag leaves and grass) are matched with “takers” (people who want leaves and grass for composting).
When rain is in the forecast, check nearby storm drain grates and clear them of debris.

Our Department of Fire and Rescue Services is also reminding residents the burning of leaves, trash, yard waste, refuse and building materials is NOT PERMITTED in Howard County.

Department of Recreation and Parks

Great Outdoors Initiative

I encourage you to challenge yourself to get out and get active for at least 15 minutes each day this October through Recreation & Parks Great Outdoors initiative. Hike a trail in one of our County parks, take a walk along a local pathway, go kayaking or try something new like fishing, kite flying or geocaching. By signing up to participate in this free month-long initiative, you’ll be eligible to participate in random prize drawings at the end of the month. Sign-up today and be sure to download the .pdf log to track your progress.

Shipley Park Feasibility Study Public Hearing

As we continue to strive towards creating an exceptional park system for our community, Recreation & Parks’ Advisory Board seeks public input from residents and community organizations on the future development of recreational facilities in Shipley Park in Marriottsville. The Board will hold a public hearing during its upcoming monthly board meeting next Wednesday, October 19^th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the cafeteria at Marriotts Ridge High School. Those interested in signing up to speak in person or to provide online testimony prior to the hearing, should click HERE. In-person registration will begin the night of the hearing at 6:00 p.m.

For more information about the Board and its upcoming public hearing, click HERE.

Floating Pumpkin Patch

Join Recreation & Parks for a festive fall floating pumpkin patch event this Saturday, October 15^th from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. Come take a dip in the Roger Carter Community Center’s pool as your catch a floating pumpkin to take home and decorate, while also enjoying games, crafts and refreshments. Children can come dressed in their favorite costume – but be sure not to forget their bathing suit. Please note, this event is geared towards children aged two to 11 years old and children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost is $12 per person for members and $15 for non-members and pre-registration is required; to register for this event, click HERE.

Now Hiring!

If you are or someone you know is looking for a job, I encourage you to check out our Recreation & Parks’ current full-time job opportunities (click the link/title below for more information and to apply):

Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor - Recreation Services Coordinator II (closes October 10^th at 11:59 p.m.)
Park Maintenance Worker/Robinson Nature Center (closes October 17^th at 11:59 p.m.)
Parks Maintenance Worker/Park Operations (closes October 18^th at 11:59 p.m.)
Park Maintenance Worker/Horticulture Section/HLMD Division (closes October 18^th at 11:59 p.m.)
Recreational Licensed Childcare Coordinator - Recreation Services Coordinator I (closes October 20^th at 11:59 p.m.)
Recreation, Nature & Adventure Division Support Technician - Administrative Support Technician II (closes October 20^th at 11:59 p.m.)

Office of Transportation

Culinary Walking Tour of Downtown Columbia

In celebration of Walktober, our Office of Transportation has joined forces once again with the Downtown Columbia Partnership to offer its second annual Culinary Walking Tour of Downtown Columbia. Set to take place this Sunday, October 16th from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., this footsteps to food event invites residents of all ages to lace up their sneakers and take around Downtown Columbia as you snack on its various culinary delights. Participating restaurants include: Cured, Seasons 52, The Charmery, Maggiano's Little Italy, Chicken & Whiskey, Po Boy Jim’s and The 3rd.

Tickets come in two levels — Nibbles (all ages) and Nibbles & Drink Pairings (21+). Participants will receive a Walkabout Card to take along to the event’s participating restaurants to receive their nibbles and drink specials.

Come get your steps in and get your snack on with our Office of Transportation this Sunday.

Downtown Columbia Walkability Assessment

In addition to its Culinary Walking Tour of Downtown Columbia, our Office of Transportation is also working with the Downtown Columbia Partnership to assess walkability in Downtown Columbia, and the two want to hear from you. Ahead of on-site evaluations of existing pedestrian conditions, the project team has created a short survey and interactive map to allow residents the opportunity to share existing issues and concerns in Downtown Columbia. Your feedback will help the project team identify walking routes for their on-site visits and refine a set of short-term and long-term recommendations for improving pedestrian comfort and safety in the area. To complete the survey, click HERE today.

A final report of recommendations will be developed with the goal of improving safety and access for people walking, biking, scooting and taking transit.