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Dear Friends,
We endured one of the most challenging times in our history. However, it's a new day in Howard County and we remain a national model for response, recovery, and resilience.
I recently gave my annual State of the County Address where I outlined significant plans for faith-based initiatives, upcoming progress on the Ellicott City Safe and Sound flood mitigation plan, transformative expansion of hospital capacity to improve emergency operations, and exciting investment in building and retaining our workforce.
Our bold, transformational vision has always been data informed and people driven. We will continue to be at the forefront of sparking innovation, investing in education, protecting our environment, and strengthening our communities. The state of Howard County is strong, and I believe our biggest, boldest, and brightest days are ahead, as we journey towards the next stop on the road to excellence.
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Protecting Our Community
As I announced during my recent ‘State of the County’ address, no matter your faith, or where you reside in Howard County, every one of us should be able to worship freely and safely. That is why I’ve launched our one-time Nonprofit and Faith-Based Security Grant Program, available to eligible Howard County nonprofit and faith-based organizations who are experiencing heightened risk of hate crimes and threats of violence.
With grant awards ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, this grant program will help nonprofit and faith-based organizations cover costs associated with enhanced security operations and safety infrastructure to deter potential acts of violence and hate crimes against them. It is our responsibility to ensure our nonprofits, places of worships and residents are safe, feel safe and respected, and that Howard County continues to foster a welcome environment, full of compassion, love, and empathy towards all.
To learn more about this program, including eligibility requirements, and for an application, click HERE.
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Gotta Have Faith
I was honored to join in commemorating the 50th anniversary of Celebration Church Columbia! For five decades, this church has been a beacon of hope, touching lives, and making a positive difference. Their story embodies a journey of faith, community and impact. From its humble beginnings to becoming a dynamic hub of ministries, a Christian Academy, a business incubator and more, Celebration Church continues to embody the spirit of legacy and service.
Huge congratulations to Bishop Robbie S. Davis, Jr., the entire church community, and all those who have contributed to this remarkable journey! Your dedication and impact are felt not just within our community but far beyond. Here's to 50 years of making a difference, and to many more years of growth, positivity, and helping people Win In Life!
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Greater Service, Greater Progress
Founded on November 12, 1922, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is more than a sorority—it’s a global sisterhood of change-makers. Organized by seven visionary educators, Sigma Gamma Rho was incorporated on December 30, 1929, making a lifetime commitment to uplifting communities through sisterhood, leadership, and service.
Living by the motto, “Greater Service, Greater Progress,” Sigma Gamma Rho has a storied legacy of proactive community service both nationally and internationally. Their various programs and partnerships symbolize the sorority's steadfast commitment to bettering the lives of others in areas like education, health awareness, and leadership development.
On November 12th, on their Founder’s Day, let's take a moment to honor the work and impact of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Your contributions to the world don't go unnoticed. Thank you for your continuous dedication to serving our community.
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Honoring our Veterans
On Sunday, November 12th, I joined the Howard County Veterans Foundation and Columbia Association to honor our veterans with Howard County’s 9th annual Veterans Day Parade and Celebration in Downtown Columbia. During the celebration, following the parade, I made a significant announcement regarding the future of the Veterans Memorial in Columbia.
Howard County has been a long-standing partner in advancing this project and it is our intention to ensure this monument has the funding it needs to be a national model for recognizing our veterans and military families. That is why I have committed an investment of $1 million to begin construction of this monument. I hope that as generations come and visit our Veterans Monument, they will see in this monument all the people who helped make not only our freedom, our liberty, our opportunity, but a place to always honor them possible.
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The Lights Are On
As the vibrant lights of Diwali illuminate our homes and hearts, I extend my warmest greetings to all celebrating this auspicious festival of lights. Diwali's message of triumph over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair resonates deeply in our community, especially during these times. I’m reminded that a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.
May the glow of your diyas bring joy to your life, and may this celebration strengthen the bonds of friendship and family. Wishing a Diwali filled with peace, prosperity, and the joy of new beginnings. Happy Diwali!
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Honoring My Heroes
As we observe Veterans Day, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the brave people who have donned the uniform of our armed forces. In Howard County, we recognize the immense sacrifices made by our veterans and their families to preserve the freedoms and values we hold dear. Their unwavering courage and dedication to duty are the very foundations of our nation's strength and resilience.
Every Veterans Day, I am reminded of two of my heroes – my dad, a Vietnam-era veteran, and my grandfather, a World War II veteran. These are two people who helped shape my life and taught me the value of service. While they may no longer be here with us, their legacy of service continues to be my inspiration every day.
To our veterans here in Howard County and across the nation, we thank you for your service and your valor and recommit ourselves to supporting you in every way we can.
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The Definition of American Bravery
Every year, it’s my honor to join our incredible students and educators at Veterans Elementary School (VES) to honor the valor and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes, our veterans. It was especially moving to hear the words of Private First-Class Al Bucci, a World War II veteran. PFC Bucci’s heroism on the sands of Normandy is the very definition of American bravery. His words helped inspire our next generation of community leaders.
Thank you to Principal Alexcia Redd and our entire VES community for hosting this incredible showcase. Most importantly, thank you to all our veterans for their service and sacrifice. Let us renew our pledge to remember, honor, and support those who have protected our nation.
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Caregiver Fraud
We prioritize the safety and well-being of our older adults in Howard County. It’s a sad truth that caregiver fraud is a pressing concern, one that sees the most vulnerable among us facing deceit and theft from those entrusted to help them. Our older adults, who have contributed so much to the fabric of our community, are entitled to respect, care, and security in their later years.
If there are any signs of caregiver fraud, whether it's from home health aides, family members, or any other individuals in positions of trust, it is crucial that these incidents are reported immediately. Reach out to the Howard County Police Department’s Senior Liaison at 410-313-6089.
Your vigilance and action can make all the difference. For comprehensive resources on preventing and addressing elder abuse, please visit our website. Together, we can create a community that upholds the safety and dignity of our senior members.
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Come & Talk to Me
On the evening of November 15th, we have a special engagement that holds the promise of shaping the future. At the Burrill Galleria in Howard Community College, the Youth Engagement Leadership Workgroup will convene, bringing with them an interactive fair full of opportunities designed to nurture and embolden the vibrant youth of our community. I encourage our young residents to join us, share your stories, and add your voices to a conversation that will echo throughout Howard County.
For event specifics, support with accommodations, or any inquiries, you are welcome to connect with Meghan at youthengagement@howardcountymd.gov or call at 410-313-0417.
Your participation is more than just your presence—it's a step toward a brighter, more inclusive future for all of us.
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A-Buzz with Entrepreneurial Spirit
I recently had the opportunity to visit Bumble Auto in Ellicott City, a thriving local business that's raising the bar for used car dealerships. Led by Jake Araghi, an alumnus of Howard County Public School System, Bumble Auto is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our community.
With a dedication to service and excellence, Jake and his team at Bumble Auto offer a comprehensive suite of services for selling, trading, or purchasing used cars. For residents looking for top-notch automotive deals, Bumble Auto stands out with a seamless and transparent process, ensuring that every customer drives away satisfied. Learn more at https://bumbleauto.com/.
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Fur-ever Grateful to Those Making a Difference
This past Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, we took a moment to celebrate and thank the dedicated staff and volunteers at our Howard County Animal Control and Adoption Center. Their unwavering commitment to providing care, love and a second chance to animals in need does not go unnoticed. They are true heroes in our community, tirelessly working to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome countless pets.
I'm continually inspired by their compassion and the support from residents who adopt, donate and advocate. Let's continue to support our local shelter and open our hearts and homes to these wonderful animals. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our furry friends.
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A Heaping Good Time
Join us for a festive day out at the Harvest Heap Pumpkin Palooza! I'm thrilled to invite you to a family-friendly event packed with autumnal fun Saturday, November 18th, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Miller Branch Library. Get ready for a day full of activities, including games, the chance to consult with a master gardener, creative crafts, and an array of delicious offerings from food trucks.
You could go home with your very own compost bin, thanks to our giveaway! This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the community spirit and learn about sustainability.
For more details, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/harvestheap.
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Staying Vigilant and Informed
As we continue our work to protect the interests and security of our residents, I want to highlight an important message regarding Social Security. Please be aware that the Social Security Administration will not contact you unexpectedly to "verify" your personal information or threaten to close your account. If you receive such calls, they are scams, and it's crucial to guard your information. Should you ever have questions about your Social Security account or benefits, please reach out directly to the official helpline at 800-772-1213.
Stay vigilant and informed. Together, we can keep our community safe from fraudulent activities.
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Transforming Patient Care
In honor of National Entrepreneurship Month, I'm delighted to recognize Ataia Medical, a Howard County innovation champion established in 2017 by Amy Foertsch. Ataia Medical embodies the spirit of Howard County's ingenuity, with a noble mission to grant patients the freedom to communicate verbally, even in the most challenging healthcare situations.
Ataia's innovative approach revolutionizes patient care by providing those who cannot speak due to medical barriers with the tools to express themselves clearly. This vital communication aids in timely and accurate diagnoses, enhances patient contentment and leads to superior health outcomes, particularly for those needing non-invasive ventilation. For a closer look at how Ataia Medical is transforming patient care, I encourage you to visit https://ataiamedical.com/.
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Tapping That Untapped Talent
I'm thrilled to invite our business leaders and forward-thinkers to 'Tapping into Untapped Talent,' an apprenticeship event celebrating National Apprenticeship Week this Wednesday, November 15th. Join us to discover how apprenticeships can serve as a pathway to good jobs and invigorate your workforce with fresh talent and innovative ideas.
At this gathering, we'll explore the power of apprenticeships as a tool to unlock potential within our community, drive growth, and set the pace for the future of the workplace. Don't miss the chance to broaden your horizons, build bridges for success, and share your valuable expertise.
Register now and be part of the movement crafting the next chapter of Howard County's economic story. To register, visit https://HCBusinessApprenticeship-NAW.eventbrite.com.
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The Green Light
This past week in Howard County, we showed our appreciation for those who fought for our country and continue to fight to secure our freedoms. As the proud son of a Vietnam-era Veteran and the grandson of a World War II Veteran, I understand first-hand the dedication, commitment and sacrifices it takes to serve our country.
In honor of our veterans and as part of Operation Green Light, we bathed the George Howard Building in green lights throughout last week to remind our Veterans that they are seen, appreciated and supported. Please join me in thanking them for their valuable service to our community, county and country.
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Addressing Maryland’s Housing Challenges
County Executives Johnny Olszewski, Jessica Fitzwater, and I had an engaging conversation at the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition's Annual Meeting regarding the pivotal role of state and local governments in addressing Maryland's housing challenges. In Howard County, we are creating a full spectrum of housing affordability to meet our community's needs.
Through our Housing Opportunities Trust Fund and our local Affordable Housing PILOT program, we're dedicating critical resources to build affordable projects like Robinson Overlook, Legacy at Twin Rivers, and Patuxent Commons. We're not just constructing buildings; we're creating homes for our educators, first responders, and our workforce. Together, we will continue to invest in a future where everyone has an opportunity to live in a place to call home in Howard County.
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Cultivating a Rich Poetic and Literary Culture
I'm pleased to announce the launch of Howard County's first Poet Laureate program, a new venture in partnership with the Howard County Arts Council and the Howard County Poetry & Literature Society (HoCoPoLitSo). This program celebrates our unwavering commitment to the arts and provides a platform for a Poet Laureate to advocate for the importance of poetry, literature, and the arts in our vibrant community.
This initiative underscores Howard County's dedication to cultivating a rich poetic and literary culture. The Poet Laureate, serving as an artistic leader for two years, will help integrate poetry into the daily life of our residents and will be instrumental in celebrating and promoting our local literary arts. We're also excited to introduce a Youth Poet Laureate position, fostering the voice and creativity of our younger generation.
Together with our partners, we're setting the stage for a legacy of literary excellence that echoes the diverse and dynamic spirit of Howard County.
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Connecting Caregivers
I am excited to share that the Howard County Caregiver Support Program has introduced Trualta, a comprehensive online learning portal specifically designed for family caregivers in our community. Trualta is a resourceful tool aimed at reducing stress, connecting caregivers to local resources, and enhancing the quality of care they can provide to their loved ones.
This accessible service is free for all Howard County caregivers and is available around the clock. It's been tailored to adapt to your personal learning journey, allowing you to select topics that are most relevant and engaging. I encourage every family caregiver who can benefit from this service to enroll and discover the supportive resources that Trualta offers.
Please reach out to Kathy Wehr, our dedicated Caregiver Support Manager, at kwehr@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-5955 to gain access to this invaluable resource today.
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Join My Team!
My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.
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Housing Resource Navigator (Human Services Specialist II) - Dept. of Housing & Community Development – This position is responsible for creating pathways to stable, permanent housing for Howard County residents who are currently homeless or are at imminent risk of homelessness. This includes implementing the Office of Community Partnerships’ Landlord Engagement Program intended to strategically expand housing inventory available to clients exiting homelessness, working with landlords to keep clients housed, and connecting clients to resources needed to help them maintain housing.
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Therapeutic Recreation Aquatics Operator - Recreation & Parks – Under the supervision of the Recreation Manager and the Therapeutic Recreation Supervisors, the Pool Operator will operate all aspects of the swimming lesson, open swim and Water Exercise and aquatic program at the Cedar Lane Therapy Pool.
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Sports Supervisor - (Recreation Services Coordinator II) - Recreation & Parks, Bureau of Recreation – This position performs professional level recreation services work, which may include supervision, under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes overseeing the safe and efficient operation of activities at school and department recreational facilities, parks and private recreational facilities; or overseeing the operation of programs in specific functional areas under the direction of a recreation supervisor. Assists in analyzing marketing data for program promotion and customer service. Work also includes the supervision of contingent, part-time staff and volunteers; overseeing the approved budget; and preparing information for recreation supervisor for seasonal and fiscal reports.
I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.
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Department of Community Resources and Services | |
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Offering Free Family Workshops
The Howard County Family Institute is an education, information and community outreach program of our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office of Children and Families (OCF). The mission of the Family Institute is to assist parents and guardians in their parenting role by providing education that enhances caregiver skills, knowledge and behavior with a vision that all children will start life with a strong foundation. The October issue of OCF’s newsletter, Parent Pages, lists multiple free workshops to help educate families and provide caregivers with resources, including Positive Solutions for Families on November 29th.
To learn more about these free family workshops and/or to register, visit OCF’s website.
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HoCo Community Chat Celebrates National Family Caregivers Month and Veterans Day
For this month’s November episode of DCRS’s HoCo Community Chat podcast, Director Jackie Scott is hosting two special segments. The first segment focuses on National Family Caregivers Month, where Jackie is joined by our Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) Caregiver Support Program Manager Kathy Wehr and Caregiver Specialist Dr. Earnestine Thomas. For the second segment, Jackie is joined by Office of Veterans and Military Families Manager Lisa Terry for a discussion about our veteran and military family experience in our country and county as we celebrate Veterans Day this coming weekend.
Be sure to stay tuned on Buzzsprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts, to hear about all the resources and support DCRS has to offer its community caregivers, veterans and military families.
DCRS also recently dropped a new episode of HoCo Community Chat en Español. For its latest episode and just in time for the approaching winter season, Cris Oviedo, producer and talent of the podcast Conectados, is joined by OAI Administrator Ofelia Ross Ott to talk about our Latinx community and the available resources for people 50 and older who may be food insecure. Escucha ahora!
If there is something specific you want to hear about, I encourage you to email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov.
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Support the Howard County Diaper Project and Help Howard County Families in Need
Did you know that one in three families in America struggles to afford diapers for their children? No family should have to choose between paying for food or clean diapers.
Help give local parents peace of mind this holiday season by donating today to this year’s Diaper Drive. Hosted by OCF and the Community Action Council of Howard County, Inc. (CAC), every dollar contributed to the Howard County Diaper Project will go toward purchasing diapers and wipes to distribute to low-income families in need. Donate today by clicking here or stop by Howard County Family Support Center or the Howard County Food Bank on November 28th to donate in person.
For questions and/or more information about the drive, contact OCF at 410-313-2273 or email children@howardcountymd.gov.
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Help Spread Some Holiday Cheer this Season
Each holiday season, DCRS’s OAI launches its annual Project Holiday, an initiative designed to collect and deliver holiday gifts to county residents residing in assisted living facilities, nursing homes and older adults in the community who could use a little extra cheer.
Now through Wednesday, December 6th, residents can drop off donations of new/unopened gifts items – ranging from colored pencils and markers to adult coloring books, crossword puzzle books, word search books, toothbrushes, toothpaste and more, at DCRS’s main office in Columbia, any one of OAI’s 50+ Centers, Howard County Library System’s (HCLS) Central Branch, Howard County MultiService Center or The Loan Closet of Howard County.
For a complete list of acceptable items, including how to send a monetary donation and/or if you have questions or need assistance, visit OAI’s “Project Holiday” webpage today.
Last year, thanks to your help, OAI was able to deliver gifts to more than 240 older adults in Howard County. Won’t you help us spread some more holiday cheer this year?
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Medicare Open Enrollment Counseling Now Available
To assist Howard County Medicare beneficiaries of any age decide review, switch or enroll in a drug plan during this Medicare Open Enrollment, DCRS’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) team is here to help. Whether you are new to Medicare or have had it for some time, our trained staff and Certified Medicare Counselors provide free, unbiased assistance for questions and concerns.
Available at all 50+ Centers throughout the enrollment season (which ends December 7th), SHIP Medicare Open Enrollment appointments are available as follows:
To schedule an appointment today, call 410-313-7392. SHIP also offers educational Medicare presentations remotely and the upcoming schedule can be found HERE.
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Hot Topics in Consumer Protection and Advocacy Public Forum
On Saturday, December 9th, I invite you to join DCRS’s Office of Consumer Protection for a public forum highlighting “Hot Topics in Consumer Protection and Advocacy.” Set to take place from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at our Ellicott City 50+ Center, this event will feature a resource fair, presentations from local, state and federal legislators, and a Q&A session. Topics to be covered include elder abuse, arbitration, credit/debt, scams, recent federal/state legislation, anticipated/pending legislation and more. To reserve your spot for this free event, click HERE today.
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Department of Fire and Rescue Services | |
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Turkey Fryers and Thanksgiving
With Thanksgiving less than two weeks away, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) are reminding residents about the dangers of using a turkey fryer to cook a turkey. If you are planning on deep frying a turkey this Thanksgiving, please remember to always cook outside, far away from any structure or anything flammable and NEVER put a frozen turkey in hot oil.
As the leading day for home fires involving cooking equipment, please be sure to keeping these safety tips in mind when whipping up your family’s Thanksgiving feast this year.
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Taking Charge of Battery Safety
Incidents involving lithium-ion batteries are on the rise and DFRS isn’t just talking about just any fire. A lithium-ion battery fire emits flames, smoke and toxic gases that can cause an explosion and spread quickly. The first warning signs are smoke and/or hissing noises. If you ever experience this coming from a lithium-ion battery, get out and call 911 immediately.
The best way to stay safe is to prevent a lithium-ion battery fire from starting. Always handle lithium-ion batteries with care, be sure to recycle devices and batteries properly, be wary of online purchases and choose certified products, and always charge devices according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
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Roadway Safety for All
With the sun now setting around 5:00 p.m., DFRS and Howard County Police Department (HCPD) are reminding motorists to be on high alert for pedestrians and bicyclists. Pedestrians and bicyclists are at their highest risk of being struck when it’s dark outside. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 77 percent of pedestrian fatalities nationwide occur when it’s dark outside. To help increase safety, pedestrians and bicyclists are encouraged to wear bright colors and reflective clothes when using roadways at dusk, nighttime and early morning hours. Bicycles should also be equipped with a white front light, red rear light and reflectors.
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Howard County Health Department | |
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Community Flu Vaccine Clinics
It's fall and that means it's respiratory virus season. To help, the Howard County Health Department (HCHD) is once again offering its free seasonal flu shot clinics. For a list of upcoming flu clinic dates and registration information, visit HCHD's Seasonal Flu webpage today. Individuals can also call 410-313-6284 for registration assistance.
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Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
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Humanity Matters 2024 Conference – Now Accepting Proposals
Our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) encourages all interested persons to submit proposals for its “2024 Humanity Matters: Envisioning Social Justice Through an Equity Lens” conference. We welcome submissions from community organizers, human and civil rights professionals in government, education, non-profit, business, DEI consultants, and Commissioners.
With this conference, OHRE aims to provide innovative best practices, professional development and facilitate meaningful dialogue across counties and within our respective fields.
All submissions should be emailed to Dr. Denise Boston at equity@howardcountymd.gov by no later than this Wednesday, November 15th; please enter “2024 Humanity Matters Conference Proposal Submission” in the Subject line.
For more information on this request for proposals, click HERE.
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Reading Human Rights – The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee by David Treuer
Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by OHRE and HCLS that encourages literary exploration and community dialogue around a variety of human rights concerns. It explores works of fiction and non-fiction to teach community members the various ways individuals, cultures and communities celebrate their identities and combat injustice.
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, for its November book discussion – to be held Tuesday, November 28th at 6:30 p.m. at HCLS’s Elkridge Branch, OHRE will take a deep dive into Native American history in David Treuer’s The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America From 1890 to the Present. In this work of non-fiction, Treuer introduces readers to a sweeping history – and counter-narrative – of Native American life from the Wounded Knee massacre to the present.
To secure your seat for this month’s event, click HERE today to register.
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Commissioners Wanted
As part of its responsibility, OHRE staffs five County Government Commissions: the Human Rights Commission, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, the LGBTQIA+ Commission, La Alianza Latina Commission and the Asian American & Pacific Islander Commission. Comprised of Howard County resident volunteers, the following commissions are looking for new members:
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission – three new adult commissioners;
- LGBQIA+ Commission – three new adult commissioners and one college student;
- La Alianza Latina Commission – one new adult commissioners and one high school student; and
- AAPI Commission – one college student.
If you or someone you know is interested in joining one of ORHE’s Commissions and participating in the planning of educational programming, creating advocacy resources for residents and ensuring equity and justice for all here in Howard County, click HERE to apply today!
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Department of Planning and Zoning | |
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Cemetery Preservation Advisory Board
Tomorrow, November 14th, the Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Cemetery Preservation Advisory Board will hold a hybrid meeting, in person at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City and virtually via WebEx, starting at 10:00 a.m. For meeting details, click HERE.
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Planning Board Meeting
Also this week on Thursday, November 16th, DPZ’s Planning Board will be holding a hybrid meeting, in person at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City and virtually via WebEx, starting at 7:00 p.m., to hear the following agenda items:
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ZRA 206 Elite Facility Management – Request to amend Section 128.0.A.12 to allow additional square footage for detached accessory structures in the RC and RR zoning districts.
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FDP-66-A Howard Hughes Corp on behalf of Columbia Association & Enterprise Homes – Request to amend the north boundary of lot 2 to swap 2,430 SF of land between Open Space Lot 2 on this FDP with Lot 3 on FDP-34. This amendment is being concurrently reviewed with the proposed amended FDP-34-A.
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FDP-34-A Howard Hughes Corp on behalf of Enterprise Homes – Request to amend the FDP to swap an equal area of land (2,430 SF) between lot 3 of this FDP with Open Space Lot 2 on FDP-66. In addition, the petitioner requests to increase the permitted building height on Lot 3 to 50ft and to increase the permitted density for apartment uses. This amendment is being reviewed concurrently with FDP-66-A.
To register to testify, click HERE. Registration must be completed prior to 7:00 p.m. the night (November 15, 2023) before the scheduled meeting to participate. If you do not wish to testify, but simply to watch the meeting, click HERE to watch.
A five-member board made up of Howard County citizens, the Planning Board makes recommendations to the Zoning Board or County Council on matters related to planning and zoning and renders a final decision on certain development proposals. Before recommendations or decisions are made, the Board holds a public meeting or hearing to provide interested persons the opportunity to provide comment. For details about procedures for testifying at a Planning Board meeting, click HERE.
To learn more about Howard County’s Planning Board and upcoming meeting dates, click HERE.
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Route 1 Tax Credit Program
Our Department of Planning and Zoning is now accepting applications for this year’s Route 1 Tax Credit program! If you own a commercial or industrial property on the Route 1 Corridor, you may be eligible to receive up to $100,000 of tax credit for qualified façade and landscape improvements visible from the Corridor area. Eligible improvements include building façade upgrades, new signage, exterior painting and lighting, screening and landscaping, and other options.
For more information or to apply, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.
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Illegal Firearms Case Leads to Homicide Arrests
In an effort to update the community on several Howard County Police Department (HCPD) cases, Police Chief Gregory Der, Howard County State's Attorney Rich Gibson and myself last week announced that two Baltimore men have been charged in an October fatal shooting in Columbia. The arrests came after a gun used in the shooting was located during a search warrant in a separate robbery and firearms investigation, which resulted in the arrests of three teenagers and one adult. To read more about these cases, click HERE.
Every day, we make it a priority to ensure every Howard County resident not only remains safe but feels safe. The efforts taken by our team at HCPD helped us take another step towards reaching this goal. By combining investigative expertise in our violent crime, robbery, firearms, property crimes, and drug units, we are able to look at these cases through a wider lens. We are now one step closer to holding these suspects accountable and providing some closure on crimes that have disturbed our community.
Our Police Department remains committed to identifying and removing illegal firearms from our local communities. The department dedicates significant resources, offers rewards and maintains a tip line for any information about illegal guns and violent crime in Howard County. If you have any information about a gun, gang tip or violent crime in Howard County, please contact HCPD at 410-313-STOP or email HCPDcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov.
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Coffee with a Cop
HCPD will hosts its next Coffee with a Cop event this Thursday, November 16th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Wegmans in Columbia. Come meet face-to-face with HCPD’s Community Outreach Officers to discuss issues, ask questions and build relationships one cup of coffee (or other beverage) at a time. This event is free and open to all!
For questions, contact HCPD's Community Outreach Division at 410-313-2207.
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Department of Public Works | |
Bureau of Environmental Services | |
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Give Your Sunken Pumpkin New Life
Once again aiming to reduce the number of pumpkins that end up as landfill waste each autumn season, our Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Environmental Services’ annual “Harvest Heap” compost collection program is back! Now through this Friday, November 17th, residents can drop off their pumpkins daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Clark’s Elioak Farm, located at 10500 Clarksville Pike in Ellicott City. In addition, pumpkins (and other food scraps) are always accepted at the County’s Alpha Ridge Landfill's Residents’ Convenience Center, open Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. When at the Center, residents should look for the green ‘Hungry Hippo’ food scrap drop-off container. Residents participating in the County’s curbside Feed the Green Bin food scrap collection program can also simply set their pumpkins out on their regular food scrap collection day for pickup. Finally, if you are attending our Department of Recreation & Parks’ first-ever Pumpkin Palooza on Saturday, November 18th from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at HCLS’ Miller branch in Ellicott City, you can drop off your pumpkin at the event for composting.
To learn more about our Harvest Heap compost collection program, including how to prepare your pumpkin for compost, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/HarvestHeap.
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Another HHW Season Comes to an End
There are just three Saturdays left in our Bureau’s 2023 Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection program season at our Alpha Ridge Landfill. Following Saturday, November 25th, HHW and won’t fully start back up till the first Saturday in April 2024. But don’t despair, the Bureau will be hosting special Saturday HHW collections days throughout the winter off-season (Saturday, January 6, 2024, Saturday, February 3, 2024, and Saturday, March 2, 2024) to ensure our residents can properly and safely dispose of their HHW waste.
To learn more about our HHW program, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/HHW.
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Entries Sought for Coloring Book Contest
Calling all Howard County third, fourth and fifth graders, our Bureau of Environmental Services invites you to participate in its annual Coloring Book Contest, which allows students to demonstrate their awareness and appreciation for our environment, while promoting the importance of the three R’s: “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.” To learn more about this year’s contest and how to participate, click HERE.
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Cryptosporidium Update
An independent, certified water quality laboratory has once again confirmed that there is no detection of Cryptosporidium in the County's drinking water samples. The County's Department of Public Works (DPW) will continue to conduct weekly testing of our public water system to confirm the quality of our water through December.
For the most up-to-date information regarding this matter, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Cryptosporidium.
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Public Works Construction Report | |
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To learn about DPW projects currently underway, click HERE. Searchable by project category and street name, from this site you’ll find additional project details, including news releases about the project. You can also contact DPW’s Customer Service Office at 410-313-3440 or email publicworks@howardcountymd.gov for further assistance.
If you have questions or are interested in finding out about a State road (numbered roadway) project in your area, visit the Maryland State Highway Administration’s (SHA) “Project Portal” website.
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Department of Recreation and Parks | |
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What to Do When Schools are Closed
With the holidays fast approaching, our Department of Recreation & Parks is here to help with its School's Out programming days to make sure you don't get caught off guard when schools are closed. From music, basketball and circus camp, to Cooking with Club SciKidz, Art Workshops at Pinot's Palette, drama, science/STEM, LEGO and more, there are plenty of activities and programs to choose from to keep your kids active when school is not in session. To learn more about what fun Recreation & Parks activities has planned this month, click on the following dates (November 20th, November 21st, November 22nd and November 24th).
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Winter Activity Guide Now Available
If you haven’t heard, Recreation & Parks’ 2024 Winter Activity Guide is now available online! With hundreds of great programs, activities and events to choose from, there is something for everyone to help chase those winter blues away.
Remember, online registration for Howard County residents begins December 6th at 6:00 p.m., with in-person, over-the-phone and mail-in beginning the following day at 8:00 a.m. For out-of-county residents, online registration for you begins the following week, December 13th, at 6:00 p.m.
County residents, be sure to keep an eye out on your mailbox for your print copy. You can also pick up a hard copy at Recreation & Parks' headquarters, located at 7120 Oakland Mills Road in Columbia, at any one of our community centers or your local library branch.
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Holiday Trips Planned for You
Ring in the holidays with Recreation & Parks’ Trips and Tours team this season as they take in these holiday classics. From Miracle on 34th Street at Toby's Dinner Theater on December 1st to A Christmas Carol at Dutch Apple Theater on December 7th and the National Symphony Orchestra's rendition of Handel's ‘Messiah’ at the Kennedy Center on December 16th, our Trips and Tours team has it all planned out to help get you in the jolly, holly spirit. Be sure to book early by clicking HERE to reserve your spot today.
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A Roadmap to Providing Faster, More Reliable and Greener Transit Service
As I announced last week, the County’s draft Transit Development Plan (TDP) 2023 is complete.
As highlighted in chapter four of our new General Plan, HoCo By Design, there is a growing recognition of the necessity to expand transit and multimodal networks to promote equity, improve roadway safety and take advantage of Howard County’s position as a link between Baltimore and Washington, DC. Through our latest TDP, we hope to achieve this. A short-term plan, the TDP serves as a guide for our local transit system development and funding requests and provides a roadmap for implementing service and organizational improvements, including potential service expansion, during the next five years.
For more information about the TDP and to review past plans, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/transportation/howard-county-transit-development-plan.
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