Our testing capacity has increased significantly since we launched mobile testing sites – with a consistent volume of more than 7,000 tests per week in Howard County since August, and as many as 12,000 tests per week in November.

We're aware of the limited capacity at testing sites and the workforce shortages that are making it difficult for our residents to get tested. To improve testing capacity, we launched two new COVID-19 testing sites:

If we want services, classes, and programs to continue, we need healthy employees—and that begins with available testing. By adding a testing site for county employees, government partners, and their families, we hope to help the system overall, and to reduce wait times elsewhere.

I’m also pleased that we’ve expanding community-based testing in Elkridge, which has one of the highest case rates in Howard County. These mobile sites are especially valuable because it allows our partners to adapt to the changing landscape of the pandemic and provides more convenience for our residents.

These additional facilities are vital, so that our community can slow the spread of this latest surge and protect those around them.

As we continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, I strongly encourage you to get tested as soon as possible, especially if you are showing symptoms. To find other testing locations in Howard County, please click here.

As of 9:00 a.m. this morning and according to the Maryland Department of Health, Howard County’s positivity rate is 24.8% and our 7-day average case rate is 178. Newly reported cases continue to be at record highs. Since the cyberattack on the Maryland Department of Health on December 4th, we’ve not received complete data for Howard County. We’re working to update our dashboard with the latest metrics for hospitalizations, testing, vaccines, and positivity rate. 

Howard County has high vaccination rates with 79% of our total population being fully vaccinated, and 86% of our residents 12+ are vaccinated. Approximately 39% of our residents 18+ still have not received their booster shot. With Omicron’s virulence, the unvaccinated are at greater risk for hospitalization. Studies show that vaccinated individuals are still at risk of being infected with the Omicron variant. However, vaccines and boosters are working by significantly reducing hospitalization and even death.

There are currently 62 COVID-19 patients in both the ICU and Acute Care units at Howard County General Hospital. Please remember that emergency rooms are for emergencies only. Seeking testing at an emergency room — without an urgent or emerging medical need — diverts critical, life-saving resources from people who are truly experiencing an emergency.

We must continue to practice the mitigation strategies we have all become accustomed to: stay home if you are sick, get tested, wear a high-quality mask, and please get vaccinated and boosted if you haven’t already. Find a vaccine near you at vaccine.howardcountymd.gov. 

Governor Hogan issued a 30-day State of Emergency in Maryland last week in response to the COVID-19 surge. The newest projections show that COVID-19 hospitalizations could reach more than 5,000, which is more than 250% higher than the previous peak. This state of emergency will help our hospitals from overflowing.

Read more about the state of emergency here.

Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approved the Pfizer Booster for our youth between the ages of 12 and 15. If it has been 5 months since you received your second Pfizer dose, you are eligible to get a booster.

The single most effective action you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones, and to stop this pandemic, is to get vaccinated and boosted. Find a clinic near you at vaccine.howardcountymd.gov

This latest COVID-19 surge caused by variants is overwhelming, and our healthcare workers, those on the frontlines, our EMS and paramedics are exhausted. During this pandemic – they've been asked again and again to step up, sacrificing their time, energy, and health for our community.

Last week, I committed $2 million to the Howard County General Hospital (HCGH) and $400,000 to the Howard County Health Department in American Rescue Plan funding which will address critical staffing needs at both organizations amid this latest COVID-19 surge.

It is paramount that we invest in our healthcare workers, and our public health system, to retain our frontline employees and support them through this crisis. Read more about our announcement here.

Please join me welcoming Dr. Daria Willis on her first day as the new President of Howard Community College. Community colleges continue to play a vital role in our region making education and career training accessible for all. HCC is an incredible institution in Howard County, creating ready and successful students for generations and making education affordable, accessible, and personal.

Over the last year we have partnered on administering vaccines to our community, broke ground on the new Mathematics and Athletic Facility, and celebrated the opening of the new Science, Engineering, and Technology building, which includes a genetic lab with advanced DNA analysis tools.

I’m certain Dr. Willis will continue to build upon its legacy. I look forward to our partnership and our shared dedication to improving the educational outcomes for all students.

Columbia was recently named the Best City for Jobs by Wallethub! Howard County continues to be an ideal location for many business owners, companies and entrepreneurs – people want to live, work, and stay here. Despite the pandemic, we’ve seen many indicators that in the long-term we will continue to be the economic engine in Central Maryland.

Howard County has proven repeatedly – we are resilient. This recognition is a huge testament to the hard work of our business community to be at the forefront of emerging markets, and to our commitment to providing a strong quality of life for all our residents.

Read more here.

Now is the perfect time for uninsured Marylanders to enroll in health plans through the Maryland Health Connection. Every resident should be insured, especially during this public health crisis.

A 28-year-old in Howard County earning $30,000 per year can sign up for a gold health care plan in 2022 for as little $1 per month. Previously this plan would cost $70 per month.

The deadline to apply is one week away! Sign up today at MarylandHealthConnection.gov.

Howard County is lucky to have such a strong, victim-centered partner in our Howard County Police Department that aligns their human trafficking investigative practices with the best practices in the field. As we continue to recognize Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we will continue to do what we can to eradicate human trafficking and get more victims connected to high-quality wraparound services.

*Note: This data reflects cases handled by HCPD that meet the Uniform Crime Report definition of human trafficking. These numbers should NOT be taken as indicators of prevalence of sex or labor trafficking in Howard County and can be misleading taken out of appropriate context.

Our amazing team at the Department of Public Works oversees many different kinds of projects that benefit the residents, business owners, and visitors to Ellicott City. In our Bureau of Environmental Services, the team is currently overseeing more than 20 stream restoration projects that are in design or under construction. These projects help keep sediment from clogging our streams, reduce the effects of existing impervious surfaces, and improve ecological conditions in and around our waterways.

Check out this video about the Brentwood Manor Stream Restoration Project in Jessup.

We have distributed 55% of funding for County managed assistance programs. Since our first round of CARES Act Funding in 2020, our team has worked diligently to get funding into the hands of our most vulnerable residents. Our distribution method is one of the most efficient and effective in the nation – and most importantly, more of our residents are able to stay safely housed during a pandemic.

We're so grateful for our partners at Howard County Housing & Community Development, Bridges to Housing Stability, United Way, Luminus, Community Action Council of Howard County, Springboard Community Services, and Friends of Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center for their efforts to get this vital funding into the hands of those who need it most.

If you or someone you know needs help with housing costs, funding is still available to pay rent and utility expenses. To learn more and apply, please click here.

Howard County Government offices, courts, 50+ centers and animal shelter will be closed in observance of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday next Monday, January 17^th. There will be regular Monday trash, recycling and food scrap/yard trim services on the 17^th. Areas that receive yard trim collection only are reminded their yard collection ends for the season this Friday, January 14^th. The Alpha Ridge Landfill will be open on January 17^th.

County parks, the Gary J. Arthur, North Laurel and Roger Carter Community Centers, Cedar Lane and Schooley Mill Activity Rooms, Kiwanis Wallas Hall and the Meadowbrook Athletic Complex will be open on the 17^th. The Robinson Nature Center, Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum, Belmont Manor & Historic Park, Patapsco Female Institute, and County’s Restored Ellicott City Colored School will be closed. All historic sites in Ellicott City, except the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum, are closed for weekend tours until the first weekend in May.

The Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) will operate on a regular weekday schedule; for more information on RTA, call 1-800-270-9553 or visit www.transitrta.com. All parking regulations and fees will be in effect on January 17^th. 

County operations will resume on Tuesday, January 18^th at regular business hours. As a reminder, all employees and the public are currently required to wear masks upon entry to county government buildings, and throughout common areas, including elevators, stairwells, and/or meetings with other employees or visitors. 

Back by popular demand, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office of Children and Families (OCF) will host its annual Child Care Fair on Saturday, February 26^th (NEW DATE) from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the North Laurel Community Center; masks are required. While admission is FREE, attendees are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item or unopened pack of diapers or wipes to donate to the Howard County Food Bank.

Though not required, pre-registration is highly recommended so event organizers can contact attendees in case of inclement weather on the day of the event. For more information about the Fair, contact the OCF at 410-313-1940 or email children@howardcountymd.gov. To request a sign language interpreter or other accommodations to participate, call at least one week in advance.

To learn more about our efforts to combat human trafficking, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/OHTP.

To raise awareness and commemorate Human Trafficking Awareness Month, DCRS’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention, in partnership with the Howard County Library System (HCLS) and the County’s Office of Human Rights and Equity, will hold a virtual screening and panel discussion of PBS Frontline’s documentary, Trafficked in America, on Tuesday, January 25^th from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Trafficked in America investigates how a group of teenagers from Guatemala were forced to work against their will at an Ohio egg farm and how their case illuminates the problem of labor trafficking in the U.S.

Those interested in participating in the panel discussion are asked to please watch the documentary in advance, which is available to stream for free with one’s HCLS card via Kanopy. Then on the 25^th, join the County and HCLS for a live virtual discussion via Zoom. To register for this event, click HERE.

Howard County residents of all ages and backgrounds working together, giving of their time, talents and energy to make their community better, will be the foundation of a successful Age-Friendly Howard County. This month, I invite all our residents to learn how, where and when they can help implement the action steps to make Howard County a great place in which to grow up and grow older by reviewing our Age-Friendly Action Plan to find out how you can get involved.

DCRS’ OAI is a proud sponsor of the Beacon Virtual 50+EXPO, an online event which features an interactive website with information and resources geared to older adults. Now through January 31^st, visitors can access content on demand 24 hours a day from https://beacon50expo.com/. Log on anytime to visit more than 100 exhibitors and sponsors, including OAI's Bronze-level sponsors, Lorien Health and Maryland Vascular Specialists; engage with speakers; attend online classes; and enjoy a wide variety of entertainment.

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.

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.

I encourage all county residents to take part in our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) Bystander Intervention and Cultural Awareness certification training. Offered quarterly, this training course teaches participants how to protect and promote the humanity of those who are being targeted or harassed when in their presence. OHRE will hosts this quarter’s certificate training virtually this Thursday, January 13^th, starting at 5:00 p.m. Whether interested in earning this certificate for professional or personal reasons, to register to participate this Thursday, click HERE.

For questions and/or more information about this certificate and/or training, please contact OHRE at ohreoutreach@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-6430.

I invite you to join OHRE and myself this coming Sunday, January 17^th at 2:00 p.m. on OHRE’s Facebook page and the County’s YouTube channel for a virtual celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This year’s celebration will feature guest speaker Wes Moore and will honor our students and community leaders who serve and advocate for others.

To mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Thursday, January 27^th, OHRE has partnered with the Howard County Library System (HCLS) and Jewish Federation of Howard County to host a book discussion group on Nobel Peace Prize winning author Elie Wiesel’s novel Night. Night is a candid, horrific and deeply poignant autobiographical account of Wiesel’s survival as a teenager in the Nazi death camps.

Join OHRE, HCLS and the Jewish Federation as they gather at the Central Branch at 6:30 p.m. to reflect on and discuss the importance of protecting and promoting the human rights of all people by remembering the human rights violations of Jews during the Holocaust.

To register for this free event, click HERE.

Tomorrow, January 11^th, our Department of Planning and Zoning’s (DPZ) Cemetery Preservation Advisory Board will hold a virtual meeting via WebEx starting at 10:00 a.m. To pre-register to attend tomorrow’s meeting, please click HERE. Once registered, further instructions and a call-in attendee number will be provided via email. For those wishing to join the meeting via telephone only, i.e. those who only want to listen to the meeting and are not providing testimony, should call 1-650-479-3207 at the meeting time. When prompted, enter 2302 669 1812# as the event access code.

The agenda for tomorrow’s meeting can be found online.

DPZ’s Design Advisory Panel (DAP) will hold a meeting this Wednesday, January 12^th starting at 7:00 p.m. VIRTUALLY to hear the following items:

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 2314 505 9710 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

As reminder, through February 1, 2022, our Department of Public Works (DPW) is conducting a survey of septic system owners within the County’s Water and Sewer Planned Service Area. This voluntary survey will evaluate septic owners’ interest in connecting to public sewer and the information collected will only be used to help the County plan future projects. To learn more about this survey, click HERE.

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.

This is the last week of the Bureau of Environmental Services FREE holiday tree recycling “Merry Mulch” program. Through this Saturday, January 15^th, holiday trees may be recycled seven days a week, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the drop-off sites listed in the image below. One exception to the above days and times is the Alpha Ridge Landfill, which is open Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

While the Bureau’s regular Saturday Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) schedule has ended for the season (to resume the first Saturday of April), the Bureau will host three SPECIAL HHW collection days this winter: Saturday, January 8^th, Saturday, February 5^th and Saturday, March 5^th. One these three days, County residents can properly dispose of HHW items at the Landfill. For more information on this program and what is accepted/not accepted, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/HHW.

As a reminder, for those that ONLY receive yard trim curbside collection, the Bureau’s yard trim collection season comes to an end this Friday, January 14^th and the new season will resume on Monday, March 28^th.

This HOWEVER does not apply to residents who participating in the Bureau’s Feed the Green Bin food scrap collection program, who receive year-round food scrap/yard trim collection. To see if you are in a Feed the Green Bin area, click HERE.

Calling all Howard County businesses, community groups and organizations, our Bureau of Environmental Services is now accepting nominations for its fourth annual “Business Recycling and Waste Reduction” and “Green Community Leadership” awards program. This annual awards programs recognizes businesses, community groups and organizations in Howard County that demonstrates efforts, projects or programs that help protect our natural environment and preserve its resources. Nomination forms are available online at www.workgreenhoward.org and are due (postmarked or delivered) by 5:00 p.m., Friday, February 11th.

If your pipes do freeze, the Bureau recommends opening the cold-water faucet nearest the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. Then, use a gentle heat source, such as a light bulb or hair dryer, to thaw the pipe. DO NOT use an open flame. 

Dad’s or special adults are invited to escort their little princess(es) to the County’s Roger Carter Community Center on Saturday, January 23^rd for a memorable evening of dancing and fun at this year’s Sweetheart Dance. There will be dancing, a live DJ, light refreshments, crafts, a souvenir photo and an ice cream sundae bar. Children four to six years old will dance the evening away from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., while the dance floor will open up to seven- to 11-year-old from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. To reserve your spot on the dance floor, click HERE.

Moms and sons, dads, daughters, and loved ones, all are invited to this year’s Valentine’s Dance, a fun-filled evening jam-packed with dancing, games, refreshments, a live DJ, a souvenir photo and a sweet treat. Geared towards kids age three to 12, this year’s dance will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 5^th at the County’s North Laurel Community Center. With just a few spots remaining, be sure to snag your dance tickets today before it’s too late.

Our Department of Recreation & Parks is seeking your input Howard County for its Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan (LPPRP), a comprehensive plan produced every five years that guides the department on key issues, trends and plans for managing and enhancing the systems of preserved public lands, parks and recreation facilities. To learn more about the LPPRP or to provide your input, click HERE.

As part of the development of its Transportation Demand Management Plan for Downtown Columbia (DTC), the Office of Transportation is working with the Downtown Columbia Partnership to survey those who live, work and play in DTC. The purpose of the survey to develop a better understanding of the transportation needs and assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on travel patterns of those who live, work and play and this area. Your responses will help Transportation design new transportation options and strategies to address current needs as well as into the post-COVID period. To take the survey, click HERE.

Every year, Howard County updates the County’s list of transportation priorities for the Maryland Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) Consolidated Transportation Program. The list, known as the Priority Letter, is developed based on input from the public and county staff, as well as elected and appointed officials. The update is sent to the Maryland Secretary of Transportation, along with project questionnaires. For the County’s FY2023–FY2028 Priority Letter, our Office of Transportation will hold a public meeting virtually on Thursday, January 27^th at 6:00 p.m. to gather public input. To register for this meeting, click HERE. Comments and questions can also be submitted to Transportation via email at transportation@howardcountymd.gov.

For more information about the County’s FY2023-FY2028 Priority Letter, including copies of past priority letters, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/transportation/priority-letter.