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Dear Friends,
As home to approximately 40 percent of Howard County’s older adult population, we knew that we needed to do more to support our aging residents in East Columbia. Plans to renovate and expand the center began in 2014, with the first phase being identified in 2015. Now, we finally have a facility that best fits our community that was only made possible due to the advocacy and collaboration by our entire community.
Located right in the middle of the newly established “East Columbia Campus,” this new center has easy access to Howard County Library System’s East Columbia branch and the East Columbia Park. Together, these three locations will be a place where residents of all ages can learn, meet with friends and neighbors, take classes, play sports or simply enjoy the world around us.
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Location, Location, Location
Make your voice heard about how a new, future Howard County Library System (HCLS) Central branch can best benefit Downtown Columbia and all of Howard County.
There are a series of public engagement meetings and an online survey has been launched so you can share your thoughts and feedback with us and our design consultant, Arcadis. For more information on this project, these meetings and/or to take survey.
Five potential sites have been presented as options for a new Central branch, including a site in the Merriweather District, two different sites in the Lakefront District, a site at The Mall in Columbia and the existing Central branch site itself.
If you have questions regarding this public engagement process, please email HCLibrary@arcadis.com.
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YEP! Embrace the Handoff
It was wonderful to join our students, educators, and school administrators at Wilde Lake High School to launch the spring flag football program for middle school students.
Powered by our Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) grant, this initiative will offer a flag football program to students at Wilde Lake Middle School and Wilde Lake High School. Student athletes at Wilde Lake High School will participate in this program as football coaches and mentors to our middle school students.
Thank you to Coach Henderson, Wilde Lake Principal Marcy Leonard, and our entire Wilde Cat community for your partnership in expanding youth programming for young people in Howard County. Together, we’ll continue to support our future generations through supportive and nurturing programs that strengthen our community.
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Ramadan Mubarak!
Ramadan is a time of unity, reflection, forgiveness, and a renewed dedication to faith, community, and to oneself. As the holiest month of the Islamic calendar begins tonight, I pray for continued peace, prosperity, and health for all. May this Ramadan be filled with endless blessings, and may we embrace our compassion that reminds us of the power of humanity.
Ramadan Mubarak from my family to yours!
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Reflecting on Harriet Tubman's Legacy
As we observed Harriet Tubman Day, I was deeply moved to visit Locust United Methodist Church-COLUMBIA, MD.
It is a place steeped in the profound narratives of resilience and liberation that have shaped our history.
Recently LUMC received a grant from the State of Maryland through its African American Heritage Preservation Program. Through funding received LUMC was able to renovate and expand its facility, ensuring its stories continue to enlighten and inspire for generations to come.
The church and its adjoining cemetery are poignant testaments to Freetown's history, bearing witness to the bravery and determination of those who pursued freedom against all odds. This history is not just a chapter in a book; it is a core part of our identity as a community and a nation. It honors the indomitable spirit of those who laid the foundations of this church in 1869, including the descendants of those who sought their freedom along the Underground Railroad.
Let us also renew our commitment to advancing the legacy of those who fought tirelessly for freedom and equality. Let us acknowledge that their journey is our journey, and their story is our shared legacy.
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Tree-markable Progress
Last week, I announced the completion of the second land preservation purchase through our innovative Purchased Conservation Easement Pilot Program with the Howard County Conservancy. This purchase will save trees and permanently preserve an eight-acre parcel of land at 9200 Marydell Road in Ellicott City – the site of the North St. John’s Swim & Tennis Club, protecting it from future subdivision and development.
A wooded area, this parcel also has high scenic value as it will provide a visible buffer for North St. John’s Swim & Tennis Club members, as the Club is located adjacent to US 29 and I-70.
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With the purchase of this easement, we continue a second successful year of this trailblazing, innovative program, ensuring that our most environmentally sensitive areas are preserved for generations to come. We hope that this partnership with North St. John’s encourages other non-profits with environmentally significant land in the County to join the program.
To learn more about this program and how to apply, please visit the Howard County Conservancy’s website at www.howardnature.org/conservation-easements/.
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She Will Persevere
Every day, we celebrate the progress we make as a community to push the boundaries and move forward. On International Women’s Day, we especially celebrate the women in our community who embrace their strength, resilience and contributions to truly push for equality and inclusivity.
Today and every day, I encourage us all to thank the women who inspire us with their courage, compassion and unwavering strength to make the lives of all around them better. Let us celebrate the progress we have made for women’s equality today and reflect upon the challenges that may persist. We know that when we invest in women, we accelerate progress. Together, let’s keep pushing forward!
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Second Residents’ Budget Hearing
In case you missed it, on Thursday (March 7th), I held my second Residents’ Budget Hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025 budget cycle to hear from you, our residents, about your goals and priorities for this upcoming budget. To watch the video from Tuesday’s event, click HERE.
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Giving Our Students a HOME
Howard County residents are currently feeling the direct impacts of our local, regional and national housing crisis. One of our most impacted groups are our students, and there is no better time than right now to ensure they have access to affordable and quality rental units.
Thanks to our efforts through our HOME initiative, we are taking the necessary steps to ensure all our residents are afforded the opportunity to pursue their higher educational dreams, while holding on to the comfort of knowing they have a roof over their head and a place to call home. As our young scholars advance their education and prepare for the future, we are expanding efforts to meet their housing needs and help them succeed.
To learn more, check out this piece WJZ just did on our new student Rental Subsidy Program.
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Be a Community Ambassador
Are you interested in becoming a Community Ambassador?
I invite you to join our Office of Human Rights and Equity for our next Community Ambassador session this Wednesday, March 13th at 6:00 p.m. at our brand, spanking new East Columbia 50+ Center. During this session, participants will learn basic principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, while discovering the offerings provided by our Office of Human Rights and Equity.
I encourage you to register today at equityambassador.eventbrite.com.
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Protecting Consumers
This past week was National Consumer Protection Week. Scams can happen any and everywhere, so it’s vital that our community is informed on how to protect ourselves, our assets, and our reputations. Last week was a great opportunity to get informed on preventative practices and what to look out for.
I’m grateful for the efforts of Tracy Rezvani and our entire Office of Consumer Protections for their efforts year-round to keep our community safe and protected. To learn more about their efforts, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer-protection.
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Transforming Lives
For 25 years, the Silas Craft Collegians Program at Howard Community College (HCC) has helped transform the lives of hundreds of students who have since gone on to obtain their 4-year degrees or become part of our workforce. As a former community college educator, I understand firsthand the need to meet students where they are to ensure they can reach their full potential. That is what is achieved by the HCC Staff and faculty through this program.
This program not only helps change lives, but it also helps our students embrace the opportunities to success. They know they can truly get there, from here. I want to especially thank my dear friend and HCC President Dr. Daria Willis for her ongoing partnership and innovative practices to help our students on their pathway to success.
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Where’s Marty?
During the last five years we have increased our road resurfacing budget by 86% to $10.7M in FY24. Our funding commitments have enabled us to fill more potholes on a quick turnaround time, ensuring that our infrastructure remains in excellent condition.
Thank you to Marty for coming out and spotlighting our invaluable Department of Public Works (DPW) crews who work so hard to help ensure that Howard County has the best roads in the state. See a pothole near you? You can report it directly to DPW for resolution by visiting Tell HoCo.
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Rental Assistance For Students
Howard Community College stands as a beacon of higher learning, offering exceptional educational opportunities to our residents. However, the challenge of affordable housing can pose a significant barrier for many students striving to further their education.
In recognition of this, Howard County has proudly partnered with the Columbia Housing Center to offer a rental subsidy program for Howard Community College students who meet eligible income requirements. This initiative is part of our broader commitment to supporting the aspirations of our students, ensuring that they can focus on their studies without the burden of housing insecurity.
As we invest in the educational advancement of our scholars, we simultaneously invest in the future of Howard County. Together, we are creating pathways to success for all our students. For more information on this critical program and eligibility details, please visit https://columbiahousingcenter.org/hcc-student-housing-subsidy-program.
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Soaring to Victory!
Our Scholar Athletes are spike-tacular as they continue to make Howard County proud. Please, join me in congratulating our Centennial High School Eagles volleyball team for winning their 15th State title and first since 2008! In addition, this win was the 9th for Coach Bossom, now tying him for the most titles in state history. I remain confident that our scholar athletes will continue to dig deep and reach across the net in all their future endeavors. Congratulations!
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Empowering our Next Generation
Our Office of Workforce Development is actively working to help our young people successfully navigate entering our workforce. During it’s “How to Navigate a Job Fair” session last weekend, many of our young people had a chance to participate in various workshops on important topics such as dressing to impress, writing a successful resume and enhancing interview skills.
I’m so grateful for the efforts of Fran Trout and our entire OWD team for empowering our next generation of leaders. To learn more about workforce development opportunities for our youth, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/youth-services.
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There’s a New Deli in Town!
I had a wonderful time joining Anthony and his entire team to welcome Rosie’s Delicatessen to Glenwood. Rosie’s uses only quality ingredients to bring fresh breakfast and subs to residents and visitors from around the region. Building on the success of Walker’s Tap & Table, Rosie’s is not only tasty, but is a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of the DiGangi matriarch, Rose.
Please, join me in congratulating them on this new endeavor and I wish them nothing but success. Learn more about them at https://rosiesdelicatessen.com/.
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Serving Democracy
Are you ready to make a difference in our democratic process? Howard County is looking for Election Judges, and this could be your chance to contribute! As an Election Judge, you get the unique opportunity to be directly involved in the election process, and get paid for your efforts.
If you're 16 or older and a registered voter in Maryland, you're eligible to become an Election Judge. We're looking for people who are ready for a rewarding 15-hour day, can work outside their home precinct, are able to sit and stand for extended periods, and have proficiency in English. Some positions may require lifting items weighing between 10 to 25 lbs.
Sign up today and be a part of this crucial democratic process! Learn more at http://tinyurl.com/ElectionJudge24.
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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.
I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.
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Calling All Entrepreneurs
Join the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) on March 20th for its pitch competition featuring entrepreneurs and startup companies in the community. $7,000 in prizes will be awarded!
Spirited in atmosphere and in food and drink offerings, Pitch and Mingle is the perfect opportunity to stir up your social network, mingling with fellow attendees over light fare and libations. Come support the community's entrepreneurs, participate in the selection process, and make connections at the MIC.
So how does it work? Five startups are selected to present a four-minute pitch. This is followed by four minutes of question and answer from the panel of judges and audience. At the end, our judges will come together and select the top three companies! These winners will receive cash prizes with first place receiving $3,000! In addition, there will be a "Crowd Favorite" award which is selected by the audience.
Registration for this event is required. Food and drink are included.
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Applicants Sought for Ethics Commission
Our system of representative government is dependent upon our residents maintaining the highest trust in their public officials and officers. Our Ethics Commission plays a vital role in ensuring this trust is maintained and that our officials and officers are upheld to the highest standards and maintain the highest ethical stance. If you are interested in being a member of our Ethics Commission, I encourage you to apply today. To learn how, click HERE.
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Department of Community Resources and Services | |
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Let’s Talk Nutrition and Women’s History
In honor of March being National Nutrition Month and Women’s History Month, our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Director Jackie Scott is will host two HoCo Community Chat podcast episodes this month. Jackie will first be joined by DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence’s (OAI) Health and Wellness Manager Courtney Harangozo and registered dietician and OAI partner Carmen Roberts to discuss National Nutrition Month, how their positions help our residents and what nutrition looks like in our county.
Jackie will return later on this month with HoCo Community Chat to honor Women’s History Month, so be sure to stay tuned on Buzzsprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts. If there is something specific you want to hear discussed, email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov.
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Women’s History Month Brunch
Join our Howard County Women’s Commission for its annual Women’s History Month Brunch this Saturday, March 16th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Bain 50+ Center in Columbia. This event will celebrate this year’s theme: “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.”
The brunch will feature a panel discussion comprised of distinguished women, including Howard Community College President Dr. Daria Willis, Bridges to Housing Stability Executive Director Jennifer Broderick, TurnAround Director of Programs Tania Araya and Maryland State Delegate Dr. Terry Hill, who will share their insights, experiences and strategies for fostering positive change in our institutions and social interactions. During the event, the Commission will also announce and recognize its Women’s History Month Student Essay Contest winners.
Don't miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, celebrate the achievements of women and be inspired to make a positive impact in your community by visiting https://bit.ly/HoCo_WHMBrunch2024 today to secure your spot.
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Parent Pages and Free Workshops Available
DCRS’s Office of Children and Families’ (OCF) has released the March issue of its Parent Pages Newsletter and with it, new workshops for Howard County families. This monthly newsletter provides parents/guardians with information regarding upcoming free workshops and programs geared towards them and their children. Workshops are offered in both English and Spanish and discuss topics ranging from “Set your Child Up for Success in Kindergarten” to a “Parent’s Guide to Challenging Behaviors.”
For questions and more information about available service or if your family needs additional assistance and support, please contact OCF’s CARE Line at 410-313-2273 today.
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Here to Support our Caregivers
Despite their selfless commitment to loved ones, caregivers often face numerous challenges and uncertainties. To empower our caregivers so they are able to navigate their caregiver journey confidently, DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) has partnered with Trualta. Trualta offers on-demand assistance to caregivers tailored to their needs, with resources ranging from educational modules to personalized coaching and access to a supportive community. To learn more about how Trualta can support you or someone you care about, visit https://hococaregivers.trualta.com/ today.
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Winter Wellness Fitness Challenge Kicks off this February
Embark on a transformative journey with DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) this winter season by taking part in its FREE Winter Wellness Fitness Challenge. Available at our 50+ Centers now through March 28th, this challenge offers participants a variety of fitness classes to join to meet a 16 workout goal. Beyond physical fitness, this challenge fosters a sense of community among older adults and provides a supportive environment to help participants prioritize their well-being this winter.
As we embrace the warmth of togetherness and vitality this season, I encourage you to join OAI for this enriching experience of connection, health and personal growth. To register, click HERE or for more information, call 410-313-1404 or email slively@howardcountymd.gov. You can also learn more about the challenge by checking out the latest issue of The 50+ Connection.
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Office of Community Sustainability | |
LED Light Bulb Exchange Program Expands!
As I recently announced, the expansion of the County’s Office of Community Sustainability’s (OCS) free light-emitting diode (LED) light bulb exchange program to all Howard County Library System (HCLS) branches. Offered in partnership with HCLS, Howard County residents can visit any local HCLS branch to exchange used incandescent and compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs for new, energy efficient LED bulbs.
While supplies last, Howard County residents can visit the circulation desk at any HCLS branch to exchange their used CFL or incandescent light bulbs for up to four free, new LED bulbs (an A19 bulb shape). All types of bulb shapes will be accepted for exchange, except for tube lights.
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Aging in Place Tax Credit
Aging in Place tax credit applications are now open! To be eligible for this tax credit, applicants must at least 65 years old and at least 30 years, as of June 30th preceding the tax year, residing in a dwelling with an assessed property value up to $650,000.
The number of years qualifying individuals may receive the credit is eight years. The credit will automatically renew unless the homeowner is no longer eligible. The deadline to apply will be June 30, 2024.
Learn more about our tax credits at www.howardcountymd.gov/finance/tax-credits.
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Livable Homes
The Livable Homes tax credit is available for certain types of accessibility features installed in a principal residence. The feature must have been installed in an existing primary residence. The amount of the credit is equal to 100 percent of the eligible cost or $2,500, whichever is less. The application for tax year 2024 is due April 1, 2024.
To learn more about how to apply for this credit, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/finance/tax-credits.
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Senior Tax Credit
The Senior Tax Credit, a credit of 25% of the county property tax, is available to residents aged 65 and older with a combined household income of $102,200 or less and net assets under $500,000, not including the value of their home.
Applicants with income less than $60,000 are required to apply for the State of Maryland Homeowner Property Tax Credit.
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Trash, Bay, Watershed Protection Fee Hardship Tax Credit
Homeowners with limited income may qualify for a 60 percent credit against the Trash Fee and Watershed Protection Fee and an exemption from the State Bay Fee.
A family of four may qualify with income up to $78,000 for tax year 2024. Renters may also qualify for an exemption from the State Bay Fee.
The deadline to apply for this tax credit is June 30, 2024. Seniors who receive the Senior tax credit will receive the hardship credit.
| Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
2024 Humanity Matters Conference
Mark your calendar and join OHRE on Monday, May 6th for its social justice conference, “Humanity Matters.” The conference will take place at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the 6th and will bring together human and civil rights professionals in government, education, non-profits and for-profit businesses.
The conference will feature panel discussions and various breakout sessions, as well as a keynote address by Chad Lassiter – Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission Executive Director and member of the Presidential Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans.
Through this conference, OHRE hopes each attendee will gain practical tools they can implement into their daily work, new connections they can tap into for collaboration and the inspiration to continue to innovate and produce substantive and transformational work.
The cost to participate is $125 per ticket and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. However, for groups interested in buying 10 or more tickets, please contact Dr. Denise Boston with OHRE at equity@howardcountymd.gov to inquire about the group rate discount. Please keep in mind, there will be no refunds for tickets purchased beginning March 15th.
To reserve your spot at this year’s Humanity Matters social justice conference, click HERE.
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Important OHRE Commission Public Meeting Dates
Under our Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) are five Commissions committed to furthering human rights and equity throughout Howard County in their own very distinct capacities. Each month, these Commission’s host meetings, public hearings and/or retreats open to the public to discuss ongoing/upcoming matters, events, programs and so on. For dates, times and details regarding upcoming Commission meetings, please see below:
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Tuesday, March 12th, 5:30 p.m. – Human Rights Commission Public Hearing regarding HRC Case No. 21-12-012 Rolonda Williams v. Stephanie Knarr, LLC, operating as Dr. Stephanie’s Relationship Repair Shop. To attend, email HRC@howardcountymd.gov.
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Thursday, March 14th, 6:30 p.m. – LGBTQIA+ Commission meeting. To attend, email LGBTQIA@howardcountymd.gov.
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Tuesday, March 19th, 6:15 p.m. – La Alianza Latina Commission monthly meeting. To attend, alianzalatina@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Planning and Zoning | |
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Cemetery Preservation Advisory Board
Tomorrow, March 12th, our 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, including how to join the virtual meeting and for a copy of the meeting agenda, click here.
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Stay in the Know About the Future of Gateway
Stay in the know about DPZ's Gateway Master Plan by visiting the Plan's website, www.howardcountymd.gov/gateway, where you can also sign up to receive future Gateway Master Plan updates.
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Route 1 Tax Credit Program
DPZ is 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: www.howardcountymd.gov/Route1TaxCredit.
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Department of Public Works | |
Bureau of Environmental Services | |
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Yard Trim Curbside Collections and Household Hazardous Waste Saturdays at the Landfill to Resume this April
Our Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Bureau of Environmental Service’s curbside yard trim collection season is set to resume Monday, April 1st. If you aren’t sure what day of the week you receive curbside yard trim collection, click HERE to check your collection day. Also, in case you need a little refresher about what items are and are not accepted with yard trim and how to prepare your yard trim for collection, visit the Bureau’s website here. If you have yard trim you need to dispose of before the week of April 1st, you can stop by the Wood Waste Area at Alpha Ridge Landfill (ARL) to recycle your yard trim or set it out with your curbside trash collection.
Remember! Residents in the Bureau’s “Feed The Green Bin” curbside food scrap collection area, you receive year-round food scrap and yard trim collection combined.
Finally, Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Saturdays at ARL resume Saturday, April 6th. Starting on the 6th through November 30th (Saturday’s ONLY), Howard County residents can safely and properly dispose of corrosive, flammable, reactive or toxic products typically found in most homes, garages and workshops, that are considered HHW. To learn more about this program and what you need to know about HHW before visiting the ARL, click HERE.
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Shredding Dates for 2024
Our Bureau of Environmental Services has announced its County-sponsored document shredding dates for 2024: Saturday, April 13th and Saturday, October 19th. On these dates, county residents can bring up to three bags or boxes of paper documents – we are talking Federal and State tax documents, credit card and other household bills, medical records, pay stubs, mortgage documents and insurance bills (documents that include account numbers, passwords, PINs, signatures, Social Security numbers and date of birth), to these events to be shredded onsite.
To learn more about these dates, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/documentshredding today.
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The Bike Shed
Have an old kid’s bike in storage you aren’t sure what to do with? Did you know, the Residents' Convenience Center at ARL features a bike shed where residents can drop-off old bikes to be cleaned up, refurbished and given new life by Bikes for the World and Free Bikes 4 Kidz Maryland. In fact, in 2023, of the more than 2,600 bicycles Free Bikes 4 Kidz Maryland gave away, at least 1,000 donated bikes came from the County’s ARL bike shed.
To learn more about ARL’s Residents’ Convenience Center and its bike shed, click HERE.
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Save the Date for GreenFest 2024
Save the date, as the County’s annual GreenFest celebration is set to return for its 17th year on Saturday, April 13th at Howard Community College. This year’s event will feature a compost bin demonstration and giveaways, native plant sale, recognition of this year’s Green awards winners, used sports equipment collection workshops, light bulb exchange, the Repair Café and more. To learn more about this year’s event, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/community-sustainability/greenfest.
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Stormwater Management Division | |
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Public Meeting Scheduled to Highlight Relaunch of Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program
Are you a property or business owner located in high-risk flood zone in Howard County? If yes, I encourage to join DPW’s Stormwater Management Division tonight, March 11th at 7:00 p.m. as it hosts hybrid public meeting to discuss the relaunch of our Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program.
Initially launched in 2019, this grant program assists property owners and businesses located in high-risk flood zones across Howard County with making improvements to primary buildings or structural stream crossings and removing debris from property adjacent stream channels. Through this expanded grant program, Howard County will match 50 percent of flood proofing costs up to a maximum match of $6,000 for property owners and $3,000 for businesses.
The meeting on the 11th will be hosted in-person in the Columbia/Ellicott City Rooms of the George Howard Building in Ellicott City and virtually via Webex and will help the community navigate and understand the 2024 Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant application process.
To participate in the meeting virtually, the Webex webinar number is 2316 832 5979 and the password is “prevention” or 77383684 from phones and video systems; to join by phone, call 1-650-479-3207 and when asked, enter the access code: 231 83 25979.
Those unable to attend either the in-person or virtual meeting, who would like to view the meeting materials and/or have questions, should contact DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-0522 or email stormwater@howardcountymd.gov.
To learn more about this program, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/bureau-environmental-services/flood-protection.
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Residential Water Meter’s Replacement Program
With 16,000 meters left to be replaced, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities continues its residential water meter replacement program as existing water meters in the system approach the end of their useful life. It is vital these meters replaced to ensure accurate and timely water usage data. .
To complete the water meter replacement program quickly and efficiently, the County has contracted with Vanguard Utility Service. Residents will receive notification in the mail prior to meter installers arriving in their neighborhood with instructions on how to schedule an appointment.
To learn more, click HERE. For questions or concerns, contact the Bureau of Utilities at 410-313-4900.
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Public Works Construction Report | |
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Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.
Ellicott City
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Little Patuxent River Emergency Sanitary Sewer Replacement (Capital Project S-6274) – Project to replace approximately 150 linear feet of eight-inch cement sewer pipe with an iron-steel sewer pipe in the river at Woodland Road, adjacent to Centennial Park East Area’s Pavilion H. While the work is being done, the Centennial Park access pathway that runs along the Little Patuxent River from Woodland Road to Old Annapolis Road will be closed. Signs will be posted to alert the public of the project and corresponding pathway closure. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by late March 2024.
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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Spring/Summer Activity Guide Registration Up Next!
Online, over-the-phone, mail-in and in-person registration is now open for our Department of Recreation & Parks' Spring/Summer 2024 Activity Guide. With more than 500 programs, activities, classes, sports and more found inside of this year's Spring/Summer Activity Guide, there's something to help everyone "Get Up, Get Out, Get Active!” with Howard County this spring and summer.
Online registration for out-of-county residents begins this Wednesday, March 13th at 6:00 p.m., with all other registration forms available the following day.
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Light the Night 5K for Suicide Prevention
Join us March 22nd for the 3rd Annual Light the Night 5K for Suicide Prevention at Oakland Mills High School. Together, Recreations & Parks, the Howard County Health Department, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Maryland Chapter, Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center and Bullseye Running, have partnered together to host this annual event that helps raise awareness for suicide and suicide prevention resources in our community. To learn more about this year’s race and/or to register, click HERE.
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Kid's Fest is Back!
Recreation & Parks’ annual Kid’s Fest is back and ready to have a blast with your family and friends. Set to take place Saturday, March 30th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Meadowbrook Park, this year’s event will feature sports instruction, games, inflatables, activities, arts and crafts, food, an egg hunt, and so much more. While online preregistration is encouraged (cost is $8 per child age two to 12), cashless onsite registration will be available (day of the event cost is $10 per child age two to 12).
To learn more about this year’s Kid’s Fest and/or to register, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/kids-fest.
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Wine in the Woods
Tickets are NOW ON SALE for Recreation & Parks’ 2024 Wine in the Woods, set to return to Symphony Woods in Columbia this May 18th and May 19th. Celebrating its 30th year, I invite you to come celebrate the charm and character of this annual wine festival that has aged to perfection.
To buy your tickets, visit www.wineinthewoods.com today. PLEASE NOTE, our Department of Recreation & Parks is the ONLY one selling tickets to this event; DO NOT be scammed by fake third-party vendors claiming to sell tickets to Wine in the Woods.
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Office of Workforce Development | |
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Summer Youth Employment Program Applications Open
Howard County youth and young adults aged 14 to 24 years old, applications are NOW being accepted for our Office of Workforce Development's Summer Youth Employment Program. This six-week program offers participants the opportunity to learn valuable skills and gain hands-on experience in various employment settings, while earning a competitive wage.
To learn more about this program and/or to apply, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/youth-services today!
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