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Oakland Mills Community Association | Important news & info about the community in which we live. | |
Upcoming Events
CALL AHEAD or CHECK EMAILS and FACEBOOK to find out the status of meetings and events.
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August 1, 7:00 p.m.
RAC Meeting
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August 5, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
OM Community Pool Party ~ SOLD OUT!
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August 13, 7:00 p.m.
OMCA Board Meeting
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August 20, 7:00 p.m.
Public Space Committee Meeting
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August 20, 7:00 p.m.
Tenant Committee Meeting
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August 15, 7:00 p.m.
RAC Meeting
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August 27, 7:00 p.m.
OMCA Board Meeting
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October 5, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Save the date for the OM Fall Festival
Vendor applications now open!
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Office Hours:
Monday through Thursday
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Before you visit The Other Barn, please contact us by email or phone to schedule an appointment.
Brigitta Warren, Village Manager
manager@oaklandmills.org
Ashleigh Jacobs, Facility & Rental Coordinator
events@oaklandmills.org
Amy Carpenter, Events & Administrative Coordinator
office@oaklandmills.org
Carrie Wenholz, Covenant Advisor for Letters of Compliance
loc@oaklandmills.org
Michael Vaughn, Covenant Advisor for Exterior Alteration Applications (in office Tues/Thurs)
applications@oaklandmills.org
Karina Caico, Covenant Advisor for Property Concerns (in office Mon/Wed)
propertyconcerns@oaklandmills.org
Contact Board Members HERE.
The Other Barn Phone: 410-730-4610
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Celebrate in our amazing space!
Rent The Other Barn!
The Other Barn is currently booking events through 2025.
To view The Other Barn venue photos and info, please click on the button below. Tours are by appointment only. For further questions, contact Ashleigh Jacobs at events@oaklandmills.org. Follow The Other Barn
on Facebook!
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Other Important Community Contact Info |
Howard County Police
- For emergencies, call 911
- Non-emergencies: 410-313-2200
- Traffic non-emergency: email hcpdtraffic@howardcountymd.gov
- Traffic emergencies: call 911.
- File a traffic complaint HERE.
- Traffic & Engineering Division (info on street calming, community speed control program, etc.) HERE.
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Howard County Government Website
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Covid-19 County Updates HERE
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Howard County Council
Oakland Mills is located in Council District 2 and represented by Opel Jones.
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Who handles what?
Want to know who handles what—CA, the Howard County Government, or the Columbia Village Community Associations? Click HERE to see a
simple breakdown.
| New to the neighborhood? Welcome hOMe to Oakland Mills! We'd love to welcome you to OM. Email manager@oaklandmills.org and we'll send you all of the great info you need to feel right at hOMe! | |
Oakland Mills Board of Directors | |
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Board News
Upcoming OMCA Board Meetings
For meeting agendas and past board meeting minutes, click HERE.
To contact the OM Board click here.
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OMCA Committees
OMCA has several committees that are always ready to welcome new members. If you would like information or would like to find out about serving on a committee, please email Brigitta Warren manager@oaklandmills.org.
OMCA Education Committee
Meetings are hybrid, held at The Other Barn and on Zoom on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. Next meeting: TBD
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OMCA Public Space Committee
For residents interested in the uses of Howard County's public spaces and roadways. Meets the third Tuesday of each month.
Next meeting: August 20 at The Other Barn
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OMCA Tenant Committee
For residents of Columbia Pointe, Autumn Crest, Forest Ridge, and The Verona.
Next meeting: August 20 at The Other Barn
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OMCA Open Space Advisory Committee
For community members who are interested in the current and future use of CA's open space.
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Resident Architectural Committee (RAC)
The RAC meets virtually on Zoom on the first & third Thursdays of each month at 7:00 p.m.
Next meeting: August 1
Info/list of applications will be posted three days in advance of the meeting HERE.
applications@oaklandmills.org
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Architectural Covenant Processes
Info on architectural covenant processes, visit the Covenant Tab on the Oakland Mills website.
Exterior Alterations Applications Info
Click HERE.
Request For Letter of Compliance
Click HERE
Resale Packet
Click HERE to download. Hard copies can also be purchased for $30 during regular business hours.
Covenant Complaint Form
Click HERE
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Board Notes from Karin Emery, OM Columbia Council Rep | | |
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See updates from our Columbia Council Representative, Karin Emery. Click the button below to see her most recent newsletter, or check out her newsletter archives. | |
OM Meet & Greet with CA President/CEO Shawn MacInnes | |
Prepare for Success School Supply Donation Drive | |
OM Fall Festival: Vendor Applications Open! | |
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OM Fall Festival - SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, October 5
11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
OM Village Center
The vendor application period is now open for the Oakland Mills Fall Festival! If you’re interested in being a vendor, email office@oaklandmills.org for application information. Applications are first come, first serve and are due Friday, September 20, 2024.
New this year! We will be having a section of the festival highlighting vendors age 16 and under. Email office@oaklandmills.org for more info.
Visit the OM Fall Festival website to see our entertainment lineup and more!
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Jazz in the Mills Presents Lavenia Nesmith | |
OM Community Pool Party: SOLD OUT! | |
Oakland Mills Farmers Market | |
OMHS Food Pantry Donations | |
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We are now taking donations for the OMHS food pantry at The Other Barn. Drop off items Monday through Thursday between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Click HERE to see a list of items needed.
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Updates from the Howard County Health Department | |
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Summer Heat Wave—tips for staying safe in the heat:
- Drink plenty of liquids
- If possible stay out of the sun between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
- Wear loose, light-colored clothing
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NEVER leave children or pets in the car--even with the windows cracked
- Check on older relatives and neighbors
Call 911 if you are experiencing a heat-related emergency. For more information about staying safe in the heat got to: www.howardcountymd.gov/health/emergency-preparedness#additional-resources and click on Heat/Sun Safety Tips.
Urgent Care Centers
See a list of urgent care centers in Howard County and read about knowing when to visit an ER vs. an urgent care center HERE.
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Community Events & Opportunities | |
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Play for All Fest
July 28, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Blandair Park North, Laura's Place
5685 Oakland Mills Rd, Columbia
Free! To celebrate July as Disability Pride month and National Recreation and Parks month, Howard County Recreation and Parks (HCRP) will host the Play for All Fest. The event will take place in the county’s largest playground, with adaptive implements and sensory components for individuals of all ages and abilities. Enjoy inclusive playground games, a bounce house, an inflatable obstacle course, face painting, sports try-its, fitness and Zumba classes, playground bingo, and much more. More info
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East Columbia Summer Carnival
August 2, Noon to 3:00 p.m.
East Columbia 50+ Center
Multipurpose Room
For adults age 50+. Games, bingo, carnival food, & prizes. Tickets 25 cents each. More info & registration
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Community Health Fair
August 3, 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Glen Mar Church
4701 New Cut Road, Ellicott City
Open to everyone. Student immunizations, hearing & vision screenings, blood pressure check & BMI assessment, info, and more. More Info
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National Night Out
August 6
HCPD Kick-off at Clarksville Commons
5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Live music, kid-friendly activities, games, giveaways and more! All invited.
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Public Star Parties
Aug 10 (start time varies)
Alpha Ridge Park
11685 Old Frederick Road, Marriottsville
Join members of the Howard Astronomical League (HAL) for a Public Star Party in and around their observatory. Free, no registration required. More info.
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HCC Student Theatre Productions
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Howard Community College Concert Series
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St. Louis Church Concert Series
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Oakland Mills Schools Summer News | |
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SFES Community Action Team Bag & Plastic Collection Project
Stevens Forest Elementary School Rising 5th Graders who are a part of the SFES Community Action Team are collecting plastic bags and other items listed below. If they collects 1,000 pounds by November, the plastic collected will be turned into a bench made from recycled plastics for the school.
Donate clean plastic bags and film such as:
- grocery bags
- bread bags
- case and product overwrap (plastic around paper towels, Gatorade packages, etc.)
- Ziploc bags
- air pillows and bubble wrap and plastic shipping envelopes (like all of those plastic Amazon packages)
Visit the website for more info on acceptable donations. Donations can be dropped off in the SFES vestibule or email valpatelval@gmail.com to pick up your donations
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Kindergarten Registration
Online registration for students entering kindergarten in Fall 2024 is open! Children who will be five years of age by September 1, 2024 must register for kindergarten or have an approved waiver.
All documents will need to be submitted online. A laptop or desktop is best for completing the registration. More info & registration HERE.
Children currently attending an HCPSS PreK program, do not need to be registered again for kindergarten.
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Free Summer Meal Program
June 24 through August 2
Weekdays, 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.*
OMMS & other locations
For children 18 and under. No applications, enrollment or fees to participate in this program, however children must be present to receive free meals. More Info (including additional locations).
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Services & Volunteer Opportunities | |
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OMHS Summer Food Pantry Schedule
Note: July 31 distribution will take place at Talbott Springs Elementary School!
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Farmer's Market Voucher Program for Older Adults
For adults age 60+. Sign up by contacting a 50+ Center starting Tuesday, July 23. Vouchers can be picked up on July 25 at 2:00 p.m. from the 50+ Center where the voucher was registered. For more info, including center locations, phone numbers, and income eligibility, click HERE.
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Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) Open Enrollment
Deadline: July 31
Held quarterly, DHCD’s MIHU is an inclusionary zoning program that offers quality new homes at reduced sale prices and rents to income eligible families.
MIHI Rental Info ~
MIHI Home Ownership Info
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Roving Radish Mobile Market
The Roving Radish Mobile Market that connects the community with affordable, healthy and farm fresh food will make 12 stops weekly throughout the County beginning this Summer, Details may be found by visiting the Roving Radish Mobile Marketplace page.
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Volunteer with the OMI Green Team!
Many opportunities available, including on the first and third Sundays. Email volunteeromigreenteam@gmail.com for more info.
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OMHS Community Food Pantry
See flyer above for summer distribution dates and locations.
For pick up procedures and info on donating, click HERE. Donations can also be dropped off at The Other Barn Monday through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. More info.
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Free Digital RTA Passes for HCPSS and HCC Students
Students can enjoy access to free bus passes right from their phone through the Transit app. More info
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Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center
8990 Old Annapolis Road, Suite A , Columbia
Call: 410-531-6677 or 410-531-6006
24 Hour Hotline: Dial 988
grassrootscrisis.org
Telephone counseling, free walk-in counseling, a 24-hour suicide hotline, Mobile Crisis Team, and a Runaway Teen Program that provides crisis intervention for runaway youth and their families. The emergency shelter will still be open at its location, 6700 Freetown Road. All services are free. Marylanders with mental health or substance use issues are encouraged to call 988 to reach help.
National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988.
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Civic Works Home Energy Programs
The Howard County Office of Community Sustainability has joined forces with Civic Works, a nonprofit organization committed to helping homeowners and renters in Howard County save energy. Together, we’ve established an initiative aimed at helping Howard County residents go solar and upgrade their energy efficiency. Learn more.
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Bike Hoco is doubling the number of Bike Corrals this year. Sign up to help support free bicycle parking at over ten Howard County events, including the Fireworks at the Lakefront, EC Springfest, HCC Greenfest, EC Music Fest, and Books in Bloom, to name a few.
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Dreaming of Home Ownership
Do you have dreams of owning your own home in Howard County but can’t cover the down payment? You may be eligible to participate in the County's Settlement Downpayment Loan Program (SDLP)! Howard County’s SDLP program provides families of eligible income with a low-interest loan that helps cover the down payment and closing costs for home purchases. Applications are accepted year-round by the Department of Housing and Community Development.
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A-OK Mentoring and Tutoring Volunteer Info Sessions
Would you like to be a volunteer mentor-tutor who supports Howard County, Maryland elementary and middle school students? Are you a trustworthy adult who can commit to one school year of service for a student? Attend a 30-minute info session to learn more. Register HERE. A-Ok Mentoring and Tutoring website
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Free Bikes 4 Kidz
Got a bike to give away? Donate to Free Bikes 4 Kidz. The organization also has volunteer opportunities. More info HERE.
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The Village in Howard
The Village in Howard is a member-based community of Howard County residents 55 and older. Membership benefits enable members to actively age in place. To view TVIH's current Village Vibe newsletter, click HERE.
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Community Action Council Assistance
Community Action Council offers housing assistance, energy assistance, food assistance, and early childhood education. Visit www.cac-hc.org to learn more. Get support or get involved now by calling 410-313-6440.
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CAREAPP
Find services for food, health, housing, transportation, education, employment assistance, and more. Click HERE for info.
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Ride RTA for Free for those 60 Years+
Did you know residents 60 years of age and older or persons with a disability can take the Regional Transportation Agency of Central Maryland’s (RTA) fixed route service for free? Individuals just need to complete a RTA Certified FREE Ride Card Application and submit it either via email or mailed or dropped off in person at the RTA’s Administrative Office. Once received, applications will be reviewed within 48 hours and the applicant will be contacted to have their picture taken for their RTA Certified Bus Rider ID, completed weekdays, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM. The ID can be processed in five minutes while rider waits in the lobby or it can be mailed.
To learn more about this free ride program, contact RTA Mobility at 1-800-270-9553, press option 3, then option 6.
| A Home Of Our Own Howard is a nonprofit organization that provides furniture and household items at no cost in a timely fashion to individuals, veterans, and families in Howard County Maryland who are transitioning from homelessness. Learn more about services or how to donate volunteer HERE. |
Columbia Community Care
Free food and goods for those in need. Volunteers and donations welcome.
For food distribution dates and location and other information please visit the CCC website for details.
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The Loan Closet of Howard County
7125 Riverwood Drive, Suite D1, Columbia
Need medical equipment? Try The Loan Closet. Appointments are required for all services; call 410-313-0363 (voice/relay) to discuss your needs. More info.
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Howard County Multiservice Center Food Pantry
9900 Washington Blvd, Suite 1, Laurel
Mondays & Wednesdays, 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Third Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
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Howard County Food Connections Map
Interactive tool to help you find low-cost, accessible food and nutrition resources in the County. Also find transit routes/stops. Click HERE.
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Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland
Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals once a week for seniors, as well as support and safety-net services. To learn more about services or to donate/volunteer, click HERE.
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Howard County Residents Assistance
Info on Covid-19 resources, food assistance, housing help, social services, and more. HERE
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Howard County Food Bank
Shop for the Foods YOU want at the Howard County Food Bank. All shopping trips are family-choice. Fresh items such as milk, eggs, hygiene products, meats, produce are all on hand each time. Families who may qualify should visit www.CAC-HC.org or call 410-313-6440 for more details.
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Howard County General Hospital's Member Care Support Network
Receive FREE support while recovering from a health crisis (weekly calls, wellness checks, connection to community resources, and more). To qualify, you must be 18 or older and live or worship in Howard County. To enroll or for more information, email HCGH-J2BH@jhmi.edu or call 410-740-7601.
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Childcare Scholarship Program
If you’re a working parent, in school or participating in an approved training program you may be eligible for the Child Care Scholarship Program. For more information and step-by-step instructions to complete an application click HERE or contact the CARE Line at 410-313-2273 or children@howardcountymd.gov.
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OhanaHC
Empowering Students*Building Community
At OhanaHC, we value relationships and recognize that in order to better the outcomes for our students and the community, we must come together and show up for others. Supporting OhanaHC’s mission means you understand the value and work required to successfully empower students on their journey to self-defined success while strengthening community through diverse connections, intentional partnerships, and long-term mentorship. Help us reach our goal of building a culturally affirming and equitable community that everyone can thrive in.
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Columbia Association News & Events | |
CA Headquarters & Member Services Office
6310 Hillside Court
Columbia, MD 21046
CA main number: 410-715-3000
Member Services number: 410-730-1801
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Columbia Ice Rink
Located in the Oakland Mills Village Center (5876 Thunder Hill Rd)
Visit the Columbia Ice Rink website to register for lessons, see public skate hours, etc.
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CA Aquatics
Outdoor pools are now open! View schedules HERE.
For pool status, including number of people at the pool, click HERE.
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Lakefront Live is back for its 2024 season! Watch outdoor movies, dance under the People Tree, see fantastic live performances, and more! Click the button for more info, including the event schedule! | |
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CA OPEN SPACE
50/50 SURVEY PROGRAM
Does your land abut CA Open Space? Then you could qualify to have CA pay for half of your home's boundary survey!
To ensure accurate installation of exterior alterations within your property boundaries, a survey of your property can be done. In order to assist with that effort and to prevent encroachments onto CA Open Space, the 50/50 Survey Program was created. CA now offers a discounted survey for community members who own property adjacent to CA Open Space.
For more information and to take advantage of this program, email: RealEstateServices@ColumbiaAssoication.org.
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Youth and Teen Center @ The Barn
Website
Phone: 410-992-3726
Teen Center Director: Rene Buckmon, Rene.Buckmon@columbiaassociation.org
Drop-in Program
Is your child looking for a community of peers, great activities, and a whole lot of fun? Sign them up for the Drop-In program at the Youth and Teen Center! It has a range of educational, enrichment and recreational opportunities that support positive peer interaction, hands-on learning opportunities, decision-making, and development of life skills. September's calendar is full of fun activities including sports, trivia, art classes and more.
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Senior Tax Credit
Deadline: October 1, 2024
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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Howard County Bureau of Environmental Services
Road Closure
Beginning June 17, Marriottsville Road will be closed from Resort Road to Rt. 40 (south of I-70), which may impact traffic to the Alpha Ridge Landfill. See detour map HERE.
Composting Demonstrations
Held throughout the year at Howard County Library branches. Download the 2024 Schedule
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Howard County Community Engagement Survey
Help improve Howard County communication and accessibility. Share your priorities for the environment and well-being. Click HERE to access the survey.
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EV Charger Checklist
To assist electric vehicle owners with the installation of a vehicle charger in a dedicated homeowners association parking spot, DPZ has put together this checklist, outlining the items you’ll need to submit your EV charger approval submission.
For questions and/or more information, contact DPZ’s Development Engineering Division via email at ded@howardcountymd.gov.
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BGE Natural Gas Info Pages
If you smell gas, call 911.
Learn how BGE responds to, assesses and repairs natural gas leaks HERE. | |
Howard County Department of Public Works Construction Projects Map: Click HERE.
Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administrations Project Portal: Click HERE.
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Lightbulb Exchange Program Expansion
Howard County residents can now visit any Howard County Library branch to exchange used incandescent and compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs for new, energy efficient LED bulbs (while supplies last). More info
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2024 Parent’s Guide Now Available
Inside the 2024 Parent’s Guide to Howard County, readers will find information about programs that support positive family engagement. For questions, more information about available service, or if your family needs additional assistance and support, please contact the Howard County Office of Children and Family's CARE Line at 410-313-2273 today.
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2024 Howard County Resource Guide On Aging & Independence Is Now Available
The Office of Aging and Independence's annual Howard County Resource Guide contains up-to-date information about health and wellness, financial planning, legal services, housing options and more to help county residents age well and plan for their future.
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The Family Institute Parenting Workshops & Newsletter
The Howard County Office of Children and Families offers free workshops through its Family Institute program. Check out the office's newsletter for more great resources.
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See Click Fix
See Click Fix is an interactive website for Howard County residents to report issues to the County. Issues include, but are not limited to, roadway issues, missing street signs or fallen street signs, street tree issues, potholes, cracked sidewalks, etc. THIS IS NOT a site for 911 emergencies or police or fire issues.
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Oakland Mills United is a community organization that advocates for Oakland Mills through education, empowerment, and demanding change. OMU empowers OM's students, schools, and community by providing programs to address the needs of students and families.
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Visit OMO!
One CLICK opens the door to become engaged in a community-based, multi-generational social learning environment.
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The mission of the Oakland Mills Local Leadership Team is to mobilize residents of Oakland Mills Village to build an equitable and cohesive community that helps children, youth and families thrive.
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Howard County Public Library
Visit the Howard County Public Library website to access virtual educational resources & events and more.
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Little Free Library at The Other Barn
The free little library is open to the public. Please feel free to leave a book and take a book so that OM can continue to enjoy reading and sharing.
Please remember that only books that you would find at the HoCo Library should be left in our library and be appropriate in nature.
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Need help getting fast, reliable internet?
Visit Consumer Action's fact sheets to learn about discounted internet and phone service:
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Support our OM Merchants
Visit the OM Website for a complete list of merchants and businesses. All Oakland Mills merchants are open and would love your support!
| HC DrugFree provides resources and education on prevention, treatment, recovery, and health and wellness to help Howard County residents develop knowledge and skills to understand and address behavioral health (substance use and mental health) disorders. HC DrugFree Current Events and Website | | | | |
