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Dear Friends,
Since the passage of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the Howard County Public School System’s total budget has grown from $862 million in Fiscal Year 2020 to approximately $1.15 billion in Fiscal Year 2025. In the two preceding years alone, we have been able to exceed Maintenance of Effort levels by more than $116 million.
This past week, I was joined by Howard County educational leaders and elected officials to highlight the significant progress we as a county have made towards implementing the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, as well as announced the release of the Howard County’s Blueprint Resources Planning Workgroup Final Report.
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Through this important work, we continue to dismantle silos, improve collaboration among educational entities, and establish a coordinated strategy to successfully achieve the Blueprint goals. Thank you to Superintendent Barnes, Dr. Willis, Chair Mallo and our legislative leaders on the County Council and State Delegation for their continued collaboration and shared commitment to make certain that Howard County is a national leader in education. | |
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Expunge It!
It was great to join the Pearl Foundation and my Sisters of the Iota Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. this past weekend, for an Expungement & Resources Clinic at the Barn in Oakland Mills. This event provided an opportunity for criminal record expungement, health services, consumer protection information, and additional support for personal and progressional development. Thank you to Andrea Moore and all my sisters for pulling together a fantastic event.
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Celebrating our Community Champions
We celebrated the graduation of our first cohort of "Community Champions" at the brand-new East Columbia 50+ Center. As a part of our innovative Community Ambassador Program, these dedicated neighbors have completed their training sessions and outreach activities, showing exceptional commitment to serving our community. This program continues to build bridges across Howard County, empowering residents to be informed leaders and advocates. I encourage everyone interested in strengthening our neighborhoods to consider joining the Community Ambassador Program. Together, we can make a difference in our community and beyond!
Learn more about the program here.
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Inaugural AAPI Business Summit
Ignite your entrepreneurial spirit at Howard County’s first Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Business Summit hosted with our partners at the AAPI Commission, the County’s Office of Human Rights and Equity, and the Howard County Economic Development Authority! Gain valuable insights from AAPI leaders, network with fellow entrepreneurs, and enjoy complimentary refreshments on Tuesday, September 24th from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Maryland Innovation Center.
Reserve your free tickets at bit.ly/HOCOAAPI.
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Where Opportunity Thrives
Howard County is a premiere place where opportunity thrives, especially for our business community. Jennifer Jones and our entire Howard County Economic Development Authority work tirelessly to ensure our businesses, from all sectors and of all sizes, have the resources needed to drive growth and innovation. From startups to established companies, Howard County will continue to empower our business community and economic growth for current and future generations.
Watch the segment on WJLA here.
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Queen Takes Book
Happy National Read a Book Day! There's no better time to curl up with a revisited favorite, discover a new favorite story, or dive into a world of knowledge. Whether you’re returning to a classic, exploring a new genre, or reading with your loved ones, today is all about celebrating the joy and power of reading.
Share your all-time favorite books or just what you're reading today! Support our community of readers and writers by visiting our local libraries and Book stores. Check out Queen Takes Book, a local gem in Columbia!
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What Do you Say About Arts for All?
We're excited about the future of public art in Howard County! The Arts for All survey closes soon. Through this survey, you can share your thoughts on the types, themes, and locations of our future public art installations. This public survey will be open for feedback throughout the summer while the Arts Council prepares to issue a Request for Qualifications for prospective artists. I encourage you to contribute to the future of art in Howard County with the Arts for All survey at https://form.typeform.com/to/MTjwb50G.
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Facing Eviction?
Facing eviction can be daunting, but understanding the process can help you navigate it better. The Howard County Eviction Process guide explains each step from the initial notice to court proceedings. Stay informed and know your rights. Read more at www.howardcountymd.gov/consumer-protection/landlord-tenant-information or https://tinyurl.com/HocoEvictionProcess.
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Doing Good
As we celebrated HBCU Week, it was an honor to stop by the Morgan State University Alumni Association - Howard County Chapter’s first meeting of the year. As a second-generation Morgan Man and the brother of a current Morgan Faculty member, I know the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities in shaping our current and future generations. I had a wonderful time learning more about the history of our Howard County Bears and how they are working hard to empower each other and our community to do more good.
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A National Leader in Education
Since the passage of the Blueprint, Howard County Public School’s total budget has grown from $862 million in FY 2020 to approximately $1.15 billion in FY 2025, including record year over year increases. Through this important work, we continue to dismantle silos, improve collaboration among educational entities, and establish a coordinated strategy to successfully achieve the Blueprint goals. Thank you to Superintendent Barnes, Dr. Willis, Board of Education Chair Mallo and our legislative leaders on the County Council and State Delegation for their continued collaboration and shared commitment to make certain that Howard County is a national leader in education.
Read more at www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/howard-county-school-district-on-track-with-blueprint-for-marylands-future-plans/.
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Never Forget, Always Honor
I invite you to join command members from our Department of Fire and Rescue Services and Howard County Police Department and myself this Wednesday, September 11th, as the County pays tribute to the 2,977 victims (including four Howard County residents) who lost their lives that tragic day 23 years ago, with a remembrance ceremony. The ceremony will begin promptly at 8:46 a.m. by the flag poles in the front of the George Howard Building, located at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City.
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Enterprise Zone Public Hearing
The County is considering an Enterprise Zone application for parts of the Route 1 Corridor between Routes 100 and 175 and for the Columbia Gateway district. An Enterprise Zone is a business incentive program authorized by the Maryland Department of Commerce that provides property and income tax incentives to employers that grow their investment and create jobs in targeted geographies. This designation will spur new employment opportunities and catalyze redevelopment in strategic focus areas in eastern Howard County.
A public hearing on this proposal will take place next Monday, September 16th at 7:00 p.m. at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City. Come share your thoughts with the Howard County Council. To learn more, please visit CR134-2024 - Supporting an Application – Eastern Howard County Enterprise Zone designation.
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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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Sports Supervisor - (Recreation Services Coordinator II) – Department of Recreation & Parks, Recreation – Coordinates adult leagues, youth leagues, summer camps and assigned community sport organizations in a self-sustaining environment.
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Fitness Specialist - (Human Services Specialist I) – Department of Community Resources and Services, Office on Aging and Independence – Administers selected exercise activities in community settings. Determines content and implements fitness programs.
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Senior Liability Program Lead (Sr. Administrative Analyst) – Department of County Administration, Office of Risk Management – Work includes the analysis and coordination of complex administrative matters; researching, reviewing, and analyzing legislative, budget, personnel, purchasing and policy issues; and supervising one or more major functional office programs or activities.
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Administrative Assistant – Department of Finance, Bureau of Revenue/Division of Tax Recordation and Reconciliation – Highly complex, administrative and customer service level work including collection of recordation tax, certifying all liens with the County have been paid prior to a transfer of real property, the review of deeds and other documents to be recorded by the Clerk of the Court, and additional responsibilities related to administrating the County’s annual tax sale.
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Fall & Spring Sports Tournament Staff – Department of Recreation & Parks - Responsible for helping prepare the game site, starting the games on time, scorekeeping games, and returning game site to the condition it was found in at the termination of the last scheduled game.
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School Crossing Guard – These are 10 to 20 hour per week, part time, non-benefitted positions; position requires a minimum commitment of one full school year.
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Dispatcher – Police Department, Information & Technology Management Bureau, Communications Division – Operates communications equipment to receive incoming calls, text messages and pictures/videos for assistance, dispatches personnel and equipment to the scene of emergencies and operates Police Teletype.
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Senior Administrative Analyst - Office of Emergency Management – Department of Fire and Rescue Services – Apply the principles and practices of emergency management to perform advanced professional administrative work in County programs.
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HR Assistant (Administrative Assistant) – Department of County Administration, Office of Human Resources - This position supports the Countywide Human Resources Office by carrying senior technical level administrative support work to support the Office.
I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.
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Maryland State Board of Elections Warns of Texting Scam
The Maryland State Board of Elections (SBE) is warning Maryland voters to be vigilant of texting scams that are spreading disinformation about the 2024 Presidential General Election. Registered Maryland voters have reported receiving a text message that falsely claims that the voter is not registered and urges them to click on a weblink not associated with the SBE. The text message reads:
“URGENT: To vote in the upcoming election, you MUST be registered, but public records show you're not registered at [voter address]. Click the link to register before the deadline: md-voter.link/4VczM
Reply Stop to end. AC”
The SBE reminds voters that its official text messages are sent from (833) 572-1128 and will only include links to official “.gov” websites, and that it will never ask for personal information via text message. Any voter wishing to check their registration status or learn about the 2024 general election should visit SBE’s official website at www.elections.maryland.gov.
To report election disinformation, please visit SBE’s website at https://elections.maryland.gov/press_room/Dis-Misinformation.html.
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Grow Your Business
Hosting more than 40 unique events per year, every week brings new opportunities to learn, laugh, and connect with people willing to invest in you. From branding to business basics, sales metrics to information security, the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) gives you the tools to start, grow and surpass the competition. To learn more about the MIC’s upcoming events, click HERE.
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A Health and Wellness Fair Collaboration
Mark your calendars and join HCEDA on Wednesday, September 25th for its free Health and Wellness Fair. Hosted in collaboration with Princess Akeema Holistic Care and Revive Trinity, this vibrant celebration of health and wellness showcases small and local businesses passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle and fostering a sense of community.
Featuring a diverse array of booths comprised of movement professionals, natural skincare products, fitness gear and holistic health services, event vendors are excited to share their knowledge and provide demonstrations on everything from yoga and meditation to nutrition and fitness.
To register to participate in the Fair, click HERE.
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Free Bikes 4 Kidz
Free Bikes 4 Kidz (FB4K) Maryland is a Howard County-based non-profit organization geared toward helping all kids ride into a happier, healthier, more independent childhood by providing bikes to those most in need. Since 2019 they have given away 9,000 bicycles, and they hope to give away 3,000 more this year.
You can help by stopping by any Howard County fire station from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 5th to donate any bike you no longer need. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, FB4K will clean and refurbish donated bikes and then come December, will give them all away with new helmets, to local children referred to them by schools, churches, nonprofit organizations and government agencies.
For more information about FB4K Maryland, visit fb4kmaryland.org. If interested in volunteering to help clean and refurbish donated bikes, click HERE.
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Pink Pathways: Your Passport to Women’s Health
Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center invites the community to learn more about breast and women’s health at Pink Pathways: Your Passport to Women’s Health in Howard County on Saturday, October 26th, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the hospital’s Berman Pavilion at 5759 Cedar Lane in Columbia.
The event will include representatives from local women’s health practices, agencies providing women’s and cancer care and hospital services as well as tours of the Johns Hopkins Breast Center. A panel discussion at noon in the main hospital will provide multispecialty perspectives from women’s gynecologic and breast physician experts followed by a question-and-answer session.
The first 50 guests will receive a free gift. For more information, visit https://pink-pathways2024.events.hcgh.hopkinsmedicine.org/.
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Members Sought for …
Our Office of Human Rights and Equity is currently seeking members for the following commissions:
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Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission – seeks four adult commissioners to help coordinate appropriate ceremonies and activities to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King. Appointed by the County Executive, Commission members serve an initial two-year term.
- Human Rights Commission – seeks three adult commissioners interested in helping making recommendations on civil rights policy to the County Executive and the County Council, as well as conducting surveys and studies concerning civil liberties in order to promote equality in the community.
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LGBTQIA+ Commission - seeks six adult commissioners, one college-aged commissioner and one high school commissioner to advance policy and systemic change for persons who are in the LGBTQIA+ community.
- La Alianza Latina Commission - seeks one adult commissioner and one high school commissioner to promote diversity, civility and address the concerns of Latino and immigrant communities.
- Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Commission - seeks one college/trade school commissioner to advise the County Executive on policy initiatives and issues affecting the AAPI community.
If you are interested in learning more about these commissions and/or how to apply, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/boards-commissions.
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Department of Community Resources and Services | |
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Stay Connected with Our 50+ Centers
It's National Senior Center Month and the perfect time to celebrate the wide variety of healthy aging opportunities our Department of Community Resources and Services' (DCRS) Office of Aging and Independence (OAI) offers at its six 50+ centers. From chair yoga, high energy Zumba, creative arts, live music, nutritional workshops and more, our 50+ centers are here to help our older residents stay connected and thrive while aging in place in Howard County.
To learn more about OAI's current news and events, check out the latest publication of its The 50+ Connection newsletter and digital newsletter. You can also subscribe to OAI’s free newsletters by clicking here.
In this month’s The 50+ Connection, readers will learn more about how our 50+ center are addressing and incorporating this year’s National Senior Center Month theme, “Powering Connections,” into their activities.
To register for one of OAI programs or to search for more options, check out the County’s ActiveNet registration site today!
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Support for Students and Fun for Preschoolers
Through its family workshops, local resources, events, educational programs and more, DCRS’s Office of Children and Families (OCF) aims to help Howard County families grow and thrive.
For parents of elementary-age students looking for guidance on how best to discipline their child, I encourage you to join OCF next Monday, September 16th for its “Discipline and Communication in the Elementary Years” virtual workshop. This workshop aims to help parents learn that discipline is about teaching and skill building, not punishment. Participants will explore strategies to prevent their child’s meltdowns by preparing their home and routine to encourage success. To register to participate in this FREE workshop, click HERE.
In addition, for Howard County’s youngest residents, OCF’s Family Support Center in Columbia, offers programs for parents and their preschool aged children to explore the center together. This October, OCF presents a new session of “The Journey to Fatherhood,” a four-part series that helps Howard County fathers develop healthy parenting habits, network with other dads and strengthen their bond with their children. If you are interested in participating, contact Ovan Shortt at 410-313-1453 or email oshortt@howardcountymd.gov to learn more.
For a full list of this month’s workshops, be sure to check out OCF’s latest Parent Pages newsletter today.
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Handmade With Love
Now through Monday, November 3rd, I invited residents to help spread love's warmth with our military members, by participating in Office of Veterans and Military Families (OVMF) annual "Handmade with Love" campaign. In support of Operation Gratitude, OVMF is collecting homemade scarves and hats to be included in care packages set to be sent to our deployed military members. To learn more about the program, including scarf and hat requirements and where to drop-off your finished product(s), click HERE.
Thanks to the generosity of our residents and groups, like Tom Thumb Knitter’s Club pictured to the right, OVMF collected and shipped off 1,100 hats and scarves last year. Let's see if we can increase that number this year!
For questions about this program, please contact Lisa Terry at 410-313-0821 or email veterans@howardcountymd.gov.
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Learning How to Stay Financially Secure as you Age
Longevity Ready Maryland (LRM) is the Maryland Department of Aging’s 10-year plan to address the challenges and opportunities of an aging society. LRM believes all older adults should be able to live healthy lives, be financially secure and stay socially connected.
To further LRM’s goal, OAI has partnered with Bridgeway Community Church to present a seven-week personal financial skills workshop series, held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, from September 24th through November 12th. Participants will learn about budgeting, setting goals, understanding credit and how to avoid or get out of debt – all important tools to improve your future planning. To register to participate in this FREE workshop series, click HERE. Please note, the first session will be held in-person at Bridgeway's Columbia campus, located at 9189 Red Branch Road in Columbia, to distribute materials, while the remaining six will be held virtually.
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HoCo Community Chat Goes Back to School
In this month’s HoCo Community Chat podcast, DCRS Communications Manager and guest host Lisa Brusio Coster is joined by Howard Community College (HCC) President Dr. Daria Willis and Chief of Staff & Special Projects Stephanie Wall, to discuss today’s community college experience, their own personal experiences and the growth of HCC since the 1970s.
In addition, a new episode of the HoCo Community Chat en Español podcast has also dropped, featuring Howard County Public School System Hispanic Achievement Liaison Dr. Jonathan Montalvo Ramon. Dr. Roman joins our podcast host Cris Oviedo to discuss the meaning of LGBTQIA, gender expression beyond the binary and the intersection of our Latinx and LGBTQ+ communities.
You can listen on BuzzSprout or check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you download your podcasts. If there is something specific you want to hear discussed, email DCRS at communityresources@howardcountymd.gov.
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Office of Emergency Management | |
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National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. All month long our Office of Emergency Management (OEM) will be providing helpful tips, tricks and facts on its Facebook and X pages to make sure you, your family, your business and more are prepared in case disaster strikes.
OEM will also be hosting a “Preparing for the Unexpected” workshop in-person next Tuesday, September 17th at 6:30 p.m. at the County’s Harriet Tubman Cultural Center in Columbia and virtually on Thursday, September 26th at 6:30 p.m. via Webex. Participants will learn the four steps of getting prepared: Get Informed, Write a Plan, Build a Kit and Be Involved! To register to participate in either of these sessions, please click on the date above.
All year long, you can also find helpful information on OEM’s “ReadyHoCo” website about being and staying prepared.
| Department of Housing and Community Development | |
Owning a Home in Howard County
If you are interested in owning a home in Howard County, I encourage you to join our Department of Housing and Community Development’s homeownership team on Thursday, September 26th at 6:00 p.m. for its Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) Homeownership Workshop. Participants will learn all about the process of purchasing an MIHU home and more about the department’s Settlement Downpayment Loan Program. The workshop will take place in Conference Room 211 at 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive in Columbia.
Seats are limited, so be sure to email moderateincomehousing@howardcountymd.gov today to secure your spot. In your email, be sure to include the first and last name of each adult participant attending the event.
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Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
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Barriers to Equity Listening Session
I encourage you to join our Office of Human Rights (OHRE), the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights (MCCR) and the Maryland Office of the Attorney General next Tuesday, September 10th at 6:00 p.m. for an interactive discussion on the barriers to equity in Howard County. Attendees will have the opportunity to share their views on the state of civil and human rights in Maryland, to help MCCR focus its priorities in its upcoming strategic plan and OHRE’s future engagements and services.
This session will be presented bilingually in English and Spanish; however, for additional translation services or accommodation requests, email mccr.outreach@maryland.gov.
| Department of Planning and Zoning | |
Cemetery Preservation Advisory Board
Tomorrow, September 10th, our Department of Planning 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. A copy of the September meeting agenda can be found HERE.
For meeting details about this meeting and how to participate virtually, click HERE.
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Be a Part of Shaping Gateway's Future!
During the past several months, DPZ has been diligently working to develop several master plan options for the redevelopment of Gateway. These options depict different design and land use possibilities for the area for the next 10 to 30 years. As part of the Gateway Master Plan process, we want to hear from you on what you think is the best vision for Gateway's future!
I invite you to join DPZ next Wednesday, September 18th at the East Columbia 50+ Center for one of two Gateway Master Plan Options Public Meeting sessions. During these identical sessions – the first will take place from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. and the second from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., attendees will hear a presentation about the master plan options and then have an opportunity share their input. While registration to attend a session is preferred, it is not required, as walk-ins are welcome. To register for the first session, click HERE; for the second session, click HERE.
To learn more about the Gateway Master Plan, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/gateway.
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When to Stop
With schools back in session, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is reminding motorists that buses serving the Howard County Public School System are outfitted with external cameras. In place to discourage motorists from passing buses illegally and ensure student safety, if you choose to illegally pass that stopped bus, the fine for doing so is $250.
Here's a quick visual from HCPD on what to do if you come upon a stopped school bus with flashing red lights and stop sign extended on a highway or multi-lane roadway.
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Mock Traffic Stop
In partnership with Autism Society of Maryland and Pathfinders for Autism, HCPD will be offering licensed and learner’s permitted drivers with a developmental disability and passengers with a developmental disability that might be anxious about traffic stops the opportunity to participate in a “Mock Traffic Stop” event to experience one firsthand in a controlled environment on Wednesday, September 25th. HCPD will be offering practice traffic stops for these individuals from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 9705 Patuxent Woods Drive in Columbia.
To register to participate and reserve your practice timeslot for this FREE event, visit https://pathfindersforautism.org/traffic-stop-howard/.
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Public’s Help Sought
HCPD is seeking the public’s help to locate the suspect in the July 27th fatal shooting at The Mall in Columbia. William Marshall III (who also goes by “Junior”), 17, of Columbia, is wanted for first-degree murder and related charges. HCPD has conducted an extensive and exhaustive search for Marshall and believe he may have left the immediate area. Detectives do believe the suspect and victim knew each other, but they have yet to determine a motive for the shooting.
While Maryland state law typically does not allow a juvenile suspect’s identification to be released, even when charged as an adult, an exception exists “for the sole purposes of facilitating apprehension of a child and ensuring public safety” when a criminal arrest warrant is issued. HCPD is identifying Marshall publicly because his whereabouts remain unknown and he is considered a potential threat to the public due to the nature of his alleged crime.
HCPD is now offering an increased reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to his arrest. Anyone with information is asked to please contact HCPD at 410-313-STOP or email hcpdcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov; you may remain anonymous.
| Office of Procurement and Contract Administration | |
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Requests for Proposals Sought for Redevelopment of Vacant Property Along Route 1 Corridor
This past week, I released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the purchase and redevelopment of the Hurst property, located at 9770 and 9790 Washington Boulevard in Laurel. Located just two miles south of the historic town of Savage, this 1.92-acre parcel of land is located within the County’s Route 1 Corridor revitalization area and Route 1 Tax Credit Program.
With the sale of this property, the County seeks to identify and select a developer who will complete a development on the former Hurst property that benefits the community, promotes the goals of the Route 1 revitalization and comports with the County’s General Plan, HoCo By Design, and Route 1 Corridor Plan.
Responses to the RFP are due by 4:00 p.m., Monday, October 21st and should be sent concurrently to realestate@howardcountymd.gov and patricia.restrepo@chartwellenterprises.com, with the subject line “Hurst Property Proposal” and the applicant firm’s name.
Questions or comments regarding the RFP submission and/or process should be submitted to the County at realestate@howardcountymd.gov and to Patricia Restrepo with Chartwell Enterprises at patricia.restrepo@chartwellenterprises.com.
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Department of Public Works | |
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Furnace Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation Project
The Howard County Department of Public Works (DPW) will hold a community outreach meeting on Wednesday, October 2nd, to discuss a project to replace the existing Furnace Avenue bridge over Deep Run, that connects Howard County to Anne Arundel County. Currently in 30 percent design phase, the proposed project will include the replacement of the existing steel beam bridge with a new concrete bridge, as well as the installation of new traffic barriers and improvements to the roadway approach within the project limits. The project is scheduled to begin in fall 2027 and weather permitting, is expected to be completed by fall 2028.
To learn more about this meeting and project, click HERE.
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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.
Elkridge
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Red Barn Way Water Main Replacement (Capital Project W-8603) – Project to replace the existing water main along Red Barn Way between Mayfield Avenue and Mayfield Woods Middle School at 7950 Red Barn Way. While the work is being done, portions of northbound Red Barn Way, westbound Well Water Way and eastbound Mayfield Avenue located within the construction zone, will be closed to traffic during construction hours, Monday, through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Weekend work and nighttime work from 10:00 p.m. Friday to 4:00 a.m. Monday, can also be expected during system connection work. Residents in the project area will also experience a temporary water loss while their property is connected to the temporary water supply line and later, to the new water main. Residents will be notified in advance of this work. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by late November 2024.
Woodbine
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Woodbine Morgan Road Slope Repair (Capital Project D-1168) – Project to install a retaining wall along Woodbine Morgan Road next to South Branch Patapsco River. While the work is being done, Woodbine Morgan Road in both directions will be closed to all traffic during the construction hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Traffic will follow a clearly marked detour using Woodbine Road, Old Frederick Road and Woodbine Station Road. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by late December 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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Before and After School Programs at Your Child’s School
With a new school year underway, be sure to check out the numerous great opportunities our Department of Recreation & Parks has to offer before and after school in elementary schools across our county. From science to music, drama, art, chess, soccer, basketball, flag football, lacrosse and more, there is something to keep your child learning and having fun all school year long.
To learn more about what's available at your child's school this fall, click HERE.
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Learn How to Be a Tree Saver
If you want to make a difference in your community and love supporting our forest, I encourage you to join me at Recreation & Parks’ Tree Savers Program kick-off event on Saturday, September 21st, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at Meadowbrook Park – East. This program aims to educate and enable resident volunteers on how to free native trees from strangling, invasive vines on Howard County parklands and public open space.
To register and/or to learn more about this event, click HERE.
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Get Ready to Shop at Native Plant Palooza
Recreation & Parks’ Robinson Nature Center’s annual Native Plant Palooza is back and coming to you Sunday, September 29th. Stop by the Robison Nature Center anytime between noon and 4:00 p.m. to browse a large variety of shrubs, wildflowers, ground covers, trees and edible native plants.
Native plants are more tolerant to local climate, pest and soil nutrients, and require less water, fertilizer and pesticides to flourish, while providing food and habitat for our local butterflies, insects and birds.
To learn more about this event, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/plantnatives.
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What to Do When Schools are Closed
With a new school year underway, Recreation & Parks is here to help with its School's Out programming to make sure you don't get caught off guard on days when schools close early or are closed all day. From science, sports, art, music, drama, chess 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 and next, click on the following dates: Wednesday, September 18th, Thursday, October 3rd, Friday, October 18th and Thursday, October 31st.
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Old Scaggsville Road Complete Streets Improvement Project Public Meeting
Our Office of Transportation will hold a public meeting tomorrow, September 10th at 6:00 p.m. at the pavilion at High Ridge Park, located at 10100 Superior Avenue in Laurel, to discuss proposed Complete Streets pedestrian and bicycle improvement plans for Old Scaggsville Road, Pilgrim Avenue and Superior Avenue. Proposed improvements include the installation of sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lands and traffic calming measures along these roadways.
While there will be no formal presentation, the concept plans will be available for public viewing and staff members will be on hand to explain the proposed work, answer any questions and gather public comments.
For additional information about this meeting and what to do if you are unable to attend, click HERE.
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BikeAround Downtown
Join Transportation from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday, September 21st, as it kicks of this fall’s annual BikeAround Downtown Columbia. This block party event at Color Burst Park will offer attendees the opportunity to learn more about how they can add bicycling to their everyday routines.
Following the block party, residents are invited to take part in BikeAround Downtown Columbia all weekend long. From 9:00 a.m., Saturday, September 21st through 6:00 p.m., Sunday, September 22nd, riders are invited to check out this year’s seven-mile course starting from Color Burst Park in Downtown Columbia, rolling through Oakland Mills, Owen Brown and Blandair Regional Park, before winding back to Color Burst Park. The course is perfect for the family or novice cyclist, as well as those of you with more miles under your wheels then you can count.
To learn more about this year’s event and/or to register, click HERE.
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MDOT Consolidated Transportation Program Meeting
Next Wednesday, September 18th, the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) will hold its annual Howard County Consolidated Transportation Program (CTP) Tour Meeting to share its draft CTP. The meeting will be held at the County's George Howard Building, located at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City, and will begin at 6:00 p.m. Those who are unable to attend the meeting in-person can view the livestream HERE.
The CTP is the six-year capital budget for State transportation projects and programs. During the tour meeting, MDOT will discuss projects and funding across the full range of activities in the county and the state by the Maryland Aviation Administration, Motor Vehicle Administration, Maryland Transit Administration, Maryland State Highway Administration and the Maryland Transportation Authority.
The CTP is updated every year, based on local priorities expressed in the annual priority letter, local and regional planning efforts, and funding forecasts. The draft CTP will be released on or about today, September 3rd and can be viewed HERE. More information on the process can be found HERE.
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Public Meeting to Discuss Extension of Montgomery County’s Flash Bus Rapid Transit Service
In preparation for Montgomery County's Flash Bus Rapid Transit Service extension to Howard County in 2026, a public meeting will be held on Monday, September 23rd, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Lab’s Kossiakoff Center, located at 11100 Johns Hopkins Road in Laurel, to discuss the project’s preliminary design.
While there will be no formal presentation, the design plans will be available for public viewing, and staff members will be on hand to explain the proposed work, answer any questions, and gather public comments. More information on the service extension can be found HERE.
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