October 2, 2023

Dear Friends,


While Maryland’s unemployment rate remains one of the lowest in the country, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with Howard County’s below the state rate, it is still vital that we do our part to ensure our residents' workforce and employment needs are being met. That’s why I am thrilled to launch our Office of Workforce Development’s (OWD) innovative Work on Wheels program. Made possible thanks to a collaboration with the Howard County Library System, this exciting new initiative enhances OWD range of amenities by bringing job-seeking resources and services, such as resume reviews, connections to jobs and potential training to underserved communities throughout Howard County. 


This initiative highlights our commitment to working with our community partners to think outside the box and utilize available resources to enhance our residents' services. 


To learn more about this initiative and how to take advantage of all that it has to offer, click HERE.


Community Updates

Going Pink for Breast Cancer


Did you know that one in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime? 


October is breast cancer awareness month, and the perfect time to get tested and understand the importance of preventative care. Like many of our neighbors, I have people in my life who have been affected by cancer. The Howard County Health Department's Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) is striving to reduce this number, as well as cervical cancer deaths, through education, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and patient navigation services.


Learn more here. In solidarity for all our family, friends, and neighbors who may be battling breast cancer, the Ball Bulletin is going pink!

Paratransit Services Available


Did you know that RTA of Central Maryland offers paratransit services to individuals with a disability and residents ages 60 and older in Howard County? Through their RTA Mobility program, RTA offers curb-to-curb, shared ride transportation service for riders who are unable to ride RTA fixed route transit system. 


Our paratransit services provide a critical transportation link that result in thousands of rides per month in Howard County and our neighboring jurisdictions. To learn more about our paratransit services and how to sign up to ride, please visit: https://www.transitrta.com/ada_gpt/ or email RTAMobilityServices@transitRTA.com.

A Second Chapter 


Blue Gables Farm, nestled in the heart of Howard County, symbolizes the realization of dreams and hard work by Frank and Sessy Hazzard. This farm enriches our community with thousands of vibrant, diverse blooms, available for purchase at local markets and through their monthly subscription service. Supporting our local farms like Blue Gables is not just a commitment to local enterprise, but a way to experience and share the beauty and diversity our community has to offer. 


To learn more about the beautiful array of flowers from Blue Gables Farm, please visit https://bluegablesfarm.com, and to explore additional local farms and their unique offerings, check out www.hocofarms.com. Let’s continue to embrace and support the abundance and uniqueness of our local farms today.

Make Your Homeownership Dreams a Reality


Homeownership is a powerful tool for building intergenerational wealth and growing equity. In Howard County, we are expanding our support to residents who want to realize their vision of homeownership in our community.


Howard County’s Settlement Downpayment Loan Program (SDLP) 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.


Your dreams of homeownership are within reach, and Howard County can help bring that vision to reality. To learn more about the program and how to apply, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/DHCD-SDLP.

Riding for Success


The Free Bikes 4 Kidz Fifth Annual Collection Day is more than an event; it’s a commitment to foster community spirit and ensure all of our children have an opportunity to experience the joy of owning a bike. By donating your unused bicycles, you participate in a journey to refurbish and revive the spirits of bicycles and gift them a new journey, alongside a new helmet, with local children in need. This initiative isn’t merely about providing bikes but about promoting physical activity and reinforcing community bonds in Howard County.


I want to especially thank Ted Cochran for his visionary leadership to expand this program from 500 bikes to more than 3,000 last year. This year, we’re aiming to give even more bikes to kids! It’s initiatives like these, fueled by the generosity and spirit of our community, that accentuate the sense of unity and shared responsibility in making Howard County a nurturing and supportive environment for all. Learn more here.

A Visionary Plan


We're embarking on a transformative journey with HoCo By Design, our visionary General Plan resulting from three years of planning and robust public engagement, reflecting voices from every corner of our county. This award-winning plan is our roadmap to fostering environmental conservation, enhancing livability, and addressing pressing issues such as the housing affordability crisis. 


To read The Baltimore Sun’s piece on HoCo By Design, click HERE.

Lost Too Soon


I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Deputy Ryan Demby of the Howard County Sheriff’s Office. The loss of this young, vibrant, promising life is absolutely heartbreaking. My prayers are with the Demby family, our entire team at the Howard County Sherriff’s office, and every person whose life he touched. Howard County stands by you as we all mourn the loss of a shining bright light in our community.

Arts and Culture By Design


HoCo By Design, Howard County’s General Plan, recognizes that public art instills beauty, character, and a noteworthy signature to particular locations and environments. The Plan supports incorporating the arts and cultural initiatives into activity centers, main streets, and the public realm to help spur further economic activity.


Ian Kennedy, Executive Director of the Merriweather Arts and Culture Center, says, “Investing in our public amenities and growing a strong arts ecosystem will ensure that Howard County remains a great place to live.”


To read more about the plan, visit www.hocobydesign.com/.

You Are Not Alone


With the passing of September and the conclusion of Suicide Awareness Month, our collective hearts continue to reach out to all who have experienced the profound impact of this pressing issue. The emotional challenges many encounter are intricate, but together, we can create an atmosphere of compassion, support and hope. We must continually remind each other that no one is ever alone in their battles.


To anyone struggling or who knows someone who is struggling, please remember that support is available, including the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988. Let’s embody the spirit of community and reinforce our mutual commitment to be there for one another in times of need.

Taking Action with CAC  


While Hunger Action Month may be over, it is still crucial that we continue to acknowledge the silent, yet prevalent, crisis of food insecurity in Howard County. Last month, I had the opportunity to join Tracy Broccolino, President of the Community Action Council of Howard County (CAC), to discuss the stark reality many of our neighbor’s face, having to choose between paying rent, buying nutritious food or paying utility bills.

CAC’s Howard County Food Bank has been a beacon of hope, serving more than 988,000 meals to more than 19,000 households in the last year alone. This month, I encourage you to take a moment to watch, learn, engage and find out how you too can contribute to creating change and strengthening our community at https://cac-hc.org/.

Economic Mobility for All


It was a productive conversation during the Governor’s Workforce Development Board this week as we begin our work to create the State Workforce Development Plan for the next four years. Leaders from government, the nonprofit community and the private sector are collaborating to expand opportunities for our workforce and promote economic mobility for all.


In Howard County, we have worked hard to expand apprenticeships in government and the private sector so that more young people and residents entering the workforce have access to critical training and career resources. Recently, we launched an incentive program to help local businesses create more apprenticeships in the private sector, which helps build pathways to permanent jobs in our community.


I am grateful to Governor Wes Moore for his vision and trust in appointing me to serve on the Governor’s Workforce Development Board. Together, we are focused on making Maryland a national leader in expanding employment opportunities and preparing our diverse workforce for the future.

Economic Competitiveness By Design


To maximize Howard County’s economic competitiveness in the region, HoCo By Design, our next General Plan, supports creating job opportunities through new mixed-use activity centers and offering ongoing support to small local businesses.


The Plan also calls for the County to monitor economic trends and employ adaptive and innovative strategies to meet emerging economic shifts.


Steve Wecker, owner of Cured 18th & 21st, Iron Bridge Wine Company and Mutiny Pirate Bar, believes HoCo By Design, “offers a forward-thinking approach to economic development that anticipates future trends.”


Read more about the plan here: www.hocobydesign.com.

Maryland’s Westernmost County


I had the pleasure of joining the Maryland Association of Counties Executive Director Michael Sanderson in Garrett County, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains. Our engaging conversation at Dutch’s in Oakland gave me a deeper insight into Maryland’s westernmost county.


On our tour, we saw how Garrett County, while cherishing its railroad, coal mining, and timber heritage, has seamlessly transitioned to embrace tourism as its mainstay, with nature and history serving as its major attractions. Garrett stands as Maryland’s sole natural gas producer, and it was commendable to witness the county's robust educational foundation, encompassing a wide spectrum of learning from elementary to high school levels.

Visit Howard County


The Visit Howard County Annual Meeting is a way to highlight that tourism is not just a leisure activity here in Howard County but a smart investment for our region. With nearly three million visitors coming to Howard County annually, we leverage $6 million from those who are enjoying attractions, restaurants and all that the County has to offer.  


With the leadership of Executive Director Amanda Hof, her Board, and hard-working team, tourism thrives. I was glad to be alongside of Delegate Courtney Watson who was honored for her dedication to Ellicott City and for securing much needed funding from the state. It is only with these partnerships that we are able to do even more for our economic vitality in Howard County.

Making Your Homeownership Dream a Reality


We continue prioritizing expanding homeownership and wealth creation opportunities. Each month, our Howard County Department of Housing Community Development (DHCD) will offer a Homebuyer Education Workshop to promote more successful homeownership in Howard County. These classes provide a great opportunity to learn about local housing resources and help realize your vision of homeownership. Through these efforts, DHCD shares information on Howard County’s Settlement Downpayment Loan Program and Moderate Income Housing Unit program, which provide access to affordable homeownership opportunities.


Classes include one 4-hour group workshop, as well as two hours of one-on-one counseling with a HUD-approved credit counselor. Registration is required to participate in these classes. To learn more and sign up, please visit www.howardcountymd.gov/housing-community-development/homebuyer-education.

A Meat-y Expansion


Founded in 1932, Saval Foods has been an American staple in Howard County for deli, specialty produce and meat. It is why we worked hard to keep Saval Foods in Howard County. We celebrated their newest expansion with President and Vice President Paul and Brian and the entire Saval team.


By adding a distribution line and this new location at Troy Hill Business Park, Saval adds significant capacity with their four temperature zoned coolers and refrigerated dock, encompassing 9,100 square feet and potential for additional 56,000 square feet of expansion. I want to thank EDA CEO Jennifer Jones and her team for their hard work in ensuring we retain such an important partnership for Howard County.

The Transformative Power of Apprenticeships


This past September, during National Workforce Development Month, we highlighted the transformative power of apprenticeships in Howard County. Our Howard County Office of Workforce Development works tirelessly to help mold talent, the aspiring professionals journeying towards excellence and the educator’s creating opportunities. Together, through commitment, vision and collaboration, we can ensure everyone in Howard County can live their very best life. 

To learn more about OWD’s apprenticeship programs, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/hcapprenticeships.

Happy Birthday Robinson Nature Center!


It is always a joy to visit our incredible Robinson Nature Center in Columbia, but even more special to celebrate its 12th anniversary. For over a decade, Robinson Nature Center has helped facilitate the enjoyment and understanding of our natural resources and bridge the gap between people and nature. 


Our dedicated team at our Department of Recreation & Parks, the LEED-certified building and practices that promote energy independence are a testament to Howard County’s dedication to protecting our natural resources. Here’s to another 12 years and many more encouraging experience-based education with nature.

¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana!


Hispanic Heritage Month is an important time for us to celebrate the rich culture and countless contributions of our Hispanic and Latino residents. It was so special to join our cOMmunity at this year’s Hispanic Heritage Gala at Oakland Mills High School. Events like these serve to build stronger connections among us, enhancing the sense of community and mutual respect that we all value.


Thank you to Principal Jeff Fink, Hispanic Heritage Committee President Silva Bravo and Vice-President Monica Pino-Thompson, PTSA President Aprile Riche, and our entire OMHS Hispanic Committee for hosting this incredible showcase. Together, we will continue to celebrate our diversity, foster inclusion, and strive to ensure everyone is and feels empowered and valued.

Championing, Uplifting and Celebrating the Arts


In Howard County, we don’t just support the arts – we champion, uplift, and celebrate the arts because we know that arts and culture are the heartbeat of a vibrant, diverse, engaged and empowered community. As we celebrate local artists and arts organizations in Howard County, I was thrilled to join the Howard County Arts Council for their 2023 Grant Awards. Through these grants, we awarded a record $650,000 to approximately 50 local arts organizations, PTAs, and programs that serve Howard County residents. 


From music to theater, dancing to visual arts, and painting to literature, the arts breathe color and life into our lives every single day. Together, we will continue to cultivate an environment where the arts thrive and have a meaningful impact in our community.

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.

LIFT Up Your Small Business


Howard County Economic Development Authority’s (EDA) Leveraging Investment for Future Transformation Fund, or “LIFT” Fund, enables EDA to provide microloans ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 to Howard County small businesses for a three-to-five-year term. The loan program primarily serves small businesses including minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned and other socially disadvantaged groups. The ideal candidate would be a Howard County business that is generating revenue, who is looking for funds to lift and empower their business towards growth.


EDA also has resources at its Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) to supplement the funding, with the goal of better positioning the loan recipient for success. For example, if a small business wants to obtain a microloan and EDA determines that the owner need business coaching/training as a requirement, the owner will find resources available at the MIC.


To learn more about this program and/or to apply, click HERE.

Innovating with EDA


  • Wednesday, October 4th, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. – HoCo Higher: Growth Accelerator: Are you ready to grow your business and learn the best practices for success? Join the Maryland Innovation Center for this 7-week program on Wednesdays from October 4th through November 15th, with a graduation/pitch competition on December 6th. Come meet and work in person with business coaches who will help you develop a market strategy, generate customers, create a growth plan, identify actionable priorities, find funding pathways and produce a business pitch. Registration closes on October 3rd.
  • Thursday, October 5th, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.– E-Commerce Marketing Management: When it comes to a strong selling strategy, simple solutions can often yield the best results. This E-Commerce Marketing Management four-week course (Thursday from October 5th to October 26th) is designed to help businesses of all sizes maximize their online presence and drive sales. Led by Maryland Innovation Center Mentor Nathan Garcia, Garcia’s course will help participants build their best marketing strategy, whether just starting out or looking to refresh ones skills. 
  • Tuesday, October 17th, 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. – Pitch and Mingle Series: The Great Pumpkin Patch: Join the Maryland Innovation Center for its pitch competition featuring five community startups who will present a four-minute pitch, followed by four minutes of Q&A from the panel of judges and audience. At the end, the judges will come together and select the top three companies, who will receive cash prizes with first place receiving $3,000! 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!
Government Updates

Indigenous Peoples’ Day Closings


Howard County Government offices, courts, animal shelter and 50+ centers will be closed in observance of the Indigenous Peoples’ Day holiday next Monday, October 9th. However, regular Monday trash, recycling, yard trim and food scrap collection services will be in effect and the Alpha Ridge Landfill will be open. 


County parks, Gary J. Arthur, North Laurel and Roger Carter Community Centers, and Meadowbrook Athletic Complex will also be open on the 9th, as will the Cedar Lane and Schooley Mill Activity Rooms too, but by permit only. The Robinson Nature Center and county historic sites, including the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum, will be closed on October 9th. 


The Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) will operate on a regular weekday schedule. For more information on RTA, call 1-800-270-9553 or visit www.transitrta.com. All parking regulations and fees will be in effect on Indigenous Peoples’ Day.


The 9-1-1 Center, Police and Fire departments remain staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. For non-emergencies, please call 410-313-2200.


County operations will resume on Tuesday, October 10th at regular business hours.
Department of Community Resources and Services

Age-Friendly Ecosystem Summit

 

Join our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Age-Friendly Howard County as it’s set to present at this year’s George Washington University’s School of Nursing’s virtual 2023 Age-Friendly Ecosystem Summit. The Summit’s final two sessions will be held this week, October 3rd and 4th, and offer attendees the opportunity to learn more about the themes: communications and creativity. Speakers will present their age-friendly initiatives through the lens of the session theme.


To learn more about the summit and how to participate, click HERE. 


An age-friendly community is safe and secure, has affordable and appropriate housing and transportation options, and offers supportive community features and services. The Age-Friendly Howard County initiative seeks to create a livable community where everyone feels safer, welcomed and engaged. To learn more about Howard County’s Aging-Friendly Action Plan, click HERE. 

Long-Term Care Education Series this October 


Do you have a long-term care plan in place for yourself or your loved ones? If not, I encourage you to join DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence’s Maryland Access Point team this month as it hosts its first Long Term Care Education Series. Across four sessions, this series will provide resources and offer guidance for caregivers and relatives of older adults on how to prepare for your loved one’s future and ensure they always receive the care they need. 


The sessions include:


To learn more about the Long-Term Care Education Series and/or to register, click HERE. 

Office of Veterans and Military Families Hosts Inaugural Veteran Owned Small Biz Expo 


DCRS’ Office of Veterans and Military Families (OVMF), in partnership with EDA, will host its first-ever Veteran Owned Small Biz Expo on Saturday, October 28th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at EDA’s Maryland Innovation Center in Columbia.


In celebration of Howard County Business Appreciation Week and National Veteran’s Small Business Appreciation Week, the Expo will highlight veteran owned small business such as books, authors, baked goods, local services and more. Other featured organizations include HERO Dogs, Dog Tag Bakery, Blue Star Families, Escape Velocity Academy soccer with a drone demonstration, the Orioles Bird and the Health Department Office of Suicide Prevention. The event will also feature family friendly games, giveaways, music by the Washington Tattoo military and veteran musicians, and food provided by 1936 Food Truck and Double BBQ & Soul Food Experience. 


Admission is FREE; however, the first 25 people that register and attend are guaranteed to receive a free, fun-filled swag bag! To register, click HERE today.

Office of Emergency Management

Nationwide Emergency Alert Test Set for October 4th 


This Wednesday, October 4th at 2:20 p.m., FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will be conducting a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). This national test will help ensure that the WEA and EAS continue to be effective ways to warn the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level.


The WEA portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones and will be initiated using FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), a centralized internet-based system administered by FEMA that enables authorities to send authenticated emergency messages to the public through multiple communications networks. The test message will display in either English (“THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”) or in Español (“ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”), depending on the language settings on your cell phone. If your cell phone is on and within range of an active cell tower from a participating wireless provider, you should receive the national test. Wireless providers will transmit the national test for 30 minutes, but your phone should only receive it once.


The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. 


To learn more about this national test, click HERE.

Howard County Health Department

October Equals Walktober


Howard County Health Department’s (HCHD) Local Health Improvement Coalition (LHIC) is encouraging all residents to get out there and “Walk, Roll, Ride and Move” this Walktober. The LHIC has joined forces with community partners to create a calendar of more than 30 accessible walking/moving events to be held across Howard Count this month to make it easy for community members to get moving this fall. A complete list of events and activities can be found online at www.howardcountymd.gov/walktober. 


Residents can participate in Walktober and keep moving all year long using the one-mile maps (found online) developed by HCHD and the County’s Department of Recreation & Parks. 

Want to Become a Doula? 


Through MOMCares, HCHD has announced it is now offering FREE Full Spectrum Doula Training for Howard County residents in its effort to help address the current maternal health crisis and improve birth outcomes for Black families. 


A doula is a non-clinical person who provides emotional and physical support to birthing people during pregnancy, childbirth and beyond. Doulas work with the labor and delivery team to help clients communicate with the medical team to improve patient autonomy and to have a more positive childbirth experience.


Four training sessions will be held this November (November 4th, 5th, 18th and 19th) and participants are required to attend all four sessions in person. If you feel called to support birthing families by becoming a doula, apply HERE.


For additional information and/or to learn more about this opportunity, please email admin@momcares.org.

Tips and Tricks for Fighting Off the Common Cold


While common colds occur year-round, they tend to rise in early fall and spring. But did you know that antibiotics don't work against viruses that cause colds. For tips on cold prevention, symptoms and ways you can feel better while your body fights off a cold, HCHD's suggests checking out the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/colds.html to learn more about the oh-so-not-friendly cold virus.

COVID-19 Vaccine Update


Due to COVID-19 vaccine supply changes, HCHD doesn't anticipate receiving a large supply of the latest COVID-19 vaccine nor having large vaccinations clinics as it once did. Instead, for the most updated vaccine, HCHD recommends contacting your healthcare provider, local pharmacy or visit www.vaccines.gov. 

Department of Housing and Community Development

MIHU Homeownership October Enrollment Period Now Open!

 

Our Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is now accepting applications for its Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) homeownership program October open enrollment period. Held quarterly throughout the year, this inclusionary zoning program provides eligible individuals and families the opportunity to purchase quality new homes at reduced sale prices. 


Applications are available online and are available in Spanish. Due by no later than 4;00 p.m., Tuesday, October 31st, completed applications can be submitted online, mailed to 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive, Suite 224, Columbia, MD, 21046, or dropped off at DHCD’s Patuxent Woods Drive office by appointment only.

 

Applicants looking to find out more about the program should visit DHCD’s “Open Enrollment” website, where you can find the presentation from a previous homeownership informational workshop. Frequently asked questions and answers explaining the program’s eligibility requirements and application process can also be found on DHCD’s “MIHU Homeownership Program” webpage. For additional questions, email DCHD at moderateincomehousing@howardcountymd.gov. 

 

Please keep in mind, if you are interested in DHCD’s MIHU rental program, prospective renters may apply directly to a participating rental community at any time during the year. For more information on the MIHU rental program, including a list of participating communities, visit DHCD’s "I Want To Rent A Home In Howard County" website.

 

For questions and/or more information about the MIHU program, contact DHCD’s Housing Opportunities Programs Division at 410-313-6318 and select option two, email moderateincomehousing@howardcountymd.gov or visit DHCD’s open enrollment website. 

Office of Human Rights and Equity

Human Rights Commission Public Hearing


The Howard County Human Rights Commission (HRC) continues to hold a Public Hearing in the case of Berger & Williams v. Stephanie Knarr, LLC Operating as Dr. Stephanie’s Relationship Repair Shop. These hearings will take place at 5:30 p.m. today, October 2nd, Monday, November 20th and Monday, December 11th. In accordance with the Maryland Open Meetings Act, these hearings are open to the public. 


For information and/or to attend any of the hearing dates, please email HRC Case Manager Claudia M. Allen at hrc@howardcountymd.gov.

Bystander Intervention & Cultural Awareness Training

 

Held quarterly, Office of Human Rights and Equity’s (OHRE) Bystander Intervention and Cultural Awareness (BICA) certification training helps participants learn how to protect and promote the humanity of those who are being targeted or harassed in their presence because of their race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender or sexual orientation. This quarter’s BICA training will take place virtually next Tuesday, October 10th at 5:00 p.m. 


If you are interested in earning this certificate for professional or personal reasons, click HERE to reserve your spot.

Human Rights Commission 2023 Awards Ceremony


I invite all to join our HRC on Tuesday, October 17th at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center, as we celebrate and recognize individuals, students and organizations who have made significant impacts in Howard County in the areas of human rights, social justice and community uplift. The evening will begin with a light reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by the awards ceremony at 7:00 p.m. Arrival at 6:15 p.m. is strongly encouraged. To reserve your seat for this FREE event, click HERE.

Reading Human Rights – Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist by Judith Heumann


Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by OHRE and Howard County Library System (HCLS) that encourages literary exploration and community dialogue around a variety of human rights concerns. It explores works of fiction and non-fiction to teach community members the various ways individuals, cultures and communities celebrate their identities and combat injustice.


In honor of Disability Rights Awareness Month, for its October book discussion – to be held on Tuesday, October 24th at 6:30 p.m. at HCLS’s Elkridge Branch, OHRE will discuss the late great Judith Heumann’s Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist. One of the most influential disability rights activists in US history, Heumann tells her personal story of fighting for the right to receive an education, have a job and just be human.


To secure your seat for this month’s event, click HERE today to register.

Humanity Matters 2024 Conference – Now Accepting Proposals


OHRE encourages all interested persons to submit proposals for its “2024 Humanity Matters: Envisioning Social Justice Through an Equity Lens” conference. We welcome submissions from community organizers, human and civil rights professionals in government, education, non-profit, business, DEI consultants, and Commissioners. 


With this conference, OHRE aims to provide innovative best practices, professional development and facilitate meaningful dialogue across counties and within our respective fields. 


All submissions should be emailed to Dr. Denise Boston at equity@howardcountymd.gov by no later than Wednesday, November 15th; please enter “2024 Humanity Matters Conference Proposal Submission” in the Subject line.


For more information on this request for proposals, click HERE.

Hate Has No Place: Reporting Hate Crimes and Hate Bias Incidents


I invite all to join OHRE and our Howard County Police Department (HCPD) as the two come together for a community dialogue on Wednesday, November 8th at 6:00 p.m. to learn how to report hate crimes and hate bias incidents (HBIs). HCPD officers will share how these reports are investigated and will facilitate small group discussions on how to increase reporting from community members. 


Co-sponsored by the County’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, the Howard County Sheriff’s Office, the Howard County Police Accountability Board and the Jewish Federation of Howard County, OHRE is excited to provide an opportunity for community members and HCPD officers to strategize on dealing with hate crimes and HBIs in Howard County.


To be a part of this important event, click HERE to register.

Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits

It's Electronic!


In case you missed it, the County’s Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits (DILP) is now accepting electronic submissions for all permit types, both residential and commercial, through its Accela Citizens Access portal. In addition to permit applications being submitted electronically, DILP is also no longer accepting paper drawings. 


These changes are just another step toward ensuring we are making county government as efficient and user-friendly as possible for all our residents and businesses. By allowing contractors and homeowners to submit permit applications and supporting documentation online, we are improving and streamlining our permitting process, making it more effective for all parties involved.


To learn more about these changes, click HERE. 

Department of Planning and Zoning

Applicants Sought for Design Advisory Panel


If you have professional experience in urban planning and landscape architecture, I encourage you to apply today for our Design Advisory Panel. Established in 2008 to encourage excellence in building architecture and site design, our Design Advisory Panel is responsible for reviewing a variety of projects, including proposed subdivisions, site development plans, conditional use applications and design guidelines. 


To learn more, including eligibility requirements, click HERE. The deadline to apply this Friday, October 6th. 

Applicants Sought for Historic Preservation Commission


Our Historic Preservation Commission serves an important role in the preservation of our historic districts and historic properties throughout Howard County. I am incredibly thankful to the community members who volunteer their time and expertise to serve on the commission, and encourage anyone, especially those who live or own property in the Lawyers Hill Historic District or who have architectural experience or professional experience in the architectural field, to apply today to join this vital commission.


To learn more, including eligibility requirements, click HERE. The deadline to apply this Friday, October 6th. 

Police Department

HCPD Hosts Final Testing Date for February 2024 Academy 


If you are interested in a law enforcement career with Howard County Police Department (HCPD), the department will host its final testing date for entry-level officers for its February 2024 Academy Class on Saturday, October 21st. This fast track hiring event will allow interested candidates the opportunity o knock out half the hiring process – written test, physical ability test, complete the oral interview and schedule their polygraph – in just one day. To apply to take part in this testing date, click HERE. Please note, participating candidates must bring a signed Physical Ability Waiver to take the physical ability test.


Lateral candidates are accepted on a continuous basis.


In addition to taking part in the above, candidates will also have the opportunity on the 21st to meet one-on-one with HCPD recruiters, have their questions answered by human resource staff, talk with academy instructors, tour the County’s state-of-the-art training facility and learn more about the hiring process, benefits, specialty opportunities and academy life.

Hiring for Crossing Guards and Records Positions


In addition to entry-level and lateral officer positions, HCPD is also hiring Crossing Guards for the 2023-2024 school year and has several openings in its Information Management Division for Administrative Support Techs.


Crossing Guard is a part-time, contingent, non-benefitted position, in which employees work 10 to 20 hours per week and earn $18 an hour. No experience is needed, and uniforms are provided. To apply, click HERE today. 


Finally, HCPD also has several Administrative Support Tech day shift and evening shift openings in its Information Management Division. Civilians in this role support critical functions of HCPD, including Uniform Crime Reporting, Validations, Criminal Summons and Warrants. 

Coffee with a Cop


HCPD will hosts its next Coffee with a Cop event next Thursday, October 12th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Little Market Café in Historic Ellicott City.

Come meet face-to-face with HCPD’s Community Outreach Officers to discuss issues, ask questions and build relationships one cup of coffee (or other beverage) at a time. This event is free and open to all!


For questions, contact HCPD's Community Outreach Division at 410-313-2207.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Let’s Shred It!


MARK YOUR CALENDARS Howard County, DPW’s Bureau of Environmental Services will host two document shredding events this October. The first event will take place Saturday, October 14th at our Department of Recreation & Parks' Gary J. Arthur Community Center in Cooksville, and the second on Saturday, October 28th at the Long Gate Park & Ride in Ellicott City. Both events will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (OR until the trucks are full), rain or shine. 


To learn more, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/documentshredding or for questions, call 410-313-6444.

Know Before You Dispose of Those Leaves


With autumn officially underway and the leaves getting ready to change colors, our Department of Public Works is reminding residents to keep the following in mind when dealing with those fallen leaves. 


Do not blow or rake leaves into the roadway in hope that they will be swept up by County street sweepers. Our sweepers are NOT designed to pick up leaves as large quantities of them will clog the sweeper's filters and result in the leaves being spread over a large area. Sweeper operators will in fact avoid areas of curb containing an excessive number of leaves.


Also, while Howard County crews work hard to maintain storm drains along more than 1,000 miles of County owned roadways, there are some simple approaches residents can take to help keep our storm drains free of debris to prevent roadway flooding and harmful nutrients from reaching the Chesapeake Bay:

  • Rake and collect your leaves in paper bags or reusable containers for yard trim curbside collection.
  • Mulch your leaves with your mower; they can help nourish your lawn.
  • Mix your leaves with grass clippings and vegetable refuse to make compost.
  • Participate in the Rake-and-Take program where “rakers” (residents who rake and bag leaves and grass) are matched with “takers” (people who want leaves and grass for composting).
  • When rain is in the forecast, check nearby storm drain grates and clear them of debris.


DFRS is also reminding residents the burning of leaves, trash, yard waste, refuse and building materials is NOT PERMITTED in Howard County. 

Bureau of Utilities 

Response to Low Levels of Cryptosporidium Found in Druid Lake Reservoir


On Thursday, September 28th, the County's Department of Public Works' Bureau of Utilities was alerted by Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) that during a routine test of its Druid Lake Reservoir, low levels of the microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium were discovered. Cryptosporidium is a microorganism commonly found in lakes and rivers, which can potentially cause gastrointestinal problems, including diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach pain, particularly in those who are immunocompromised or have a weakened immune system. People with healthy immune systems typically are not impacted or quickly recover from exposure without medical treatment. However, due to the low levels of Cryptosporidium that were found in the sample reported by Baltimore City DPW, Howard County Health Department, Baltimore City Health Department and the Maryland Department of Health all agree this is a very low-risk issue. 


While Baltimore City DPW originally reported that a small portion of eastern Howard County was impacted, because of the way the Bureau of Utilities stores and redistributes water once it is received from the City, out of an abundance of caution, county residents and businesses may see a larger impact than initially anticipated. To determine if you reside or your business is located in an area where your public water supply may potentially be affected, visit the County's INTERACTIVE MAP.


Additionally, until further notice, potable water will be available at the “water buffalo” stationed in the main parking lot of the County's Elkridge 50+ Center, this week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. County DPW staff will be on hand to assist if needed; however, residents are reminded you must bring their own containers to fill.


Finally, the Bureau of Utilities has isolated the Elkridge pumping station, which pulls from Druid Lake Reservoir, and continues to test the County's distribution stations to evaluate the levels of contamination in Howard County.


For the most up-to-date information regarding this matter, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/Cryptosporidium. 

Public Works Construction Report

Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.


Columbia

  • Berger Road/Gerwig Lane Intersection Multi-Way Traffic Stop – A stop sign has been added in each direction on Berger Road at the intersection of Berger Road and Gerwig Lane to create a multi-way traffic stop. Recent studies have shown that traffic volume continues to increase in this area, making the change necessary to improve safety for turning traffic at that intersection. Signs have been posted in the area to alert motorists of the reconfiguration.


Ellicott City

  • Patapsco Park Estates Stormwater Pond Repair (Capital Project D-1160 and D-1177) – Project to o repair and improve a stormwater management pond adjacent to 2041 Eliza Dorsey Lane The project is not expected to impact the flow of traffic. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by late February 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.

Department of Recreation and Parks

Come to the Encore Showcase 


Join Recreation & Parks as it celebrates Active Aging Week with its annual Encore Showcase tomorrow October 3rd from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Blandair Regional Park – North in Columbia. Come on out and enjoy a variety of free activities geared toward keeping your mind and body active! From mini fitness sessions to quick art projects, bocce, croquet, archery, giveaways and more, there is something for everyone. While preregistration is not required for this FREE event, it is recommended for event updates.


For questions about this event, contact Tessa Hurd at thurd@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-7311.

Fall Festival at North Laurel 


Get into the spirit of fall with Recreation & Parks this Saturday, October 7th at its Fall Festival from noon to 4:00 p.m. at its North Laurel Community Center. Come enjoy an afternoon full of music, games, entertainment, food trucks and more at this outdoor family-friendly event that offers something for everyone. The cost to participate is $5 per person age four and over. While preregistration is encouraged, it is not required as onsite registration will be available.


For event updates and additional info, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/fall-festival.

Cryptids Crawl at Robinson 


If you have ever been curious about cryptids, like Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster, I invite you to join our Recreation & Parks’ Robinson Nature Center on Saturday, October 21st for a nighttime walk through the woods from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. 


Cryptids are legendary creatures believed to exist, but have never been proven. Participants will hear the legends of cryptids around the world and learn how the dark can play tricks on the human eye, leaving you to determine what is fact and what is fiction.


Please note, this program is geared toward adults 18 years of age and older. The cost to participate is $15. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/mpcp23d5.  

What to Do When Schools are Closed

 

With a new school year underway, our Recreation & Parks team is here to offer its support to students and families when schools are closed. Whether its music, chess, basketball, volleyball, medical/surgical, Transportation STEM Club, cooking, science, KidzArt, Art with Pinot's Palette, Junior Sports, or Sports and Swim, there are plenty of activities and programs to choose from to keep your kids active when school is not in session. Click on the following dates to find out what fun activities Recreation & Parks has planned on Monday, October 9th and Friday, October 20th.

Office of Transportation

Bicycle Master Plan Public Meeting


Our Office of Transportation is proposing to implement the recommendations of the Howard County Bicycle Master Plan for bike lanes along Columbia Road from MD 108 to Little Patuxent Parkway. I invite you to join Transportation on Thursday, October 19th for a virtual meeting, starting at 6:00 p.m., to learn more about this project, ask questions and provide feedback. To register to attend this virtual meeting, click HERE.


After the meeting, the presentation and meeting materials will be posted online. Additionally, a brief feedback survey will be available on this site until Thursday, November 2nd.
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