Oakland Mills eNews

September 6, 2024

Oakland Mills Community Association

Important news & info about the community in which we live.

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Upcoming Events
CALL AHEAD or CHECK EMAILS and FACEBOOK to find out the status of meetings and events.

September 8, 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.

Jazz in the Mills: Lavenia Nesmith

September 10, 7:00 p.m.

OMCA Board Meeting

September 14, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

OMCA Shredding Event

September 17, 7:00 p.m.

Public Space Committee Meeting

September 17, 7:00 p.m.

Tenant Committee Meeting

September 19, 7:00 p.m.

RAC Meeting

September 24, 7:00 p.m.

OMCA Board Meeting

October 5, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

OM Fall Festival


October 25, 7:00 p.m.

Save the Date! Lively Arts: Chris Campbell

Contact Info
Contact Us!

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

oaklandmills.org

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!

theotherbarn.org
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.

Howard County Government Website

  • Covid-19 County Updates HERE
Howard County Council
Oakland Mills is located in Council District 2 and represented by Opel Jones. 
  • District 1 - Liz Walsh Website 
  • District 2 - Opel Jones Website 
  • District 3 - Christiana Mercer Rigby Website 
  • District 4 - Deb Jung Website 
  • District 5 - David Yungmann Website 
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 hOMto 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

Board News


Upcoming OMCA Board Meetings

For meeting agendas and past board meeting minutes, click HERE

 

To contact the OM Board click here.

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

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: September 17 (virtual)

OMCA Tenant Committee

For residents of Columbia Pointe, Autumn Crest, Forest Ridge, and The Verona. Next meeting: September 17 This meeting is hybrid, held at The Other Barn and online. If you'd like to register to attend online, click HERE.


OMCA Open Space Advisory Committee

For community members who are interested in the current and future use of CA's open space.

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: September 19


Info/list of applications will be posted three days in advance of the meeting HERE.


applications@oaklandmills.org

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

OMCA Village Board Committees Currently Seeking New Members

Are you a resident of Oakland Mills and looking to get more involved? Did you know that Oakland Mills has several Village Board sponsored committees that focus on particular interests of Oakland Mills. Please check out the information below and see if there is a committee that interests you. The committees are always welcoming new members.

 

EDUCATION - Jonathan Edelson, Chair

 

The Education Committee advocates for and assists our schools to ensure students attending schools in the Oakland Mills Cluster have top-quality educational opportunities in diverse, enriching settings. Meets in person on a quarterly basis or as needed at 6 p.m. at The Other Barn. Find out more about the Education Committee here.

 

HOUSING - Bill McCormack Jr., Chair

 

Advocates for a comprehensive, balanced housing policy for all of Howard County to ensure equitable distribution of housing options for residents of all backgrounds throughout the county. Meets in person on an as needed basis at The Other Barn. Find out more about the Housing Committee here.

 

OPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMITTEE - Bill McCormack Jr., Chair

 

The Oakland Mills (OM) Village Board formed a Public Space Advisory Committee (OM

PSAC) in 2013. The PSAC was initially established under the direction of Phil Engelke

in partial response to an unexpected cutback in Oakland Mills Open Space mowing by

the Columbia Association. The OM PSAC was to act as a working level interface

between the Columbia Association Open Space Management Division (CA OSMD), the

Oakland Mills Village Board and Oakland Mills residents on issues involving public

space and open space.


In the fall of 2017, the OM Open Space Advisory Committee (OSAC) was split-off from the

PSAC in order to concentrate on Open Space issues while the PSAC continues to

concentrate on Public Space within OM excluding Open Space.

 

Meets in person on an as needed basis at The Other Barn. Find out more about the OSAC here.

 

PUBLIC SPACE ADVISORY COMMITTEE - Warren Wortman, Chair

 

The Oakland Mills (OM) Village Board formed a Public Space Advisory Committee (OM

PSAC) in 2013. The PSAC was initially established under the direction of Phil Engelke

in partial response to an unexpected cutback in Oakland Mills Open Space mowing by

the Columbia Association. The OM PSAC was to act as a working level interface

between the Columbia Association Open Space Management Division (CA OSMD), the

Oakland Mills Village Board and Oakland Mills residents on issues involving public

space and open space.


In the fall of 2017, the OM Open Space Advisory Committee was split-off from the

PSAC in order to concentrate on Open Space issues while the PSAC continues to

concentrate on Public Space within OM excluding Open Space.

 

Meets in person on an as needed basis at various locations. Next meeting: September 17 at 7 p.m. Find out more about the PSAC here.

 

TENANT COMMITTEE - Paulette Pettiford-Thomas, Chair

 

The Tenant Committee is a newly formed committee that is currently working on their charter and objectives.

 

All residential tenants who rent in Oakland Mills and who attended the initial Oakland Mills Village Board Tenant Committee meeting on Wednesday, July 17 shall automatically be considered the initial cohort of Tenant Committee members. Any residential tenant who attends a future Tenant Committee meeting can be voted in as a new member by existing members present at a meeting.


Membership Powers:

Tenant Committee members shall have the right to vote on matters raised before the Committee, raise motions to bring decisions to a discussion and vote, speak during meetings when recognized by the Chair, and run and vote in annual Officer elections and to fill Officer vacancies when they occur.

 

Meets once a month in person at The Other Barn as well as over Zoom. Next meeting: September 17 at 7:00 p.m. at The Other Barn and on Zoom. (Register to attend virtually here.)

 

***


If you are interested in volunteering on a committee, please email Brigitta Warren, Village Manager, at manager@oaklandmills.org

New Laws for HOAs

Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment

This new legislation (HB159/SB465) modifies the state’s current electric vehicle charging station law to include certain requirements for electric bicycles and other motorized electric vehicles. The law also establishes owner’s insurance requirements. Under the law, charging station applications must be handled in the same manner as a community’s architectural modifications (generally a 60-day time limit for a board or architectural committee render a decision). Effective date: October 1, 2024

 

Asbestos Disclosure

In addition to long-standing disclosure requirements, under this law (HB143/SB46), a condominium seller must now also declare whether there is knowledge of asbestos in the unit and whether abatement actions have been performed during the occupancy of the owner. Effective date: October 1, 2024

Board Notes from Karin Emery, OM Columbia Council Rep

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.

June Newsletter
Board Notes Archives

Tree Giveaway

The Oakland Mills Community Association and Columbia Association are excited to announce that CA has given 40 trees to OMCA for our residents.


Trees MUST be reserved in advance and must be picked up during the distribution period. Click the button below for more info.

Find out more

OMCA Shredding Event

Free! For Oakland Mills Community Association residents only.

OM Fall Festival

OM Fall Festival

Lively Arts for Little Ones 2024-25 Season

Save the Dates for the 2024-25 Lively Arts for Little Ones concerts! Tickets for October 25 with Chris Campbell will be available soon. Check back on the Oakland Mills website for updates!

Jazz in the Mills Presents Lavenia Nesmith (SOLD OUT)

More Info

Oakland Mills Farmers Market

More Info

OMHS Food Pantry Donations

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.


We appreciate all of the community donations to the Oakland Mills Food Pantry. Please be sure to check all expiration dates on donations prior to bringing them to The Other Barn. The pantry cannot distribute expired items. Thank you.

Updates from the Howard County Health Department

Covid Update

On August 22, 2024, the FDA approved and authorized updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 season for individuals ages 6 months and older. The 2024–2025 COVID vaccines are expected to be available at pharmacies and doctor's offices this week. People with Medicare or private health insurance should visit vaccines.gov or contact their health provider or pharmacy to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

  • CDC recommends the updated 2024-2025 Covid-19 vaccines to protect against severe Covid-19 this fall and winter
  • CDC recommends everyone ages 6 months and older receive an updated 2024-2025 Covid-19 vaccine, whether or not they have ever previously been vaccinated with a Covid-19 vaccine
  • For children under the age of 3, contact your child's health care provider to find out if they will be offering the vaccine.
  • People with health insurance should get vaccine from their medical provider or at local pharmacies.
  • Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19-related hospitalization and death. Vaccination also reduces your chance of suffering the effects of Long COVID, which can develop during or following acute infection and last for an extended duration.

For questions your can contact HCHD's COVID-19 line at 410-313-6284.

 

Get tips for how to protect yourself, and your loved ones, from serious illness from COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses on the Health Department COVID-19 Prevention webpage and the CDC Respiratory Virus Prevention webpage.

 

COVID-19 Rapid Tests - HCHD has FREE rapid test kits available. Visit HCHD from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at the back of 8930 Stanford Blvd in Columbia. Individuals may pick up a total of 4 rapid test kits per day. You can also find kits and masks at most Howard County libraries and 50+ Centers. If you have any questions, please contact HCHD's COVID-19 line at 410-313-6284.


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.

Community Events & Opportunities
More Info

Sharing Grand Memories

September 9, 10:00 a.m.

Elkridge 50+ Center

6540 Washington Blvd, Elkridge

Free! Join the Howard County Office on Aging & Independence to honor grandparents and other special adults who are cherished “grand friends.” Share memories, have fun and show appreciation for theolder adults who make a difference in our lives. Register

Concerned about your child’s development? Howard County Early Intervention Services can help!

The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) will offer free developmental consultations for parents of children (birth to age 5) on:

  • September 17, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. / Elkridge Library, 6540 Washington Blvd., Elkridge 21075
  • October 24, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. / East Columbia Library, 6600 Cradlerock Way, Columbia 21045

To learn more about early intervention programs, visit the HCPSS website, call 410-313-7017 (voice.relay) or email: earlyinterventionservices@hcpss.org

MDOT CTP Tour Meeting with Howard County

September 18, 6:00 p.m.

Banneker Room, George Howard Building

3430 Court House Dr, Ellicott City

The Consolidated Transportation Program (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:

  • Maryland Aviation Administration
  • Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
  • Maryland State Highway Administration
  • Maryland Transit Administration
  • 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 September 3, 2024 and can be viewed HERE.

Navigating Howard County Housing Programs

Wednesday, September 18, 7:00 p.m.

Held Virtually

Whether you're looking to rent or find affordable housing, this FREE session will guide you through the available options, resources and support systems in Howard County. Learn about different types of housing options, financial assistance programs such as eviction prevention and foreclosure resources, and how to navigate the local housing market so you can make informed decisions. Register

Out of the Darkness Walk for Suicide Prevention

September 21, 10:00 a.m.

Onsite registration begins 9:00 a.m.

Azlon Plaza, Merriweather District

(Corner of Merriweather Drive & Valencia Lane)

No cost to register and participate but fundraising is encouraged if you are able. Info & Registration

Howard County Health and Wellness Fair

September 25, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Maryland Innovation Center

6751 Columbia Gateway Drive, Columbia

Free! Join the Howard County Economic Development Authority in collaboration with Princess Akeema Holistic Care and Revive Trinity for a vibrant celebration of health and wellness at the Health and Wellness Fair: Embracing Community and Collaboration! More info & tickets.

A Grand Day Out: Prepare to be Amazed!

October 3, 10:30 a.m.

Elkridge 50+ Center

6540 Washington Blvd, Elkridge

Enjoy a spellbinding experience with Magician Dave Thomen of D’s Magic! This fun-filled event is for grandparents and their primary-school age grandkids. This event is part of a series of intergenerational events planned on days off from school for Howard County Public School System students. Tickets $5. Register

Tom Benjamin and the Chalice Messengers

October 13, 6:00 p.m.

The Meeting House

5885 Oliver Place, Columbia

For three years, Dr. Tom Benjamin has entertained The Village in Howard members with creative sessions about music through his very popular LISTEN Series. Now Tom will share jazz and swing music with The Chalice Messengers at this special Fall Concert. 

Info & tickets

HCC Student Theatre Productions
Click HERE.
Howard Community College Concert Series
Click HERE.
St. Louis Church Concert Series
Click HERE.
Services & Volunteer Opportunities

School Crossing Guards Needed!

Become a school crossing guard! Position is part-time (10 to 20 hour per week). Minimum one full school year commitment required. Apply now!

Free Chromebook Distribution for Eligible Families

September 16, 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Department of Community Resources & Services

9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia

Info & Registration

Volunteer with the OMI Green Team!

Many opportunities available, including on the first and third Sundays. Email volunteeromigreenteam@gmail.com for more info.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

CAREAPP

Find services for food, health, housing, transportation, education, employment assistance, and more. Click HERE for info.

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.

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.
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.
More info: EnglishSpanish

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.

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.
Howard County Residents Assistance
Info on Covid-19 resources, food assistance, housing help, social services, and more. HERE
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.
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.
Childcare Scholarship Program
Fast Track Child Care Scholarship: Fast Track shortens the application process time to three business days for help with child care expenses, and includes 60 days of child care assistance while your application is processed, if you are eligible! Use the MSDE scholarship inquiry form to submit questions. Ready to get started? Contact Amber Eash, aeash@howardcountymd.gov, or Carla Lunn, clunn@howardcountymd.gov, Family Resource Specialists, for support to complete the application.  

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.

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.

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


Lakefront Live: Latin Dance Night

September 21, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Downtown Columbia Lakefront

10275 Wincopin Circle

Join CA at the Downtown Columbia Lakefront Stage for a special event — Latin Dance Night! This event will feature Latin-themed dancing and music to honor and celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. More info

Become a Weed Warrior!

CA is expanding its crew of Weed Warrior volunteers this fall. Email OpenSpace.ResourceRequests@ColumbiaAssociation.org to sign up for training on Saturday, September 21 (9:00 a.m. to noon). You'll "leaf" with new friends and know-how on invasive plant removal 🌿.

CA FY26 Budget

CA has kicked off engagement efforts around the annual budget, and the team wants to know what matters most to YOU! This is a great chance to provide your input around investments in our community. You can learn more about the budget process at ColumbiaAssociation.org/budget and participate in the first of three online surveys here.

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.

Living Next to Open Space


Columbia Association now has a brochure for those living near Open Space. Read more.

Visit CA's Open Space page for more information.

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.

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.


Other Resources/Info

COUNTY TAX CREDITS

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.

Howard County Bureau of Environmental Services


Composting Demonstrations

Held throughout the year at Howard County Library branches. Download the 2024 Schedule

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.
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. 
Visit OMO!
One CLICK opens the door to become engaged in a community-based, multi-generational social learning environment.

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.

Howard County Public Library


Visit the Howard County Public Library website to access virtual educational resources & events and more.

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.

Need help getting fast, reliable internet?

Visit Consumer Action's fact sheets to learn about discounted internet and phone service:

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