Dear Friends,

Last week, we cut the ribbon on both The Vision at Parkway and Legacy at Cedar Lane, two of the County's newest affordable housing developments in Columbia.

Howard County is consistently recognized as an exceptional place to live, work, play, grow, and raise a family. However, we know that many families are being priced out of calling Howard County home. That’s why we launched the Housing Opportunities Trust Fund (HOTF) in 2021, to help meet families where they are, to help them achieve their dream of homeownership.

Together, Legacy at Cedar Lane I/II and The Vision at Parkway will more than double the number of homes previously offered on these sites, delivering 205 new apartment homes in a high-opportunity area known for its strong schools, job access, healthcare, and parks. The redevelopments will provide long-term affordability for current residents while creating inclusive, sustainable, and accessible communities for the future. Both properties will have 100% visitable units and 5% built to UFAS standards, ensuring greater mobility for residents of all abilities.

As we reflect on Jim Rouse’s vision for Columbia, we are committed to building a community where every resident has access to a safe, secure, and affordable home. These two projects represent our profound commitment to creating welcoming and inclusive homes for the communities and the people we serve, while growing our futures, together.

Read more about these two new developments in the News Release.

Sincerely,

Caring For Those with Dementia, Together

This National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, we want our neighbors living with Alzheimer’s and their families to know that support is available here in our community. An estimated 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia in 2026, according to the Alzheimer's Association.

In March, we joined the Dementia Friendly America Network, building on the Age-Friendly Howard County initiative I launched in 2019. Our Office on Aging and Independence is bringing together community organizations, care providers, first responders and residents to strengthen education, coordination and support for people affected by dementia. The Alzheimer's Association Maryland Chapter is a key partner in this work.

Local resources include Memory Café gatherings for people experiencing early-stage memory loss and their care partners, support groups, and social day programs offering structured activities and respite for families. These programs create opportunities for our neighbors to remain connected and engaged.

Explore local resources at howardcountymd.gov/dementia.

Equipping Parents with Tools to Help Kids Navigate Peer Pressure

Helping our children navigate peer pressure begins with giving families practical tools. Guiding Good Choices is an evidence-based, interactive prevention program designed for parents and caregivers of children ages 9 to 14. HC DrugFree offers the series at no cost to Howard County parents, guardians and grandparents.

The impactful program helps families strengthen communication, set clear expectations about substance use and manage conflict constructively. Participants also learn how to help children respond to peer pressure and refuse drugs and alcohol while maintaining friendships. These skills support the program’s goal of strengthening family bonds and reducing the risk of youth substance use.

As an educator and parent, I value programs that help adults put these conversations into practice at home. I appreciate our Health Department, HC DrugFree and our community partners for helping families build the knowledge and confidence to guide their children through these important years.

For information about Guiding Good Choices and future workshop opportunities, contact our Health Department’s Bureau of Behavioral Health at 410-313-6202.

Learn more: Howard County Substance Use Education Awareness webpage.

It Takes a Village

During National Family Caregivers Month, please join me in thanking our neighbors who help loved ones manage appointments, prepare meals, navigate services and receive daily care. Many do this while also raising children, working and managing their own health needs.

A 2025 report from AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving estimates that 63 million American adults, nearly one in four, provide ongoing care to someone with a medical condition or disability. Their contributions deserve recognition and practical support.

Our Office on Aging and Independence connects caregivers with support groups, information and education. Through Trualta, caregivers can access free online learning at any hour. Eligible caregivers may also receive assistance with respite services, personal care or needed items through our Family Caregiver Support Program.

We can support caregivers in our own lives by offering specific help, such as preparing a meal, providing transportation or making time to listen.

To our family caregivers, thank you for your compassionate care.

Explore resources: howardcountymd.gov/caregivers.

TARDIS Moved to North Laurel Community Center

Allons-y! Our #HoCoTARDIS has regenerated at North Laurel Community Center! Visit our traveling Little Free Library at 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road in Laurel to take a book, share a book and enjoy a little adventure.

Inspired by the iconic blue box from Doctor Who and built by our Department of Recreation & Parks, the #HoCoTARDIS first appeared at Tiber Park in Historic Ellicott City in November 2025. It later traveled to Rockburn Branch Park in Elkridge before making its latest landing in North Laurel.

This move also marks 60 years since Doctor Who’s first regeneration, when William Hartnell’s First Doctor transformed into Patrick Troughton’s Second Doctor. Our blue box continues its own journey, bringing books and imagination to different corners of our community.

As an educator, I appreciate the simple but powerful idea behind Little Free Libraries: “Take a book, share a book.” With nearly 50 Little Free Libraries throughout our county, neighbors have more opportunities to discover a story and pass a favorite along.

Thank you to our Recreation & Parks team for keeping this literary adventure moving. Whether you are a longtime Whovian or simply looking for your next read, stop by North Laurel and see what stories await! Always be kind, The Doctor.

Celebrating the History of Native Americans

November is Native American Heritage Month, an opportunity to celebrate the histories, living cultures and continuing contributions of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples. We honor the Native educators, artists, entrepreneurs, veterans and community leaders whose work enriches our communities.

Here in Maryland, our state-recognized tribes include the Piscataway Indian Nation, Piscataway Conoy Tribe and Accohannock Indian Tribe. Our state is also home to Native people from many other tribal nations, each with distinct histories, traditions and experiences.

As an educator, I encourage our families to make learning part of this observance. Read books by Native authors, explore the history of Maryland’s tribal communities and seek opportunities to hear directly from Native people about their lives and priorities.

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian offers Native Knowledge 360°, with lessons, artist spotlights and educational resources for students, educators and families. These resources can help us deepen our understanding throughout the year.

Explore: https://americanindian.si.edu/nk360.

Peers Helping Peers Navigate Adolescence

As we close National Bullying Prevention Month, we are highlighting the students helping build stronger connections in our schools. Through Sources of Strength, young people encourage their peers to seek help and connect with trusted adults.

Through a powerful partnership between our Howard County Health Department and Howard County Public School System, we launched Sources of Strength chapters at Guilford Park High School and Howard High School in 2024. More than 300 peer leaders have been trained across these schools.

Sources of Strength is a peer leadership and suicide prevention program that brings students and adult advisors together to share messages of hope, help and strength. Its approach also supports bullying prevention by encouraging help-seeking and positive relationships with trusted adults.

Making a Difference in Young People's Lives

We launched HoCo STRIVES (Strategies To Reach an Inclusive Vision and Equitable Solutions) in 2018 to provide educational and behavioral health services for children and youth across Howard County. STRIVES programming focuses heavily on skills development for youth of all ages. Mentorship is a critical way in which youth can develop the necessary skills to succeed in school and chart a path toward meaningful higher education and employment opportunities.

In 2025, we launched our first mentoring program for girls, and just this past summer, we expanded the program to include boys. Over the past two years, over 110 young girls have participated in STRIVES’ mentoring programs with 80% showing growth in social and emotional skills development. To date in 2026, 80 young boys have participated in mentorship program, with 75% thus far showing growth in skills development.

Another Pathway to Recovery

Public safety and access to treatment can work together. Howard County’s Recovery Court and Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program connect eligible individuals with support to address substance use and related challenges.

Recovery Court offers closely monitored, long-term substance use treatment as an alternative to traditional incarceration for eligible participants. More than 300 people have completed the program since its inception. That total reflects the Court’s longstanding work, including years before 2019.

We launched Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion, or LEAD, in October 2021 through a partnership that includes our Howard County State's Attorney's Office, Howard County Police Department, Howard County Health Department and other agencies. Since its launch, the program has helped more than 60 people avoid incarceration by connecting them with services such as substance use treatment, behavioral health care and employment training.

LEAD has also helped more than 70 people obtain essential Department of Social Services and Medicaid benefits. Those connections can address practical needs alongside treatment and recovery.

Learn more about local treatment resources: howardcountymd.gov/health/behavioral-health.

New Opportunities Bloom

Our Old Montgomery Road Community Garden is ready to welcome gardeners! As our fourth and newest community garden site and first outside Columbia, it gives more neighbors a place to grow fresh food, herbs and flowers while cultivating friendships. With 25 ADA-accessible plots and opportunities through our Therapeutic Recreation programs, this garden also expands access for residents with disabilities. Take a look at this welcoming space where our community can plant, learn and grow together!

Major Progress Underway for Pre-K Center

Our impactful Faulkner Ridge Early Learning Center is taking shape! Construction remains on schedule for anticipated completion in August 2027, ahead of the 2027–2028 school year. Once complete, Howard County’s first regional pre-K center will provide 260 full-day pre-kindergarten seats for our youngest learners.

Crews have completed interior demolition and underground plumbing installation. Inside, new walls are going up as teams install ductwork and the mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems within the walls. Outside, stormwater and sewer utility installation is underway.

In 2023, we directed $22 million in State pass-through funding toward renovating Faulkner Ridge. We also committed $7 million in County funding, bringing this impactful investment to $29 million. Together, these resources are transforming a building that has been vacant since 2011 into a transformational early learning center.

As an educator and parent, I know how much those first learning experiences matter. These 260 seats will help more children build their skills, confidence and readiness for kindergarten as we expand access to pre-K.

Thank you to Superintendent Bill Barnes and our school system, our Board of Education, construction teams, Governor Wes Moore, Senator Guy Guzzone, former Delegate Vanessa Atterbeary and our State Delegation, as well as the County Council for helping make this powerful partnership possible.

Learn more: howardcountymd.gov/News080526.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered

I signed the deed officially transferring approximately 48.6 acres at Troy Park from our County government to our school system for the future High School 14 in Elkridge. Alongside Superintendent Bill Barnes and our Chief Administrative Officer Brandee Ganz, we marked an important milestone toward bringing a new high school to our Elkridge community.

This progress reflects years of work with our residents. I convened the High School 14 Task Force in December 2018, and we identified Troy Park as our preferred location in 2020 following environmental assessments and a review of alternative sites. Using County-owned property helps limit acquisition costs while providing a school site within Elkridge.

To make the transfer possible, we acquired Camp Ilchester, properties on Old Washington Road for our Elkridge Community and 50+ Center, and the Lawyers Hill parcel. These acquisitions allowed us to meet the State’s Program Open Space land replacement requirements. Our County Council unanimously approved the legislation I submitted authorizing the Troy Park transfer.

Thank you to Superintendent Barnes, CAO Ganz, our Board of Education and County Council, and the County and school system teams who helped bring this work forward. To our Elkridge neighbors who have advocated for a local high school for decades, thank you for your persistence. Your voices have helped us reach this important step for our students and families. 

Encouraging Our Next Generation of Leaders

I returned to my alma mater, Morgan State University, to speak with students at the 19th annual HBCU Career Development Marketplace about my journey in public service and preparing for opportunities after graduation. As a second-generation Morgan Man and educator, I appreciated the opportunity to encourage our next generation of leaders.

This free, three-day conference brings together hundreds of students from more than 30 historically Black colleges and universities across 14 states, including Maryland. Over its history, the program has helped more than 5,000 HBCU graduates strengthen their leadership and professional skills.

The Marketplace connects students with employers, experienced professionals and fellow HBCU scholars through workshops, networking and career conversations. Scheduled 20-minute employer sessions give students opportunities to discuss their interests and qualifications directly with recruiters. An oral competition also challenges students to prepare and deliver presentations on current events, putting their communication and teamwork skills into practice.

Founder Tariq Shane created the Marketplace after seeing fellow HBCU graduates struggle to find employment. His commitment to connecting students with employers has helped build a program focused on preparation and access.

Thank you to Tariq, the organizing team, Morgan State University, participating employers and career advisors for investing in these students. To our scholars, keep asking questions, seeking mentors and building the relationships that can help you turn your education into opportunity.

To learn more, check out HBCU's Career Development Marketplace Inc. Annual Conference webpage.

Protect Your Passwords

As we wrapped up National Cybersecurity Awareness Month last week, I continue to encourage our neighbors to take a few minutes to strengthen the passwords protecting their personal information.

Use a different password for every account. Choose long, random passwords or passphrases made from unrelated words, and avoid predictable details such as birthdays or pet names. A reputable password manager can generate and securely store unique passwords so you don’t have to remember them all.

Turn on multi-factor authentication wherever available, including for your email, banking and social media accounts. This adds protection even if someone obtains your password. Never share verification codes or approve a login request you did not initiate.

If you learn that a password has been exposed in a breach, change it promptly, along with any other accounts where you reused it. Strong, unique passwords and additional account protection can help keep our families and businesses safer online.

Investing in Our First Responders 

While we have wrapped up another National Fire Prevention Month, we continue to strengthen our Department of Fire and Rescue Services through additional staffing, new station investments and opportunities to train future first responders. During my administration, we have added 98 authorized positions to help our department serve our growing community.

We have appropriated more than $18.8 million through Fiscal Year 2027 to advance Fire Station 15 along Route 108, adjacent to our school system’s Career & Technical Education Center and Homewood Campus. The planned station will include two EMT classrooms, allowing the school system’s EMT program to expand from one class to two. Students will have more opportunities to learn emergency medical skills and explore careers in public safety.

Our approved FY2027 budget also includes $4.5 million for land acquisition for Fire Station 16 in western Ellicott City, advancing another important investment in emergency response capacity.

As an educator, I especially value Station 15’s powerful partnership between public safety and career education. Thank you to Chief Louis Winston, our career and volunteer personnel, and our school system partners for helping prepare both our department and our students for the future. 

Celebration of Sports

We celebrated our 22nd annual Celebration of Sports, recognizing the athletes, coaches, officials, administrators and volunteers who help our community thrive through sports. Congratulations to our GoodSports Award recipients and this year’s Community Sports Hall of Fame inductee!

I am humbled and honored to have received a GoodSport Award recognizing my longstanding advocacy and support for our Howard County Recreation and Parks sports programs, the participants, and families. Our impactful investments in athletic fields, facilities and recreational amenities help more residents participate in sports. I share this honor with our County team and community partners who help make those opportunities possible.

What began as an afternoon picnic has grown into an evening celebration bringing together the people, organizations and businesses supporting youth and adult athletics throughout our community. Our Recreation & Parks team sustains those opportunities through leagues, tournaments, clinics, coaching education and field development.

This year’s program also featured a video keynote from former U.S. Women’s National Team soccer player Joanna Lohman, whose career and advocacy emphasize courage, fairness and resilience.

Thank you to Recreation & Parks Director Nick Mooneyhan, Matt Knoerlein, Mike Blevins, the Hall of Fame Selection Committee and everyone who helped organize this celebration. To my fellow honorees, thank you for the lasting difference you make for our athletes and families.

Forty Years of Impact

I celebrated 40 years of Leadership Greater Washington at its 2026 Celebration of Leadership, connecting with leaders from across Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. More than 700 leaders from business, government, nonprofit and civic organizations came together to recognize service and strengthen relationships across our region.

Congratulations to Mayor Bowser, this year’s “Leader of the Years” honoree! A graduate of LGW’s Signature Program Class of 2013, Mayor Bowser was recognized for her longstanding commitment to Washington, D.C., and her leadership throughout three terms in office.

Mayor Bowser is the first African American woman elected to three four-year terms as mayor of an American city. Her work has included investments in affordable housing, support for small businesses and expanded summer employment opportunities for young people. I appreciate her dedication to public service and the families who call our region home.

Founded in 1986 through a partnership among the Greater Washington Board of Trade, Meyer Foundation, Junior League of Washington and civic leaders, LGW helps people work together across sectors and jurisdictions. Through its Signature Program, Youth Leadership Greater Washington and Rising Leaders, the organization has supported more than 3,400 leaders, young professionals and students across D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

Our work on transportation, housing and economic opportunity benefits from strong regional relationships. I appreciated this opportunity to connect with people bringing different experiences and perspectives to those shared challenges.

Thank you to LGW Board Chair and Greater Washington Partnership CEO Kathy Hollinger, LGW President and CEO Doug Duncan, celebration co-chairs Montez Anderson and Fred Hill, and the staff, volunteers and partners behind this milestone celebration.

United We STAND

We launched HoCo STRIVES (Strategies To Reach an Inclusive Vision and Equitable Solutions) in 2018 to provide educational and behavioral health services for children and youth across Howard County, addressing the county's persistent academic achievement gap by removing barriers to student success through a cross-sector network of partners.

In Summer 2021, we launched our first youth workforce program through HoCo STRIVES called United We STAND, providing young people ages 16–20 who are at risk of entering the criminal justice system with job readiness training. The program provides youth with valuable exposure to workforce expectations, professional development, and career exploration.

Through structured employment experiences and mentorship opportunities, participants had opportunities to strengthen accountability, and workplace readiness skills. These experiences supported the development of foundational competencies essential for future employment and economic independence.

Through 2026, more than 120 youth have completed the program, transforming the trajectory of their lives and embracing an even safer community for all. And with every passing year, participant success is growing. Youth attendance has grown from 80% in the program’s first year up to 94% for the most recent cohort. And in the program’s first year, just 1/3rd of participants obtained employment. That rate is now up to 80% for the most recent program graduates.

Launching Phase Two

Phase Two of our impactful Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) pilot adds a new tool for long-term stability. This program is administered through a powerful partnership with the Community Action Council of Howard County (CAC). Each month, participating families receive $500 in direct support, while another $500 a month goes into a savings account through CAC’s partnership with SECU, a nonprofit financial institution.

At the same time, participants receive financial education from Touch Stones Financial Wellness Services, providing them with the tools and knowledge to better achieve economic self-sufficiency. Results from Phase One show the impact: nearly 80% of families have already been able to pay down debt and stay current on rent, and nearly half used the assistance to improve their employment. Through our transformational GBI pilot program, families report less financial stress, more time together, and a shift from managing crises to proactively planning for the future.

Welcome Back

I welcomed PlanHoward Academy graduates to our first alumni networking event, reconnecting with residents who have invested their time in understanding how our community grows. Organized by our Department of Planning and Zoning, the gathering gave graduates an opportunity to build relationships and learn more about the County agencies involved in land development.

Since 2019, ten Academy classes have engaged more than 350 residents, including over 150 homeowners association members and more than 30 board or commission members. These participants bring that knowledge back to their neighborhoods, helping others understand how and when to participate in planning decisions.

The free, five-week course combines instruction from planners and legal experts with hands-on exercises. Through a new partnership with Howard Community College, participants in the Fall 2026 class could also earn Continuing Education Units.

The alumni program included a panel facilitated by Kristin O’Connor, featuring Kelly Cimino from our Department of Housing and Community Development, Zack Hollenbeck from our Department of General Services, and David Cookson from our Office of Transportation. Topics connected planning with affordable housing, community facilities and safer transportation options.

Thank you to Lynda Eisenberg, Kristin and our Planning and Zoning team for organizing this opportunity, and to Howard Community College and the Maryland Innovation Center for supporting the Academy. To our alumni, thank you for continuing to ask questions, share your knowledge and help your neighbors make their voices heard.

Family-Supporting Jobs

I attended the Baltimore Metropolitan Council’s (BMC) Family-Supporting Jobs Report event to learn more about career opportunities that can help our neighbors support their families without requiring a four-year degree.

BMC’s 2026 report projects 249,384 family-supporting job openings across our region between 2024 and 2034. These include new positions and openings created as workers leave or change occupations. The report uses an hourly wage benchmark of $25.96 to identify occupations that can help working adults meet their families’ needs.

Here in our community, the report projects approximately 29,700 family-supporting job openings during that period. Nearly 65% have a typical entry-level education requirement of a high school diploma, although additional training, credentials or experience may be needed. High-demand occupations include truck drivers, sales representatives and office supervisors.

As an educator, I value information that helps residents understand their options and connect education and training with employment opportunities. These findings can help our workforce partners and employers align training with the skills our regional economy needs.

Thank you to BMC Executive Director Michael B. Kelly, report authors Kate Cole and Matt Hancock, and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, whose support helped make this research possible.

To explore the findings, visit BMC’s “Family-Supporting Jobs Report” webpage.

Harvest of Hope

I visited Meadowbrook Athletic Complex to support the Harvest of Hope Food Drive, a powerful partnership between our Board of Elections and the Community Action Council of Howard County benefiting our Howard County Food Bank. This effort gives residents another opportunity to help neighbors experiencing food insecurity while visiting our early voting centers.

For the first time, the Board of Elections is collecting donations throughout all eight days of early voting. Collection bins at our five early voting locations accept nonperishable food and personal hygiene items, including shampoo and soap. Early donations filled some of the 40-gallon bins quickly enough to require additional pickups.

The need for this support continues to grow. CAC reports that daily shoppers at our Food Bank have increased 57% since 2020. Every donation helps replenish supplies that our neighbors rely on.

Thank you to Board of Elections Director Guy Mickley, Erin Ferguson, Priya Yadav, CAC President Tracy Broccolino, their teams and everyone contributing to this community effort.

To learn more, check out the State of Maryland’s local Board of Elections “Voter Outreach” website.

Relieving Capacity Issues

Our $15 million commitment to Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center is helping expand hospital capacity and address emergency department wait times for our community.

As The Baltimore Sun reports, the hospital has unveiled its new 29-bed observation unit, which is expected to begin serving patients in December. The unit will provide a dedicated setting for patients who need short-term care and monitoring, helping free emergency department space for the next person who needs treatment.

With the hospital’s inpatient units operating at 95% occupancy or higher, this additional capacity is an important step toward helping patients receive care more efficiently. Private rooms and specialized isolation rooms will also support patients with different care needs.

Every investment in our healthcare system must come back to the people it serves: our neighbors waiting for answers, families concerned about a loved one, and healthcare professionals working to provide compassionate care. 

Read more by checking out The Baltimore Sun’s news article, “Howard County hospital unveils new unit aimed at relieving capacity issues”, online.

National First Responders Day

On October 28th, National First Responders Day, we thanked our first responders who valiantly help to ensure we are safe and feel safe in Howard County. Their knowledge, courage and compassionate care help our neighbors through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

From the dispatcher who guides a caller through an emergency to the responders providing care at the scene, each person plays an essential role. I appreciate our career and volunteer personnel for the preparation, teamwork and judgment they bring to every call.

Supporting those who protect us also means providing resources for their work. Our approved Fiscal Year 2027 budget includes $172.1 million for our Howard County Police Department and $168.9 million for our Department of Fire and Rescue Services, supporting staffing, equipment and emergency response throughout our community.

To our first responders, thank you for your dedicated service. To your families, thank you for the support you provide through long shifts, missed celebrations and the demands that come with this work. We are grateful for all you do to keep our community safe.

FREE Financial Counseling

A stronger financial future starts here.

Whether you want to pay down debt, improve your credit score, build savings, or find safe, affordable banking options, the Howard County Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) offers personalized support to help you take the next step.

Through the FEC, you can access free, one-on-one financial counseling to help you take control of your finances and find the tools and resources to build financial stability.

Learn more about the FEC and get started today by visiting our Office of Consumer Protection’s “Howard County Financial Empowerment Center” website.

Love My Skin

I enjoyed visiting Dream Body Sculpting in Jessup and meeting owner Ann Miller, another Howard County entrepreneur and small business owner. This business is located at Love My Skin, operated by Shannon.

Located at 8610 Washington Boulevard, Suite 107, Dream Body Sculpting offers personalized body sculpting services, including non-invasive body contouring and radiofrequency skin tightening. Clients can explore services and consultation options through the business’s website.

Behind every small business is an entrepreneur investing time, talent, and hard work into their vision. We are proud to celebrate the people who bring a wide range of services to Howard County.

Thank you, Ann, for welcoming us to Dream Body Sculpting. We wish you continued success!

Learn more by visiting Ann Miller’s Dream Body Sculpting website.

JustServe

Howard County is now the first designated JustServe County east of the Rocky Mountains! I was honored to receive the JustServe County award from our local JustServe representatives, recognizing our community’s commitment to volunteerism and the partnerships that bring neighbors together to serve.

This past June, I proclaimed June 13, 2026, “JustServe Day” in Howard County. This designation builds on that commitment by encouraging more residents and organizations to make service a part of everyday life.

Through JustServe’s free website and app, residents of every background and belief can search for local volunteer projects by cause, date, or location and find opportunities to serve individually or with a family, group, or team. Nonprofits, schools, faith groups, and government agencies can post opportunities, manage sign-ups, and track volunteer hours at no cost.

Volunteering builds friendships, strengthens our understanding of one another, and helps our neighbors feel supported. Thank you to our volunteers, community partners, and local JustServe team for helping build a culture of service throughout Howard County.

Find your next opportunity to make a difference by visiting JustServe’s website.

Celebration of the Arts

I celebrated our local arts community at the reception for the Howard County Arts Council’s 29th annual Celebration of the Arts at Howard Community College. This signature fundraiser supports grants, scholarships and educational programs that help residents of all ages experience and participate in the arts.

Congratulations to this year’s Howie Award honorees for their contributions as artists, educators and supporters of the arts. The celebration also showcased emerging talent through the Rising Star Performing Arts Competition, with local finalists competing for an audience-selected $5,000 award.

We have supported this work with impactful investments. Our Fiscal Year 2027 budget includes approximately $1.404 million for the Arts Council’s operations and programs, including grants to local arts organizations. Our $20 million renovation of the historic courthouse created the Capitoline Center, the Arts Council’s new home, providing space to expand programming. We also invested $1.5 million to launch Arts for All, bringing public art to County-owned properties.

Thank you to Arts Council Executive Director Coleen West, Board President Andrea Magers, Honorary Chair Christa Kerrigan, our HCC partners, and the artists, volunteers and sponsors who made this celebration possible.

Explore Arts Council programs and opportunities by visiting the Howard County Arts Council’s website.

National Navy Day

On National Navy Day, we honored the Sailors who serve our nation, our U.S. Navy veterans and the families who support them. I am grateful for your dedication, the sacrifices that come with military service and the leadership you continue bringing to our community.

Observed on October 27 since 1922, Navy Day recognizes naval service and falls on the birthday of President Theodore Roosevelt, a former Assistant Secretary of the Navy and advocate for a strong naval force.

More than 20,000 veterans and active-duty service members across all military branches call our community home. Our Office of Veterans and Military Families helps residents navigate available resources, including housing assistance, caregiver support, childcare options and connections to benefits guidance. Veterans, military families, dependents and survivors can contact the office at 410-313-0821.

To our Navy community, thank you for your service and for the many ways you continue serving our neighbors.

Explore local resources by visiting our Office of Veterans and Military Families website.

Your Voice Matters

We returned to my alma mater, Morgan State University, to participate in the Teen Legislative Summit: Your Voice Matters, hosted by the Baltimore Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. The Summit brought teens from chapters across Maryland together to explore public service and how they can influence decisions affecting their communities.

On the Legislative Panel, I joined former Maryland Senator Jill P. Carter and Baltimore City Council Vice President Sharon Green Middleton for a conversation moderated by Jeff Johnson. We discussed leadership, advocacy and ways young people can engage with elected officials before they are eligible to vote.

The Summit also included workshops exploring artificial intelligence, college access, social media, arts and culture, and the legislative process, along with a message from Governor Wes Moore. These opportunities connected issues that matter to teens with practical ways to participate in policymaking.

Thank you to Tanika Davis, the Baltimore Chapter’s Summit committee, our fellow panelists and moderator Jeff Johnson for creating this opportunity. As an educator, I appreciate the chance to speak directly with young people from around Maryland about their interests and the responsibilities of public service.

Cyber Capital of the World

Howard County is now the Cyber Capital of the world! Our cybersecurity companies are securing new contracts and attracting investment! Technical.ly reports that local cyber companies have landed four venture capital deals totaling nearly $50 million so far in 2026.

We are helping entrepreneurs build on that momentum through our Cyber Howard Accelerator, which we launched in 2025 with our Howard County Economic Development Authority and the Technology Advancement Center. The 12-week program connects early-stage cybersecurity companies with experienced mentors, technical resources and potential investors to help them refine their products and prepare for growth.

The program is also attracting entrepreneurs from beyond Maryland. Cipher founder Andrew DeFeo traveled from Philadelphia to participate and won his cohort’s pitch competition. Other participants, including TandT LLC founder Ijena Aluko, are building relationships and exploring opportunities in both government contracting and commercial markets.

As Evergreen Advisors President Shelley Lombardo told Technical.ly, our community is standing out by “pulling and connecting the people and the companies together.”

Check out Technical.ly’s online article, “Federal awards and a VC rebound spark momentum for Howard County cybersecurity”, to learn more.

Got Flags?

Girls flag football is creating new opportunities for our scholar-athletes! My team and I met with the Baltimore Ravens in 2024, then worked with Howard County Public School System and our County Department of Recreation & Parks to help launch the league in 2025. As a girl dad, I’m excited to see this powerful partnership give more young women the chance to compete, build confidence and develop leadership skills on and off the field.

Part of a Broader Solution to Ease Emergency Department Bottlenecks

Our $15 million investment in Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center is helping create more space for patients and address emergency department delays. As WMAR-2 News Baltimore reports, the hospital’s new 29-bed Observation Unit is scheduled to begin serving patients on December 1.

I committed this funding across three County budgets, with support from our County Council, covering more than half of this transformational $28 million project. This is our only hospital’s first significant bed expansion since 2009 and has been needed for several years. Chief Operating Officer Ryan Brown credited our contribution with accelerating the project and helping attract additional donor support.

We are seeing many challenges with ER wait times around our state and nation. With inpatient rooms operating at nearly 95 percent capacity daily, patients can face delays while waiting for an appropriate care space. The Observation Unit will provide dedicated space for emergency department patients who need short-term, specialized monitoring, helping free emergency department capacity for others.

Hospital staff helped shape the design, including nursing workspaces with windows that allow patient checks without repeatedly entering rooms and disturbing rest. Eleven rooms can also be converted for rapid respiratory isolation.

Check out WMAR-2 News’ story, “Howard County Medical Center opening 29-bed observation unit in December,” online to read more.

Office of Agriculture

New & Beginning Farmers Program Applications Now Being Accepted

Our Office of Agriculture (OoA) is now accepting applications for its 2027 New & Beginning Farmer (NBF) Program at the County’s H. Mitchell "Mickey" Day NBF Complex in West Friendship. 

Launched in 2025, the County’s NBF Program aims to support aspiring farmers as they build profitable and sustainable farm businesses in Howard County. Designed to address some of the biggest barriers facing new farmers, including access to affordable land, equipment, infrastructure, and technical knowledge, the program provides participants with:

• Access to farmland;
• Shared equipment and a shard greenhouse;
• Hands-on production experience; and 
• Business development support. 

For its 2027 NBF Program application, interested applicants will have the option to choose from two program pathways, the New & Beginning Farmer Direct Pathway OR the Emerging Farmer Pathway. The New & Beginning Farmer Direct Pathway is geared towards beginning farmers who already have some hands-on farming experience, such as completing a farmer training course or working on a farm for a period of time. Direct Pathway participants will receive their own plot and operate their own farm businesses while receiving mentorship, education, and access to resources designed to help them strengthen their skills and grow their businesses. Whereas, the Emerging Farmer Pathway is geared towards individuals who require additional hands-on experience before taking on a plot of their own. This pathway provides participants with apprentice training with a current farmer in the program, learning opportunities at OoA’s Teaching & Learning Farm, and mentorship. Emerging Pathway participants will gain the skills, confidence, and experience needed to establish and grow their own farm business and, once complete, will be able to transition into the New & Beginning Farmer Direct Pathway and obtain a plot of their own.

To learn more about this program and/or to apply, visit OoA's “2027 Howard County Office of Agriculture New and Beginning Farmer Program” SurveyMonkey webpage. The deadline to apply is Monday, December 21st; all approved applicants will be notified of their acceptance in January 2027.

For questions about the NBF program and/or to request a hard-copy application, email OoA at OfficeofAg@howardcountymd.gov with "Farm 2027" in the subject line.

Department of Community Resources and Services

Addressing the Challenges of Co-Parenting During the Holidays

Our Department of Community Resources and Service’s (DCRS) Office of Children and Families (OCF) supports Howard County families with opportunities to learn, grow and thrive through their family workshops, local resources, events, educational programs, and more all year long. This November, OCF addresses the challenges of co-parenting during the holidays to reduce stress.

For instance, this Wednesday, November 4th at 7:00 p.m., OCF’s virtual “Building Parenting Plans to Create Calm During the Holidays” workshop will help co-parents create a plan to reduce stress and keep everyone on the same page during the busy holiday season. Led by divorce and co-parenting mediator, coach, and attorney Allison McFadden, participants will learn practical strategies to create a co-parenting plan that covers daily routines and creates clarity to minimize conflict. To sign-up to participate in this workshop, the County’s Active Network “Building Parenting Plans to Create Calm During the Holidays” registration webpage.

Additionally, next Wednesday, November 11th, OCF’s “Co-Parenting Through Conflict: Putting Your Child First” virtual workshop at 1:00 p.m., will teach participants practical strategies to manage anger, reduce stress, and build a healthier, child-focused relationship. Presented by Risa Garon, Gina DeLeonardis, and Cortland Jones of the National Family Resiliency Center, these experienced professionals will help families navigate challenging transitions. To sign-up to participate in this workshop, the County’s Active Network “Co-Parenting Through Conflict” registration webpage.

To learn more about the latest happenings, workshops, activities, and programs for children and families being offered by OCF each month, visit its Parent Pages Sign-Up website to subscribe to its latest Parent Pages online newsletter. In addition to its Parents Pages, OCF’s “Parent’s Guide to Howard County” for 2026 is also a great resource for parents, caregivers, and others looking to learn more about and find services in our community to help children grow and thrive.

If you need individual assistance, such as finding childcare, guidance with parenting issues, mental and emotional health support, special needs resources, food access, housing, and more, contact OCF’s free CARE line at 410-313-CARE (2273) to learn more about what’s available.

Learn How Care Connects Us

Every November during National Family Caregivers Month, we celebrate and recognize family caregivers across the country and here in Howard County, as we wholeheartedly believe that every caregiver deserves to feel seen, supported, and a little less alone. 

To assist and support our Howard County caregivers, DCRS’s Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) not only links caregivers with trusted resources and information through Maryland Access Point, but also offers support groups to connect caregivers with those who may be facing similar challenges. In addition, OAI has also teamed up with Trualta to provide residents with FREE 24/7 access to this mobile (Apple Store or Google Play) and web-based learning library application to help caregivers learn new skills, find support, and feel more connected. If you are looking to join a community of caregivers and experts who offer practical advice, compassion, and encouragement to help you provide the best care, I encourage you to visit OAl’s Trualta registration website to join for free today.

Operation Green Light

In honor of Veterans Day and the more than 20,000 veterans and military families who call Howard County home, DCRS's Office of Veterans and Military Families (OVMF) and I encourage you to light your home, business, and/or building green this Wednesday, November 4th through Wednesday, November 11th in support of Operation Green Light. As the proud son of a Vietnam-era Veteran and the grandson of a World War II Veteran, I know firsthand the courage, commitment, and sacrifice it takes to serve our country.

In tribute to our veterans, the County's George Howard Building will be joining our fellow counties by shining green to symbolize our gratitude and support for all who have worn our nation’s uniform. Together, let’s show our veterans and military families that they are seen, appreciated, and supported.

Celebrate Howard County Veterans and Honor their Service

Join DCRS’s OVMF and the Howard County Veterans Foundation this Sunday, November 8th as we honor the dedication and service of our county’s veterans with the 12th annual Howard County Veterans Parade & Celebration. The parade will kick off at 9:30 a.m. in downtown Columbia and is a great way to pay our respects and recognize the more than 20,0000 local veterans and their families that call our community home.

This year’s parade grand marshal is retired Col. Andrew I. Wolkstein. Commander of the 167th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron with the West Virginia Air National Guard, Wolkstein led an Air National Guard unit that provides in-flight nursing care. He served as a nurse for 40 years, including 11 years in civilian clinical nursing roles before joining the Air National Guard in 1983. His expertise includes emergency nursing, flight nursing, hospital and nursing administration, and materials management.

The Howard County Veterans Foundation bestows the grand marshal title on individuals who represent the values and morals of the Howard County community of veterans and military families. This year, organizers recognized a “citizen soldier,” a service member with the National Guard or Reserves.

To learn more about this year’s Howard County Veterans Parade & Celebraiton, visit the Howard County Veterans Foundatiion’s “The Parade” website.

Save the Date for Wine, Women and Dementia

This November, during National Family Caregivers Month and Alzheimer's Awareness Month, I encourage you to join DCRS’ OAI as its staff gathers next Thursday, November 12th from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the East Columbia 50+ Center for a Wine, Women, & Dementia documentary watch party. Wine, Women, & Dementia explores the human side of dementia from the lens of family caregivers, and exposes the isolation, financial stress, physical, and emotional toll caregivers shoulder for themselves and their loved ones with dementia.

This FREE screening is hosted by OAI and is sponsored by Maryland Public Television, Maryland Department of Aging, Alzheimer's Association Maryland Chapter, and AARP Maryland.

To sign-up to participate, visit OAI’s “Wine, Women, and Dementia Watch Party: Howard County” Constant Contact registration webpage.

Our Boys, Our Men, Our Future Health & Wellness Fair

Join DCRS and its community partners on Saturday, November 21st, for its “Our Boys, Our Men, Our Future Health and Wellness Fair.” Set to take place on the 21st from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the County’s Harriet Tubman Cultural Center, this wellness fair will feature health screenings, fitness demos, and community resources designed to support Howard County’s men and boys.

While admission is FREE and pre-registration is not required to attend, attendees are encouraged to bring donations of personal care items to support the Grassroots Crisis Interventions’ Men’s Shelter.  

For more information about this wellness fair, check out the event flier online (offered in both English and Spanish) or contact Ovan Shortt at 410-313-1453 (voice/relay) or email oshortt@howardcountymd.gov.

Commission on Disabilities Seeks Your Input

In follow up to its comprehensive “Report on the Status of People with Disabilities in Howard County – 2019”, that focused on the issues of education, employment, transportation, housing, and peer relationships, the County’s Commission on Disabilities is seeking feedback from individuals with disabilities, family members and unpaid caregivers, service providers, and educational professionals via a quick five to 10-minute survey. Through this survey, the Commission is looking to learn more about what are the issues of greatest need and the current state of policy and programs in Howard County affecting these groups and what recommendations do you have to address these needs.

Links to each survey can be found in the bullet list below. Eligible survey takers are asked to please complete the survey version that best applies to them.

• Survey for Individuals with Disabilities
• Survey for Family Members and Unpaid Caregivers of Individuals with Disabilities
• Survey for Service Providers Working with Individuals with Disabilities
• Survey for Educational Professionals Working with Students with Disabilities 
• Vea Esta Información en Español

Additionally, all information collected from these surveys will be anonymous; identifying information (IP address, email, etc.) will not be captured, shared, or used to analyze collected data, nor will it be used to restrict access to services for any individual.

If you need accommodations to complete a survey, please contact Erica Lewis at 410-313-6402 (voice/relay) or email ealewis@howardcountymd.gov. We thank you in advance for your feedback.

Office of Consumer Protection

SCAM ALERT: Insidious New Twist on an Old Fraud Scheme

Our Office of Consumer Protection is sharing the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) Newark office's WARNING to alert residents of an old fraud scheme that's been given a new twist by scammers. While scammers have been posing as federal law enforcement agents, e.g., from the FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Secret Service, and other law enforcement agencies for decades, these fraudsters have upped their criminal game and are using artificial intelligence (AI) and other new tactics that make it more difficult for their targeted victims to notice the scam.

With the help of AI and other new tactics, scammers are posing as real agents, contacting victims and spoofing the phone numbers of actual federal law enforcement agency field offices. One fraudster even used an online virtual meeting platform and staged a fake office, complete with desks and official seals, in their scam.

To protect oneself from falling victim to this type of fraud, the FBI is advising the public to:

• NEVER send money to anyone claiming to be a law enforcement agent.
• Look up the official phone number for the agency yourself and call to verify the agent’s identity. Tell the person who answers that you believe you may be the target of a scam and want to confirm whether a real agent is contacting you.
• If you cannot reach someone at a local field office, contact the agency’s main office in Washington, D.C. Most federal law enforcement agencies have toll‑free 800 numbers.
• If a fraudster uses a virtual meeting platform, take photos or record the video and submit it to the FBI via its “Electronic Tip Form” website.
• You can also call 1‑800‑CALL‑FBI to speak directly with a real FBI representative.

However, if you unfortunately believe you may have been a victim of this type of scam in which you provided payment and/or personal or financial information, please call Howard County Police Department's non-emergency number at 410-313-2200 (select option #2) or visit its “File an Online Report” webpage to file a police report.

Department of County Administration

Veterans Day Holiday Closings 

County Government offices, animal shelter, and 50+ centers, as well as local Maryland courts in Howard County, will be closed next Wednesday, November 11th in observance of the Veterans Day holiday. There will be regular Wednesday curbside trash, recycling, yard trim, and food scrap collection on the 11th and the Alpha Ridge Landfill will be open. 

On the 11th, County parks, Gary J. Arthur, North Laurel, and Roger Carter Community Centers, and the Robinson Nature Center will be open. While the Meadowbrook Athletic Complex, Cedar Lane and Schooley Mill Park Activity Rooms, Kiwanis-Wallas Hall, the Capitoline Center, and the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center will also be open, these facilities will only be open for scheduled programs. Finally, the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum will be open on the 11th; however, all other County historic sites will be closed. 

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 fees and regulations will be in effect on Veterans Day.  

The 9-1-1 Center and 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 Thursday, November 12th, at regular business hours. 

Department of Fire and Rescue Services

Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery

As daylight saving time came to an end yesterday, November 1st, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is reminding residents if you didn’t do so already when you set your clock back yesterday, to be sure to also check your smoke and carbon dioxide alarms. Whether you have the sealed-in, 10-year/long-life battery-operated alarms or hardwired alarms (with battery backups), it is always good to check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are functioning properly. Remember, your first line of defense against a house fire is a working smoke alarm. Ensure your family's safety by checking your alarms today.

Don’t Burn It

As the leaves begin to change color and fall from the trees, DFRS is reminding residents that it is illegal to burn yard waste in Howard County. To properly dispose of yard waste, residents can either a) place it out for pickup on their yard trim curbside collection day, b) place it in their Feed the Green bin for food scrap collection, or c) take it to the Alpha Ridge Landfill’s Wood Waste Area, where it will be processed into HoCoGro compost, mulch, and topsoil.

Fire Pit Safety

With a crisp fall chill in the air these days, DFRS is reminding residents when using a fire pit, to be sure to place it at least 15 feet away from your home, tree, deck and any other flammable material in your yard. Also, once finished using, be sure to always allow ashes to cool for at least 48 hours. When it’s time to dispose of the ashes, transfer them to a metal container and wet them down. Only use an approved metal ash bucket that has a tight-fitting metal lid to safely store cooled ashes.

Howard County Health Department

Community Flu Vaccine Clinics

It's fall and that means it's respiratory virus season. To help, the Howard County Health Department’s (HCHD) will once again be offering its free seasonal flu shot clinics. For a list of upcoming flu clinic dates, times and locations, visit HCHD’s “Flu & Respiratory Illness” webpage today. 

For the 2026-2027 flu season, HCHD will offer both the Flulaval 2026-27 Formula vaccine (recommended for ages six months and older) and the Sanofi Fluzone High-Dose 2026-2027 Formula vaccine, while supplies last (recommended for age 65 and older.)

Walk-ups are accepted at all HCHD flu clinic events; no pre-registration is required.

Department of Planning and Zoning

Planning Board Meeting 

This Thursday, November 5th, the County’s Planning Board will be hosting a hybrid meeting, in person at 3430 Court House Drive in Ellicott City and virtually via WebEx, starting at 7:00 p.m., to discuss the following agenda items:

• SDP-27-005 Mangione Enterprises of Turf Valley Technical Staff Report - Site Development Plan (SDP-27-005) to construct 39 single family attached townhouses on 35.11-acres. The property is zoned “PGCC” (Planned Golf Course Community) and the properties are located on Lago Road and Laguna Lane.
• FDP-236-A-2 GEAPE Land Holdings II, Inc. Technical Staff Report - Request to amend the FDP to convert 30.4 acres of credited open space to employment center industrial land use area.

To register to testify, visit the County’s “Planning Board” website. Registration must be completed prior to 7:00 p.m. the night (November 4, 2026) before the scheduled meeting to participate. If you do not wish to testify, but would simply like to watch the meeting, visit the Howard County Council’s “Watch Us” website.

A five-member board, the Planning Board makes recommendations to the Zoning Board or County Council on matters related to planning and zoning and renders a final decision on selected development proposals. To learn more about the Planning Board, including upcoming meeting dates and details about procedures for testifying at a meeting, visit the County’s “Planning Board” website.

Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

Also, this Thursday, November 5th, the County’s Department of Planning and Zoning’s Historic Preservation Commission will hold a virtual meeting via WebEx, starting at 7:00 p.m.

For a copy of the meeting’s agenda, as well as instructions on how to watch and/or participate in the meeting, visit the County’s “Historic Preservation Commission” website.

Police Department

VIN Etching for Auto Theft Prevention

Engraving your car's unique vehicle identification number (VIN) on all major pieces of glass is a highly effective deterrent and assists police in returning a stolen vehicle to its rightful owner. That's why Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is offering a FREE VIN Etching for Auto Theft Prevention event this Saturday, November 7th from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (weather permitting) at its Southern District Station, located at 11226 Scaggsville Road in Fulton. Open to all, it takes just minutes to do at no cost to you and no appointment needed. 

At the event, HCPD will also be handing out a limited number of free steering wheel locks for Hyundai and Kia vehicle owners.

For questions and/or more information about VIN etching or this event, contact HCPD's Auto Theft Unit at 410-313-1035.

Coffee with a Cop

Come meet face-to-face with HCPD’s patrol and community outreach officers on Thursday, November 19th from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at The Coffeehouse, located at 10150 Junction Drive in Annapolis Junction, for its next Coffee with a Cop. Open to all, this FREE event provides community members the opportunity to discuss issues, ask questions, and build relationships one cup of coffee (or other beverage) at a time with HCPD officers. 

To learn more, visit HCPD’s “November Coffee with a Cop” events webpage.

Animal Control Division

Pet of the Week: Pretty Peppah

For this week’s “Pet of the Week,” HCPD’s Animal Control Division would like you to meet Pretty Peppah (53670), a three-year-old female Pit Bull mix. An affectionate girl who likes to cuddle, Pretty Peppah strongly believes that everyone she meets is her absolute best friend and will wiggle her body and share her toys with you until her heart’s content. Pretty Peppah has been around and gotten along well with older children and other dogs.

If you think Pretty Peppah could be your new companion, call Animal Control Division at 410-313-2780 (select option 0). Applications are accepted in person at HCPD’s Animal Control and Adoption Center at 8576 Davis Road in Columbia, after you visit this pet out of their cage.

Help Needed to Restock Pet Food Bank

Your help is needed Howard County! HCPD’s Animal Control Division’s Pet Food Bank is in critical need of cat food and litter and dog food, as its supply is running extremely low. If you are able and interested in helping Animal Control restock its Pet Food Bank, please considering donating through its online Amazon “Howard County Animal Control Wishlist” or dropping off supplies at its Adoption Center at 8576 Davis Road in Columbia.

The County's Pet Food Bank allows Animal Control to assist county pet owners who may be on a fixed income, in between jobs, or due to other financial strain, care and feed their pets instead of having to surrender or re-home their furry friend. 

We thank you in advance for your generosity.

Department of Public Works

Bureau of Environmental Services

Leave the Leaves!

As the leaves have begun to change colors, DPW's Bureau of Environmental Services is encouraging residents to “Leave the Leaves” this fall as important insects and invertebrates depend on fallen leaves and other organic debris for their winter habitats. Of course, leaving the leaves and other plant debris doesn’t mean sacrificing your yard to the wilderness. Leaves don’t need to be left exactly where they fall, instead rake them into garden beds, around tree bases, or into other designated areas. Too many leaves can kill grass, but in soil they can suppress weeds, retain moisture, and boost nutrition. 

Also, avoid shredding leaves with a mower. Raking or blowing (electric) are alternatives that will keep leaves whole for the best coverage and protect the insects and eggs already living there.

If in the springtime you decide you need to clean up the leaves and debris, make sure you wait until late in the spring season so as not to destroy all the life you’ve worked to protect. 

Of course when leaving your leaves, make sure they are away from the roadway as they can clog the County’s storm drains (causing roadway flooding) and street sweepers. Leaves that are swept down into storm drains, will eventually make their way to our Chesapeake Bay where they can add harmful nutrients to this important Maryland waterway.

Give Your Pumpkin a New Life

Once again aiming to reduce the number of pumpkins that end up as landfill waste each autumn season, DPW’s Bureau of Environmental Services’ annual “Pumpkin Palooza” compost collection program is back! Now through Friday, November 20th, residents can drop off their pumpkin(s) at the County’s Robinson Nature Center in Columbia, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesdays through Sundays, as well as at the County’s Alpha Ridge Landfill's Residents’ Convenience Center, open Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. When at the Landfill's Residents’ Convenience Center, residents should look for the two green ‘Hungry Hippo’ food scrap drop-off containers. 

Howard County residents participating in the County’s curbside Feed the Green Bin food scrap collection program can also simply set their pumpkins out on their regular food scrap collection day for pickup. 

Additionally, the Bureau of Environmental Services has once again teamed up with the Howard County Library System (HCLS) to close out the season with its annual Pumpkin Palooza celebration. Set to take place on Saturday, November 21st from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at HCLS’ Miller Branch in Ellicott City, this event will feature games, composting demonstrations, food trucks, and more. Attendees can also drop off their pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns at the event for composting. Carved, uncarved and painted pumpkins are acceptable (water-based paints are preferred), and all decorations, including candles, lights, plastic bags, etc. must be removed before collections can occur.

To learn more about our Pumpkin Palooza compost collection program, including how to prepare your pumpkin for compost, visit the Bureau's “Pumpkin Palooza” website. 

Holiday Slide Schedule Not in Effect Next Week

Despite Howard County Government offices being CLOSED next Wednesday, November 11th, in observance of Veterans Day holiday, there was REGULAR Wednesday curbside trash, recycling, yard trim, and food scrap collection on the 11th and so the County’s holiday slide schedule is NOT in effect next week.

To learn more about the County’s holiday slide schedule and the holidays that do affect curbside collection, visit Bureau's "Holiday/Inclement Weather Trash & Recycling Schedule" webpage.  

Another HHW Season Comes to an End

With November here, our Bureau of Environmental Services’ 2026 Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) season at our Alpha Ridge Landfill is set to come to an end at the end of this month on Saturday, November 28th. After the 28th, HHW's 2027 season is not set to begin until the first Saturday in April 2027.

To learn more about our HHW program, visit the Bureau’s “Household Hazardous Waste” website. 

Student Coloring Book Contest

Calling all Howard County students in grades third through fifth, our Bureau of Environmental Services invites you to participate in its annual Coloring Book Contest promoting the importance of the three R’s: “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.” This annual contest allows students to demonstrate their awareness and appreciation for our environment.

Drawings should be done on white, unlined 8.5 by 11-inch paper in black marker or ink – no color and should show how each artist practices at least one of the three R’s. Designs will be judged on creativity and originality. For complete contest rules, visit the Bureau’s “Coloring Book Contest!” website or contact your child’s school art teacher.

Completed drawings and contest entry forms are due by 5:00 p.m., January 15, 2027, and can be hand delivered or mailed to: Tim Kerr, Recycling Division, 9801 Broken Land Parkway, Columbia, MD 21046. For questions about this year’s contest, call 410-313-6434 or email tkerr@howardcountymd.gov. 

For additional information, check out our “Howard County Seeks Entries for Student Coloring Book Contest” news release online.

Bureau of Utilities

How to Complete our Service Line Stewardship Program Survey

If you received a mailer from DPW about its Service Line Stewardship Program (SLSP) and details on how to identify your service line material and report it back to the County, but are still confused on what you need to do, here’s a quick run down on what you’ll need to do to complete the survey. 

1. You will need a magnet, coin or key, smart phone or digital camera, and internet access to upload information.
2. Head to your basement or crawlspace with these items to find your service line where it enters your home (this portion is owned by the customer and was not installed by the County, which is why DPW does not have a record of its material).
3. Using a coin or key, scratch the spot closest to the wall and note its color to see if it’s copper, plastic, galvanized iron, or lead. Here is a helpful hint from DPW, if you use a magnet and it sticks to the pipe, you’ve got a galvanized service line. 
4. Once you have done this, complete the online self-reporting survey by visiting DPW's interactive “Howard County Service Line Stewardship Program Inventory Map” webpage and searching up your address to submit your findings to the County.

If you are unable to access your pipe(s) and/or need assistance, please contact DPW’s SLSP team at 410-313-6118 as the department does offer FREE service line inspections by appointment.

Remember, DPW’s SLSP is not a scam! DPW launched the program back in 2024 to ensure the County meets the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's November 2027 deadline for its latest Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. Under these revisions, DPW must establish a complete material inventory of all service lines in Howard County and while the department maintains an inventory of its lines and most residential properties, the material of many customer-side service lines still remains unknown.To learn more about the SLSP, visit DPW’s “Service Line Stewardship Program” website; for questions about the program, call 410-313-6118.

Voluntary Water Restriction Remains in Effect

REMINDER: The VOLUNTARY WATER RESTRICTION Baltimore City Department of Public Works' (DPW) placed in effect for its public water customers, including those Howard County, back in May, REMAINS IN EFFECT at this time. 

According to National Integrated Drought Information System's website for Maryland, Baltimore City and most of Howard County are currently experiencing an "Abnormally Dry" drought rating, meaning we are on the cusp of a drought or recovering from one. While our area has experienced recent rainfall, water levels at the City's reservoirs remain negatively impacted due to dry conditions, low stream flows, and continued water demand limiting how much water reaches these reservoirs. As such, Baltimore City’s DPW continues to ask residential and commercial public water customers regionally to voluntarily reduce their non-essential water use to help protect our regional water supply, by: 

• Postponing lawn and garden watering;
• Repairing or replacing leaking faucets, hoses, and sprinklers;
• Running only full loads in dishwashers and washing machines; and
• Turning off taps while brushing teeth or shaving and minimizing shower time. 

Additionally, as water leaks are one of the largest sources of water waste, if you see any signs of running water outdoors that may indicate a leak or break in the County’s watermain, please contact our Bureau of Utilities at 410-313-4900 (Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) or 410-313-2200, select option #5 (after hours).

Please remember, this VOLUNTARY water restriction applies only to Howard County residents who receive public water supply, i.e., a water bill from the County’s Department of Finance. It does not apply to properties on private wells.

For updates and/or more information about this voluntary water restriction, please follow Baltimore City’s DPW Facebook page or visit its "Water Supply Update" website for more information.

Construction Report

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

Ellicott City

• Suland Circle Sewer Extension (Capital Project S-6699) – Project to extend sewer service to six properties on Suland Circle and five properties from 9409 to 9425 Old Frederick Road/MD 99. Flagging operations will be in place to direct traffic through the work zone as temporary lane closures can be expected on Suland Circle and Old Frederick Road/MD 99 in the project area during construction hours, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by mid-February 2027.

To learn about our DPW projects currently underway, check out DPW's website. 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 & Parks

A HoCo250 Drone Show

In celebration of our nation's 250th anniversary, I invite all to join me, our Department of Recreation & Parks’ staff, and the Columbia Association this Saturday, November 7th for our HoCo250 Drone Show event at the Columbia Lakefront at 10275 Wincopin Circle. The festivities begin at 4:30 p.m. and will feature food trucks, a video celebrating the official opening of the Howard County Veterans and Military Families Monument at Vivian C. “Millie” Bailey Park, live music, and an approximately 15-minute drone show starting just after 7:00 p.m.

To learn more about this free event, check out our “Drone Show” event webpage. Please note, on the day of the show, be sure to follow Recreation & Parks' Facebook page for event updates; there is no rain date.

What to Do When Schools are Closed

When Howard County schools are closed, Recreation & Parks is here to help with its School's Out programming. From science, sports, circus, drama, 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 activities Recreation & Parks has planned this month and next, check out the following dates: Tuesday, November 3rd, Wednesday November 25th, Friday, November 27th, Monday, December 28th, Tuesday, December 29th, Wednesday, December 30th, Thursday, December 31st, or the FULL WEEK of winter break on Recreation & Parks’ Active Network website.

Gary J. Arthur Community Center Open House

All are invited to come celebrate the 20th anniversary of Recreation & Parks’ beloved Gary J. Arthur Community Center next Saturday, November 7th. Stop by anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. and take a tour, learn about memberships, check out program demonstrations and special promotions, and enjoy a piece of cake to mark the community center’s milestone. 

To learn more about the demonstrations, promotions, and all the fun to be had on the 7th, be sure to check out Recreation & Parks “Gary J. Arthur Community Center Anniversary Open House” event webpage.

Resilient Earth, Resilient Communities

All are invited to stop by our Robinson Nature Center next Satruday, November 14th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. to celebrate the opening of its new exhibit, “Resilient Earth, Resilient Communities.” Developed with support from the National Science Foundation, this traveling exhibit explores how communities across the United States are adapting to and preparing for a changing climate. Come explore the new exhibit’s features, visit hands-on learning stations about weather patterns and changing landscapes, and view a film or two in the planetarium about Earth's changing climate. Be sure not to miss our engaging guest speaker beginning at 4:30 p.m. 

For questions and/or to learn more about our Robinson Nature Center, give its staff a call at 410-313-0400 or visit the department’s “Robinson Nature Center” website.

Volunteer Celebration Planned

Our volunteer team at Recreation & Parks invites you to join them on Sunday, November 22nd from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at our Harriet Tubman Cultural Center, for their first Volunteer Village Celebration. Featuring music, food vendors, family-friendly activities, mini service projects, skill-sharing opportunities, and more, this free, fun-filled gathering celebrates our volunteers and brings the community together. Participants will also have the opportunity to discover new ways to get involved and share their ideas as we build a stronger volunteer community together.

For questions and/or more information about this event, email Recreation & Parks’ volunteer team at volunteer@howardcountymd.gov. 

Office of Transportation

Cranksgiving – A Food Drive and Biking Event in One

This November, our Office of Transportation (OoT) has once again teamed up with the Downtown Columbia Partnership to host its annual Cranksgiving, a national initiative dubbed “a food drive on two wheels.” Our Cranksgiving provides residents the opportunity to participate in active recreation, while raising awareness about Howard County’s bikeable pathway system and generating food items for individuals and families in need.

I invite you to join OoT this Saturday, November 7th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a bike ride from your home to the Cranksgiving 2026 drop-off site at the Plaza at The Mall in Columbia (near Seasons 52). On the way to the drop-off site, participants will have a variety of route options to choose from and will be tasked with picking up various food items along the way at the nearby grocery store of their choosing.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to join members from HCPD’s Community Outreach and Pathways Section on a group ride starting from The Other Barn in Oakland Mills to The Mall in Columbia and back. The group ride will start at 10:00 a.m. and is a great way for younger and/or less experienced riders to bike to the collection location from a Village Center with seasoned cyclists as guides.

To register and/or to learn more about this great event, including which items have been requested, visit OoT’s “Cranksgiving Downtown Columbia” webpage. The first 100 registrants will receive a shirt.