March 31, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – County Executive Ball today emphasized the need to show compassion and kindness to each other and avoid common stigmas that are associated with coronavirus.
“There is no time that stigma and racism are acceptable in our community, especially not during a worldwide pandemic. During this challenging time, I encourage us all to show compassion and kindness to one another,” said Ball. “If you or someone you know is facing discrimination, please contact our Office of Human Rights”
Ball shared a graphic online highlighting actions residents can take to combat discrimination amid the coronavirus, including:
· Expressing compassion and support for those most closely impacted;
· Speak up if you hear, see, or read discriminatory comments;
· Share accurate information to stop the stigma;
· Explain to others that coronavirus does not see race, nationality, or ethnicity; and
· Dispel stigma surrounding wearing masks.
Howard County Trash & Recycling
Residents can continue to use all curbside collection services, as these are operating normally (trash, recycling, yard trim and food scraps, bulk items and scrap metal). However, residents are advised to avoid unnecessary trips to the Alpha Ridge Landfill.
To limit exposure and to abide by Governor Hogan's latest 'Stay at Home' Executive Order, the County has limited the availability of field staff resources. Be mindful and patient as we all work through this difficult time. In addition, please limit calls and emails to service-related issues only. The Bureau of Environmental Services office remains closed to the public.
Be careful about how you bag your trash. Make sure that all trash bags are securely tied at the top and double bag any bags that have torn while filling. These measures will help us to reduce the spread of Covid-19 by protecting the health of our collection crews. To see all Covid-19 related changes, visit HowardCountyRecycles.org. The website is updated daily.
Alpha Ridge Landfill
The Alpha Ridge Landfill remains open but are encouraging residents to stay home and wait until the Covid-19 emergency is over before bringing items for disposal, recycling, or donation to the landfill. Please choose curbside collections whenever possible to avoid visiting the landfill.
As of Wednesday, April 1st, only 10 vehicles at a time will be allowed access to the Residents Convenience Center. Be patient and expect delays, especially during high volume times. (Mondays and Fridays between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm are often high-volume times.) Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are typically lighter in volume.
All residential organic material sales and giveaways (compost, mulch, topsoil, and shredded wood) will be suspended on April 3rd until further notice.
Services will continue to be evaluated as needed. Call 410-313-6444 to get the most up-to-date information from our recorded message or visit our website at HowardCountyRecycles.org.
Howard County Food Bank
The Howard County Food Bank began on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, providing pre-packaged bags of food to clients, in order to practice social distancing and protect the well-being of staff and clients. The Howard County Food Bank is located at 9385 Gerwig Lane in Columbia. New clients should bring identification and proof of Howard County residency for their first visit.
Food Bank hours:
Tuesdays: 1 to 4 p.m.
Wednesdays: 1 to 4 p.m.
5 to 8 p.m. (by appointment only)
Thursdays: 1 to 4 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. to noon (by appointment only)
Donations
We have seen a significant increase in demand for our services, in particular with the Howard County Food Bank. We are asking the community to help us meet the increased need. To donate, navigate to our website here, click the donate button, and complete the form. All donations are safe, secure, and most importantly go directly to those who need assistance during this critical time. Food donations can be dropped off in a collection bin at the Howard County Food Bank parking lot (located at 9385 Gerwig Lane Columbia, MD 21046).
Volunteer
Those interested in volunteering with Community Action Council can complete a volunteer application form. Note: we are currently limiting volunteers, to protect the well-being of our staff and clients.
Howard County Police Department
To limit in-person exposure, police are encouraging residents to report incidents online or over the phone if able. To report online please visit https://tinyurl.com/HCPDReports. To report over the phone please call 410-313-2200.