 Find local case data (updated weekly) on the Health Department's website, at https://cchd.maryland.gov/carroll-county-md-cases/
The CDC recommends that anyone with any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 get tested, regardless of vaccination status or prior infection. Testing is available through some healthcare providers, pharmacies, and urgent cares. Find testing resources at https://cchd.maryland.gov/covidtesting/
Vaccination Information
The number of COVID-19 cases is elevated once again and the majority of cases and hospitalizations are in people who are not vaccinated. If you haven't gotten vaccinated already, talk with your doctor, ask family and friends who have been vaccinated, and learn more about the vaccines from trusted sources. Visit the Carroll County Health Department website for information at cchd.maryland.gov.
People can visit Maryland's vaccine site and search by zip code and vaccine type to find a vaccine near you. The Carroll County Health Department has weekly clinics on Tuesdays from 10 am - 12 pm, and Fridays from 1 - 3 pm (closed on Friday the 17th). You can register on the website at https://cchd.maryland.gov/registration-links/ or just walk in. People who are immunocompromised and need 3rd doses are welcome; booster shots are not yet available.
Maryland also has a page dedicated to vaccination FAQs.
If you have questions about the vaccine or how to access it, talk to your doctor or call the Health Department at 410-876-4848. After hours, callers may leave a message or call 2-1-1. People with emergencies should continue to call 9-1-1.
75,000 Agricultural Preservation Milestone Celebration 10/16
The county invites all residents and interested parties to attend Celebrating 75,000 Acres Preserved & Growing, an event celebrating the county’s attainment of 75,000 acres of preserved agricultural land. The celebration is Saturday, October 16, 2021, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Carroll County Farm Museum. The day is free to the public as part of the Farm Museum’s Fall Harvest Celebration and includes a special commemorative ceremony at 12:30 pm on the Farm Museum stage.
Carroll County reached the milestone of 75,000 acres preserved in October of 2020 but postponed the celebration due to the pandemic. To recognize the occasion, Celebrating 75,000 Acres Preserved & Growing will feature a ceremony and a special exhibit recognizing this agricultural preservation accomplishment. A free morning bus tour featuring nearby preserved farms is available with registration. Register online on the county webpage, first come, first served. An educational campaign will accompany the event promoting the benefits of preservation to the community and the importance of “growing” preserved land acreage to attain the remaining 25,000 acres.
Operating since 1980, Carroll County’s Agricultural Land Preservation effort is the most successful in Maryland, preserving more farms and more acres through the purchase of land preservation easements than any other county in Maryland. Carroll County’s program also ranks among the nation’s top five similar programs administered by local governments in the United States.
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend! More information including a new story map can be found on the county’s webpage celebratingagpres.carrollcountymd.gov. For more information, please contact Brenda Dinne by emailing bdinne@carrollcountymd.gov or calling 410-386-2140.
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County Commemorates 9/11
On Saturday, September 11, 2021, county representatives gathered at the Carroll County Public Safety Training Center 9/11 Memorial to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the catastrophic September 11, 2001 attacks. Watch the ceremony here.
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Route 32 and Johnsville/Bennett Road Project Update
MDOT SHA Roadway Project Updates
MD 32 (Sykesville Road) at Bennett Road/Johnsville Road
This project is 90% complete. Most of the contract work is finished; however, the full benefit of the project will not be realized until new traffic signals are installed that include left-turn arrows. The nationwide materials shortage coupled with increased demand delayed delivery of the four signal poles. MDOT SHA now has the signal poles and mast arms which are expected to be installed before the end of September.
MD 26 (Liberty Road) between Calvert Way and Monroe Avenue
The project involves roadway patching and resurfacing across this two-mile span. The work is being performed overnight Sundays through Thursdays with crews finishing by 5 a.m. the following morning. There are single lane closures during work hours. The project is expected to be complete by October.
Piney Run Watershed Study Update
The county contractor AECOM has submitted the draft Environmental Assessment report to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) for review. It is anticipated that over the next couple of months AECOM will work with NRCS and the County to finalize the study. Following completion of the study, the County will be able to apply to NRCS for funding of the engineering design of the dam improvements. More information can be found on the County’s dedicated webpage: https://www.carrollcountymd.gov/government/directory/land-resource-management/resource-management/piney-run-watershed-study/
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Woodsyde Stream Restoration and Stormwater Retrofit
Construction of the Woodsyde stream restoration and stormwater facility project is complete, with the exception of the tree plantings. Planting of the trees is anticipated to occur in late September and into October. This project was partially funded with a grant from the Maryland Water Quality Financing Administration Bay Restoration Fund Wastewater Program.
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Development Review Updates
Age-restricted developments in the plan review process:
Nells Acres at MD Route 26 & Fallon Road, 129 units
44 Liberty Road, 55 units
*Planning and Zoning Commission approval April 20, 2021
Freedom’s Grant at Slacks Road & Arrington Road, 237 units
The Developments in Process GIS map layer provides information on commercial and residential projects that are currently in the review process. https://www.carrollcountymd.gov/services/gis-maps/gis-interactive-maps/
The Development Review launch page includes Technical Review Committee meeting and Planning and Zoning Commission meeting agenda items with links to an overview plan.
https://www.carrollcountymd.gov/development-review
The Department of Planning continues its work with the Commissioners on Comprehensive Rezoning efforts.
Residential Update
The Carroll County Department of Planning completed its initial review of the draft residential text amendments with the Planning and Zoning Commission and it is set to be forwarded to the BCC on September 21st along with the map change requests for the Beaty and Zabel properties.
The county continually seeks resident comments and feedback on the proposed draft text and maps as the Board of County Commissioners moves through the process.
Please go to the county’s specific website at: https://www.carrollcountymd.gov/government/directory/planning/carroll-county-comprehensive-rezoning/comprehensive-rezoning-residential-text/ to review the proposed text and map changes.
Residents are also welcome to send written comments to the Department of Planning, 225 North Center Street, Room 106, Westminster, Maryland, 21157 or email ccplanning@carrollcountymd.gov. Questions should be addressed to the Department of Planning at ccplanning@carrollcountymd.gov or 410-386-5145.
For more information, please go to: https://www.carrollcountymd.gov/government/directory/planning/carroll-county-comprehensive-rezoning/comprehensive-rezoning-residential-text/
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New County Fire/EMS Director Announced
The Carroll County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to introduce Michael W. Robinson Sr. as the new county Director of Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Mr. Robinson joined the county in his new role on September 9, 2021.For more information about Mr. Robinson, please see the county's press release.
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Commissioners Proclaim National Suicide Prevention Week and September 2021 as Recovery Month
Suicide is a national and statewide public health problem and suicide prevention is a national and statewide responsibility. The State of Maryland designates September 5, 2021 through September 11, 2021 as “National Suicide Prevention Week". According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over 47,000 people died by suicide in 2019. Suicide remains the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and the 2nd leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 to 34. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Behavioral Health is an essential part of health and one’s overall wellness. Mental health and substance use disorders affect all communities nationwide. With commitment and support, those impacted can embark on a journey of improved health and overall wellness. The focus of National Recovery Month (Recovery Month) is to celebrate all people that make the journey of recovery possible by embracing the 2021 theme, “Recovery is For Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community.” Recovery Month spreads the message that people can and do recover every day. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline is 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Read more of the proclamations here.
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Ongoing Utility Work
Ongoing utility services provided in the area include:
- System flushing throughout the Freedom District water system
- Leak Detection
- Continued fire hydrant maintenance (Inspections, Cap Lubrication, and Painting)
- Commercial Meter Testing
- Routine Meter Reading, High Water Usage Investigations, Finals and Responding to Emergency Calls
For more information about the Carroll County Bureau of Utilities, please visit the webpage. If you have any questions about utilities, please contact 410-386-2164.
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State Veterans Home Project Update
Meetings and plans are moving forward on the new state Veterans Home project in Sykesville. The Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs earmarked funding in its FY22-26 Capital Improvements Plan for a new state Veterans Home project to be built in Sykesville. The project, with expected costs of over $81M, constructs a 120-bed skilled nursing facility to provide additional bed space for Maryland's aging Veteran population at a more centrally located and state-of-the-art establishment. The designated location is at the end of Raincliffe Road in the vicinity of Buttercup Road, currently part of the state police training area. Funding will be 65% federal funds and 35% state GO Bonds. The State of Maryland is actively meeting and working on the project.
Veterans Assistance in Carroll County
The Carroll County Veterans Services Program provides guidance and assistance to Carroll County veterans, their dependents, and survivors with applying for Federal and State benefits. This assistance includes help with an application for veteran’s benefits via the system administered by the State of Maryland and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
If you are a Veteran or know a Veteran, please contact the Veterans Services Program today at:
Phone: 410-386-3800
Email: CarrollVeterans@carrollcountymd.gov
September is Preparedness Month
The Carroll County Board of Commissioners proclaimed September as Carroll County Preparedness Month. September is also Maryland Preparedness Month and National Preparedness Month.
The theme for this year’s preparedness month for Carroll County is “Don’t be scared, be prepared!” Through the month of September, and year-round, the citizens of Carroll County are encouraged to have a plan and keep an emergency kit stocked and prepared in case of a need to shelter in place or evacuate. Building a kit and a plan with friends and family can be fun and can help put minds at ease knowing that you and your family have the items you need in an emergency.
Common items that are a good idea to include in a ready kit are a flashlight with extra batteries, shelf-stable food, water for drinking and sanitation, a first aid kit, local maps, and a whistle to signal for help.
Several online sources providing good emergency preparedness information include:
Additional information can also be found in the Are You Ready? Citizen’s Guide to Emergency Preparedness, and on the Carroll County Emergency Management website.
Become a Photo Ambassador for Recreation & Parks
Attention photographers - Recreation and Parks has launched a new Photo Ambassador program to help generate quality photos of county parks and recreation programs. A Recreation & Parks Photo Ambassador is someone who enjoys photography and is passionate about Carroll County parks, recreational programs, nature, and the environment. Selected applicants will be asked to submit photos monthly to Recreation & Parks as well as share them with followers on their own social media platforms.
The department’s goal is to help raise awareness of local recreational opportunities and encourage participation. In return for their efforts, Photo Ambassadors will have access to programs at discounted rates and may receive other additional benefits. This is also a great opportunity for amateur photographers to build a portfolio of work possibly leading to future opportunities. Selected photos taken by Photo Ambassadors will be featured on the department’s social media pages, in program guides and annual reports, for marketing opportunities, and on the Carroll County Recreation & Parks website. More information and an online application link may be found at https://bit.ly/CCRPPhotoAmbassador
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South Carroll Dog Park
Effective September 1, memberships to the South Carroll and Bennett Cerf Dog Parks are half price and on sale for $15. This is a great way to try out the park to see if you like it at a reduced cost that will give you access through the end of the calendar year. Memberships can be purchase online at ccrecpark.org.
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Piney Run Park Fall Events
Wagon trail rides for families through the park’s forests and fields are being offered throughout October (except for 10/16). The wagon ride takes about 45-minutes and a campfire will be waiting for you upon your return. Bring your own marshmallows, hot dogs, and more to roast or just enjoy the campfire. Register online at ccrecpark.org
Piney Run Park’s Fall Festival will be held on Saturday, October 16 from 10 am – 4 pm. Park entrance fees apply. The boathouse will be closed for Fall Festival and private boaters are advised to come early in order to get a parking spot.
The Fall for Colors 5k Run/Walk will be held at the park on Saturday, October 23, 2021. Day of registration begins at 8 am and race is from 9 am – 11 am. Pre-register online at ccrecpark.org for $25 or register onsite that day for $30. Participants age 9 and under $10.
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BERC Connects Businesses and Jobs Seekers Virtually
Businesses with job openings and workers seeking jobs now have two ongoing opportunities to connect through the Carroll County Business/Employment Resource Center’s (BERC) Premier Virtual Job Fair platform.
Beginning September 1, 2021, businesses may register to participate in weekly Job Club networking/recruiting chat sessions held virtually every Wednesday from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm. A one-time free registration is required at the following website: Job Club / Recruitment Event. Businesses can participate in the weekly sessions as their schedules allow.
Additionally, over the next four months, BERC will host seven virtual job fairs to help job seekers and employers meet to discuss job opportunities and hiring qualifications. Registration is open for all upcoming virtual job fairs that will be held in September, October, November, and December. Interested participants will find job fair dates on the BERC news webpage. This virtual environment is a new, effective way to get hired or make a hire.
Interested businesses and job seekers should contact BERC Business Consultant Scott Singleton at 410-386-2521 or email ssingleton@carrollcountymd.gov.
Carroll County’s 37th Maryland Wine Celebration
An Outdoor Event Featuring Wine, Live Music, and Local Vendors
The Maryland Wine Festival® returns to the Carroll County Farm Museum for a fun-filled celebration of Maryland wine. Wine enthusiasts are invited to enjoy the beautiful grounds of the Farm Museum while exploring delicious, local wine, shopping from juried artisans, and dancing to live music!
Carroll County Farm Museum
500 South Center Street, Westminster, Maryland
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | 11 AM to 5 PM
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2021 | 11 AM to 5 PM
2021 MARYLAND WINE FESTIVAL® PASSES
Lee L. Dopkin Company leasing 28,800 square feet at Londontown Business Center
MacKenzie Commercial Real Estate Services, LLC recently announced that Lee L. Dopkin Company, the largest privately owned wholesale distributor of plumbing, heating, and industrial supplies, signed a lease for 28,800 square feet of warehouse space at 1332 Londontown Boulevard in Eldersburg. The company will relocate from Baltimore City; the new location will include office space and an outside storage area.
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MacKenzie Commercial Real Estate Services offers Executive Suites at
Londontown Business Center
The Londontown Business Center at 1332 Londontown Boulevard is a 365,812 square foot office and warehouse project strategically located in the heart of Eldersburg. Common areas were recently renovated and include high-end finishes with flexible floor plans, a newly renovated lobby, bathrooms, and common areas that make the location ideal for a wide range of users, including small business owners. Office highlights include executive-style offices with short-term lease options; rental includes private office spaces with access to a shared conference room, break room, and reception area. The location is close to major routes and amenities with great visibility and parking; approximately 21,000 square feet remain available for lease at the center for space from 100-900 square feet. Leasing inquiries may be directed to Vice President Dennis Boyle at dboyle@mackenziecommercial.com or 443.798.9339.
Remember!
Seniors on the Go Expo is Tomorrow, September 15th!
The Carroll County Commissioners invite citizens to attend the 15th Annual Seniors on the Go – An Aging and Disabilities Expo, on Wednesday, September 15th from 9am to 2pm in the Shipley Arena of the Carroll County Ag Center. The expo is planned with COVID-19 safety protocols in place including less exhibitors with booths spread farther apart, required masking for all participants, social distancing reminders and hand sanitizing stations throughout the arena.
Free health screenings will feature assessments of balance, flexibility, endurance, functionality, blood pressure, bone density, and grip strength. Information on advanced directives, stroke awareness, medication management, oral cancer, and health and chronic diseases such as breast cancer, diabetes and Parkinson’s will also be available.
Carroll County Health Department (CCHD) staff will be on site with COVID-19 vaccinations and information. For more information call CCHD at 410-876-4848.
Link here for more information.
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Updated Senior Center Guidelines
Senior & Community Centers are now open five days per week from 8am – 4pm. Appointments are not required.
Current Senior Center Guidelines:
- Masks are NOT required when participants are able to engage in activities that will allow them to remain socially distanced (at least 6 feet apart)
- Masks ARE required when participants engage in activities where social distancing is not possible (example: card games)
- Food is only allowed in designated areas. Members may bring a drink into an activity.
Please contact South Carroll Senior & Community Center at 410-386-3700 for questions about activities, mask requirements and/or social distancing requirements.
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Workshops Scheduled for Fall
The Bureau of Aging & Disabilities is excited to announce several upcoming programs. Please use the following links for more information:
Contact the Carroll County Bureau of Aging & Disabilities if you have any questions: 410-386-3800, Maryland Relay Service 711/800-735-2258.
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Eviction Prevention Assistance Available
If you or someone you know is behind in rental payments due to COVID-19, there may be eviction prevention assistance available. Visit the county's webpage or the Human Services Programs of Carroll County page.
Carroll Transit Tickets
Older adults and adults with disabilities who are interested in donation/reduced priced CTS transportation tickets may call the Bureau of Aging & Disabilities at 410-386-3800 or their local Senior Center.
Carroll County Commissioners
225 N. Center Street, Westminster, MD 21157
410.386.2043
www.carrollcountymd.gov
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