Howard County declares state of emergency

ELLICOTT CITY, Md. - Howard County Executive Ken Ulman today signed an executive order declaring a State of Emergency in Howard County as Hurricane Sandy makes landfall, and announced closings for Tuesday, Oct. 30 because of the storm. Executive Ulman is urging non-emergency vehicles to stay off the road for the duration of the storm, in collaboration with the directive of Governor Martin O’Malley.

“I cannot emphasize enough the serious nature of what looks to be a once-in-a-lifetime weather event,” Ulman said. “Now is the time to stay in place, be safe, and be vigilant.”

Executive Ulman announced the following closings for Tuesday, Oct. 30:
•    County Government will be closed, including offices, county parks, senior centers, community centers, libraries, and the health department.
•    Trash and recycling pickup is cancelled.
•    The Howard County Public School System is closed, including offices
•    Howard Transit service is cancelled.
•    Howard County Community College – classes and events are cancelled.
•    Howard County Circuit Court is closed.

In addition, Executive Ulman is passing on that the Columbia Association is closing all facilities as of noon Monday and extending through Tuesday.

Executive Ulman signed an order declaring a state of emergency, allowing him to take the actions necessary to “protect the lives, health and property of the citizens of Howard County” pursuant to the Howard County Charter.

If conditions warrant, directives could be forthcoming that further restrict vehicular and pedestrian travel, as well as some business operations. As needed, a requirement to shelter in place may also be issued.

The County Call Center is activated and available at 410-313-2900. For the latest county updates, go to howardcountymd.gov. Please sign up for NotifyMeHoward at www.notifymehoward.org to receive the latest alerts.