🍦Howard County is a REALLY NICE place to live

Good morning, Columbia.

In today’s Columbia Scoop:

Let’s get to it.

— Michelle Sinclair

Two Howard County towns are being honored in U.S. News & World Report’s latest list of the 250 Best Places to Live in the U.S. Ellicott City came in at an impressive No. 13—highest in Maryland—while Columbia ranked 117th. The report evaluates value, job market, quality of life, and overall desirability. Ellicott City stood out for its high median income ($162,786), low unemployment (3.38%), and strong housing market. Seven Maryland towns made the list overall, but Howard County is the only one with two featured spots. We’ve always known how special these places are—now the rest of the country does too.

Looking for a real estate agent who listens, strategizes, and delivers? Meet Mike Sloan of Northrop Realty, a seasoned professional with over 18 years of full-time experience, 1,200+ homes sold, and $500 million+ in sales. Named one of The Wall Street Journal’s Top Agents, Mike’s a competitor who thrives on challenges and relationships. A Howard County native and family man, Mike’s ready to put his expertise to work for you. Reach out to Mike to see how he can help.

Rents got you stressed? If you’re an older adult living in Howard County, relief might be just a phone call away. County Executive Calvin Ball just rolled out the Older Adult Rental Assistance Program — a lifeline for low-income seniors struggling to keep up with housing costs.

Here’s the deal: eligible households with at least one person age 62 or older can get up to $400 a month knocked off their rent, paid straight to the landlord. The help can last up to 24 months, with a cap of $9,600 total.

The United Way of Central Maryland is running point. Call 211 or fill out the online referral form to get started. But don’t sleep on this — only the first 100 qualified applicants will get in. It’s all part of Howard County’s push to make sure older adults can age in place, comfortably and affordably. We love to see it!

The Mall in Columbia’s been the place to shop, snack, and hang out for decades. Lately though, things have felt a little tense. After three teen shootings and a bump in shoplifting, Howard County and mall officials rolled out a full-court press. The new Crime Reduction Plan added a 24-hour police patrol, a dedicated community outreach unit, and soon, a permanent satellite police office right inside the mall. There’s also a strict parental supervision rule for teens on weekend nights.

Early reviews? Shoppers say they’ve noticed the difference. “I’ve seen county police a couple of times,” one vendor said. Still, not everyone feels at ease. Some report light security inside during weekdays. Chief Gregory Der says perception matters. “If people don’t feel safe, that means we’ve got work to do.” For now, the mall’s buzzing again with strollers, shoppers, and kids in the play area. The hope? The added presence keeps the good vibes going.

The FY26 budget is in — and while HCPSS is getting more than legally required, it’s still not enough. The district says it needs $29.2 million more to avoid cuts, but with $816 million approved, there’s a $13 million gap. Councilmembers clashed over priorities, and now schools brace for round two of belt-tightening. Stay tuned.

Four months after 17-year-old Lance Carrington was shot and killed in Columbia, police have arrested a fifth suspect. Jemik Parker, also 17, was apprehended in Louisville and charged as an adult. Officials say he was the shooter in what they call a planned robbery gone deadly. All five suspects remain jailed without bail.

Marriotts Ridge girls lacrosse pulled off another storybook finish, rallying late to beat top-seeded Severna Park 11–10 in the 3A state title game—just like they did in 2022. With freshmen leading the charge and a game-saving stop from goalie Shannen Krozy, the Mustangs clinched their sixth state crown. Pure euphoria.

In other state championship news, It was quite a week for Howard County sports! River Hill and Oakland Mills track teams and the River Hill tennis team are all bringing home shiny new state titles — and one even set a record.

First up, River Hill’s girls outdoor track team absolutely crushed the state final of the 4x800 relay, not just winning but breaking their own state record by more than 3 seconds.

Oakland Mills pulled off a track and field double. Both the boys and girls outdoor track teams clinched state titles. For the boys, it was a state record 17th outdoor track state championship.

Not to be outdone, River Hill’s tennis team aced their way to their third state title in four years. Great showing in the spring sports by HoCo schools this 2025 season.

Stories with ($) require a third-party subscription.

Our Home of the Week this week is an architecturally stunning Ellicott City home that blends stone and cedar for maximum wow factor. Inside, limestone floors, soaring ceilings, and a two-sided fireplace set the tone. A chef’s kitchen, rosewood hardwoods, and a private wooded setting offer both style and comfort. Outside, the IPE deck, stone pathways, and flagstone patios add charm. Bonus: It includes a separately recorded lot for a guest house or investment. Perfectly located near hiking trails, BWI, and historic Ellicott City.

Columbia’s Sapwood Cellars is spicing things up with the grand opening of Albura Taqueria, its new taco spot. Alongside tasty Mexican-inspired favorites, the brewery is expanding its tasting room and rolling out beer pairings, wine, spirits, and kegged cocktails!

Nothing in this section is sponsored. They're just the things you need to know. I'll always let you know when something's sponsored.

Founded by two proud Columbia residents, Remedy Columbia is your neighborhood dispensary offering premium cannabis products and a personalized shopping experience. Whether you're seeking relief, relaxation, or inspiration, our curated selection and knowledgeable team are here to help. At Remedy, we believe in supporting our community, celebrating local culture, and making every visit feel like coming home.

Visit Remedy Columbia—Where Healing Meets Home

Howard County students, grab your backpacks (and maybe skip the sneakers). Starting July 1, more kids will ride the bus thanks to updated walk zone rules. Pre-K–5 students now walk no more than 0.75 miles; middle schoolers, 1 mile; high schoolers, 1.5 miles. Check your 2025–26 transportation status using the Attendance Area Locator this summer.

Big news from River Hill High! Erin Alistar was elected as Howard County’s Student Member of the Board for 2025–26. This marks the first election since the in-school cell phone ban began, and Alistar made easing those restrictions a centerpiece of his campaign. With redistricting and budget cuts ahead, he’s calling on students to get involved and speak up.

Deb Jung is officially in. The District 4 Howard County Council member kicked off her campaign for county executive at a rally in Columbia’s Cedar Lane Park. Jung, a Democrat, is the first candidate to enter the 2026 race as current executive Calvin Ball finishes his second term. A longtime advocate for school funding, seniors, and environmental protections, Jung says she’ll run a fully grassroots campaign, using the Citizens’ Election Fund to avoid special interest money. “This is 100 percent people-powered,” she told supporters. Filing with the state board of elections is expected soon. The race is officially on. ($)

Stories with ($) require a third-party subscription.

72 🌡️ 53 | ☀️ | 0% | 💨 S-SE 2-13 mph

70 🌡️ 52 | 🌨️ | 65% | 💨 W-SW 2-19 mph

61 🌡️ 55 | 🌨️ | 90% | 💨 W 6-28 mph

Manor Hill Brewing | DT Huber

Cured 1821 | Eric Harper

Stained Glass Pub | Bill and Steve
Cured 1821 | Noah Dion

Thanks for reading Columbia Scoop today. If you found something useful, please share it with SHARE RECOMMENDATION.