🍦Is Howard County a “Sanctuary” Jurisdiction?

Good morning, Columbia. It’s vitamin D season! Until the weekend, of course, when it’s supposed to rain :(

In today’s Columbia Scoop:

Let’s get to it.

— Michelle Sinclair

Ellicott City’s flood mitigation plans are hitting another snag. The feds just paused two major retention pond projects, part of the town’s multi-year Safe and Sound Plan to prevent future flooding like the deadly 2016 and 2018 events. Residents are frustrated but resilient. Howard County’s officials remain committed to the plan, as low-interest loan approvals hang in limbo. Locals know the stakes—water may rise, but so does Ellicott City’s spirit.

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.

Howard County has landed on Trump’s new list of “sanctuary” jurisdictions for allegedly failing to comply with federal immigration laws. Alongside seven other Maryland counties, this designation could bring grant cuts and penalties — but Howard officials say they’re committed to safety and fairness for all. ($)

Updating an earlier story, Howard County residents bracing for rising utility bills can expect another hit starting June 1. This time, it’s electricity supply prices surging due to last year’s PJM capacity auction. Customers could see bills jump by $20–$150 a month. The People’s Counsel is pushing federal regulators to cancel the hikes and offer some much-needed relief. ($)

Howard County is facing a new health threat as cases of babesiosis, a tick-borne illness, rise across Maryland. Deer ticks carrying the parasite that causes the disease are expanding their territory due to warming, putting local residents at risk. While not yet widespread, awareness and caution—especially as summer arrives—are key to staying safe. ($)

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📸 @ColumbiaMDSocial | 📍Reckless Shepherd Brewery

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Columbia-based Tenable Holdings Inc. will acquire Israeli AI security firm Apex Security Inc. later this quarter. The move will enhance Tenable’s exposure management platform with advanced AI capabilities. Financial terms weren’t disclosed, but the deal strengthens Tenable’s global cybersecurity leadership. ($)

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.

This week’s featured event. . . Capital Jazz Fest Friday-Sunday @ Merriweather Post Pavilion

The Capital Jazz Fest hits Merriweather June 6–8 🎷☀️🎶 Back for its 32nd year, Capital Jazz Fest kicks off the summer season at Merriweather with three soulful days of live music, food, art, and culture. Over 30 acts, two stages, and one unforgettable vibe.

Good Vibes and Voices Concert and Event
March over to Rockburn Branch Park on June 5 from 6–8pm for Good Vibes & Voices—a free evening of music, food, ax throwing, games, and local resources for veterans and their families. Featuring Live Fire, the 229th Army National Guard rock band!

Summer Movie Night @ The Wine Bin
Spying never looked so good. The Wine Bin’s outdoor movie night is back this Saturday at 9pm with Hitchcock’s Rear Window. Bring a chair, sip something cold, and enjoy live music before the suspense begins.

Paint It! Ellicott City
Watch Ellicott City turn into a living canvas during Paint It! Ellicott City, June 5–9. Stroll Main Street, see artists in action, and soak up the town’s creative charm.

Summer Boozy Book Fair @Cushwa and Rad Pies Taproom
Books, booze, and summer vibes collide at Cushwa’s Boozy Book Fair, hosted by Queen Takes Book. On June 15, browse new releases, sip local brews, and snag literary merch. It’s free to attend—but spots are limited, so reserve yours now!

ME-OW at the Manor… A Pet Adoption Event
Purr-fect Sunday plans 🐾 Head to Manor Hill Brewing on 6/8 for Meow at the Manor—an adoption event with BARCS’ BFF Waggin, live music, an ice cream truck, and more!

OEC Pride
OEC Pride turns 5 this Sunday! 🏳️‍🌈🎉💃 Celebrate love, inclusion, and community at Old Ellicott City’s Pride Festival, Sunday, June 8 at noon in the Circuit Courthouse parking lot. Drag, music, food, and pure joy await.

Culinary Walking Tour of Downtown Columbia
Eat your way through Downtown Columbia! 🍷🥟🚶‍♀️This culinary walking tour features bites and sips from spots like Peter Chang, The Food Market, and more. Two ticket levels, one tasty adventure—bring your appetite and comfy shoes!

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.

Columbia scored big as one of the best U.S. cities to raise a family, coming in 14th in WalletHub’s latest rankings. It earned high marks in affordability, safety, and community spirit — solidifying its reputation as a fantastic place for families to thrive! ($)

Several HCPSS schools crushed the Maryland MESA Day competition at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab! Students tackled challenges from trash-collecting robots to planetary landers. The STEM event showcased the talent of Howard County’s young engineers and scientists, earning them top honors.

In a recent letter to the editor, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball shared the impact of the county’s strategic investments in addiction recovery. Since 2018, fatal overdoses are down 43%, and nonfatal overdoses have dropped more than 85%. With new treatment centers like Hilda’s Place and Highland House, Ball says the holistic, community-first approach is saving lives. ($)

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85 🌡️ 64 | ☁️ | 0% | 💨 S-SE 4-18 mph

84 🌡️ 64 | 🌨️ | 40% | 💨 N-NE 3-18 mph

80 🌡️ 65 | 🌨️ | 65% | 💨 N-NE 2-13 mph

82 🌡️ 65 | 🌨️ | 50% | 💨 E-SE 4-16 mph

Collective Encore | Mysterious Traveler 730pm
Cured 1821 | A Night of Jazz and R&B 5pm
Reckless Shepherd | Jonathan Sloane 5pm

Looney’s Maple Lawn | Kleptoradio
Bare Bones | Gary and the Groove 8pm
Collective Encore | Yellow Dubmarine 8pm
Cured 1821 | Bob Butta 6pm
Reckless Shepherd | Radio Hero 9pm

Looney’s Maple Lawn | Fire Kite
Bare Bones | McFadden Garcia Band 8pm
Collective Encore | Magical Mystery Girls 8pm
Cured 1821 | Mike Noonan 6pm
Reckless Shepherd | Edward Houston Acoustic 7pm

Manor Hill Brewery | SVV Duo 2pm
Collective Encore | The Black Ties 8pm
Cured 1821 | Rodney Kelly Duo 5pm

Thanks for reading Columbia Scoop today. If you found something useful, please share it with anyone who loves Columbia’s family friendly vibe.