Howard County Recreation unveils new teen programs and cultural center operations

The Howard County government meeting on May 12, 2025, focused on the budget for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting new initiatives aimed at enhancing community services and youth engagement. Key discussions included the establishment of new operations at the AAPI Cultural Center and the opening of the North Laurel Community Center pool, both set to begin in the coming months.

The Department of Recreation announced plans to support these initiatives with the addition of three full-time positions, contingent staff, and necessary supplies. The budget also allocates $871,000 for equipment purchases, $100,000 for hazardous tree removal, $500,000 for private conservation easements, and $414,000 for tree planting efforts.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to youth programs, particularly those aimed at engaging teenagers outside of school hours. The community outreach team has been actively working to increase participation in programs like "Teen Vibes" and "Teen Kickbacks." These initiatives include structured activities and field trips, with partnerships established with local libraries to enhance offerings.

The "Teen Kickback" program, which operates during the summer, will expand to new locations in Elkridge and Columbia, providing more opportunities for teens to participate in recreational activities. The programs are free and will be held on Friday evenings starting June 20.

The meeting concluded with discussions on advertising these programs through various channels, including social media and school system communications, to ensure broad community awareness and participation. Overall, the budget session underscored the county's commitment to enhancing recreational services and supporting youth engagement in Howard County.