Issue #021

Upcoming Local Events

From the Home Show to comedy, author book signings and kids events, there is something for everyone in the upcoming events in Bowie and the surrounding area. For more detailed information, click on the link provided.

The Month of January

• National Bath Safety Month

• Financial Wellness Month

• Get Organized Month

• National Hot Tea Month

• National Mentoring Month

• Self-Love Month

• Teen Driving Awareness Month

Daily Events in and around Bowie

January 22

Old Town Bowie Revitalization Community Meeting at the Huntington Community Center, 13022 8th Street, Bowie, MD - 7:00-8:30

January 26

On Kee Jazz Presents: Jazz in the Black Box, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts - 7:00

January 27

• Candle Making Workshop at 6600 Laurel - Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715 - 1:00 - 3:30 

• "Disentangled" Book Reading & Discussion with Author Kia DuPree, South Bowie Branch Library, 15301 Hall Road Bowie, MD 20721

• Joe Clair Presents: Bangin’ in Bowie featuring featuring comedians Brooklyn Mike, Timmy Hall, and Cool Bubba Ice, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts - 7:00 and 9:30

• Bowie State University - Free 21 Day Course for Inner Peace & Joy, Virtual event

January 31

• Free virtual Workforce Development Program Information Session ages 15 - 25 - 7:00pm 

• Amateur Radio Operators and FCC Licensed Technician Class with the Bowie Wireless Assoc. a 501(c)3 Amateur Radio Club. Virtual Class. For registration info contact [email protected]

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Bowie Property Tax Update: Minor Rate Hike Amid Soaring Property Values

In Bowie, Maryland, the fiscal year 2024 has ushered in subtle changes in property taxes, mirroring the city's economic shifts and the broader patterns in Maryland's real estate sector.

Understanding Bowie's Property Tax System

Property taxes in Bowie are a composite of state, county, and city levies. For the fiscal year 2024, the rate is pegged at $1.6960 per $100 of assessed property value, marking a nominal increase from the previous year's $1.6860. The State of Maryland determines property assessments based on market rates, which play a pivotal role in calculating individual tax liabilities. These assessments are dynamic, reflecting the fluctuations in the real estate market.

Evolving Property Assessments and Tax Trends

Over the past decade, Bowie's property tax rate has remained comparatively stable, with increases in tax bills largely attributed to rising property assessments, echoing market trends. Notably, a $0.04 hike in Prince George’s County's property tax rate in fiscal year 2016 had a tangible impact on local tax bills.

The past five years have seen a marked upswing in Maryland's property values. The state's Department of Assessments and Taxation reported a 23.4% jump in the combined value of residential and commercial properties for 2024, surpassing the 20.6% rise observed in 2023. This surge indicates a vigorous and growing real estate market, with residential properties averaging a 25.6% increase and commercial properties 17.6% over a three-year span.

The Implications for Bowie Residents

For Bowie homeowners, these developments signify that while the tax rate remains relatively unchanged, the escalating value of their properties likely translates to heftier property tax bills. This trend is in line with the state's robust real estate market.

However, there's a mitigating factor: increases in assessed property value are phased in over three years, cushioning residents against abrupt hikes in tax dues. Thus, any reassessment-induced rise in property value is incrementally integrated into the tax calculation over this period.

Summary

The property tax landscape in Bowie for 2024 reflects a delicate equilibrium between stable tax rates and volatile property values. While the city's tax rate has been consistent, the significant uptick in property values across Maryland, including Bowie, could lead to increased tax bills for residents. This highlights the dynamic interplay between real estate and local economies, emphasizing the importance for residents to stay abreast of these trends for effective property and financial management.

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Rising Tide of Carjackings in Bowie, Maryland: Ways to Protect Yourself

In 2024, the city of Bowie in Prince George's County, Maryland, has seen a disturbing rise in carjackings. This surge in violent vehicle thefts has prompted a response from local law enforcement and community leaders.

Recent Incidents and Police Response

The Bowie Police Department, along with the Prince George's County Police Department's Carjacking Interdiction Unit, has been grappling with an increasing number of carjacking incidents. Notable cases include a local chef being carjacked in the presence of his children and an FBI employee being wounded in a separate incident. Additionally, an incident in a Safeway parking lot involved pedestrians being struck during a carjacking. These events highlight the brazen nature of the crimes being committed.

Official Statements

Bowie's Chief of Police, Dwayne Preston, has spoken out about the increase in carjackings. He notes that carjackings have taken place in various locations such as gas stations, shopping centers, and apartment complexes, often carried out by individuals not residing in Bowie. In response, the department has increased patrols during evening and overnight hours and urges the community to report any suspicious activities.

Five Ways to Protect Yourself from Carjacking

1. Drive Strategically: Use the center lane to make it harder for potential carjackers to approach, and keep enough distance from other cars to maneuver if necessary.

2. Be Vigilant When Entering or Exiting Your Vehicle: Always be alert, have your keys in hand, and check your surroundings before entering or leaving your car. Park in well-lit areas and avoid obstructions to your view like large trucks or dumpsters.

3. Secure Your Vehicle: Lock your doors once inside, and never leave your car running unattended, even if you have the key fob.

4. Avoid High-Risk Areas: Be extra cautious around ATMs, gas stations, car washes, parking garages, and lots, particularly those near malls, grocery stores, or mass transit.

5. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it's better to err on the side of caution. Your intuition can be a powerful tool in identifying potential threats.

The rise in carjackings in Bowie is a concerning trend that requires both heightened law enforcement response and increased public awareness. By taking proactive measures and staying vigilant, residents can contribute to their safety and the safety of the community.

Don’t Get on Cupid’s Naughty List: A Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

On Valentine's Day I forgot the gift. My name on the naughty list took a swift shift. Cupid frowned and took his quill, wrote my name with a playful skill. "Oops," I said, "I've made a blunder, no roses, chocolates, or even thunder."

My sweetheart laughed, said, "It's okay, Your love is my gift, every single day!" So here's a tip, clear and brisk, forgetting gifts is quite a risk. But if love's true, it will persist, even if you're on Cupid's naughty list!

Here are a few ideas in the Valentine’s Day Gift Guide to get your juices flowing, EARLY, so that you don’t end up on Cupid’s naughty list 😍

“The Best of…” is coming to the Bowie Insider

Wonder no more! We will be introducing the “Best of…” in Bowie and the Regional Area as a weekly series. Stay tune as we ask for you to nominate businesses in the following categories and more. Each winner will be interviewed and featured in an issue of the Bowie Insider.

Start thinking about who you will vote for as the Best Coffee Shop in the Bowie Area. We will ask you to provide the name of your favorite coffee shop, collect and tally the votes then announce the winner.

Voting for the Best Coffee Shop will open on Friday, January 26.

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