Application Form

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This application is the first step in applying for a seat in the Fall PlanHoward Academy class. The Academy aims to educate County residents about planning and growth policies, the subdivision and zoning process, and the legal planning framework. This education is provided in a diverse classroom setting with a group of residents from a variety of ages, ethnicities, neighborhoods, and community organizations. Please use this application to help us get to know you, what you are passionate about, and what you hope to learn. Applications are expected to greatly exceed the number of spots available, so thorough responses are helpful as we review.

Class will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, October 22 and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on October 29, November 5, 12, and 19. If selected from the applicant pool, participants will be expected to attend all sessions. Class location will be provided when your spot is secured. We anticipate applications will exceed class capacity, so please only apply if you can attend all five nights.

For more information, please contact Kristin O'Connor at 410-313-4321 or by email at koconnor@howardcountymd.gov.

Applications are due by 11:59 pm on Sunday, September 7, 2025.

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* 1. Please enter your contact information below. Your email will be our primary way of contacting you. If you cannot be reached via email to confirm your attendance, you will receive a phone call and/or a text message. Messaging rates will apply. If we still can't reach you, your seat will be given to the next person.

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* 2. I understand that PlanHoward Academy is a one night a week commitment for five-weeks and that if accepted, I will make every effort to attend each scheduled night.

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* 3. Why do you want to attend PlanHoward Academy and what do you hope to learn more about? Please answer within 3-5 sentences.

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* 4. What topics related to planning most interest you? Please rank the following choices in order of importance with #1 being most interested in and #6 being least interested.

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* 5. If you ranked "other" above in question 4 as your first, second or third choice, what missing topic(s) are you most interested in or concerned about?

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* 6. What do you think are the most significant challenges in your community related to planning? Please answer within 3-5 sentences.

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* 7. We are seeking participants who are committed to their communities. Describe any recent community involvement you have in Howard County (for example appointed board or commission member or elected member of HOA), and the unique perspectives and skills you will bring to Academy. Please answer within 3-5 sentences.

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* 8. How long have you lived in Howard County?

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* 9. Please list your race/ethnicity as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau:

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* 10. Please select your age range. 

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* 11. How did you find out about PlanHoward Academy? 

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* 12. I understand that PlanHoward Academy is limited to 35 participants, and thus completing the application does not ensure program admission. All applicants will be notified with a follow up email in the coming weeks regarding the status of their application.

Applications are due by 11:59 pm on Sunday, September 7, 2025.

All applicants will be notified if they have been selected, not selected or waitlisted for the Academy or their waitlist status no later than September 30, 2025. Emails will be sent to your registered email.

Thank you for completing this application and your interest in PlanHoward Academy. Please click on the ‘Submit’ button below.

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