Application Form

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This application is the first step in applying for a seat in the Spring PlanHoward Academy class. The Academy aims to educate County residents on land use and growth policies, the legal planning framework and zoning regulations, the subdivision and land development process and growth management. 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 and what you hope to learn. Applications are expected to 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 Tuesday, April 14, April 21, April 28, May 5, and May 12. 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, March 1, 2026.

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* 1. Please enter your contact information below. Email will be our primary way of contacting you.

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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?

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

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* 7. We are seeking participants who are involved 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. If you are invited to participate in the program and we cannot reach you via your provided email, your seat will be given to the next person.

Applications are due by 11:59 pm on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

All applicants will be notified if they have been selected, not selected or waitlisted for the Academy no later than March 16, 2026. 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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