Why Baltimore County Is Launching Quarterly In-Person Planning Office Hours

Baltimore County is launching a new initiative to bring planners directly to the public. The Department of Planning will host quarterly, in-person office hours across all seven council districts. This effort aims to make the planning process more accessible and responsive to neighborhood needs.

Residents and business owners can meet one-on-one with community planners. The sessions will rotate locations each quarter to ensure broad accessibility. According to the department, this is a key step in fostering stronger local connections.

Planners to Rotate Through All Seven Council Districts

The schedule for the first round of office hours is now available. Sessions will run from October through November. Locations include local libraries, community centers, and cafes to encourage a comfortable, informal setting.

For example, District 1 residents can meet planners at OCA Mocha in Arbutus on October 8. District 7 sessions will be held at the Sollers Point Multi-Purpose Center in Dundalk on November 19. Each event is scheduled for several hours to accommodate diverse schedules.

Initiative Aims for More Inclusive Development Process

Department leadership emphasizes the program’s goal of creating a two-way dialogue. Planning Director Stephen Lafferty stated the office hours will help support residents’ needs directly. This approach aims to build trust and gather valuable grassroots insights.

Community Planning Division Chief Ngone Diop echoed this sentiment. She believes the sessions will make planning more inclusive and responsive. The feedback gathered will directly inform future development initiatives and community plans across the county.

This new program underscores a significant shift toward hyper-local engagement in Baltimore County’s community planning process, making government more approachable than ever.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: How can I find out which council district I live in?

Baltimore County provides an online “What is My District?” tool on its website. You can also find your assigned community planner on the Community Planning Division homepage for direct contact.

Q2: What topics can I discuss with a planner during office hours?

You can discuss local development projects, zoning questions, and long-term community goals. Planners are there to listen to concerns and explain ongoing planning initiatives in your neighborhood.

Q3: Do I need to schedule an appointment for the office hours?

The office hours are designed as drop-in sessions, so appointments are not required. Residents are encouraged to come at any point during the scheduled time block for a conversation.

Q4: Will these community planning office hours continue beyond this year?

Yes, the Department of Planning has committed to holding these sessions quarterly. The locations will continue to rotate through all seven council districts on an ongoing basis.

Q5: Who is eligible to attend these planning office hours?

The sessions are open to all Baltimore County residents and local business owners. The initiative is designed for anyone with a stake in the future development of their community.

Trusted Sources: Baltimore County Department of Planning, Reuters.