FREDERICK COUNTY GOVERNMENT

DIVISION OF PLANNING AND PERMITTING

Livable Frederick Planning and Design Office

Deborah A. Carpenter, AICP, Division Director Kimberly Gaines, Department Head

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OCTOBER 22, 2026

Frederick County Recognized With Planning Awards

Presented at Maryland Chapter of the APA 2026 Conference

CITY OF BROOKLYN

FREDERICK, Md. – The Livable Frederick Planning and Design Office, in partnership with the Planning Commission, received the Best Plan Award for Jurisdictions over 10,000 for the Housing Element by the Maryland Chapter of American Planning Association (APA) at the Bi-Annual Conference. Additionally, Frederick County Planning Commission Chair Mark Long received the Citizen Planner Award.

“Planning helps ensure that Frederick County grows in a thoughtful, sustainable, and inclusive way,” said County Executive Jessica Fitzwater. “I am proud of our staff and the members of our Planning Commission, who work hard to understand our community’s needs, engage residents, and develop practical strategies that support housing choices and a quality of life for our residents.”

The Housing Element was adopted by the Frederick County Council on July 7, 2026. It is a functional planning document intended to assist the County in addressing housing needs, particularly affordable housing for low-income and workforce households.

Mark Long was recognized for his citizen planning leadership in linking affordable housing and sustainable growth in Frederick County. Through his service on boards and committees, he has advocated for expanded housing choices, public engagement, coordinated infrastructure, and agricultural preservation.

His work on the Frederick County Planning Commission has supported implementation of the Livable Frederick Master Plan and strengthened coordination among the community, organizations, and government to advance a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable community.

The Maryland Planning Awards recognize outstanding planning work for projects or programs in Maryland for both groups and individuals, as well as professional, student, and citizen planners.

CONTACT: Jen Specht

Communications Manager

Division of Planning and Permitting

301-600-1638

Frederick County, Maryland does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, familial status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or source of income.