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Free One-Day Course to Help Residents Understand Planning Concepts & Procedures

DURHAM, N.C. – Durham residents who want a better understanding of planning issues and how they impact current and future development should register now for the next Durham Planning Academy.

Hosted by the Durham City-County Planning Department, this fall’s Durham Planning Academy is a one-day course aimed to introduce residents to planning concepts and procedures; explore the responsibilities of the department; explain the development process; and share typical procedures that various types of planning cases undergo. Participants will also learn about the legal framework in which planners must operate as well as how to participate in important City and County planning initiatives.

The academy will be held on Friday, October 25, 2019 from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Durham City Hall, located at 101 City Hall Plaza. An online application must be submitted by Friday, October 4 and space is limited to 75 participants. Preference will be given to applicants who live in Durham or who are assisting with the Engage Durham initiative as well as residents who are not already involved in City or County boards or commissions. The academy is free for attendees and breakfast and lunch is provided.

According to Durham City-County Planning Director Patrick Young, the purpose of the Planning Academy is to educate residents about the development process, help them learn about current planning initiatives, and inform them about ways to get involved. “The goal is to help shed light on how planning works in this community, explain the different rules and roles that shape development, and have Academy graduates empowered to become more informed and involved in planning Durham’s future,” Young said.

For more information, visit the Durham Planning Academy web page or contact Senior Planner Kayla Seibel with the Durham City-County Planning Department by email at [email protected]  or at (919) 560-4137, ext. 28271.

About the Durham City-County Planning Department

The Durham City-County Planning Department is the planning agency for the City and County of Durham. The department works with the community to develop long-range and special area plans containing policies to direct growth. Guided by the City’s Strategic Plan, the department helps to make Durham a great place to live, work, and play by working to create a strong and diverse economy, and thriving and livable neighborhoods.