Deborah Carpenter Earns Maryland Association of Counties Recognition

Deborah Carpenter earns Maryland Association of Counties recognition

Deborah Carpenter, Garrett County Director of Planning and Land Management and an AICP member of the chapter, was awarded the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Recognition Award. She was presented the award at the MACo Winter Conference Awards Banquet on Wednesday, January 2, 2019, in Cambridge, Md.

“Coming from the far western end of the state, my commute to the meetings is lengthy, but I believe to effect change you must do your homework, show up and participate,” said Carpenter in an e-mail. “My commissioners support me making the time for these activities.”

The award acknowledges legislators or state officials for outstanding legislative effort and advocacy on behalf of county needs and interests.

Carpenter, who has been with the county for 23 years, five of which as planning director, was recognized for her work on land use issues in Garrett County and across the state.

She was also lauded for her leadership and commitment to advocacy through her role as MACo Planners Affiliate representative to the Maryland Sustainable Growth Commission, a body of government officials making recommendations on growth and development issues in the state.

“This work has afforded me the ability to garner respect from many in positions of some esteem and broadened my network,” said Carpenter. “That, of course, only enhances my own work in Garrett County.”

Carpenter has been a dedicated and invaluable resource to MACo and the Commission on land use policies and planning. During her time serving as MACo representative to the Commission, she has been active on the Reinvest MD and Rural Economies workgroups. She coordinates the Rural Development and Recreation subcommittee, and her involvement has re-energized the group, allowing them to make many recommendations to the Sustainable Growth Commission.

Carpenter has also stepped up to advocate for land use issues, having spoken twice as the MACo Summer Conference. She served on a panel on Smart Growth and emphasized the need to design implementation strategies that are appropriate for the diverse demographics that exist within the state.

“Debbie has been a critical asset to the Garrett County Government team and we are proud of her

and accomplishments in earning this award,” said Garrett County Administrator Kevin Null.