Recent storms, surprise water main breaks and other occurrences have created many infrastructure emergencies across county government.   Mutli-day power outages have affected waste water treatment plants, hurricanes and derachos have caused flooding, downed trees, and even snowstorms in some parts of the state.  Presenters on this panel discussed how to be prepared to deal with these types of emergencies and offered best practices for managing through them.

Bob Maloney, Deputy Chief of Emergency Management and Public Safety for Baltimore City, spoke about the City’s approach for planning and managing for the various emergency situations that may occur throughout the year. Christopher Saunders, DPW Team Lead, Annapolis Sewer Services Area, Anne Arundel County, spoke specifically about waste water treatment facilities.  He shared comments on the importance of maintaining facilities to be best prepared when emergencies occur and focusing on the long-term.  Jon Bradley Frantz, Director of Emergency Management for Garrett County, spoke about the snow storm, which occurred during Hurricane Sandy and left Garrett County without power for days. All presenters said proper preparation is key to dealing with any emergency situation.

Howard County Council Member Courtney Watson moderated this session.