![[photo, David R. Craig, Maryland Secretary of Planning]](https://i0.wp.com/msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/36loc/ha/images/1198-1-06838b.jpg?resize=180%2C250)
“I view our role is to help the local governments,” Craig stated and then added that MDP must “realize one [size] does not fit all.” He stressed that MDP is an “advisory and not a regulatory body” and highlighted the Department’s commitment to providing planning assistance to local governments, especially small municipalities that lack dedicated planning staff. The Secretary cited MDP’s regional planner system and its new Reinvest Maryland initiative as examples of local government outreach.
Craig also explained the important role MDP plays in communicating with other state agencies. MDP is required to provide its opinions and thoughts on a variety of issues handled by other state agencies, such as county water and sewer plans. Craig stated that MDP plans on sharing its inter-departmental comments on such issues directly with any affected local governments.