Disaster Dollars: What’s Next?

At this year’s MACo Summer Conference, learn how counties are partnering with the State will streamline and expedite community resources in times of crisis.

A federal emergency declaration triggers a wide range of public and private sector relief available in a crisis or disaster. However, in smaller-scale events, similar problems arise for those affected – but local governments are restricted in the funds and resources they can activate without federal declaration.

As previously reported on Conduit Street, MACo successfully supported legislation to establish a State Disaster Recovery Fund, administered by the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), to provide disaster recovery assistance to county governments, individuals, and families when federal aid is not available or insufficient – typically due to the nature and breadth of the event.

In consultation with local emergency managers, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management must develop eligibility criteria, policies, and procedures to administer the fund, while considering existing state disaster recovery programs and federal disaster relief and recovery requirements. In addition, MACo will advocate for sufficient and reliable funding for the State Disaster Recovery Fund.

Disaster Dollars: What‘s Next? 

While a disaster always begins and ends at the local level, a strong partnership across federal, state, and local governments is vital to emergency preparedness and community resilience. This year, the General Assembly passed legislation establishing a State Disaster Recovery Fund (SDRF) to provide much-needed resources to serve residents and businesses in all 24 jurisdictions when a disaster strikes. While the SDRF is a significant accomplishment, more work remains. In this session, an expert panel will explain the significance of the SDRF, detail the next steps, and highlight new ideas and policies to streamline community resources in times of crisis. 

Speakers: 

  • Michael Hinson, Emergency Manager, Howard County
  • Preeti Emrick, Director, Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management
  • Anna Sierra, Chief Development Officer, Maryland Department of Emergency Management

Date/Time: Thursday, August 17, 2023; 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm 

The 2023 MACo Summer Conference is August 16-19, 2023, at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland.

Learn more about MACo’s Summer Conference: