Communities face more frequent and complex disasters due to a changing climate. Climate change drives a range of effects, from discrete events like extreme weather to longer-term impacts that vary by location, such as drought, sea-level rise, regional energy vulnerabilities, increased wildfires, habitat modification, and emerging diseases.
In the face of escalating climate change, county emergency management has emerged as a critical player in mitigating and adapting to these environmental challenges. From risk assessment and preparedness to response and recovery, county emergency managers play a crucial role in community resilience.
At the 2023 MACo Winter Conference, Frederick County Council Member M.C. Keegan-Ayer led a conversation with an expert panel that shared practical insights and actionable strategies to foster a more sustainable and prepared future.
Panel speakers included:
- Earl Stoddard, Assistant CAO, Montgomery County
- Michael Hinson, Chief Resilience Officer, State of Maryland
- Jack Markey, Emergency Manager, Frederick County
Maryland’s newly minted Chief Resilience Officer, Mike Hinson, started the session by explaining the new office and his role. The position — one of just seven similar jobs nationwide — was authorized last year by the Maryland General Assembly, with MACo’s support, after being created by a bill sponsored by Senator Katie Fry Hester. Hinson explained that his office will work closely with counties to provide statewide coordination for resilience across all hazards, ensuring that Maryland can adapt to changing conditions and prepare for, withstand, and rapidly recover from disruptions to everyday life.
Earl Stoddard discussed Montgomery County’s Climate Action Plan and adaptation/climate modeling. Stoddard also explained why the County is working with a hydrologist to understand how flooding changes over time and the impact of droughts. In addition, Stoddard highlighted the benefits of the Maryland Mesonet, which is a significant step forward in advancing weather prediction and ensuring the safety of Maryland’s residents and visitors.
Jack Markey explained the importance of emergency managers engaging in cross-sector collaborations with government entities, non-profits, academia, and private sector organizations to drive climate-conscious emergency management practices. Markey also highlighted the importance of having everyone at the table for discussions and policy decisions to mitigate the impacts of a changing climate.
The session was on December 6 at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, Maryland.
More about MACo’s Winter Conference:
