Maryland in 50 Years and Beyond: Planning for the Long View

Planning for the next budget cycle is a necessity, but planning for the next generation may be even more important.

During the 2026 MACo Summer Conference session, “Maryland in 50 Years and Beyond,” Delegate Lorig Charkoudian moderated a discussion on the long-term decisions that will shape Maryland’s future and the role state and county leaders play in preparing communities for decades to come.

The conversation examined how local and state leaders can balance today’s challenges with investments that have lasting impacts on infrastructure, education, workforce development, and quality of life. Panelists included Maryland Department of Planning Secretary Rebecca Flora, Johns Hopkins University Professor Douglas Mao, College of Southern Maryland President Yolanda Wilson, and Congressman Johnny Olszewski. Discussion themes included the importance of future-focused planning, adapting public policy to emerging trends, preparing workers for an evolving economy, and ensuring that Maryland’s institutions remain positioned to support growth and opportunity over the long term.

The session reinforced a central challenge for county leaders: making decisions today that will continue to benefit Maryland residents for generations to come.

More about MACo’s Summer Conference: