As costs continue to rise, how can counties meet growing demands with limited options for generating new revenue?
Hosted by MACo’s Budget & Finance Affiliate, “Funding the Future: Counties Confront Growing Costs, Limited Flexibility” examined the fiscal pressures facing Maryland counties and potential approaches to generating revenue amid economic uncertainty.
Panelists included:
- Ed Gibson, Associate Professor, University of Baltimore
- Felix Facchine, Doctoral Student, University of Baltimore
- Robbie Sandlass, Treasurer and Director of Finance, Harford County
“Funding the Future: Counties Confront Growing Costs, Limited Flexibility” is a packed house at #MACoCon https://t.co/nMi9dxrh3e pic.twitter.com/pLEY7qXPRj
— Sophie Brzozowsky (@SBrzozowsky) August 13, 2026
Panelists examined Maryland’s existing revenue structure alongside approaches used elsewhere, raising questions about whether counties have enough flexibility to respond to growing costs and differing local needs. Ed Gibson shared data comparing Maryland with other states in the region and discussed alternative revenue strategies, including targeted revenue tied to sectors such as hospitality and data centers, as well as revenue dedicated to specific needs like education and transportation.
The discussion also highlighted that fiscal challenges and potential solutions can look very different from one county to another. Drawing from his research, Felix Facchine explored revenue sources that are not currently being fully utilized and emphasized the importance of tailoring strategies to the size and needs of individual jurisdictions rather than relying on a single statewide approach.
Robbie Sandlass brought the county perspective to the conversation, sharing fiscal forecasts and examining the role of major local revenue sources, including property and income taxes. Sandlass, who represents county governments on the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System Board of Trustees and leads MACo’s Budget and Finance Officers Affiliate, also discussed areas where Maryland’s current approach to taxation may leave potential revenue untapped.
Across the discussion, one challenge remained clear: counties are being asked to meet growing service, and infrastructure demands while operating within limited revenue structures. As fiscal pressures continue, greater flexibility and a closer look at how Maryland generates and allocates revenue could play an important role in helping counties plan for what comes next.
Article contributed by Sophie Brzozowsky, Legislative Services Assistant, MACo.
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