Kim Frock, Author at Conduit Street

PFAS – Hidden Chemicals, Real Challenges for Maryland Counties

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals” or "everywhere chemicals" are emerging as complex environmental and public health challenges facing Maryland counties. Once thought to be confined to industrial sites, these persistent chemicals are now being detected in everyday local spaces—parks, recreational facilities, and community gathering areas where residents live, play, and connect. These challenges were the focus of an informative panel discussion, PFAS in Local Spaces: Hidden Chemicals, Real Challenges, moderated by The…

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December 18, 2025

Feature / Winter Conference

Employment Practices and Legal Considerations

The Academy Course - Employment Issues provided valuable insight into preferred employment practices and the legal restrictions associated with hiring, termination, promotion, and employee discipline. Emphasis was placed on risk management strategies, including recruitment practices, employee supervision, and effective documentation. Mr. Karpinski highlighted the importance of consistency in employment actions, noting supervisors must consider whether their decisions are equitable and uniformly applied across all employees. Speaker: Kevin Karpinski, Partner, Karpinski, Cornbrooks…

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December 17, 2025

County News / Economic Development / Human Resources / Summer Conference

Strengthening Maryland’s Workforce: Insights and Initiatives

Maryland is taking strategic steps to address evolving workforce challenges amidst a rapidly changing labor landscape. From early student engagement to supporting older workers, workforce experts and policymakers are focusing on inclusive, forward-thinking solutions. The Honorable Senator Jim Rosapepe moderated an informative session at the New Faces, New Forces: Leveraging Untapped Talent at the MACo Summer Conference. Panel speakers included: Portia Wu, Secretary, Maryland Department of Labor Kirkland Murray, President, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Board…

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August 20, 2025

County News / Human Resources / Public Safety and Corrections / Risk Management / Summer Conference

Supporting Those Who Serve: The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care

When tragedy strikes, it’s often the first responders—police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and others—who arrive first on the scene. While they work tirelessly to support our communities, who supports them when the emotional and psychological toll becomes too much? Recently, several experts and advocates came together to highlight the importance of Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), trauma-informed care, and proactive mental health support for those on the front lines. The Honorable Senator Cheryl Kagan moderated an…

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August 20, 2025

County News / Public Information and Ethics / Summer Conference

Understanding Ethics in Public Service: Conflicts, Compliance, and Accountability

Attendees learned about ethics in local government as part of the Academy of Excellence in Local Governance. Moderator: The Honorable Todd Ireland, Commissioner, Vice President, Calvert County Speaker: Todd Turner, Esq., Executive Director, Office of Ethics and Accountability, Prince Georges County In any organization, trust is the foundation of effective leadership and citizen confidence. But trust isn't built overnight, it requires ethical behavior, transparency, and accountability from all public officials and employees. Officials fill out the…

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August 20, 2025

County News / Parks and Recreation / Summer Conference

More Than Just Green Space: How Parks Are Transforming Maryland

When we think about what makes a community vibrant, healthy, and economically strong, parks and recreation may not always be the first thing that comes to mind. But perhaps they should be. Across Maryland—from the 30,000 acres of parkland in Prince George’s County to over half a million acres statewide—parks are proving to be more than just green spaces. They are economic drivers, public health assets, and powerful tools for community development. The Honorable Delegate Regina…

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August 19, 2025

County News / Planning and Zoning / Public Safety and Corrections / Summer Conference / Transportation and Public Works

The Evolving Role of Drones in Modern Government Operations

While drones have become well-established tools in public safety operations—particularly for emergency response and law enforcement—their utility in government operations is rapidly expanding into diverse and impactful areas. These include infrastructure inspection, land surveying, environmental monitoring, traffic management, and even public communication during events. The Honorable Senator William Folden moderated an informative session at the There’s a Drone for That: Streamlining Public Services with Aerial Assistance. Panel speakers included: Katherine Munson, Planning Manager, Natural Resources…

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August 19, 2025

County News / Employee Benefits and Relations / Human Resources

MACo’s Annual Reporting on County Employee Salaries, Health Benefits, & Pensions

Every year, Human Resources Officers from each jurisdiction provide valuable insights into key components of public sector employment, including employee salaries, health benefits, and pensions. The FY 2025 County Employee Salaries, Health Benefits, and Pensions Report offers a comprehensive look at compensation trends for 149 positions and current benefits packages. For employers, these annual data sets are critical tools for informed decision-making. As government agencies and public organizations work within specific budget constraints and strive…

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March 19, 2025

County News / Health and Human Services / Intergovernmental Relations / Parks and Recreation / Winter Conference

#MACoCon Maximizing Program Open Space Resources

In an era of fiscal constraints, Recreation and Parks departments across Maryland are embracing creative solutions to continue enhancing services and park amenities. At the 2024 Winter MACoCon a group of expert panelists dove into this topic. One of the most impactful approaches has been forming strategic collaborations with state, county, and private partners. These partnerships not only ensure the growth of Maryland's park systems but also foster environmental conservation, public health, and community engagement.…

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December 19, 2024

County News / Economic Development / Parks and Recreation / Tourism / Winter Conference

Panel Talks Boosting Local Economies Through Tourism

Maryland Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) lead the way in showcasing all Maryland has to offer to our residents and visitors from other states. At MACo's Winter Conference, a distinguished panel highlighted the vital role of Maryland's DMOs in the state's economic growth. With a focus on innovative infrastructure projects and a strong commitment to enhancing visitor experiences, these organizations are helping elevate Maryland as a premier destination for residents and out-of-state travelers. The Honorable Jefferson…

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December 19, 2024