Navigating Multiple Priorities: Counties and the Challenge of Limited Resources

This article is part of MACo’s Deep Dive series, where expert analysts explore and explain the top county issues of the day. A new article is added each week – read all of MACo’s Deep Dives. Local autonomy is a core principle of Maryland’s political system. At its most basic level, local autonomy means empowering county leaders to solve county problems. This empowerment lends counties a unique and, at times, misunderstood perspective. Often, advocates and stakeholders…

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Register now for the NACo 2023 Rural Action Caucus (RAC) Symposium

Interested parties are invited to register today for the National Association of Counties (NACo) Rural Action Caucus (RAC) 2023 Fall Symposium in Greenbrier County, West Virginia. Elected and appointed county officials, national thought leaders, and partners will identify rural challenges and elevate solutions through information exchanges and policy discussions. This unique event is an opportunity to engage with your peers and national experts on topics important to rural America, including broadband deployment, rural development, workforce challenges,…

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State Leaders Look to the Future of Agriculture at #MACoCon

County leaders at the 2023 MACo Summer Conference heard from local, state, and federal leaders on how we can chart Maryland's agricultural future -- from farms and beyond. From food insecurity and urban blight to climate change-induced crop damage, agriculture presents solutions to major problems facing Marylanders. From Baltimore to Garrett and Worcester to Washington, counties use agriculture as a force multiplier in their communities. The 2023 MACo Summer Conference general session, "The Future of…

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County Leaders Delve Deep into Infrastructure at #MACoCon

At MACo's Summer Conference, an expert panel discussed some of the most overlooked facets of development, specifically human infrastructure.  Infrastructure is more than pipes, roads, and physical structures. Advocates, residents, and policymakers often overlook the critical programmatic and social side of what keeps our communities running. Childcare, housing, education, and reimagining neighborhoods are all important functions the counties perform and yet are often not considered infrastructure. Senator Benjamin Brooks led the conversation and moderated an…

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Carroll County Environmental Advisory Council Seeks Nominations for Awards – Deadline Sept 30th

The Carroll County Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) is seeking nominations for the 2023 Environmental Actions Awards. Awards are presented biennially to individuals and groups chosen from nominees submitted for consideration by their peers, although self-nominations will be accepted. Individuals and groups that have demonstrated and promoted awareness of the environment through their actions and projects may be recognized for their efforts. Awards will be granted for endeavors and projects that result in positive benefits to…

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The Future of Ag – It’s More Than Farming 

During the MACo Summer Conference panel, The Future of Ag – It's More Than Farming, panelists will discuss agriculture for the 21st century.  Agriculture is one of the most underutilized economic unlocks waiting to help further grow Maryland's economy. From food deserts to urban revitalization and everything in between, agriculture can be an amazing tool to address many of the challenges facing counties. The Future of Ag – It's More Than Farming  Description: From food…

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USDA Invests $300M in Studying Ags Impact on Climate

The US Department of Agriculture will invest $300 million in studying agriculture's impact on climate change.  Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will invest $300 million  to improve the measurement, monitoring, reporting, and verification of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration in climate-smart agriculture and forestry. The new investments will advance priorities set by the broader Federal Strategy to Advance Greenhouse Gas Measurement and Monitoring for the Agriculture and…

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Washington County to Launch Agricultural Innovation and Equipment Grant

Later this month, the Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development will launch the County's Agricultural Innovation and Equipment Grant. This grant program, exclusively designed for Washington County agricultural businesses, farms, and farm owners,  aims to support their growth and development. The grant program is approved and funded for $300,000 to be awarded over three years. Applicants can apply to receive a grant of $1,000.00 to $25,000.00. “It is more important now than ever…

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Howard County Announces Groundbreaking, New Climate Plan and Launches Climate Subcabinet

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball announced HoCo Climate Forward, the county’s first climate plan since 2015. This is the County’s first climate plan to add a focus on climate resiliency and environmental justice. Photos from the event can be found here https://youtu.be/ohO8JtPwH_s "The science and facts tell us that climate change is one of the most urgent challenges of our generation and that we are running out of time to act. There is no better…

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2023 NACo Achievement Awards: Spotlight on Maryland County Winners in County Resiliency

Introducing Our Celebratory Blog Series: Showcasing the Remarkable Achievements of Maryland's Award-Winning Counties! Join us on an exciting journey as we embark on a special blog series dedicated to honoring the exceptional accomplishments of the counties that triumphed in the National Association of Counties (NACo) 2023 Achievement Awards. Each week, we will shine a well-deserved spotlight on a few remarkable counties, delving into their accomplishments, innovative initiatives, and the profound impact they have had on…

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