Special Bonus Episode: Frederick County’s Data Center Playbook

Following the response to The Briefing Room's energy series, we're revisiting one of the topics that generated the most listener interest: data centers. In this special bonus episode, Dom Butchko is joined by Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater to discuss why Frederick County has become one of Maryland's leaders in developing local data center policy. Tune in to the Conduit Street Podcast weekly, wherever you get your podcasts! Subscribe to the Conduit Street Blog and…

Comments Off on Special Bonus Episode: Frederick County’s Data Center Playbook
MACo Fall Symposium – Harnessing AI: Opportunities and Responsibilities for Counties

Every year, MACo hosts a one-day symposium for county officials and professionals to dive deeply into a hot topic. The 2026 Fall Symposium will be held on September 14 and will focus on artificial intelligence responsibilities and opportunities for counties. MACo Fall Symposium September 14, 2026 9:30 am – 3:00 pm Crowne Plaza Annapolis   Harnessing AI: Opportunities and Responsibilities for Counties  Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way governments serve residents, support employees, and…

Comments Off on MACo Fall Symposium – Harnessing AI: Opportunities and Responsibilities for Counties
Digital Accessibility Work Continues as Counties Prepare for New Federal Requirements

The deadline may have shifted, but the work of making government services digitally accessible continues. A recent Government Technology article highlights how state and local governments across the country are working to meet updated federal digital accessibility requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). While the U.S. Department of Justice extended the compliance deadlines to 2027 and 2028, experts say the additional time should be viewed as an opportunity to build long-term accessibility practices…

Comments Off on Digital Accessibility Work Continues as Counties Prepare for New Federal Requirements
Coordinated Cyberattacks Target Water Systems Across 12 States

Water and wastewater systems in at least 12 states have reportedly faced a coordinated series of cyberattacks, placing new attention on the technology local governments use to operate essential public infrastructure. Axios, citing ABC News, reports that at least a dozen states are responding to attacks against local water systems. Officials have reported no drinking water safety concerns. The campaign initially drew attention after attacks hit more than 30 water systems in Minnesota. Michigan later…

Comments Off on Coordinated Cyberattacks Target Water Systems Across 12 States
Can’t Miss at #MACoCon: Protecting County Infrastructure in the Digital Age

At the 2026 MACo Summer Conference, attendees will examine one of local government's fastest-growing responsibilities: protecting the technology that keeps essential public services running. Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue. Counties depend on connected systems to operate public safety, emergency communications, utilities, financial systems, public works, and countless other services residents rely on every day. Protecting County Infrastructure in the Digital Age A cyberattack can do more than disrupt email or computer networks.…

Comments Off on Can’t Miss at #MACoCon: Protecting County Infrastructure in the Digital Age
The European Union AI Act Transparency Rules Take Effect

The European Union has entered a new phase of AI regulation, with transparency requirements for chatbots, AI-generated content, and deepfakes now officially in effect. As covered in an article from the EdTech Innovation Hub, the European Union has begun enforcing new transparency requirements under the AI Act. Effective August 2, Article 50 requires organizations that develop or use certain AI systems to clearly disclose when people interact with AI or consume AI-generated content. The rules…

Comments Off on The European Union AI Act Transparency Rules Take Effect
AI That Works: Practical Use Cases for County Government at #MACoCon

Artificial intelligence is no longer a future conversation for government; it's becoming a practical tool for solving everyday operational challenges. Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how organizations work, and state and local governments are beginning to identify where these tools can deliver meaningful value. As local governments explore these opportunities, they must also address important questions around governance, data privacy, procurement, workforce impacts, transparency, and public trust. Rather than focusing on what's possible in theory,…

Comments Off on AI That Works: Practical Use Cases for County Government at #MACoCon
Montgomery County Streamlines Development Review To Attract Major Employers

Montgomery County has approved a new zoning initiative designed to accelerate development of large, job-creating projects, as part of an effort to attract new employers, strengthen economic competitiveness, and spur private-sector investment. The Job Creation Project zoning amendment establishes an expedited development review process for projects that create at least 200 net new jobs and meet certain economic development criteria. Eligible projects include those in strategic industries identified in the county's Economic Development Strategic Plan,…

Comments Off on Montgomery County Streamlines Development Review To Attract Major Employers
Governments Expand AI Training for Employees

As counties explore new AI tools, many governments are discovering that workforce training and AI literacy are essential to successful implementation. As covered in a Government Technology article, artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming a part of government operations. State and local governments are expanding AI literacy programs to help employees use the technology responsibly and securely. While AI adoption continues to grow, many public employees still need foundational training before they can confidently integrate AI…

Comments Off on Governments Expand AI Training for Employees
From Broadband to Economic Opportunity: Building Maryland’s Digital Future

At the 2026 MACo Summer Conference, county leaders will explore how broadband is moving beyond basic internet access to become a foundation for economic development, workforce growth, healthcare, education, and community resilience. With historic investments bringing high-speed internet to more Maryland communities, counties are increasingly focused on how to maximize those investments and ensure broadband expansion delivers lasting economic and community benefits. From Broadband to Economic Opportunity: Building Maryland's Digital Future Broadband has become essential…

Comments Off on From Broadband to Economic Opportunity: Building Maryland’s Digital Future