Washington County Releases Budget Book, Expands Online Access to Local Priorities

Washington County’s Office of Budget and Finance has released its FY 2026 Operating and Capital Budget Book, now available on its website. The new digital format makes it easier for residents, businesses, and local partners to understand where public dollars are going and how the County plans to meet community needs in the year ahead. The FY26 budget covers the period from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, and includes both operating and capital…

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New Faces, New Forces: Leveraging Untapped Talent at #MACoCon

In today’s economic environment, county governments are pivotal in driving local economic growth and workforce development. In particular, finding the right candidate for a specific role takes an even more dynamic strategy to reach untapped talent. Successfully navigating the complexities of intentionally leveraging certain areas of the workforce can foster a resilient local economy and increase stability and independence for residents. The below 2025 MACo Summer Conference session hosts an expert panel to share best…

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On the Front Lines of Food Safety: Why Local Inspections Matter

Learn about the economic benefits of investing in strong inspection programs, including lower healthcare costs and stronger local businesses. Local inspections of restaurants are essential for protecting public health by ensuring that food is prepared, stored, and served in safe and sanitary conditions. These inspections help prevent foodborne illnesses, identify potential hazards, and enforce health codes that keep kitchens clean and staff properly trained. Regular oversight also builds public trust by holding establishments accountable and…

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Leveraging Technology for Legislative Success

MACo’s 2025 Summer Conference Solutions Showcase features thought leaders and industry experts presenting resources and best practices to assist local governments. Check out this session hosted by ENGAGIFII! About ENGAGIFII: Engagifii is a MACo Endorsed Partner! Speed and efficiency are critical when working with policy-makers, especially if you are dealing with time-sensitive issues. Engagifii makes sure you always have the most accurate, up-to-date bill information. Each workspace allows you to securely assign the bill to…

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Up in Smoke? Balancing Public Safety and Employee Rights in the Cannabis Era 

As legal cannabis use becomes more common, local governments are caught navigating evolving workplace rights and public safety responsibilities. With no clear test for impairment and increasing legislative pressure, counties must find a path forward that protects both their workforce and their communities. Since Maryland voters approved adult-use cannabis legalization in 2022 and retail sales launched in 2023, the implications for employers, especially public sector employers, have rapidly evolved. While cannabis use is now legal…

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Navigating Maryland’s Evolving Energy Landscape: Increasing Demand for Electricity in Maryland and PJM Market Policy

MACo’s 2025 Summer Conference Solutions Showcase features thought leaders and industry experts presenting resources and best practices to assist local governments. Check out this session hosted by Constellation! About Constellation: Constellation Energy Corporation (Nasdaq: CEG), a Fortune 200 company headquartered in Baltimore, is the nation’s largest producer of reliable, emissions-free energy and a leading energy supplier to businesses, homes and public sector customers nationwide, including three-fourths of Fortune 100 companies. With annual output that is…

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Supportive Housing Strategies for Stable Communities at #MACoCon

Nationally and statewide, policy-makers are being confronted by a historic shortage of affordable housing. The cause of the crisis is not due to a singular instance, but instead the result of decisions in both the public and private sectors, market challenges, and a surge in mental and behavioral health issues. Similar to the cause, there exists no singular solution to this crisis. Policy-makers at all levels must be nimble in their solutions, adopting an “all…

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Maryland National Guard 101

MACo’s 2025 Summer Conference Solutions Showcase features thought leaders and industry experts presenting resources and best practices to assist local governments. Check out this session hosted by Maryland Army National Guard! About Maryland Army National Guard: The MD Army National Guard is a community-based organization that protects and serves the state. Members receive great benefits for joining! SOLUTIONS SHOWCASE SESSION: Title: Maryland National Guard 101 Description: As global security challenges intensify and military focus shifts…

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Fed Holds Rates Steady Again as Growth Cools, Inflation Persists

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady for the sixth straight meeting, keeping the federal funds rate at 4.25% to 4.5% as economic activity shows signs of slowing, even as inflation remains above target. In its latest statement, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) pointed to tempered growth in the first half of the year, with continued strength in the labor market and persistently low unemployment. While inflation remains elevated, recent data suggest fewer immediate…

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Making Your Processes More Efficient with Permitting & Licensing

MACo’s 2025 Summer Conference Solutions Showcase features thought leaders and industry experts presenting resources and best practices to assist local governments. Check out this session hosted by OpenGov! About OpenGov: OpenGov is the leader in AI and ERP solutions for local and state governments in the U.S.  More than 2,000 cities, counties, state agencies, school districts, and special districts rely on the OpenGov Public Service Platform to operate efficiently, adapt to change, and strengthen the…

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