A podcast on Maryland policy and politics. Stay in the know about how the General Assembly, Governor, state agencies, and county leaders affect the essential services that Marylanders depend on each and every day. Tune in for deep dives into state and county issues, special guests from around the state, and our world-famous dad jokes. We’ve got you covered on the Maryland Association of Counties’ Conduit Street Podcast.
Josh Kurtz on Politics, Journalism, and What’s Next After Maryland Matters
Feb 21, 2025
Veteran Maryland political journalist Josh Kurtz, founder of Maryland Matters, joins Conduit Street Podcast host Michael Sanderson to "talk shop.” Kurtz has a decades-long career covering state politics and policy and brings much to the table as they talk about the evolution of Maryland’s media landscape, the decline of in-depth State House reporting, and the challenges of sustaining independent political journalism.
Maryland's energy future is at a crossroads. In this episode, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Dominic Butchko break down the latest energy legislation making waves in Annapolis. From rate hikes and grid reliability to renewable energy expansion and land use conflicts, they explore what’s driving the debate and how counties are navigating complex policy decisions.
Tune in for an in-depth discussion on the balancing act between clean energy goals, local control, and funding essential services.
Notes From Nebraska & Maryland Parallels
Feb 07, 2025
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, MACo's Director, Michael Sanderson, welcomes his counterpart from the Nebraska Association of Counties, Jon Cannon. They discuss policy issues facing the "cornhusker state," which (as is so often true) have some resonance here in Maryland. Also, digging into Mr. Cannon's background in tax and revenue administration, talk through the practical implementation of property tax offsets, fairness measures, and the overall effect of property taxes on tax policy. With county governments bracing for the fallout from the State budget crisis, we've got a few insights on the wisdom (or lack thereof) in putting further pressure on local property taxes.
Education Priorities for Maryland's Future
Jan 31, 2025
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, hosts Michael Sanderson and Sarah Sample are joined by Mary Pat Fannon, Executive Director of the Public School Superintendents Association of Maryland. With numerous bills aimed at education policy and the Blueprint for Maryland's Future this legislative session, Mary Pat shares how local superintendents focus on policies prioritizing student outcomes and setting clear expectations for education agencies. Tune in for insights into these priorities and other key issues on their agenda in this week’s episode.
Signals From the West With Commissioner Paul Edwards
Jan 24, 2025
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, hosts Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson head to the MACo office for a chat with Commissioner Paul Edwards of Garrett County, geographically Maryland’s westernmost and second-largest county. As the westernmost member of MACo, Commissioner Edwards shares his unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the rural Appalachian county.
In this episode, they delve into Garrett County's legacy, explore unique policy issues, and discuss the value of counties collaborating through MACo. Commissioner Edwards also reflects on his journey into MACo leadership and how the organization benefits all Maryland counties.
Don’t miss this insightful discussion about leadership, community, and the power of working together for a stronger Maryland. Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Breaking Down the Budget
Jan 17, 2025
The Governor's FY26 budget has arrived, bringing with it a $3 billion gap, $2 billion in proposed cuts, and a host of decisions that directly affect Maryland’s counties. In this episode, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson dive into the big-picture fiscal plan, unpacking its implications for local governments. From income tax changes and pension cost shifts to funding reductions and the elimination of key programs like Enterprise Zones, this week’s Conduit Street Podcast delivers an insider’s perspective on what the budget means for counties—and what challenges lie ahead.
Tune in for expert analysis, upcoming legislative priorities, and the fiscal nuances shaping Maryland's policy landscape. Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Panel: 2025 General Assembly Forecast at the 2024 Winter MACoCon
Jan 10, 2025
What’s ahead for Maryland in the 2025 legislative session? In this special episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, we’re bringing you a recording of a must-hear panel from the 2024 MACo Winter Conference. Legislative leaders and the Administration share their insights on Maryland’s fiscal outlook, upcoming policy changes, and key issues to watch as the session approaches.
Moderated by 2025 MACo President and Queen Anne’s County Commissioner Jack Wilson, the panel features:
The Honorable David Moon (Maryland House of Delegates)
The Honorable Stephen Hershey (Maryland State Senate)
The Honorable Jesse Pippy (Maryland House of Delegates)
The Honorable Craig Zucker (Maryland State Senate)
Eric Luedtke (Chief Legislative Officer, Office of the Governor)
Tune in for their expert analysis and perspectives on what’s next for Maryland’s counties and communities in the legislative year ahead! Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Aging Well in Maryland
Jan 03, 2025
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, MACo Associate Policy Director Sarah Sample delves into the critical and evolving work of Maryland's aging services community. She is joined by two seasoned leaders: Secretary Carmel Roques of the Maryland Department of Aging and Heang Tan, who is transitioning from Director of Baltimore City's Area Agency on Aging to Baltimore County's Director of Aging. Together, they explore how state and local governments, including the Maryland Department of Aging and Area Agencies on Aging in all 23 counties and Baltimore City, are collaborating to address the needs of Maryland's aging population.
From innovative programs to direct services and advocacy efforts, the discussion covers the strategies and partnerships ensuring Marylanders can thrive at every stage of life. Tune in and learn about the who, what, when, where, and how of services for aging populations in Maryland and their families. Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Blueprint for Success: Dr. Carey Wright’s Vision for Maryland Education
Dec 20, 2024
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, we bring you an engaging conversation with Dr. Carey Wright, Maryland State Superintendent of Schools, recorded live at the 2024 MACo Winter Conference. Dr. Wright joined MACo Executive Director Michael Sanderson for a “fireside” chat to discuss education reform, the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, and her vision for the State Department of Education heading into the 2025 legislative session. Hear how Dr. Wright draws on her experience closing achievement gaps in Mississippi and empowering her team to tackle challenges with focus and perseverance. Learn about her plans to drive meaningful change in Maryland’s education system and ensure the success of the Blueprint. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on the future of education in Maryland! Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Maryland’s Fiscal Crisis and County Implications
Dec 06, 2024
Maryland faces a growing fiscal crisis, with projections of a nearly $6 billion structural deficit by 2030. This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, our hosts are back to their old tricks, digging into the latest (bad) news about the State's fiscal situation and looking at the road ahead. Where did this shortfall come from - is it the quirky economy, shaky forecasts, or unplanned expenses? (Think: two truths and a lie) And while they lay out the numbers facing the State both in the short term and down the road, they look at the tools that are on the table for decision-makers in the months ahead. Plus, where and how could all this become a county government problem? Listen to the big budgetary breakdown this week! Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Maryland's Energy Future and the Effect on Local Govt
Nov 27, 2024
As Maryland faces rising energy demand, ambitious climate goals, and shifting federal mandates, what does the future of energy look like? On this week’s episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Dominic Butchko explore Maryland’s evolving energy landscape, focusing on critical challenges like transmission infrastructure, local authority over large energy projects, and the role of renewables and nuclear energy in meeting statewide targets. Tune in to hear about the tensions between state priorities and local concerns, and get a preview of the energy-focused sessions at the upcoming MACo Winter Conference! Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Mystery and Mechanics of Modern Elections
Nov 15, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Shantelle Malcolm-Lym joins Kevin Kinnally to break down the Electoral College and its impact on American democracy. They explore how this centuries-old system came to be, why it continues to spark debate, and what potential reforms could mean for future elections. Plus, a dive into the balance between state sovereignty and national interests and the mystery surrounding the framers’ secretive deliberations. Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Ask Me Anything With Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally Pt 2
Nov 08, 2024
In this special two-part Ask Me Anything series of the Conduit Street Podcast, our host, Shantelle Malcolm-Lym, dives into part two of listener-submitted questions. Tune in as Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally tackle a new set of questions that showcase MACo's unique legislative approach of pragmatism and creativity. This candid discussion is one you won't want to miss as it shines a light on the challenges and the unique local quirks that make Maryland governance one of a kind. Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Ask Me Anything With Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally Pt 1
Nov 01, 2024
In this special two-part Ask Me Anything series of the Conduit Street Podcast, our host, Shantelle Malcolm-Lym, dives into listener-submitted questions that cover everything from under-the-radar Maryland policies to personal takes on Maryland-themed Monopoly. Listen in as Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally tackle thought-provoking questions about MACo’s role in local governance, the rising influence of technology and AI, challenges in the 2025 legislative session, and dream guests for the podcast. Follow us on Socials! MACo on Twitter MACo on Facebook
Creating Inclusive Spaces With Sparks@Play
Oct 23, 2024
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Karrington Anderson, in her podcast debut, dive into the world of inclusive playgrounds and the vital role they play in fostering diversity, connection, and community. Jill Moore, an expert in inclusive play spaces, shares how thoughtful design and collaboration with teams like Sparks@Play can create environments where all children—regardless of ability—can thrive, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging. From understanding community needs to engaging local resources, they explore how counties can stay ahead of the curve in accessibility. Tune in to hear inspiring success stories, practical tips, and how inclusivity benefits everyone. More About Our Guest and Inclusive Play Celebrating Diversity: Jill Moore Of Landscape Structures On How To Build Inclusive Communities
Shaping Maryland’s Future Through Public Service Leadership at the University of Baltimore
Oct 18, 2024
Join hosts Kevin Kinnally and Shantelle Malcolm-Lym on this special episode of the Conduit Street Podcast as they sit down with Roger Hartley, Dean of the College of Public Affairs at the University of Baltimore, and Dr. Ann Cotten, Executive Director of the Schaefer Center for Public Policy. Discover how these institutions are preparing Maryland's future public service leaders, fostering partnerships, and supporting government innovation through key programs like the Maryland Certified Public Manager Program. Don't miss this insightful conversation about leadership, career pipelines, and the role of research in shaping Maryland’s public policy. Important Links: Schaefer Center for Public Policy College of Public Affairs | University of Baltimore (ubalt.edu)
AMA Teaser: Can You Stump the Conduit Street Podcast Hosts?
Oct 11, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, we're doing something a little different! Instead of our usual episode, we’re gearing up for our first-ever Ask Me Anything (AMA) episode, where YOU get to ask the questions! Want to know what’s happening behind the scenes in county politics? Are you curious about MACo, Kevin’s favorite policy topic, or Michael’s insider perspective? Maybe you even have a tricky question to stump the hosts! Submit your questions by October 16 using the link below, and we’ll tackle them in next week’s special AMA episode. Don’t miss this chance to hear Kevin and Michael answer it all—serious, fun, or challenging. Tune in next week, and in the meantime, hit that subscribe button and follow us on social media! Submit your questions: AMA! Stay Connected – Follow Us on Facebook! Get the Latest News – Follow Us on Twitter!
Where Are We? Breaking Down the State's Fiscal Picture
Oct 04, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, hosts Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson navigate the fiscal landscape facing Maryland and her counties. They dig into the fiscal year closeout, and the latest revenue forecast, and try to separate the signal from the noise. They talk through the underlying pieces to separate out from the headline numbers, and try to find the bottom line in the State's fiscal situation. They also foreshadow the coming work of the Capital Debt Affordability Committee and the Spending Affordability Committee in setting borrowing limits and spending growth. Despite these fiscal challenges, our hosts emphasize the resilience of local governments and the critical advocacy work done by MACo.
Plus, the cat’s out of the bag; the Conduit Street Podcast will soon be doing an "Ask Me Anything" special, where YOU, our listeners, can submit questions on policy, politics, and dad jokes for Michael and Kevin to answer on the air! Click the link to submit your question and tune in this week for an engaging discussion on Maryland public budgeting and what lies ahead.
Navigating Year Three of Maryland's Education Plan
Sep 20, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street podcast, MACo's policy team discusses the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future. Now, in year three of the rollout, stakeholders are assessing where the visionary education plan stands along with what appetite exists amongst Annapolis lawmakers to address both fiscal and operational challenges during the next legislative session.
Be sure to check out the companion article to this Blueprint podcast on the Conduit Street blog. Look out for this conversation to continue at the upcoming 2024 MACo Winter Conference held December 11-13 at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, MD.
Baltimore City Evolving and Thriving
Sep 10, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, host Michael Sanderson talks with Faith Leach, Baltimore City's Chief Administrative Officer. They explore Baltimore’s innovative approaches to tackling fiscal challenges and its progress in modernizing its financial strategies. Faith Leach also highlights recent improvements in public safety and shares tips on what makes Baltimore an exciting city to visit. Don’t miss this engaging discussion on how Baltimore City is evolving and thriving. LinkedIn Twitter City of Baltimore
Polling, Politics, and Public Service - A Chat with Mileah Kromer
Sep 06, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally are joined by "vibe checker in chief" Mileah Kromer, who, after 12 years of monitoring public perception of Maryland politics and issues through the Goucher College Poll, will serve as the inaugural director of UMBC's Institute of Politics. Together, they dive into the nuances of polling, the importance of swing states in national elections, and why state-level polling in Maryland still matters. Mileah also shares her thoughts on the Maryland Senate race, Orioles baseball, and what’s next for UMBC’s political outreach. Tune in for insightful political analysis and some lighthearted banter. Article: Kromer Announced As Director Of UMBC Institute Of Politics LinkedIn: Mileah Kromer - Director, UMBC Institute of Politics Twitter @MileahKromer
I Hate Politics Crossover: Where Do Taxes Come From?
Aug 09, 2024
On this special crossover episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, we're excited to feature Michael Sanderson’s recent guest appearance on the "I Hate Politics" podcast with Sunil Dasgupta. Michael delves into Maryland tax policy, sharing his expertise on county property and income taxes. I Hate Politics Episode Description: No one likes to pay taxes. We do because we must. Governments raise taxes in infinite ways to meet seemingly unending demands from the people. With many states and local governments headed toward a few years of fiscal imbalance, Sunil Dasgupta asks Michael Sanderson, Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Counties, about where local and state taxes come from? Music for this episode comes from Alexandria, Virginia, alt-rock band, Jackie and The Treehorns. Check out the I Hate Politics Podcast
Legislative Progress and Challenges in Public Safety with Senator Will Smith
Aug 02, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, Sarah Sample dives into discussions about major issues affecting public safety and health care for justice-involved populations. Joined by guest Senator Will Smith, they speak on the importance of mental health services and substance use disorder treatments for justice-involved populations, justice reforms, and collaborations between state and local governments. Together, they look back on legislative efforts in the 2024 session and share insights on what might come for 2025. Plus, don't miss his tips for staying energized during the session!
Exploring Tax Policy and Fairness
Jul 25, 2024
In this week's Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson welcome Professor Luke Spreen from the University of Maryland School of Public Policy. Professor Spreen digs into his areas of expertise - tax policy, fairness, and the sometimes unexpected outcomes from efforts to adjust and refine a revenue structure. You might be surprised by the number of immediate connections right back to the current debates in Annapolis on adequately funding the Blueprint and other programs. Listen in for a not-too-nerdy talk-through of issues that face State and county leaders in Maryland and elsewhere as they search for the fairest way to support needed public services. Show Notes: Renters' Tax Credits Social Exchange Theory Professor Luke Spreen
Me, Myself, and AI: #MACoCon Keynoter Mo Hasan's Vision Forward
Jul 09, 2024
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson chats with Mo Hasan, who will deliver keynote comments at the upcoming MACo Summer Conference. Mo Hasan and his company, Intupower, are harnessing generative AI as a tool not just for tech-inclined people but for everyone - including local governments. On the podcast, he talks about thinking of AI as a tool for everyone and spells out its transformative potential. Your ability to meet the needs of your residents, effectively gauge service delivery, and save time and resources in planning and vision -- all among the pots of gold at the end of the AI rainbow. Listen in, and get yourself fired up for another can't-miss #MACoCon in August!
Legends of County Governance: Stories from MACo's Early Years
Jul 03, 2024
On this week's podcast, MACo's Executive Director, Michael Sanderson, sits down with his predecessor, longtime Director David Bliden. They talk through issues facing counties back in the 80s and 90s, and note how many of them continue to resonate today. David also talks through his beginnings at MACo, and his vision for MACo as a vibrant and well-respected voice for county services. Great stories about former Senate President Miller, MACo President Dutch Ruppersberger, and other highlights of David's years as a county leader. A little bit of inside baseball, a little bit of memory lane, and a good insight into what has made MACo tick through the years.
A Neighborly Chat With the Pennsylvania County Association
Jun 28, 2024
In this week's episode, MACo's Michael Sanderson connects with his Pennsylvania counterpart, Lisa Schaefer. She guides the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania, which serves and represents its 64 county members. They compare and contrast the two states: the budget process (where PA is still haggling over their state budget that starts on Monday), the legislative calendar, the crisis in local jails, addressing the opioid crisis, and so on. And... what is a Commonwealth, after all? Join us for a free-flowing conversation spanning across the Mason-Dixon line, but not worlds apart. County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania
Aerial Assistance: Exploring Drones as First Responders
Jun 21, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Montgomery County Council Member Dawn Luedtke and Captain Jason Cokinos of the Montgomery County Police Department join Sarah Sample to discuss the use of drones as first responders. Tune in to hear how Montgomery County designed and implemented a plan to put drones to use for the safety of their residents.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Amy Moredock joins Dominic Butchko to discuss Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—what they are, why they're a hot topic, and the counties' role in zoning.
Amy Moredock is a professional planner with 20 years of land use experience on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. She has been directly involved in local and state planning efforts with a long history of drafting and implementing a wide variety of land use ordinances and reviewing projects and permits. Her areas of focus include environmental regulation, floodplain management, resiliency and hazard planning, comprehensive planning, and water resources planning. She is a member of the American Planning Association and the National and Maryland Chapters of Certified Floodplain and Stormwater Managers. Having served as the Eastern Shore regional representative from 2013-2020, Amy is currently the chair of the Maryland Association of Floodplain and Stormwater Managers. She has been the MACo representative on the Governor’s Intergovernmental Committee on Agriculture (GICA) since 2014 and currently represents the MACo Planners Affiliate on the Governor's Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Task Force.
Navigating County Budgets: Trends, Challenges, and Solutions - Part II
Jun 06, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Ted Zaleski and Robbie Sandlass join Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss pressing budget and finance issues for the State of Maryland and county governments. Topics include the intricacies of bond ratings and how they affect financial health and borrowing capabilities, increasing pressure to fund public schools, why distinguishing between one-time and ongoing costs is crucial for sustainable budgeting and financial planning, and more.
Ted Zaleski is the director of the Carroll County Office of Budget and Management. He also serves as president of the MACo Budget and Finance Officers Affiliate and is the Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Local Government Insurance Trust (LGIT)
Robbie Sandlass has served as Harford County Treasurer since 2014. In addition to his duties as the County’s chief financial officer, he also chairs the Boards of Trustees for the County’s Sheriff Office Pension Plan (SOPP) for correctional officers, Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) for volunteer firefighters, and Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) for retiree health care. He also represents MACo on the Maryland Retirement and Pension System's Board of Trustees.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Digging Into Maryland Elections
May 31, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Maryland State Board of Elections Administrator Jared DeMarinis joins Kevin Kinnally to recap Maryland's primary election and look ahead to the general election in November. Plus, a discussion on election security and the impacts of new technology on the electoral process. Counties administer and fund elections at the local level, overseeing polling places and coordinating poll workers every two years. But with modern trends in voter preference, new technology, difficulties recruiting and retaining election judges, threats and intimidation from hostile actors, new and evolving cyber threats, and defending against a constant stream of disinformation, the 2024 election cycle is top of mind for county leaders and state and local election officials alike. Jared DeMarinis has been the Maryland State Board of Elections administrator since September 2023. He previously served as the SBE’s director of Candidacy and Campaign Finance, where he implemented electoral policy and interpreted candidacy and campaign finance laws. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links: MACo Policy Deep Dive: Emerging Election Trends
Navigating County Budgets: Trends, Challenges, and Solutions
May 24, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, hosts Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally dive deep into the financial challenges facing Maryland counties. They discuss the phased implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future and its effect on county budgets, highlighting the need for innovative revenue-raising options beyond property taxes. The conversation underscores the progressive goals of the Blueprint, focusing on providing extra resources to schools serving high-poverty communities. Join Michael and Kevin as they explore these complex issues and discuss the importance of local flexibility in making the Blueprint work for everyone. Tune in for these insights and more on the Conduit Street Podcast.
Breaking Ground on MD's New Court-Ordered Treatment Law
May 17, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, we delve into Maryland's groundbreaking court-ordered mental health treatment program, making the state the 48th to establish such a program. Joining the podcast is Marie Grant, Assistant Secretary for Health Policy at the Maryland Department of Health, alongside host Sarah Sample, to discuss the implications for Maryland, county governments, and mental health treatment access statewide. Tune in as they explore the bill's journey through the legislative process, the real-world problems it aims to solve, and the intricacies of the court-ordered treatment process.
Queen Anne's County's Boat Plastic Recycling Initiative
May 10, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, hosts Dominic Butchko and Shantelle Malcolm-Lym are joined by Elizabeth Malasky, Queen Anne’s County Public Information Manager, and Sara Shelley, Co-Founder and President of Plastic Free QAC. They discuss Queen Anne’s County’s innovative program addressing boat plastic shrink wrap recycling, aiming to reduce the 30 tons of plastic waste generated annually. The program, a partnership with the Marine Trade Association of Maryland, offers a solution to recycle shrink wrap, involving marinas, commercial retailers, and private boat owners. The initiative highlights the power of public-private partnerships and community collaboration in achieving sustainability goals. Tune in to learn more about this impactful program and how it could inspire similar initiatives across Maryland. Show Notes: Boat ShrinkWrap Recycle Program
Maryland Economy & Policy with Comptroller Brooke Lierman
May 03, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, hosts Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson welcome Maryland Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman to discuss her role as a statewide fiscal and policy leader. They delve into the role of the Comptroller, Maryland's uniquely positioned Board of Public Works, and the Revenue Estimating process, as she shares some takeaways from research into Maryland's economy and underlying demographics. Be ready for some insight into the Maryland economy and the surprising fiscal and workforce effect of the state's foreign-born population. Listen in as they unpack these crucial topics and more with Comptroller Lierman. Show Notes: Maryland Board of Public Works Board of Revenue Estimates Immigration and the Economy Report State of the Economy Report Follow Comptroller Lierman on Twitter
Maryland League of Conservation Voters' Impact on Local Gov
Apr 26, 2024
Join Dom Butchko from the MACo Policy Team on a special Earth Week episode of the Conduit Street Podcast as he welcomes Kristen Harbeson and Rebecca Rehr from the Maryland League of Conservation Voters (LCV). They discuss LCV's mission, priorities, and their impact on local governments, highlighting areas that overlap with county missions. The conversation delves into hot topics like solar siting, tools developed by LCV for counties, and challenges and future collaboration opportunities, including climate change and sea level rise. Tune in for insightful discussions and a preview of what's to come in the world of environmental advocacy! Show notes: Rooftop solar panels are flooding California’s grid. That’s a problem Last Week's Podcast on Water
Maryland Pulse Check with Dr. Mileah Kromer
Apr 25, 2024
In the latest Conduit Street podcast episode, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson welcome back a popular guest, Dr. Mileah Kromer of Goucher Poll fame. Dr. Kromer talks through the findings and "vibes" from her recent polls, both statewide and in Baltimore. What issues are on the minds of Maryland voters as they consider elections ahead? What do they think of the current direction of Maryland and its economy, and how do they feel about the response to the Key Bridge collapse? And, as always, a few engaging bits about the Orioles and this-and-that from social media. Join us for a fun ride through policy, public opinion, and a timely "vibe check." Show Notes: https://www.goucher.edu/hughes-center/goucher-college-poll/ https://www.goucher.edu/hughes-center/ https://twitter.com/MileahKromer
Water Water Everywhere - PFAS, Streams, and Sea Level Rise
Apr 19, 2024
This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, Dominic Butchko from the MACo Policy Team is joined by Lisa Ochsenhirt from AquaLaw and Erik Michelsen from Anne Arundel County Dept of Public Works for a timely discussion on all things water. They'll discuss the latest on "forever chemicals," stream restoration, and the recently passed Whole Watershed Act of 2024. Plus, learn about the effects of sea level rise on Maryland's critical infrastructure. Tune in for this enlightening conversation! Show Notes: Overview of the Whole Watershed Act of 2024
2024 Legislative Session Wrap Up
Apr 12, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, join Sarah Sample and Dominic Butchko from the MACo Policy Team as they take listeners on a 'rapid round ride' through MACo's major portfolio of issues from the just-wrapped 2024 legislative session. From affordable housing to public safety, firefighters, and health, they'll highlight MACo's big wins and key county concerns. Plus, don't miss their sneak peek at the upcoming Summer Conference in Ocean City! Tune in now to catch all the excitement.
SPECIAL: The Critical Case Against Cutting Local Road/Bridge Funding
Apr 03, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson is joined by Shantelle Malcolm-Lym from the MACo team. They discuss the ongoing policy debates in Annapolis, particularly focusing on transportation funding cuts and their effect on local communities. This special episode highlights an audio excerpt from a January 16, 2024, briefing in the Appropriation Committee. It features Mayor Brandon Scott discussing Baltimore City's longstanding needs, MACo President John “Johnny O” Olszewski, Jr. addressing the impact on Baltimore County and all counties, and our very own Michael Sanderson breaking down the "hows" and the "whys." Tune in to hear the compelling case against cutting back on Highway User Revenues and the potential service and safety cuts to communities.
SPECIAL: Final Week of 2024 Session
Apr 02, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson talk through the 2024 legislative session wrapping up and top off recent discussions around the still-developing budget, the effects of the Key Bridge tragedy, and several more county government issues that remain "in play" during these always-eventful last weeks of the 90-day session.
First Steps (and Next Steps) for the Fiscal Plan For FY25 and Beyond
Mar 14, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson talk through the Senate actions regarding the State's fiscal plan for the year ahead - the budget and accompanying reconciliation bill. Cuts to Highway User Revenues (but not the deepest cuts on the table), some restored funding for our community colleges, and... some more work to do on county priorities. They discuss the two waves of bad news that made this year's budget even harder, and then speculate on what lies ahead as the session starts to wind down. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links: Conduit Street Coverage of State Budget & Fiscal Issues
Counties Gain an Edge Through NACo
Feb 16, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Shantelle Malcolm-Lym welcome guest Cathy Muse from the National Association of Counties Edge program. She talks through the various cost-saving tools available to all Maryland counties through NACo's partnerships that can help develop attractive employee benefits, manage public funds, and recruit top talent to the public sector. Muse draws on her own experience as a procurement specialist to explain NACo's newly launched Public Promise Procurement offerings, leveraging a fully competitive lead-agency model to streamline major purchases by counties - another great tool to help counties get the most from their tax dollars. Cathy has served in public procurement for over 40 years at the federal, state, and local levels. After retiring from Fairfax County, Virginia, where she served as the Chief Procurement Officer, Cathy joined the NACo EDGE team to develop procurement solutions for counties and launch Public Promise Procurement. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links National Association of Counties: Tools for Counties
What Do You Do About Fluky Formulas?
Feb 09, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss formula funding -- which aims to provide predictable and stable funding. But what happens when your funding formula… fails -- or at least delivers far less than expected? This episode covers funding formulas for two programs important to county governments, the Disparity Grant and Program Open Space. These are two programs that Maryland policymakers set up many years ago… both have special funding by law, rather than just fighting each year in the budget debate… and both are going over a cliff this year. The Disparity Grant Program provides noncategorical State aid to low-wealth jurisdictions. It promotes equity across jurisdictions to overcome disparate tax bases — ensuring that counties that rely on local income taxes for substantial revenue can generate sufficient yield to fund schools, public health, public safety, roadway maintenance, and other essential community services. Established under the Department of Natural Resources in 1969, Program Open Space symbolizes Maryland's long-term commitment to conserving natural resources while providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities for residents. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Talking AI With Ben Yelin
Feb 02, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson talks with Ben Yelin of the Center for Health and Homeland Security about the rapid growth of artificial intelligence technology. They discuss these capabilities' exciting opportunities and potential downsides – and their connections to public services and privacy. Public policy often struggles to keep up with the pace of emerging technologies, and this field seems like another complex example, though there are some reasons to remain hopeful. They also talk a bit about the human and analytic sides of modern football as Yelin pitches his 49ers as a new focus for disappointed Ravens fans. Ben Yelin, JD, is the Program Director for Public Policy and External Affairs at the University of Maryland Center for Health and Homeland Security, where he consults public and private entities on homeland security, cybersecurity, and emergency management policy. He is also an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, where he teaches courses on electronic surveillance and the Fourth Amendment. In 2021, Ben served as the co-chair of the Maryland Cybersecurity Council's ad-hoc committee on State and Local Cybersecurity and co-drafted a comprehensive report on Maryland's cybersecurity posture and a list of recommendations for policy changes. The report became the framework for a suite of bills enacted in the 2022 session. Ben also co-hosts the Caveat podcast, part of the Cyberwire network. This weekly show covers surveillance, cybersecurity, digital privacy, and more. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: The Robots Are Coming: AI Through the County Lens at #MACoCon Previous Conduit Street Coverage: President Biden Issues Executive Order to Establish AI Safeguards Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Here’s How States Are Regulating AI Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Suite of Strong Cyber Bills Signed Into Law University of Maryland Center for Health and Homeland Security Caveat Podcast Follow Ben Yelin on Twitter
Smart Tech Development: Frederick’s Test Case
Jan 25, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss fast-growing Frederick - both as a challenge and an opportunity. Attracting major technology companies presents unique challenges, but the upside is good jobs and local leverage into a vast commercial growth sector. The technology sector is driving tremendous demand for more computing and storage capacity. Data centers – the facilities that house the computers and equipment that power the information needs of the modern economy – are in high demand. They underpin industries — like healthcare, the public sector, manufacturing, financial services, and retail — as they grow and adapt to the digital world. According to a recent study, Quantum Loophole’s planned data center campus in Frederick County will generate $41 million in County tax revenue per annum and another $197 million for the State of Maryland each year, supporting approximately 1,700 jobs upon project completion. While data centers have tremendous economic benefits, they have also prompted concerns about environmental, land use, and energy consumption impacts.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson walk through the recently introduced 2025 fiscal plan, starting the weeks-long deliberation on the State budget and the trimmings to balance it. They discuss the long-term cuts to transportation, offset by a temporary reprieve for this year, and the "re-basing" of support for community colleges. A tight budget, as the governor foretold when addressing county leaders at the summer conference, and the process of refinement starts anon. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on the MACo website.
2024 Session Kickoff and Preview of Workforce Issues
Jan 12, 2024
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Brianna January talk through the 2024 legislative session opening, the crazy Maryland weather sideshow, and what to expect heading into “year two” of the four-year cycle. They discuss several issues for the session ahead – like tackling child care and pre-kindergarten education, challenges in the public sector workforce, and continuing pressure on school construction and capital facilities. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on the MACo website.
Transportation Cuts, an "On the Ground" View
Dec 22, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Queen Anne's County Administrator Todd Mohn joins Michael Sanderson to discuss transportation financing and reflect on the proposed cutbacks to state projects and grant funding. Mr. Mohn is a member of the State's blue-ribbon Transportation Commission, reflecting his extensive experience as a county engineer and public works professional. They discuss the story of Highway User Revenues, their central importance to local roadway maintenance, and the problematic effects of losing funding in the years ahead. And... will Singapore edge out Guam as the podcast's farthest unofficial outpost? The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on the MACo website.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson welcomes Kevin Leonard from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners. They discuss state politics, tricky budgeting, and the NC investments into broadband and water infrastructure. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. North Carolina Association of County Commissioners
Winter’s Coming: Preparedness and Policy for Post-COVID Flu Season
Sep 29, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Calvert County Health Officer Dr. Larry Polsky joins Sarah Sample to discuss what local health departments are doing to prevent COVID-19 and other flu and flu-like infections this year. The 2023-2024 fall and winter seasons will be the first since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic that the country is not under a federal state of emergency. Despite the new context, the public will forever be in a post-COVID reality that requires care and vigilance to maintain progress. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Previous Conduit Street Coverage Winter's Coming: Preparedness and Policy for the Post-COVID Flu Season
Election Law and Policy with Walter Olson
Sep 22, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Walter Olson joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to reflect on the role of state and local governments in keeping residents safe during emergencies -- particularly when it comes to ensuring residents can cast a ballot during a public health crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. Olson provides expert analysis on how the courts, legislatures, and public opinion can influence emergency powers and looks ahead to new challenges for the 2024 election cycle. Walter Olson is a senior fellow at the Cato Institute's Center for Constitutional Studies, a libertarian think tank in Washington, D.C. Olson is known for his writing on law, public policy, and regulation. A resident of Frederick County, Olson served on the Frederick County Charter Review Commission and co-chaired Maryland's Citizen Redistricting Commission. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links Conduit Street Podcast: Liberty in Trying Times Read Walter Olson's Work on the CATO Institute's Website Follow Walter Olson on Twitter
The User Pays Principle – Good and Bad Applications
Sep 15, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Sarah Sample and Michael Sanderson discuss the pros and cons of the "user pays" principle -- which aims to promote fairness and economic efficiency by having those who benefit from particular government goods and services pay for them. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Oversight and Obstacles: The Civilian Role in Police Accountability
Sep 08, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Moyah Panda and Ethan Hunt join Sarah Sample to discuss the role of police accountability boards and administrative charging committees in working with county governments and law enforcement agencies to improve policing and police accountability across Maryland. In keeping with the legislative mandate from 2021, all 24 Maryland counties have established a civilian oversight process for police misconduct. With the implementation of PABs and ACCs, these entities have a full year of operations under their belts. Anne Arundel County's Executive Director of the Office of Police Accountability Moyah Panda and Director of Government Relations Ethan Hunt discuss successes, challenges, and a few complicating factors that might need legislative remedies in the 2024 legislative session. The Anne Arundel County Office of Police Accountability was established to oversee and support the PAB and ACC. The PAB works with law enforcement agencies to review, provide policy advice, and report on disciplinary matters stemming from public complaints about police misconduct. The ACC reviews the findings of an investigation of misconduct by a police officer and determines to administratively charge or not charge and, if charged, recommends discipline. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Police Accountability Panel at #MACoCon Signals Necessary Changes to Reform Legislation Anne Arundel County Office of Police Accountability
All Aboard: Transportation Commission Leaves the Station
Sep 01, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Dominic Butchko discuss transportation funding and the significance of the Maryland Commission on Transportation Revenue and Infrastructure Needs, which is charged with recommending improvements to existing transportation revenues, investment decisions, and more. For decades, the State supported a balanced means to maintain its transportation infrastructure. The bulk of transportation revenues – mainly motor fuel and vehicle titling taxes – have been split between the State (for its consolidated Transportation Trust Fund, serving multiple modes) and local governments (who own and maintain roughly 5 of every six road miles across the state). For decades, this split served all parties effectively. The State faced a mid-year budget crisis during the Great Recession in 2009. As a result, the Board of Public Works adopted a 90% reduction of the local distributions of these Highway User Revenues and a roughly 40% reduction to Baltimore City’s allocation (the largest by far to any jurisdiction). Since then, recession-driven cutbacks in many service areas have been fully or largely restored. This is not the case with Highway User Revenues – they remain far behind historic levels, even after the State has enacted a substantial transportation revenue increase. Unfortunately, the Great Recession HUR cuts, coupled with new obligations toward school funding, leave little room for additional investment in roads, not to mention counties are preparing for an uncertain economic future and talk of recession. In addition, the push toward electric vehicles will likely exacerbate the issue. Cars and trucks use less gas or run on electricity, shrinking funds for roads and bridges. But electric vehicles still contribute to road wear and tear, so states and local governments need money to maintain them. State policymakers are considering other ways to pay for Maryland’s transportation infrastructure. One growing policy trend is applying a separate registration fee for hybrid or electric vehicles. However, special registration fees are not the only mechanism to lower gas tax revenue and promote equity among drivers. After exploring several options, such as a tire tax, a battery tax, and expanding gas taxes and registration fees, Oregon settled on a per-mile charge as the fairest and most accurate way to pay for state roads and bridges. An interim commission report is due to the Governor and legislature on or before January 1, 2024, with a final report on or before January 1, 2025. Dates, times, agendas, updates, and other information will be posted on the commission website at www.mdot.maryland.gov/commission. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: MD Commission on Transportation Revenue and Infrastructure Needs Announces Roster, Sets First Meeting Date
Tech, Cyber, AI, Oh My!
Aug 25, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally welcomes Ben Yelin to discuss cybersecurity issues, explore the opportunities and challenges related to rapidly evolving artificial intelligence (AI) technology, and more! Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to transform the world and how we live, work, and communicate. For county governments, AI can mean streamlined processes, enhanced service delivery, improved public safety and security, fraud detection and prevention, data analytics, regulatory compliance, and revolutionary opportunities for resident engagement and input. However, implementing and regulating AI comes with challenges, including concerns about privacy, security, oversight, equity, accessibility, bias, etc. So, as local governments explore AI's transformative power, many questions remain. Ben Yelin, JD, is the Program Director for Public Policy and External Affairs at the University of Maryland Center for Health and Homeland Security, where he consults public and private entities on homeland security, cybersecurity, and emergency management policy. He is also an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, where he teaches courses on electronic surveillance and the Fourth Amendment. In 2021, Ben served as the co-chair of the Maryland Cybersecurity Council's ad-hoc committee on State and Local Cybersecurity and co-drafted a comprehensive report on Maryland's cybersecurity posture and a list of recommendations for policy changes. The report became the framework for a suite of bills enacted in the 2022 session. Ben also co-hosts the Caveat podcast, part of the Cyberwire network, a weekly show on surveillance, cybersecurity, digital privacy, and more. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: The Robots Are Coming: AI Through the County Lens at #MACoCon Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Suite of Strong Cyber Bills Signed Into Law University of Maryland Center for Health and Homeland Security Caveat Podcast Follow Ben Yelin on Twitter
The Blueprint Gets Its Check-up
Aug 04, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Brianna January walk through the annual decision meeting of Maryland’s Accountability and Implementation Board as they offer new guidance, direction, and measurables for the ambitious Blueprint for Maryland. The state is refining its framework for pre-kindergarten providers and educators, realigning expectations and services for English learners, and revisiting the best ways to measure the quality of our educators. Education policy and excellence are front and center for this walk down Conduit Street. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links: Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Here’s What Counties Need to Know About the AIB’s Updated Blueprint Implementation Plan Watch the entire AIB meeting online
The Detention Dilemma: What We Ask of Local Jails (Part 2)
Jul 28, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Sarah Sample welcome back Director Brandon Foster from the Charles County Detention Center for a follow-up discussion on policy issues affecting local corrections – a central public service Maryland counties deliver for their communities. The scope of local corrections – generally far shorter duration of stay, and many of the incarcerated are still awaiting their trial – deeply informs the local perspective on service and operational mandates contemplated by statewide policymakers. How do local correctional leaders "find common ground" with well-intentioned legislators when the details are… sometimes complicated? Listen for a quick run-through of recent legislation and how local leaders are already working to keep their facilities fair and safe for all. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links: Part 1 of this discussion: Conduit Street Podcast — The Detention Dilemma: What We Ask of Local Jails 2023 Legislative Wrap-up: Public Safety and Corrections Legal coverage of Kincaid v. Williams case Background on 2019 Medication Assisted Treatment legislation
Talking Housing with Tom Coale
Jul 21, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Tom Coale joins Michael Sanderson and Dominic Butchko to discuss all things housing, including concerns over affordability, access, and more. Topics include infrastructure, better collaboration on new policies and ideas, streamlining processes and procedures, and empowering local governments to develop tailored solutions to incentivize more affordable housing. Tom Coale is a well-known voice in the housing space. Tom was previously a host on WBAL and the podcast Elevate Maryland. Currently, he is a partner at Perry, White, Ross & Jacobson. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage on Housing Issues Follow Tom Coale on Twitter Neighborhood Defenders: Participatory Politics and America's Housing Crisis
"Child Care Cliff" Looms Large
Jul 14, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Brianna January joins Kevin Kinnally to explain why child care across the country could soon become more expensive and more difficult to find -- and why some advocates are concerned that Maryland's pre-k expansion plan could unintentionally add fuel to the fire. In 2021, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which included billions in grants to stabilize the child care system. Now the money --- which went to helping child care providers pay for rent, lowering tuition rates for families, and increasing wages for industry workers -- is about to run out. Absent these grats, some experts predict one-third of the child care facilities that receive the funding will close, costing the US economy more than $10 billion per year and costing families $9 billion annually in lost earnings. On top of that, Maryland faces a different set of challenges with the expansion of public pre-k programs across the state. The Blueprint for Maryland's Future ("The Blueprint") prioritizes early childhood education as its first pillar, including the gradual but eventual universal access to prekindergarten for 3- and 4-year-old children. One potential consequence causing concern for many stakeholders is the impact of pre-K expansion on the child care industry. The Blueprint envisions a collaborative system of public-private partnerships for expanded pre-K. With more 3- and 4-year-olds moving on from child care facilities to pre-K — and with child care facilities entering the pre-K arena to help meet Blueprint goals — some stakeholders are concerned that there might not be enough providers (or seats) for natal-3-year-old child care. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: The Looming “Child Care Cliff” – Is Maryland Close to the Edge? Learn more about MACo’s Summer Conference:
Commercial Real Estate: Apocalypse or Opportunity?
Jun 23, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Dominic Butchko explain why tumult in the commercial real estate market has major implications not just for building owners and banks but also for local governments that rely on property tax revenue and the economic vibrancy that office workers generate. Post-pandemic, kids are back in school, retirees are back on cruise ships, and brick-and-mortar stores are doing better than expected. But offices are struggling more than most casual observers realize, and the consequences are far-reaching. Adaptive reuse, incentivizing redevelopment, and exploring alternative uses like residential conversions or mixed-use developments are intriguing policy options as communities rethink commercial corridors. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Commercial Real Estate: Apocalypse or Opportunity? Previous Conduit Street Coverage: MACo Supports Local Property Tax Flexibility
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Dominic Butchko discuss barriers to the widespread adoption of election vehicles. The need to address the global climate crisis has rallied policymakers to adopt aggressive measures to encourage manufacturers and consumers to embrace electric vehicle (EV) technology. But, many challenges remain. In addition to concerns about electric grid capacity and inadequate charging infrastructure, questions about affordability and infrastructure are two of the most significant barriers to getting more drivers to switch to EVs. With the average cost of a new EV hovering around $60,000, many motorists are priced out of the market. And the potential for EVs to upend traditional transportation funding models while at the same time contributing significantly more strain on roads remains a vexing issue. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Two Speed Bumps on Maryland’s EV Adoption Previous Conduit Street Coverage: States Consider New Ways to Fund Roads as Nation Shifts Toward EVs
Debt Limit: Deal or No Deal?
May 19, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson break down the latest on the high-stakes negotiations to avoid an unprecedented default on the nation's debt and explain why Maryland is especially vulnerable to federal budget cuts or austerity measures. New analyses by the Congressional Budget Office and the US Department of the Treasury indicate the United States is rapidly approaching the date the government can no longer pay its bills, also known as the "X-date." Since the debt ceiling reached $31.381 trillion, the US government has not been able to issue any new debt. As a result, the government has been forced to meet its obligations in the short term by combining cash on hand with "extraordinary measures" to prevent the United States from defaulting on its obligations as Congress deliberates on increasing or suspending the debt limit, While federal lawmakers remain at loggerheads over addressing the debt limit, the once-unthinkable scenario of the United States defaulting on its debt now feels like a genuine possibility. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Federal Debt Limit Dilemma: What’s At Stake for States and County Governments?
The Detention Dilemma: What We Ask of Local Jails
May 12, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Charles County Detention Center Director Brandon Foster joins Sarah Sample and Kevin Kinnally to discuss the progress and ongoing challenges to serve the growing needs of inmates in county jails, tackling persistent issues with recruitment and retention, and innovations to foster meaningful rehabilitation and successful reentry. Each county operates a local jail with inmates awaiting trial and those sentenced to 18 months or less. Despite a persistent lag in State funding, county jails provide education, health/mental health care, substance use disorder counseling, medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders, anger management, housing, employment, transition counseling, and a host of other services. Director Foster is a 26-year veteran of the CCDC. He began his career in 1997 as a line staff correctional officer. Shortly after, he became a Southern Maryland Criminal Justice Academy staff instructor. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2004 and supervised recruits in training, and he later served as a sector supervisor in the Custody and Security Section. In 2006, he was promoted to Lieutenant, overseeing a team of officers assigned to the Custody and Security Section. In 2014, Foster was named deputy director of the CCDC and later was named acting director until he was appointed director in 2016. Before joining the CCDC, Director Foster served in the United States Marine Corps as a Staff Sergeant; he was on active duty from 1990 to 1995 and in the Reserves from 2003 until 2007. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website. Useful Links Previous Conduit Street Coverage: Undoing Institutionalized Bias in Jails is Worthy and Complicated Previous Conduit Street Coverage: 2023 End of Session Wrap-Up: Public Safety and Corrections
Goucher Poll Takes the MD Pulse
May 05, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Dr. Mileah Kromer joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to break down the results from the latest Goucher College Poll. Maryland residents shared their opinions on Governor Wes Moore, President Joe Biden, the Maryland General Assembly, the state's direction and economic conditions, current and expected cannabis use, transportation preferences, sports wagering, and more! The Goucher College Poll measures the opinions of Maryland residents and voters on important policy, social, and economic issues. As director of the Sarah T. Hughes Field Politics Center, Dr. Mileah Kromer oversees every aspect of the Goucher Poll, including survey instrument construction, sampling, data analysis, and the development of appropriate survey methodologies. In addition, she is responsible for interviewer training and lab supervision. In addition to her duties as director, Dr. Kromer teaches courses on American politics and research methods. Her scholarly interests include public opinion and state politics. Her work has appeared in Survey Practice, Social Science Quarterly, The Social Science Journal, The Journal of Legislative Studies, and the Journal of Political Science Education. In addition, Dr. Kromer is a frequent commentator on Maryland politics. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
School Funding: Session Flukes and the Future
Apr 28, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Brianna January and Michael Sanderson discuss school funding, one of the more nuanced and complicated policy responsibilities of the State, counties, and policymakers. The 2023 legislative session challenged some of the long-established educational funding protocols, which is concerning for county governments. Hear why new precedent may be a precursor for significant changes in how Maryland funds its public schools.
Evolving Policy on Public Safety Response
Apr 21, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Dominic Butchko joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the evolution of public safety and front-line services in Maryland. Hear about county priorities to bolster 9-1-1, career and volunteer fire services, emergency medical services, and law enforcement by ensuring first responders are equipped with the latest technology and resources to save lives and keep communities safe.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Brianna January, Dominic Butchko, and Sarah Sample recap the 2023 legislative session, including the fate of MACo's Legislative Initiatives, MACo's advocacy on dozens of bills with a significant impact on county governments, and several high-profile policy issues contemplated by the General Assembly during the 90-day session.
County Budgets: The Annapolis Effects
Mar 24, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a post-crossover look at how counties are faring in the State budget, the mounting fiscal pressures to implement the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, and promising new research on the efficacy of... dad jokes!
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Sarah Sample talk about the fast pace of the legislative session as we approach the "crossover" date and then dig into several public safety and health issues. MACo's efforts to improve laws around body-worn officers are progressing but still face hurdles ahead. They also discuss the settlements with companies who profited from the opioid scourge and the resources landing in Maryland to help fight that continuing crisis.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Brianna January joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including an analysis of Supplemental Budget #1 and the latest on several bills that would have a significant impact on state and local funding for Maryland's public schools. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website. Previous Conduit Street Coverage
Local Leaders Talk Collaboration and Cannabis
Feb 24, 2023
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson hosts Maryland Municipal League CEO Theresa Kuhns to discuss the two organizations' collaboration on local government issues and advocacy and to dive into the many policy considerations (local government issues and otherwise) around implementing adult-use cannabis in Maryland. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog. Listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website. Information about the Maryland Municipal League: About the Maryland Municipal League
Session Preview: Climate, Housing, and Fostering Firefighters
Dec 23, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Dominic Butchko joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to preview the 2023 legislative session. As legislators prepare to descend on Annapolis, environmental issues, housing, a changing climate, and addressing volunteer firefighter shortages are all hot topics.
Special Episode: No Pix X Conduit Collab
Dec 16, 2022
Conduit Street proudly presents an installment from the No Pix After Dark Podcast. In this episode, Kevin Kinnnally joins NoPix host Aaron Dante for a conversation on state/local policy and politics, MACo's advocacy and member services, effectuating change, and more! Voted" Best in Baltimore" by The Baltimore Sun and Baltimore Magazine readers, No Pix After Dark seeks to build a community of human experience, storytelling, and conversation. Useful Links No Pix After Dark Podcast No Pix After Dark on Twitter
Session Preview: Health, Public Safety, and More!
Dec 09, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Sarah Sample joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to preview the 2023 legislative session. As legislators prepare to descend on Annapolis, public health, public safety, and human services are all hot topics.
Session Preview: Education (And More)
Dec 02, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Brianna January joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to preview the 2023 legislative session. Education funding, personnel shortages, school construction, and the impact of adult-use cannabis on the workplace are all hot topics as legislators prepare to descend on Annapolis.
Yes to Public Information, and Yes to Privacy Protections
Nov 17, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Hilary Ruley joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to explain why new and evolving technologies like body-worn cameras present unique challenges under Maryland's Public Information Act and the need for more balanced rules for releasing body-worn camera footage -- one that preserves transparency and accountability while protecting victims, families, and witnesses. Hilary Ruley is the chief solicitor at the Baltimore City Law Department. 2023 MACo Legislative Initiative: Centralized Resources for Body-Worn Cameras State law will soon require body-worn cameras for all law enforcement officers, but advancing this goal remains elusive. Requiring each agency, no matter how small, to create its regime for equipment procurement, footage storage, and redaction policies invites widespread duplication of effort. Moreover, requiring state laws regarding wide-open public access to the footage presents an ominous burden on custodians to carefully redact material to protect victims, families, and witnesses. MACo advocates for a smoother deployment of this critical technology, including an opt-in State/local partnership for the equipment and services and more balanced rules for releasing body-worn camera footage.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Victoria Maas discuss early returns from this week's election, including state and local races, statewide ballot measures, and new term limits in Anne Arundel County and Baltimore City.
Launching Public Safety Comms w/FirstNet
Oct 28, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Lori Stone joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss FirstNet -- the first high-speed, nationwide wireless broadband network dedicated to public safety. This reliable, highly secure, interoperable, and innovative public safety communications platform brings 21st-century tools and technology to first responders and the extended public safety community.
Lori Stone is a Senior Public Safety Advisor (DC, MD, NC, VA, WV) at the First Responder Network Authority, an independent agency within the US Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) that oversees FirstNet.
FirstNet is a first-of-its-kind public-private partnership between the federal government and AT&T. FirstNet offers public safety a communications network built to their operational and technical needs that helps them save lives and protect our communities.
Since being founded in 2012, the FirstNet Authority has collaborated with local, state, federal, and tribal public safety in every state and US territory to understand and incorporate their unique communication needs into the plans for FirstNet. Learn more about the FirstNet Authority's history.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Capital Debt, School Construction, and Bonds? And No, We Don't Mean 007
Oct 07, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Brianna January, and Michael Sanderson discuss the significance of the Capital Debt Affordability Committee (CDAC), preview its upcoming meetings, and explain why the CDAC recommendations are often a forerunner for Maryland's short- and long-term fiscal picture.
CDAC, chaired by State Treasurer Derick Davis, will meet on October 11, 14, and 19, 2022, to discuss the State's fiscal health and consider the limit on new state capital debt for the next fiscal year. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
This week, we're reposting an oldie but a goodie. In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss property taxes and why people despise the property tax more than any other. The property tax is the largest source of local revenue for Maryland's county governments. Counties depend on property tax revenue to fund public health, schools, public safety, roadway maintenance, and other essential public services upon which all county residents depend. Yet, people hate the property tax more than other taxes. Why? Maybe it's because the property tax is the only tax left on the books for which people must write a big check. Income taxes and Social Security contributions are withheld from paychecks before the recipients get their hands on the money. Merchants and other businesses remit sales taxes. The property tax is the only tax that a regular person gets a bill and has to pay it. Is the property tax a tax on consumption (your house's cost)? If so, the tax is regressive because housing costs take a bigger bite from low-income household budgets. Or is the property tax a tax on capital (your return to owning a house)? If so, the tax would be progressive on average (because capital owners tend to be wealthier). The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Crystal Ball on the State’s Budget Surplus and Process
Sep 23, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson break down the driving factors behind another multi-billion unanticipated budget surplus for the State of Maryland and what it could mean for the next legislative session.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple, Google, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Assessing Agritourism and Agritainment
Sep 16, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss Maryland's agritourism property tax structure.
Maryland was the first state to formally adopt a policy providing lower assessments on land actively devoted to farming or woodland uses. It is called the "agricultural use assessment" and applies to farmland or woodland that meets the criteria outlined in State law.
Many counties are interested in promoting agricultural tourism to support the agricultural industry. Agritourism can be a means of keeping farms profitable during times of low production, and it offers opportunities to highlight Maryland counties' unique agrarian assets. However, defining these activities for tax purposes is tricky.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, D'Paul Nibber joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss new developments and guidance for implementing the Police Accountability Act. Plus, learn why a new wrinkle in the historic settlement between the State of Maryland and opioid manufacturers/distributors is delaying needed resources for local governments to save even more Marylanders from the terrible problems of opioid abuse.
Update:Post recording, two consent judgments were filed in Maryland's Circuit Court for Frederick County, allowing settlement funds from Johnson and Johnson and several major opioid medication distributors to flow to the State and local governments.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Live From #MACoCon: SAS Talks Tech Tools for Tomorrow's Counties
Aug 25, 2022
Counties can’t rely on yesterday’s approaches to solve tomorrow’s problems. The core mission of local government is to serve residents, ensuring the safety and well-being of all people. Innovation is necessary to accomplish this today. With advanced analytics, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, counties can put data to work, improving outcomes for residents.
At the MACo Summer Conference Podcast Spotlight session, SAS Global Government Strategic Advisor Jennifer Robinson joined Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson for a live recording of the Conduit Street Podcast. Learn how SAS supports counties in achieving better customer service, increasing constituent engagement, enhancing public safety and community trust, fostering economic growth, and more.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson dive into how property tax caps work in Maryland. While proponents argue that tax caps encourage economic growth and opportunity, opponents worry that capping revenues depletes limited local resources. And nuances in Maryland law add complexity to the issue.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, MACo Communications Coordinator Victoria Maas joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to preview the 2022 MACo Summer Conference, August 17-20 in Ocean City. MACo and county leaders will explore resources available for recovering and struggling businesses, creative ways to achieve common goals, and partnerships to take our communities from “surviving” to “thriving.”
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
The MACo Summer Conference is August 17-20, 2022, at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland. This year’s conference theme is “Taking Care of Business.”
State House Reporter Pamela Wood Sticks the Landing
Jul 13, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, award-winning journalist Pamela Wood joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss Maryland policy and politics, including the 2022 election, life on the state and local government beat, the rise of digital journalism, gymnastics, and more.
Pamela Wood covers Maryland politics and government for The Baltimore Banner. She previously reported for The Baltimore Sun, The Capital, and other Maryland newspapers on topics as varied as politics, local government, the environment, healthcare, and breaking news.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Safe and Smart Elections With David Levine
Jul 08, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, renowned elections expert David Levine joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss election integrity and efficiency. Topics include strategies to deter and defend against misinformation, emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and protecting election officials and voters from malign actors.
David Levine is the Elections Integrity Fellow at the Alliance for Securing Democracy, where he assesses vulnerabilities in electoral infrastructure, administration, and policies. David is also an advisory committee member for the Global Cyber Alliance's Cybersecurity Toolkit for Elections, an advisory council member for the Election Reformers Network, a member of the Election Verification Network, and a contributor to the Fulcrum. Previously, he worked as the Ada County, Idaho Elections Director, managing the administration of all federal, state, county, and local district elections.
Mr. Levine received his JD from the Case Western School of Law, where he discovered his passion for election integrity. Since then, he has administered elections, worked with advocacy groups to improve the election process, and observed elections overseas in several countries for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Election Anxiety, and the Gas Tax Debate Returns
Jun 24, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson explain why some local boards of elections may struggle to report timely results for the upcoming primary election. Plus, a breakdown of why President Biden's call to temporarily suspend federal and state gas taxes faces severe headwinds on both Capitol Hill and State Circle in Annapolis.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Playing it Safe: The Latest on Infectious Threats
Jun 09, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, D'Paul Nibber joins Kevin Kinnally to provide a roundup of the latest public health threats, including (still) COVID-19, Monkeypox, and tick-borne diseases. Plus, learn how local health departments prevent and control communicable diseases using surveillance, outbreak response, education, preparedness, et cetera.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) Executive Director Stephen Acquario joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss several policy issues and shared priorities. Hear how New York counties are handling a resurgence in COVID cases, working to modernize EMS, battling the opioid epidemic, managing the legalization of adult-use cannabis, and more (plus thoughts on the upcoming Belmont Stakes).
Established 330 years ago by an act of the British king, New York's counties are at the heart of New York State. From Niagara Falls to the Finger Lakes, from the Adirondacks to Long Island Sound, New York's counties represent diverse landscapes, cities, towns, farms, mountains, and everything in between.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
(What’s the Deal With) Maryland’s Quirky Gas Tax
May 27, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the policy and politics of Maryland's motor fuel tax, which on July 1 is due for an automatic inflation-driven increase of 6.6 cents per gallon.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Covering Lots of Ground With Rep. Trone
May 18, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Congressman David Trone joins Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally to discuss the importance of local partnerships as he works to make progress on issues that matter to Marylanders -- including the opioid epidemic, criminal justice reform, mental health, and funding for medical research.
Congressman David Trone was elected in 2018 to serve Maryland’s Sixth Congressional District, which includes all or part of Montgomery, Frederick, Garrett, Allegany, and Washington Counties. Representative Trone serves on the House Appropriations and Veterans’ Affairs Committees and the Joint Economic Committee.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
Talking History and Policy with Preservation Maryland
May 13, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Preservation Maryland President and CEO, Nicholas Redding, joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss preservation, smart growth, Program Open Space, Maryland's rich heritage, and more!
Preservation Maryland is the state's oldest, largest, and most effective preservation organization. Nicholas Redding has led the organization since 2014 and oversees the operations, programs, and growing professional staff.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, D'Paul Nibber joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson for the last segment of a series of episodes to recap the 2022 legislative session. This week, an overview of legislation to implement the landmark opioid settlement, police accountability boards, body cameras, public safety funding, and more.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
Session Wrap-Up: Paid Leave and Everything Education
Apr 29, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Brianna January joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson for the second segment of a series of episodes to recap the 2022 legislative session. This week, an overview of the statewide paid family and medical leave program (FMLA), a sweeping school construction bill, community college funding, and pandemic-driven tweaks to the [Kirwan] Blueprint for Maryland's Future.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Dominic Butchko joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson for the first in a series of episodes to recap the 2022 legislative session. This week, an overview of the sweeping Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022, a suite of cybersecurity bills, MACo's EMS Initiative, extended producer responsibility (ERP), and more!
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and anywhere else you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson breakdown the latest on MACo's 2022 Legislative Initiatives, discuss the status of several high-profile bills, and preview the days ahead before the General Assembly adjourns Sine Die.
The Conduit Sreet Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, State Board of Elections Director of Candidacy and Campaign Finance, Jared DeMarinis, joins Kevin Kinnally to discuss the latest election news, policy, and trends. Topics include this week's decision to push back Maryland's primary election, voting trends, cybersecurity, cryptocurrency, and a disturbing uptick of threats and intimidations against election officials.
The Conduit Sreet Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Anne Arundel Community College Business Professor Shad Ewart joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the business and policy of cannabis.
Learn why public health, social equity, local reinvestment, tax and license structures, entrepreneurial opportunities, and economic development remain at the forefront of the discussion as state lawmakers consider how to best foster the growth of a responsible and legitimate cannabis industry.
Professor Shad Ewart is an expert on cannabis policy and designed and developed the first course to explore the entrepreneurial opportunities created by the legalization of cannabis for medical use in Maryland.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, House Majority Leader Delegate Eric Luedtke joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the latest news and notes from the Maryland General Assembly, including state/local tax policy, the Great Maryland Outdoors Act, adult-use cannabis, and more!
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including an update on the Senate's return to in-person testimony; MACo's recognition awards; and a busy week for the Blueprint Accountability and Implementation Board (AIB), which is tasked with overseeing the implementation of Maryland's major education policy reform initiative known as the Blueprint for Maryland's Future.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Senate Re-Opening, Selfies at the Polls?
Feb 11, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the Senate's plan to resume in-person committee hearings next week, why billions in federal infrastructure funding may play a big role in this year's budget deliberations, and a push to allow Maryland voters to take and publish "ballot selfies" at the polling place.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Brianna January joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss education policy and a plethora of bills related to Maryland's public schools. School funding, capital facilities, enrollment, curriculum, and the potential for "Kirwan 3.0" are all hot topics amidst the 2022 session.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Opioid Deal in the Books, More Health and Legal Issues
Jan 28, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, D'Paul Nibber joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to detail a monumental deal to distribute needed resources to local governments from a historic settlement between the State and opioid manufacturers/distributors.
Plus, an update on MACo's Legislative Initiative to protect public officials from threats and intimidations, legislation to address fiscal and administrative challenges with implementing body camera programs, and a bill to reverse a Maryland Court of Appeals decision that preempts local tobacco regulation.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson breakdown Governor Hogan’s $58.2 billion proposed budget, including administration priorities, funding for essential county programs and services, and a peculiar omission of $125 million in seemingly mandated education funding.
Plus, we explain why a proposal to eliminate all state income taxes for retirees by 2028 — a centerpiece of the governor’s overall fiscal plan — will trigger a fascinating policy debate over long-term commitments vs. one-time spending amidst an unprecedented surplus and strong cash outlook.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
Conduit Street Podcast: '22 Session Kickoff, EMS in Crisis
Jan 14, 2022
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Dominic Butchko, and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the kickoff of the 2022 legislative session -- which again features virtual committee hearings, pro forma floor sessions, and strict health and safety protocols.
Plus, we explain how a 2022 MACo Legislative Initiative aims to provide immediate relief to EMS personnel, frontline responders, and hospitals -- all of whom are sounding the alarm and pleading for help amid the unprecedented strain on healthcare personnel and infrastructure.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson preview Maryland’s budget picture and fiscal outlook, including a breakdown of the driving forces behind the record State budget surplus, higher-than-expected tax receipts, and bullish revenue projections.
Plus, a look at the Spending Affordability Committee’s recommendations to help guide fiscal 2023 budget decisions, including shoring up reserve funds, repaying unfunded liabilities, and prioritizing one-time construction costs.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
Cyber Headlines and Conference Highlights
Dec 17, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Dominic Butchko, and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis. This week, the latest on recent high-profile cyberattacks against state and local governments -- including the ongoing incident affecting the Maryland Department of Health. Plus, a recap of the 2021 MACo Winter Conference, a rundown of last week’s special session of the Maryland General Assembly, and more!
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis. This week, a breakdown of MACo's Legislative Initiative to clarify and update election laws with an emphasis on fairness, transparency, and accountability, a preview of next week's special session of the Maryland General Assembly, and more!
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Protecting Public Servants, Tying Up Loose Ends
Nov 12, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, D'Paul Nibber joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis.
This week, a breakdown of MACo's Legislative Initiative to protect public officials from threats and intimidations, the latest on the State's proposal to distribute opioid settlement funds, the path forward for the federal vaccine-or-test mandate for employers with at least 100 employees — which is on hold pending judicial review, and new details on next month's special session of the Maryland General Assembly.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, MACo Associate Policy Director Dominic Butchko joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis.
This week, we break down two of MACo's 2022 Legislative Initiatives – reinvesting in local transportation infrastructure and ensuring first responders have the resources they need to deliver life-saving care – and discuss the latest on the $1 trillion infrastructure bill pending before Congress.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, MACo Associate Policy Director D'Paul Nibber joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Leadership - An Episode from the MACo Archives
Oct 15, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Dr. Debby Thomas joins the podcast to discuss her role at the Professional Development Academy, with an emphasis on the Academy's partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo) to equip frontline county government professionals with practical leadership skills to deliver results for counties and communities.
With a robust curriculum developed by the Professional Development Academy in partnership with Fortune 1000 executives, public sector leaders, world-renowned academics, and thought leaders, including General Colin Powell and Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, the NACo High Performance Leadership Academy was designed specifically for the unique challenges and opportunities of serving in county government.
Dr. Debby Thomas teaches leadership, management, organizational, behavior, and research courses and serves as the Associate Dean at George Fox University. She is also a leadership coach at the Professional Development Academy in Portland, and leads the team of Leadership Coaches.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Maryland Department of Emergency Management Acting Secretary Russell Strickland joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the shifting landscape of emergency management. From new and evolving threats to harnessing new tech to build resilience and redundancy, learn why elevating emergency management to Cabinet-status strengthens state/local collaboration, communication, and coordination to advance community emergency preparedness.
Last week, the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) became the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM). As previously reported on Conduit Street, the Maryland General Assembly this year passed SB 658, which establishes MDEM as a forward-facing, Cabinet-level entity. The bill also transfers the 9-1-1 Board to the Department.
MACo supported the bill, as MDEM will work directly with county emergency management offices to develop scalable, flexible, and adaptable concepts and better align critical roles and responsibilities when disasters strike. This partnership will ensure the continuity of government in the face of an innumerable number of catastrophic events.
In addition, as Maryland’s 9-1-1 system is a vital part of the State’s emergency response and disaster preparedness network, MDEM is the proper entity to help advance the deployment of a statewide NG911 system that our residents expect and deserve.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.
Maximizing Public Funds With three+one
Oct 01, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, three+one® Senior Vice President Garrett Macdonald joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss a data-driven approach to help counties maximize the value of every single dollar through the power of liquidity analysis.
cashvest by three+one® uses proprietary algorithms to produce data-driven analysis and time-horizon evaluations to empower counties to realize new revenue that will increase stability and maximize liquidity – all while increasing deposit yields. With cashvest by three+one®, local governments, higher Ed institutions, and hospitals can execute cash, operating, and investment management decisions with more confidence and ease.
The leadership of three+one® has public, private, higher Ed, and banking experience, which provides a comprehensive perspective on liquidity management. three+one has served entities nationally since 2012, bringing over $300 million in new revenue to the communities it serves.
three+one® is endorsed by the National Association of Counties (NACo) and has formal partnerships with the New York State Association of Counties, the Florida Association of Counties, the Virginia Association of Counties, the California State Association of Counties, the Nebraska Association of Counties, the Arizona Association of Counties, and the Washington State Association of Counties. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
New School Year, New Problem: A Bus Driver Shortage
Sep 24, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Calvert County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Daniel Curry joins Kevin Kinnally and Brianna January to discuss how COVID-19 is impacting our local school systems and their return to in-person instruction. Maryland's public school systems are balancing public health concerns about the surging delta variant with the benefits of classroom instruction. In the latest pandemic-related twist, a nationwide school bus driver shortage is wreaking havoc on schools and families alike.
Dr. Daniel Curry has been Superintendent of Calvert County Public Schools since 2014 and was recently named Maryland's 2020 Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Curry is originally from Fairmont, West Virginia, and served there as superintendent of three counties for 15 years. He then spent another 11 years as Superintendent of Schools for the Lake Forest School District in Felton, Delaware from 2003-2014. The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
The State House Beat, with Bryan Sears
Sep 17, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, award-winning journalist Bryan Sears joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss Maryland policy and politics, the role of new technology and social media on news and journalism, new and evolving media business models, and a preview of what's in store for the 2022 legislative session.
Bryan Sears covers Maryland politics and government affairs for The Daily Record. Sears is also a veteran of the local government beat and frequently contributes to local television and radio programs.
The Daily Record, a multimedia news source, publishes a print and online edition five days a week and breaks news daily on its website, thedailyrecord.com.
The Conduit Street Podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Headline Issues: Both Policy and Process
Sep 09, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson preview next week's Board of Public Works meeting – including the history and substance of a proposal to oblige county funds for state-mandated electronic pollbooks, explain why legislative-executive checks and balances are behind the delay in implementing the State Board of Education's emergency regulation to require masks in all public schools, and discuss the latest push to get public and private sector employees vaccinated.
The Conduit Street podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) -- including Maryland's role in new US Department of the Treasury guidelines to expedite rental assistance, a major milestone for reporting and compliance, and lingering questions -- a recap of the 2021 MACo Summer Conference, and reveal the highly anticipated results of the “Are You Smarter than MACo’s Michael Sanderson?” Maryland Counties Quiz. (Hint: Apparently, yes. It isn't pretty.)
The Conduit Street podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Live from #MACoCon: Tanium Talks Cybersecurity
Aug 20, 2021
Tanium — the endpoint management and security provider built for the world’s most demanding IT environments — talks cybersecurity during a live recording of the Conduit Street Podcast at MACo's Summer Conference.
The rapid shift to telework and growing reliance on digital platforms present new challenges for government IT systems. Cybercriminals are aggressively targeting state and local governments with sophisticated cyberattacks that jeopardize sensitive information, critical infrastructure, public safety, and the delivery of essential services.
At the 2021 MACo Summer Conference, Chris Cruz, Tanium CIO for U.S. state, local, and education (SLED), joined a live recording of the Conduit Street Podcast for a fast-paced, Q&A-style discussion on current threat trends, best practices to maintain proper cyber hygiene, and tools and safeguards to identify potential threats, contain breaches, and remediate risk within seconds or minutes — not days or weeks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_s6BZRNdqG8 Follow the latest conference happenings using the Twitter hashtag #MACoCon
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson explain the significance of new 2020 Census data for state and local redistricting, break down the nuts and bolts of Maryland's redistricting process, and detail key timelines in the scramble to draw new boundaries in time for next year's midterm elections.
The timing of Census data, somewhat delayed by the pandemic, will make the upcoming district design an unusually compressed process. While the U.S. Census this week released raw, untabulated Census data, adjusted data won't be available until September -- according to the discussion on the Conduit Street Podcast earlier this year – leaving district-drawing commissions at every level with a short timetable to develop their final work.
In Maryland, the General Assembly has principal authority to draw both congressional and state legislative district lines.
The governor, aided by an advisory commission, submits a state legislative redistricting proposal. The legislature may pass its own plan by joint resolution. If the legislature fails to approve its own plan, the governor’s plan takes effect. Congressional lines are drawn solely by the legislature.
In a landmark decision, the United States Supreme Court ruled that partisan gerrymandering challenges to electoral maps are political questions and thus beyond the reach of the federal courts, dismissing challenges by voters in Maryland and North Carolina.
The ruling held that Maryland did not have to redraw congressional election districts before the 2020 elections. Instead, the maps must be redrawn in time for the 2022 elections, in accordance with 2020 Census data.
The Conduit Street podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. Episodes are also available on MACo's Conduit Street blog.
Headlines: Infrastructure and Cybersecurity
Jul 30, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a flurry of efforts to bolster cybersecurity for state and local governments, a renewed debate over what counts as infrastructure, and a look at what the US Senate's bipartisan agreement to invest approximately $550 billion in America's infrastructure might mean for Maryland.
The Conduit Street podcast is available on major platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more. You can also listen on the Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Live from the 2021 MD Land Preservation Conference
Jul 15, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson join county leaders for a panel discussion at the 2021 Maryland Land Preservation Conference at Ripken Stadium in Harford County.
Forever Maryland, Inc., a new statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of Maryland’s land, water, wildlife, and other natural values, hosted the event, themed "Preserving with a Purpose."
Howard County Council Member Christiana Rigby, Baltimore City Council Member Mark Conway, Talbot County Council Member Pete Lesher, and Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman join the podcast to discuss land preservation, open space, local green/sustainable initiatives, balancing community needs, advocacy, and the importance of providing all Marylanders with green spaces like parks, playgrounds, and residential greenery to promote physical and mental health.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including getting back into the swing of things with interim workgroups, meetings, and policy discussions; a recap of the Maryland Municipal League's Summer Conference; and a look ahead to the MACo Summer Conference: Resilient. Responsive...Ready.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on the Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Teaching Through Troubled Times, w/MSEA
Jun 25, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Maryland State Education Association (MSEA) President Cheryl Bost and MSEA Executive Director Sean Johnson join Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the pandemic's impact on education -- including shifts in learning modalities, a surge in mental and social health issues, challenges with returning to in-person instruction, the implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland, and more!
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on the Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Getting Real (Estate) With Maryland REALTORS
Jun 18, 2021
MACo and the Conduit Street Podcast are proud to present an installment from the Maryland Realtors, and their own Get Real Estate Podcast. In this episode, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson join Chuck Kasky and Bill Castelli to discuss the sizzling real estate market, the nationwide housing deficit, land use policy, housing affordability, COVID-19 recovery, and more.
With national updates, market trends, and industry-leading insights, the Get Real Estate Podcast serves as a resource for all aspects of real estate in Maryland.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on the Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the challenges and opportunities for employers and employees post-pandemic, a recap of this week's House Economic Matters Committee meeting on unemployment benefits, and a preview of the 2021 MACo Summer Conference.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on the Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Politics and Policy with Professor Todd Eberly
Jun 04, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Professor Todd Eberly joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss Maryland policy and politics, party polarization and ideology, the state and local political landscape, and the 2021 Session.
Todd Eberly is a professor of Political Science and coordinator of Public Policy Studies at St. Mary's College of Maryland and has been named one of the most influential voices in Maryland politics.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on the Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Data and Districts with Planning Sec. McCord
May 21, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Maryland Department of Planning Secretary Robert McCord joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to breakdown Maryland's preliminary census data, discuss the impact of the U.S. Census Bureau's COVID-related data delays on state and local redistricting, and explain why Maryland's census outreach is helping to drive the statewide vaccination effort.
Census data is used to allocate billions of dollars in federal funding for education, health, transportation, housing, community services, and job training. Maryland will lose approximately $18,250 annually for every person not counted.
Moreover, businesses and industries decide where to locate new facilities and services based on census data, creating new jobs and promoting economic growth. Census data also informs reapportionment and redistricting, along with ensuring that Maryland receives appropriate representation in Congress.
Public Polling, Vax Hesitancy with Mileah Kromer
May 13, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Dr. Mileah Kromer joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to explain why public polling is essential for helping health experts and policymakers understand vaccine hesitancy, discuss some intriguing incentives being offered by states to boost vaccination rates, and break down the results from the latest Goucher College Poll.
The Goucher College Poll measures the opinions of Maryland residents and voters on important policy, social, and economic issues.
In her role as director of the Sarah T. Hughes Field Politics Center, Dr. Mileah Kromer oversees every aspect of the Goucher Poll, including survey instrument construction, sampling, data analysis, and the development of appropriate survey methodologies. In addition, she is responsible for interviewer training and lab supervision.
In addition to her duties as director, Dr. Kromer teaches courses on American politics and research methods. Her scholarly interests include public opinion and state politics. Her work has appeared in Survey Practice, Social Science Quarterly, TheSocial Science Journal, TheJournal of Legislative Studies, and the Journal of Political Science Education. She is a frequent commentator on Maryland politics.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, MACo Member Services Director, Virginia White, joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the 2021 MACo Summer Conference, which MACo plans to host as an in-person event from August 18-21, 2021 at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland. Strict safety protocols will be in place and the number of participants will be reduced to ensure social distancing. MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world. All aspects of modern life have been affected – public health, of course, but also how we conduct business, educate our schoolchildren, and govern our communities. Some of these will return to “normal,” but some changes will be with us forever. The socio-economic impacts are still unfolding, but we can be certain – counties stood on the front lines of the pandemic and will lead the recovery. At this conference, MACo and county leaders will explore the local role in pandemic response and recovery – strategic planning, evolving service delivery, emergency communications, advancing technologies, and fiscal obstacles – all of which constitute the fabric of local leadership.
Exhibit registration is currently open to those companies who registered in 2020, before that event was canceled. If you have questions about your exhibitor registration status or would like to be added to the exhibitor announcement list, please contact Leslie Velasco.
Interested in sponsoring?
Interested sponsors, please contact Virginia White for more details.
Session Reflections, On to Budgets
Apr 23, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a rundown of the final days of the 2021 Session of the Maryland General Assembly, reflections on the strangest legislative session to date, a look ahead to county budgets, and a look at why leading economic indicators may not tell the whole story amidst the enduring COVID-19 pandemic.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
You can listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the path forward for a suite of bills intended to add to police accountability and standards. The mostly party-line vote has stakeholders awaiting the Governor’s action on the several proposals. Also this week, an outlook for the final days of the legislative session, an update on the push to expand access to broadband, and a look at competing proposals to legalize and regulate sports wagering in Maryland.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
You can listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Anne Arundel County Budget Officer Chris Trumbauer joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the ins and outs of budgeting amidst a pandemic, using budgets to set priorities, and the impact of a bipartisan agreement between Governor Hogan, House Speaker Jones, and Senate President Ferguson to allocate more than $3.9 billion in federal funding that the State expects to receive through the American Rescue Plan Act.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
You can listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the latest on two competing proposals to reform law enforcement protocols and accountability in Maryland, the budget plan, sports wagering, adult-use cannabis, and the significance of an unusually high amount of chatter on "local bills."
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
You can listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website. Useful Links
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast #AfterDark, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including long floor sessions, busy committee hearings, and multi-day committee voting sessions. Also this week, a look at the process for municipal incorporation/annexation, and why county governments -- and their residents -- have skin in the game.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Overrides Overview... and what is "Rebasing" Anyway?
Feb 19, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast #AfterDark, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the path forward for the [Kirwan] Blueprint for Maryland’s Future now that both chambers of the General Assembly overrode the governor’s veto of the multi-year plan that obliges some $4 billion in annual state and county spending above current education funding formulas and projections by its eventual phase-in in FY 2030, and explain why rebasing funding formulas can lead to long-term, dramatic cuts for essential programs and services.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
#AfterDark: Vaccine Explanations and Session Updates
Feb 12, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast #AfterDark, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Alex Butler discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the latest on county concerns about COVID-19 dose allocations, planning for vaccination locations, and the tension between local health departments’ “prioritizing” approach versus private providers’ more open approach; updates on several bills that aim to boost encourage recycling -- including a proposal to establish a statewide bottle deposit program; and efforts to enhance wastewater treatment across Maryland.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast #AfterDark, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Drew Jabin discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a recap of "police day" in the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, an update on several bills that aim to build out broadband across Maryland, and new intrigue surrounding the push to legalize and regulate adult-use cannabis in Maryland. MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast. You can listen to previous episodes of the Conduit Street Podcast on our website. Useful Links MACo Legislative Tracking Database
On the inaugural episode of Conduit Street Podcast #AfterDark, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest on the governor's stimulus package -- including competing fiscal analyses, timing, and a new, add-on proposal from Senate Democrats; recap some of the week's most intriguing bill hearings, and provide updates on broadband, funding for local health departments, COVID-19 liability protections, and criminal justice issues.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Pegeen Townsend joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the proactive steps hospitals and healthcare providers are taking -- including partnering with local health departments -- to expedite the vaccine rollout; the challenges and opportunities related to the accelerated shift to telehealth amid the COVID-19 pandemic; and priorities for the 2021 session.
Pegeen Townsend is vice president of government affairs for MedStar Health. In her role, Townsend oversees all government relations activities in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and at the federal level for MedStar Health. She is charged with building MedStar's relationship with local, state, and federal officials to elevate the system as a key provider in the region, pivotal to the healthcare industry. In addition, Townsend leads initiatives that place MedStar Health in a more active role regarding relevant issues and new policies being debated and/or resolved through legislative and regulatory action.
Prior to joining MedStar Health, Townsend was the senior vice president for legislative policy with the Maryland Hospital Association where she led the association's legislative team in its advocacy efforts in Annapolis and Washington.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson recap day one of the 2021 legislative session. Annapolis is quiet as hearings, briefings, and floor sessions are being held on Zoom and YouTube. Advocates and legislators alike are adjusting to new processes and procedures as they tackle the large load of pre-filed bills and grapple with how to best provide meaningful relief to Maryland residents and businesses struggling to stay afloat amid the deepening COVID-19 pandemic.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Revved Up, But Not Over Reassessments
Jan 07, 2021
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson walk through the nuts and bolts of the rapidly approaching 2021 Session of the Maryland General Assembly, clarify what the recent rise in property tax assessments actually means for local governments and Maryland residents alike, and discuss why a proposal to extend the timeframe between property assessments could pressure counties to raise tax rates in order to keep pace with spending for education, public health, public safety, roadway maintenance, and other essential services.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Drew Jabin joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss Maryland’s Spending Affordability Committee, which this week approved a number of recommendations to help guide state budget decisions in the months ahead, including dipping into the state’s reserves to address a projected cash shortfall and structural deficit in the upcoming fiscal year; new analysis on The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund — which is dedicated to implementing the recommendations from the Kirwan Blueprint bill; the push for the state to prioritize teachers and school personnel to receive the COVID-19 vaccine; and the latest on federal stimulus negotiations.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the evolving plans for the Maryland General Assembly to convene safely for the 2021 Legislative Session. Also this week, Dr. Debby Thomas joins the podcast to discuss her role at the Professional Development Academy, with an emphasis on the Academy's partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo) to equip frontline county government professionals with practical leadership skills to deliver results for counties and communities.
With a robust curriculum developed by the Professional Development Academy in partnership with Fortune 1000 executives, public sector leaders, world-renowned academics, and thought leaders, including General Colin Powell and Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, the NACo High Performance Leadership Academy was designed specifically for the unique challenges and opportunities of serving in county government.
Dr. Debby Thomas teaches leadership, management, organizational, behavior, and research courses and serves as the Associate Dean at George Fox University. She is also a leadership coach at the Professional Development Academy in Portland, and leads the team of Leadership Coaches.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Standing On a Corner, With a Friend From Arizona
Nov 20, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Arizona Association of Counties (AACo) Executive Director Jennifer Marson joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss how Arizona is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, Arizona's election results and process, and a number of other pressing issues in our respective states.
Jennifer Marson manages the daily operations of the Association and the Government Services Foundation, directs the state and federal government affairs program, and cultivates new business and membership opportunities. She also serves as the primary liaison to the National Association of Counties, other state associations, and coordinates the AACo's educational outreach programs. Jen’s research and advocacy areas of expertise include property taxes, elections, public records, criminal justice, law enforcement, justice and superior courts, and education. Jen has been with AACo since 2002 when she started as the legislative intern. Since then she has worn nearly every hat in the Association before being selected as Executive Director in 2013.
She serves on several boards and committees including the Academic Advisory Board for ASU’s School of Public Affairs, the Audit Committee for the National Sheriffs Association, the Membership Committee of the National Association of Counties, and the Board of Directors of Scorpius Dance Theatre. Jen is a yoga enthusiast and native of Arizona. She received both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s degree in Communication Studies from Arizona State University with an emphasis in rhetoric and advocacy.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Jennifer Diercksen joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the ins and outs of municipal bond ratings — including the role of ratings agencies in assessing creditworthiness; the factors that influence interest rates, investment appetite, and bond pricing; and the differences between short-term and long-term debt ratings.
Jennifer Diercksen is a First Vice President at Davenport & Company, one of the oldest employee-owned, independent financial services firms in America. She works primarily as a financial advisor to state and local governments, authorities, and not-for-profit entities in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Prior to joining Davenport, Jennifer was an AVP at Moody’s Investors Services; a Consultant at Deloitte Consulting; and an Investigator for Surveys and Investigations on the U.S. House of Representatives, Appropriations Committee. She earned her MPA from Syracuse University – Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, and her BA in Economics from University of Maryland College Park.
The MACo Pooled OPEB Investment Trust Fund offers member counties — along with their libraries, colleges, and supported units — a vehicle to invest current funds toward future obligations for retiree health insurance, a.k.a. “other post-employment benefits.” OPEB liability presents a funding challenge to nearly every county. But this investment vehicle is a low-overhead and low-cost means to put current assets to work, in a manner similar to a pension fund.
Stay tuned to MACo’s blog and our Conduit Street podcast for unbiased, non-partisan election news, details, and insider tips on what it all means for county government.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Drew Jabin joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to breakdown the latest state and local election results -- including the latest on county races, statewide ballot questions, county-specific ballot questions, and some intriguing ballot initiatives from across the country that may influence Maryland policy and politics.
Stay tuned to MACo’s blog and our Conduit Street podcast for unbiased, non-partisan election news, details, and insider tips on what it all means for county government.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Capitalizing on Our Community Colleges
Oct 30, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Brad Phillips joins Kevin Kinnally and Drew Jabin to discuss the history and mission of Maryland's community colleges, their commitment to access and equity, and why -- as the state works to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic -- they may be more important now than ever.
Brad Phillips is the Deputy Executive Director at the Maryland Association of Community Colleges (MACC). MACC serves as the advocate and unified voice for the state’s 16 community colleges, as well as the educational needs of the students they serve.
Working with elected officials, policy-makers, business groups, local, state, and federal government representatives, and stakeholder organizations, MACC aims to make post-secondary education accessible to all Marylanders, grow the percentage of Marylanders who are college and career-ready, increase community college completion rates statewide, and develop recognition of the community college contribution to economic development and resiliency.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Election Fun and Question One – With P.J. Hogan
Oct 19, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, P.J. Hogan joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss election issues and breakdown the proposed constitutional amendment (Question 1) which, if approved by voters in the November election, would adjust the State’s budget process.
Former Maryland State Senator P.J. Hogan serves as a member of the Maryland State Board of Elections and is the principal of Cornerstone Public Affairs' Annapolis office.
As a Maryland State Senator, P.J. represented the 39th Legislative District located in Northern Montgomery County from 1994 – 2007. P.J. was re-elected to his fourth term in 2006. His Senate committee assignments included Budget and Taxation where he served as Vice-Chairman of the full committee, and Chairman of the Education, Business and Administration Subcommittee. He was also a member of the Pensions Subcommittee and the Capital Budget Subcommittee.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
The Maryland Mindset, with Guest Mileah Kromer
Oct 15, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Dr. Mileah Kromer joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to breakdown the results from the latest Goucher College Poll, discuss the ins and outs of political polling, and debunk some common myths about polling methods and methodology.
The Goucher College Poll measures the opinions of Maryland residents and voters on important policy, social, and economic issues.
In her role as director of the Sarah T. Hughes Field Politics Center, Dr. Mileah Kromer oversees every aspect of the Goucher Poll, including survey instrument construction, sampling, data analysis, and the development of appropriate survey methodologies. In addition, she is responsible for interviewer training and lab supervision.
In addition to her duties as director, Dr. Kromer teaches courses on American politics and research methods. Her scholarly interests include public opinion and state politics. Her work has appeared in Survey Practice, Social Science Quarterly, TheSocial Science Journal, TheJournal of Legislative Studies, and the Journal of Political Science Education. She is a frequent commentator on Maryland politics.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
State Revenues: Looking Beyond the Headline
Oct 09, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson breakdown the latest state revenue projections, examine the role of federal stimulus funds in avoiding a catastrophic economic collapse, and explain why Maryland's better-than-expected fiscal picture may ultimately be at the mercy of Washington D.C. politics.
As previously reported on Conduit Street, Maryland's top fiscal leaders last week said that state revenues may weather the swift and unprecedented shock of the COVID-19 pandemic -- and shutdown measures to contain it -- better than expected. But, the Board of Revenue Estimates -- a three-member panel which includes Comptroller Peter Franchot, State Treasurer Nancy Kopp, and Secretary of Budget and Management David Brinkley -- warned that the ongoing uncertainty of the pandemic will continue to make a swift and sustainable economic recovery challenging, more so if a second federal stimulus package isn’t approved.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
2021 Top Issues: Put Public Health First — Protect Services and Promote Funding
Oct 02, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson are joined by MACo Legislative Director Natasha Mehu to breakdown MACo's 2021 Legislative Initiative to put public health first by protecting services and advocating for public health and emergency services to be properly supported with necessary funds to support staff, services, supplies, and technology -- not only in these times of crisis but for the everyday preventative and responsive health services they provide.
As previously reported on Conduit Street, MACo’s Legislative Committee voted at the September 16, 2020 meeting to adopt the Association’s four priorities for the 2021 Maryland General Assembly Session. MACo will prioritize county budget security, elections, broadband access, and public health support in the 2021 session.
PUT PUBLIC HEALTH FIRST – PROTECT SERVICES AND PROMOTE FUNDING
County public health and emergency agencies protect communities against epidemic threats, infectious diseases, addiction, mental illness, poverty, and violence, and provide care for everything from chronic diseases to critical life-threatening incidents. Despite their critical roles, these agencies face gaps in funding and outdated technology and infrastructure that challenge the delivery of vital services. Local health departments are still reeling from drastic state funding cuts from the last recession that remain unrestored, all while they serve on the front lines of a historic public health pandemic.
MACo advocates that public health and emergency agencies should be properly supported with necessary funds to support staff, services, supplies, and technology not only in these times of crisis but for the everyday preventative and responsive health services they provide.
Each year MACo adopts a slate of top legislative initiatives, typically representing the wide swath of services counties deliver to Maryland residents. The Initiatives Subcommittee meets through the summer to refine and focus a list of dozens of proposed initiatives into no more than four as required by the Association’s bylaws. The slate is then presented to the Legislative Committee for adoption.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
2021 Top Issues: Broadband Accessibility Act of 2021
Sep 25, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson are joined by MACo Policy Associate Drew Jabin and Maryland State Office of Rural Broadband Director Kenrick Gordon to breakdown MACo's 2021 Legislative Initiative to build out broadband access across Maryland.
The Office of Rural Broadband’s mission is to ensure that every rural Marylander has access to broadband services, regardless of their zip code. Through partnerships with local jurisdictions and the private sector, the Office offers funding and technical assistance to help entities qualify for federal financing opportunities. The Office also has initiated a broadband funding structure through the Local Government Infrastructure Financing (LGIF) program at the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to complement other funding sources.
As previously reported on Conduit Street, MACo’s Legislative Committee voted at the September 16, 2020 meeting to adopt the Association’s four priorities for the 2021 Maryland General Assembly Session. MACo will prioritize county budget security, elections, broadband access, and public health support in the 2021 session.
BUILD OUT BROADBAND: BROADBAND ACCESSIBILITY ACT OF 2021
Weaknesses in current broadband internet service occur in every jurisdiction, due to both geography and demography – too many Marylanders have been left on the wrong side of the “digital divide.” The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of broadband connectivity across the state. Students have transitioned to online learning, many professionals have shifted to telework, and applying for unemployment or small business assistance programs often requires access to the internet. Affordable high-speed internet is an essential component of a county’s economic development, while a lack of reliable broadband is a major barrier to socioeconomic opportunity, health, education, and quality of life.
MACo advocates for prioritizing funding to build out broadband access in Maryland, enhancing incentives and orchestrating opportunities for broadband deployment, and leveraging existing resources and infrastructure for broader use.
Each year MACo adopts a slate of top legislative initiatives, typically representing the wide swath of services counties deliver to Maryland residents. The Initiatives Subcommittee meets through the summer to refine and focus a list of dozens of proposed initiatives into no more than four as required by the Association’s bylaws. The slate is then presented to the Legislative Committee for adoption.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
2021 Top Issues: Elections Fairness and Funding
Sep 18, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson breakdown MACo's 2021 Legislative Initiative to ensure fair funding and proper local input for elections in Maryland.
As previously reported on Conduit Street, MACo’s Legislative Committee voted at the September 16, 2020 meeting to adopt the Association’s four priorities for the 2021 Maryland General Assembly Session. MACo will prioritize county budget security, elections, broadband access, and public health support in the 2021 session.
ENSURE FUNDING FAIRNESS AND COUNTY ROLE IN ELECTIONS
The State Board of Elections (SBE) often makes unilateral decisions that place substantial administrative and cost burdens onto local Boards of Elections, whose operations are supported by county funding. Without proper resources to offset substantial costs for equipment purchases/leases, equipment storage and transportation, staff compensation and training, and other overhead, these state-mandated expenditures represent significant unfunded mandates on county governments.
MACo advocates to codify the 20-year precedent that voting machines and related systems be a split funding responsibility between the State and counties, require the State to fund salary increases for its employees overseeing elections at the local level, and ensure proper local input for large contract/procurement decisions that oblige county funds.
Each year MACo adopts a slate of top legislative initiatives, typically representing the wide swath of services counties deliver to Maryland residents. The Initiatives Subcommittee meets through the summer to refine and focus a list of dozens of proposed initiatives into no more than four as required by the Association’s bylaws. The slate is then presented to the Legislative Committee for adoption.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson are joined by Alex Butler to discuss the roadmap ahead for the Maryland General Assembly. Topics include the pros and cons of convening a special session amid the COVID-19 pandemic, how guidance from the Maryland Attorney General may lead to big changes for the 2021 legislative session, a new proposal to cap the number of bills introduced in the Senate, and why lawmakers are under pressure to work out several high-profile bills prior to convening in Annapolis.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson are joined by Natasha Mehu and Calvert County Health Officer Dr. Laurence Polsky to discuss the latest on state and local efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Polsky shares his insights on school reopening, contact tracing, Maryland's move toward Stage Three of the Roadmap to Recovery plan, and the timeline for a safe, effective, and widely available COVID-19 vaccine.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including updates on the November election, the ongoing negotiations over the next round of federal COVID-19 aid, Maryland's statewide rollout of text-to-9-1-1, and intriguing local issues.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, California State Association of Counties (CSAC) Executive Director Graham Knaus joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson for a look at how the Golden State is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, school reopenings, elections, budget crises, and a number of other pressing issues in our respective states.
Also this week, California's relationship with the gig economy; intriguing state ballot initiatives; intergovernmental relations; and battling wildfires, record heatwaves, and rolling blackouts amidst a public health crisis.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Revisiting: Reopening, Relief, and Revenues
Aug 13, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Alex Butler and Drew Jabin join Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the latest on school reopenings, negotiations over the next federal COVID-19 stimulus package, unemployment benefits, payroll taxes, big changes for the November 3 election, and the road ahead for state and local budgets.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
A Conduit St Look at Pennsylvania Avenue
Jul 30, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, National Association of Counties (NACo) deputy director of government affairs Mark Ritacco joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to break down the competing coronavirus relief proposals being considered by Congress -- including the likelihood the next relief bill will include direct and flexible aid for state and local governments.
Additionally, Senate Republicans have prioritized liability protections for businesses, which would protect them from coronavirus-related lawsuits, but opted not to include needed direct and flexible funding for state and local governments.
Meanwhile, the U.S. House of Representatives in May passed the HEROES (Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions) Act, the potential next phase of relief for the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill includes two separate, equal funds for counties and cities and provides $187.5 billion in vital relief to counties to address both lost revenue and increased expenditures as the result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Congress has roughly two weeks until both chambers are scheduled to adjourn for the August recess. Leaders plan to wrap up negotiations before they adjourn, but it is unclear whether the House and Senate will be able to reach a compromise.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Howard County Public School System Superintendent Dr. Michael Martirano joins Kevin Kinnally, Drew Jabin, and Michael Sanderson to discuss the health, safety, and logistical challenges of educating children in the fall.
As previously reported on Conduit Street, local education agencies are developing plans to reopen in the fall – whether that occurs in-person, remotely, or in a combination of the two – with a focus on the health and safety of students, teachers, and school personnel, while encouraging equitable access to the services and resources necessary for a high-quality education.
Dr. Michael J. Martirano was named superintendent for the Howard County Public School System in July 2018 after serving as interim superintendent since May 2017. An educator for more than 35 years, he considers himself a teacher first and foremost. He is guided by the principle “to teach a child well, you must know a child well,” and is committed to ensuring equity and giving every student an opportunity to succeed in an inclusive and nurturing environment.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Beth Blauer joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the role of quality data in helping governments make informed decisions in order to protect public health and support local businesses and workers. Beth also discusses her role in developing and maintaining the Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Case Tracker -- which government agencies, public health departments, the public, and news outlets regularly rely on for the latest updates on the confirmed cases, deaths, and recoveries connected to the pandemic.
Beth Blauer is the executive director of the Johns Hopkins University Centers for Civic Impact. As a dedicated public servant and international expert on government performance programs, Beth has spent her career working to improve people’s lives by bringing data into governments’ decision-making processes.
Prior to leading the Johns Hopkins Centers for Civic Impact, Beth designed and launched Socrata’s GovStat platform for federal, state, and local governments. Having entered public service as a juvenile probation officer in Maryland, Beth was tapped by then-Governor Martin O’Malley to lead his nationally recognized StateStat program. Beth is a graduate of the University of Maryland and holds a JD from New York Law School.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss what may be on the chopping block as the State looks to offset COVID-19-related economic woes. Also this week, a recap of last week's Board of Public Works meeting, including a summary of what was — and wasn't — cut from the budget to account for increased spending and reduced revenues amid the public health crisis.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Senator Cheryl Kagan joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the 2020 legislative session and what may on tap for 2021. Topics include elections, Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911), telehealth, law enforcement, styrofoam, unemployment insurance, the debate over Maryland's state song, and more!
"Senator Cheryl C. Kagan (D-District 17) represents Rockville and Gaithersburg and serves as the Vice Chair of the Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee. Sen. Kagan has earned a reputation as an independent-minded legislator with a strong voice for her constituents on public safety, consumer protection, transportation, government transparency, and more. While in the Senate, Kagan has passed landmark laws to help nonprofits; enhance our 9-1-1 emergency response systems; become the first State in the nation to ban “Styrofoam” food and beverage containers; and advocate for local governments."
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Everett Sesker joins Kevin Kinnally, Natasha Mehu, and Michael Sanderson to discuss the state of policing. Topics include implicit bias, Maryland's Law Enforcement Officer's Bill of Rights (LEOBR), the "defund the police" movement, community policing, and how new technology is playing a major role in how police serve and protect the community.
Everett Sesker, a law enforcement consultant at the Local Government Insurance Trust (LGIT), trains police officers to understand and overcome implicit bias, as well as assesses and identifies potential risks that may hinder the reputation, safety, security, and operations of law enforcement agencies across Maryland.
Mr. Sesker retired at the rank of Major from the Prince George’s County Police Department after 22 years of service. He has held command positions in training, narcotics, community relations, district stations, headquarters, and public relations.
Prior to joining LGIT, Sesker was appointed as the executive director of the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission where he worked closely with law enforcement leaders and policymakers to oversee and improve the accreditation process for police officers.
LGIT is a member-owned association authorized by state law, wholly-owned and managed by its local government members. The Trust’s main purpose is to provide joint self-insurance programs or pools for towns, cities, and counties in the state of Maryland. The concept is simple – rather than paying premiums to buy insurance from an insurance company, local governments contribute those premiums into a jointly owned fund. The money in that fund is used to pay for the members’ claims, losses, and expenses.
The LGIT Training Grant Program assists Trust Members who wish to increase and improve their employees’ knowledge through training and thereby reduce liability claims and property damage. Training grants are awarded to attend seminars, workshops, conferences, technical classes, or other related training programs. For more information, visit LGIT’s website.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Drew Jabin, and Michael Sanderson discuss why an unprecedented number of COVID-19-related unemployment claims are putting tremendous pressure on all levels of government, what Congress has done (or neglected to do) to ease the burden on state and local governments, and explain why a technical fix is necessary to protect non-profits and local governments from being overwhelmed by huge invoices from the State of Maryland.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Natasha Mehu, and Michael Sanderson discuss the early returns from Maryland's presidential primary election, examine some of the administrative issues that plagued the process, and look ahead to how and why election policy, procedures, and oversight may look very different the next time around.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the evolution of the podcast and ask listeners to weigh in on future topics, guests, bumper music, artwork, and more!
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Mike Ricci joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the importance of communications in a time of crisis, including why reliable data underpins both crisis planning and response.
Mike Ricci, the director of communications for Governor Larry Hogan, previously served as the director of communications for former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Paul Ryan and as the deputy director of communications and chief speechwriter for former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives John Boehner.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss why an unusually quiet "veto day" still made plenty of noise across Maryland.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major podcast platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Maryland Department of Planning Secretary Robert McCord joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss how state and local leaders are adjusting to ensure a fair and accurate 2020 Census amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
Census data is used to allocate billions of dollars in federal funding for education, health, transportation, housing, community services, and job training. Moreover, businesses and industries decide where to locate new facilities and services based on census data, creating new jobs, and promoting economic growth.
An accurate census count, or lack thereof, has a lasting effect on counties, particularly when it comes to the distribution of federal funds. An under-counted population may lead to a significant decline in federal funding flowing to county governments or to county residents.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major podcast platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Health and Humanity Amidst a Pandemic
Apr 30, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest health and human services news amid the state and local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major podcast platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
For up-to-date information and resources regarding coronavirus, including confirmed case counts and clinician guidance, visit http://health.maryland.gov/coronavirus.
Double Take on Kirwan Trigger, Cares Funding, and More!
Apr 24, 2020
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
For up-to-date information and resources regarding coronavirus, including confirmed case counts and clinician guidance, visit http://health.maryland.gov/coronavirus.
Running the Numbers
Apr 17, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, David Juppe joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the fiscal implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, examine the "trigger" provision in the Kirwan Blueprint bill for education funding, and explore the viability of dipping into the state's rainy day fund to respond to the coronavirus public health crisis.
David Juppe, a professor in the Public Affairs department at the University of Baltimore and former senior operating budget manager at the Department of Legislative Services, is an expert on state and local finances.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
For up-to-date information and resources regarding coronavirus, including confirmed case counts and clinician guidance, visit http://health.maryland.gov/coronavirus.
Revisiting the Bag Ban... and Beyond
Apr 09, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Alex Butler joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss the fate of the "bag ban" bill from the 2020 legislative session. We also discuss the surprising connection between the bill and the COVID-19 pandemic.
HB 209/ SB 313 - Plastic Bag Reduction Act, would have prohibited retailers from providing customers with certain plastic carryout bags and required retailers to collect 10 cents for every “durable bag” they provide. However, the bill would also have needlessly preempted incoming or already established bag ban programs in Baltimore City and Howard and Montgomery Counties and in practice prohibit any other county from establishing such a program.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On a special bonus episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, David Lublin joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to discuss both the practical and legal questions around running elections amid the COVID-19 public health crisis.
David Lubin, a professor of government in the School of Public Affairs at American University and the former Mayor of the Town of Chevy Chase, is an expert on American campaigns and elections. Lublin is also the founder of the Seventh State, a blog covering Maryland policy and politics.
As previously reported on Conduit Street, Governor Larry Hogan ordered the special general election to fill the late Rep. Elijah Cummings’s congressional seat in Maryland’s Seventh District be conducted via mail. Hogan also postponed Maryland’s presidential primary due to concerns over the coronavirus outbreak.
As health officials warn that social distancing and other measures to contain the COVID-19 epidemic might be in place months, the Maryland State Board of Elections (SBE) voted to ban any in-person voting for the special general election on April 28 and last week submitted a proposal to Governor Hogan that includes limited in-person voting for the June 2 presidential primary election.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
For up-to-date information and resources regarding coronavirus, including confirmed case counts and clinician guidance, visit http://health.maryland.gov/coronavirus.
Maryland's Wacky Budget Process
Apr 02, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss why the Old Line State's one-of-a-kind budget process makes Maryland's governor one of the most powerful in the country. While most state legislatures have the authority to increase or add an appropriation to the governor’s budget, Section 52 of Article III of the Maryland Constitution prohibits the General Assembly from increasing any budget item, adding any new appropriations to the governor’s budget for Executive Branch agencies, or moving funds from one program to another. But, it is time for a change? The General Assembly last month passed SB 1028 – Balancing the State Budget, legislation that could transform the state budget process. This proposed constitutional amendment, if approved by the Maryland voters at the November 2020 election, would allow the General Assembly to move items around in the budget.
The Senate amended the bill to grant the governor line-item veto power for the operating budget. Under current law, the governor may only line-item veto parts or all of the capital budget.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On a special bonus episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Walter Olson joins Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson to examine the role of state and local emergency powers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Walter Olson is a senior fellow at the Cato Institute’s Center for Constitutional Studies. a libertarian think tank in Washington, D.C. A resident of Frederick County, Olson recently served on the Frederick County Charter Review Commission. Olson has also served as the co-chair of Maryland's Redistricting Commission since 2015.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
For up-to-date information and resources regarding coronavirus, including confirmed case counts and clinician guidance, visit http://health.maryland.gov/coronavirus.
This year, for the first time in since the Civil War, the General Assembly closed session early on March 18, due to precautionary social distancing measures taken to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Despite the unusual circumstances, MACo’s advocacy still led to more positive outcomes for its members. Bills that we supported had a greater likelihood of passage, while bills we opposed had a larger tendency to fail. MACo also helped improve many pieces of legislation through articulating county positions in amendments and will continue to work with State partners in several areas of ongoing administrative improvement.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
For up-to-date information and resources regarding coronavirus, including confirmed case counts and clinician guidance, visit http://health.maryland.gov/coronavirus.
Abrupt Ending, Awareness Everywhere
Mar 19, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a recap of the final days of an abridged session of the Maryland General Assembly; a rundown of some significant bills that passed before lawmakers adjourned early for the first time since the Civil War due to concerns over the COVID-19 epidemic, and a look at how the coronavirus is wreaking havoc on elections, budgets, and other essential state and local functions/services.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
For up-to-date information and resources regarding coronavirus, including confirmed case counts and clinician guidance, visit http://health.maryland.gov/coronavirus.
Everything Coronavirus – Practices, Policy, and the Public
Mar 13, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news on the novel strain of the coronavirus, known as COVID-19. Calvert County Health Officer, Dr. Larry Polsky, joins the podcast to discuss state and local efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Blueprint On Fast Track: What’s In? What’s Out?
Mar 06, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes on the Kirwan Blueprint legislation - which received its public hearing on February 17, and in the last several days has sprung to life, with House action appearing imminent.
The House’s two committees with joint jurisdiction of the bill – Appropriations and Ways & Means – reviewed a set of “leadership” amendments culled from many submitted by stakeholders, and now appear ready to advance the bill.
What's In?
Among a lengthy list of bill amendments are two items that affect county funding, in both cases seeking to limit the funding obligation left for county governments to absorb through the multi-year phase-in of the plan.
The “Relief” table distributed to House members earlier this week is shown below – encompassing the series of amendments that alter the required county contributions under the bill.
What's Out?
No “County Phase-In” After All
When the Kirwan Commission’s subordinate Funding Formula Workgroup met over the summer and fall, it considered most of the fiscal details embedded in the final legislation.
At their final meeting, where the body rendered its decisions, that Workgroup accepted and approved a motion “that the local share be phased in,” and then (after a five-year timetable had been suggested) decided to “articulate that [the local mandate] should be phased, but let that play out.” The motion was then re-stated as “the ramp-up of the local contribution should be phased…we could leave the phase-in of the local share to be determined.” This motion was approved by the body.
However, the bill is moving forward without a "county phase-in."
In-Budget/Off-Budget School Funding
Another item decided during the October 15 Workgroup decision meeting was to ensure that counties could count dollars toward their required school obligation regardless of the source or means by which they provide them. The essential issue here is that counties are inconsistent with offering certain services within the school budget – school nurses and resource officers are the most often-offered examples, where the county may fund those services through the County Health Department or Sheriff/Police, rather than in the school budget per se.
Until this over-arching funding obligation takes hold, that difference is immaterial – but without including those costs, counties providing such “in-kind” funds would be at a funding disadvantage.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Point of Sale Policies, Pondering Polls, and More!
Feb 28, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Alex Butler discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the "bag ban" bill; a proposal that would require Maryland to establish a bottle deposit program; and interesting tidbits from the latest Goucher College Poll.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Blueprint Ballyhoo, Sizing Up Services, and Tricky Tech
Feb 21, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a recap of the hearing on the Blueprint for Maryland's Future - the bill to implement the recommendations from the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education; a new proposal to fund the Blueprint by "modernizing" Maryland's sales and use tax; and a breakdown of the wave of tech-related bills connected to public safety.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Kirwan Blueprint Bill and Tidbits Around Town
Feb 14, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a breakdown of Kirwan Commission Blueprint bill, with far-reaching recommendations for school funding and outcomes; a bill to apply the sales and use tax to (some) services; a bill to ban most plastic bags, which, as introduced, would preempt several existing or pending county programs and divert revenues from important local environmental purposes; and other tidbits around town.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Blueprint Buildup, Local Focus, and Cranky Cancels
Feb 06, 2020
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the long-awaited introduction of the Kirwan Commission bill, with far-reaching recommendations for school funding and outcomes; MACo’s partnership with LOCAL Maryland to fight against state preemption — including legislation to clarify the process for any future legislative preemption; and "cranky cancels."
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a breakdown of multiple bills aimed at curbing tobacco use/vaping; a rare parliamentary maneuver on the House floor; a look at what's really going on during the first few weeks of session; and commentary on the first video live stream of the House of Delegates.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis. This week, we break down the Built to Learn Act of 2020 -- which would drive an additional $2.2 billion in school construction funding, by leveraging casino “lockbox” revenues for bonds.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including what Governor Hogan's fiscal year 2021 budget proposal means for counties; this week's economic briefing from Moody's Analytics to the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee; and a slew of potential revenue-generating proposals being buzzed-about around town.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Natasha Mehu, and Michael Sanderson preview the 2020 session of the Maryland General Assembly. School funding, school construction, public health, mental health, taxes, revenues, preemption, public safety, and criminal justice issues are all hot topics.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Special Edition: Live from Charm City
Dec 19, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally join Maryland Senator Cory McCray for a live recording in Baltimore City. We talk with leaders of three of Baltimore’s anchor institutions, and discuss their visions for success.
Special guests include Baltimore City Community College (BCCC) President Debra McCurdy, Baltimore City Schools CEO Sonja Santelises, and Baltimore City Police Commissioner Michael Harrison.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Conference Chatter, Tax Talk, Fiscal Fodder, and More!
Dec 12, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a recap of the MACo Winter Conference; an overview of the county income tax -- and why some are calling for local flexibility to create “brackets” like most income tax systems (including the federal and state taxes on Marylanders); a breakdown of Maryland's revenue volatility cap, and an update on state revenue projections for FY 2020 and beyond.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Live at #MACoCon: New Technology, New Policy – The Ever-Shrinking Island of Cable Television
Dec 09, 2019
Technological change continues to advance rapidly - public policy needs to catch up. Your county likely has cable television franchise agreements built for the 1980s, but what is your role in the telecommunications market of the 2020s?
At this year's MACo Winter Conference, special guests joined Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally for a live recording of the Conduit Street podcast. The fast-paced, Q&A-style session focused on opportunities and challenges concerning the county role in the telecommunications market of the 2020s -- including regulation, rights-of-way, taxation, community access, and first amendment issues encountered along the way.
Panelists:
Arthur Scott, Associate Legislative Director, National Association of Counties (NACo)
Joanne Hovis, President, CTC Technology and Energy
Michael Sanderson, Executive Director, MACo
Kevin Kinnally, Associate Director, MACo
The 2019 MACo Winter Conference, “Building for the Future,” was held on December 4-6, 2019, at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, Maryland. This year’s conference focused on county governance challenges and best practices – from the foundation to the rooftop – that will decide Maryland’s future.
Kirwan Funding Proposal, Criminal Justice Issues, and More!
Nov 21, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Natasha Mehu, and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a new proposal from stakeholder groups supporting the Kirwan education plan to support tax reforms to help support its substantial costs -- including a slate of revenue proposals; the significance of a new report that says the proportion of Maryland's African American prison population is more than double the national average; and a look at the latest trends in criminal justice reform.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Kirwan Update, E-Book Embargo, Ridesharing Regs, and More!
Nov 14, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a recap of the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education's latest meeting — which saw a deep reaction to the formula funding workgroup’s proposals to “phase-in” the Commission’s series of recommendations; the latest on a publisher's e-book embargo — and why county libraries are pushing back; and why one major airport is banning curbside passengers pickups by ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft.
Interesting Election Tidbits, Kirwan Chatter, and More!
Nov 07, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including some interesting races and intriguing ballot initiatives from Election Day, as well as a recap of the latest meeting of the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education – including the latest drama surrounding the panel as proponents and opponents of its recommendations ramp up their advocacy efforts.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Senate Shuffle, Health Headlines, Cleaner Climate, and More!
Oct 24, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Natasha Mehu, and Les Knapp discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including longtime Senate President Mike Miller's decision to step down after presiding over the chamber for over thirty years; inmate Medicaid exclusion and healthcare in jails; a new state task force to examine the effects of vaping; the latest on renewable energy policy and climate change issues; and an update on opioid litigation.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Kirwan Formulas and Finishing Touches
Oct 17, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the final meeting of the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education's Formula Funding Workgroup.
With this week’s adoption of the funding plan details for the Blueprint for Maryland program, we break down the eventual county costs – and place them into a context with current law, in addition to current trends. We estimate the new mandated county costs at $1.9 billion in FY 2030 dollars – about $900 million more than the DLS-forecasted costs of the fully phased-in Kirwan plan, in FY 2030 dollars, as presented to the Workgroup.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
First Look at Kirwan Costs, 2020 Census Grants, and More!
Oct 10, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the final allocation of $5 million in state grants to local governments and non-profits to promote the 2020 Census, and a first look at the costs of implementing the recommendations of the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education.
The Kirwan Commission's School Funding Formula Workgroup, nearing its end, distributed and discussed several analyses that illustrate the potential effects of the plan on county finances – but more work and refinement awaits, in time for next week’s decision meeting.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
School Funding Focus, Tricky Tax Issues, and More!
Oct 03, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the emergence of new details from the Kirwan Commission's formula funding workgroup; an update on the multistate appeal of the federal government's $10,000 cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions; a court ruling on the constitutionality of Chicago's "Netflix tax;" and a breakdown of a tax assessment loophole known as the "dark store theory."
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Goucher Poll, Fiscal Check-Up, and What's Up with Kirwan?
Sep 26, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including interesting tidbits from the new Goucher Poll; the significance of the latest revenue projections from the Board of Revenue Estimates; and a breakdown of the puzzling sequence of events that led to a closed-door meeting of the Kirwan Commission's funding formula workgroup.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including MACo's 2020 Legislative Initiatives; a look at actions being taken at the federal, state, and local level to address the youth vaping epidemic; and the latest twist in the complex litigation filed by thousands of state and local governments against manufacturers, distributors, and others accused of fueling the nation's opioid crisis.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Leadership, Labor Day, and Lunchboxes
Sep 12, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including last week's trip to the National Folk Festival in Wicomico County; big changes to House leadership and committee assignments; the latest on the school calendar debate; and a recap of last week's meeting of the Kirwan Commission's funding workgroup.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally are joined by special guests at the National Folk Festival in Wicomico County. The National Folk Festival—one of America’s largest, most prestigious and longest-running celebrations of arts, culture, and heritage—was held for the second consecutive year in the City of Salisbury.
Festival organizers expect the event to draw 120,000 attendees and contribute $45 million to the local economy. Special guests include Wicomico County Executive Bob Culver, Delegate Carl Anderton, Salisbury Mayor Jake Day, and Wicomico County Council Member Josh Hastings.
MACo has made the podcast available through all major platforms by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Oklahoma Opioid Opinion, Bay Bridge Buzz, and Kirwan Catch-Up
Aug 29, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the highly anticipated ruling in Oklahoma’s landmark opioid lawsuit targeting Johnson & Johnson – and what it means for the thousands of state and local governments with similar claims, new details on possible locations for a second Chesapeake Bay crossing, and a recap of last week's meeting of the Kirwan Commission's Funding Formula Workgroup.
Conference Chatter, Snowballing School Debate, and More!
Aug 21, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally recap the 2019 MACo Summer Conference – “Winds of Change," which focused on the changes being seen at every level of government and constituent services and how counties are harnessing that momentum for the good of all Marylanders. By all accounts, this year’s conference was the largest gathering of Maryland government stakeholders the event has sever seen!
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Live at #MACoCon with MDP & the US Census
Aug 18, 2019
The US Census plays an essential role in American democracy. Most fundamentally, it ensures that communities get the right representation in government. Less obviously, it plays a critical role in distributing hundreds of billions of federal dollars for a wide range of public services — including education, health, transportation, housing, community services, and job training.
At the 2019 MACo Summer Conference, Maryland coordinators for the United States Census and Secretary of the Maryland Department of Planning Robert McCord joined Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally for a live recording of the Conduit Street Podcast. The fast-paced, Q&A-style session focused on state and local resources and best practices to promote the most accurate 2020 Census. https://twitter.com/WalterOlsonMd/status/1161729622964412417
Panelists included:
Robert McCord, Secretary, Maryland Department of Planning
Lee Osberry, Partnership Specialist, U.S. Census Bureau
Ashley Roush, Partnership Specialist, U.S. Census Bureau
School Funding, Fiscal Report Card, and Podcast Picks
Aug 01, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis. At the top of the list is school funding—particularly an update on the Kirwan Commission's Funding Formula Workgroup, the thirteen-member panel charged with working through what is perhaps the most challenging portion of The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future — the development of a plan to finance, realign, and apportion the costs of these ambitious, but expensive, goals.
Finally, we highlight some of our favorite podcasts (besides this one, of course).
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally are joined by special guest Virginia White, MACo's Member Services Director, for a behind-the-scenes look at MACo's annual Summer Conference.
Nearly 3,000 individuals from across Maryland will gather in Ocean City, MD on August 14-17 to discuss advancements and changes being seen at all levels of government, from cybersecurity to Phase III WIP to school funding and everything in between. This week’s podcast dives in and takes a look at the content and all the moving pieces that make up the largest – and most anticipated - gathering of Maryland government officials.
It's no secret that the annual crab feast, a highlight of MACo's conference, is a "can't miss" event…but have you ever wondered just how many crabs it takes to satisfy the hundreds of attendees at the all-you-can-eat event? Or how many hotel rooms are booked with #MACoCon attendees? Know what the “flush count” is and why it’s a factor?? Get those answers, along with an in-depth look at the hot topics on the schedule and why it’s so necessary to discuss and prepare for the changes on the horizon for county governments.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally are joined by special guest Les Knapp, MACo's legal and policy counsel, to discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis. This week we focus on two recent preemption decisions with major implications for county governments.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Happy New (Fiscal) Year and What Counts as a Meeting? You Might Be Surprised...
Jul 11, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally are joined by special guest Robin Eilenberg, MACo's research director, to discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis. At the top of the list is the 2019 MACo Budgets-in Brief survey. July marks the start of the fiscal year for Maryland’s county governments, when new budgets go into effect. We discuss the latest county-by-county budget details, including taxes, salaries, and education funding.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Supremes Speak, Fiscal Follow-Up, and More!
Jun 28, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that partisan-gerrymandering challenges to electoral maps are political questions and thus beyond the reach of the federal courts — dismissing challenges by voters in Maryland and North Carolina, an update on the budget impasse between Governor Larry Hogan and the General Assembly, and a recap of MACo's trip to Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Budget Battle, SALT Smackdown, and More!
Jun 20, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the ongoing budget impasse between Governor Larry Hogan and the General Assembly, new guidance from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that squashes attempts by some states to circumvent the federal cap on the deductibility of state and local taxes (SALT), remembering former Maryland House Speaker Roy Clayton Mitchell Jr., and what we're looking forward to in the weeks ahead.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
270 Traffic, 51 States, and 1,500 Lawsuits
Jun 06, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the Board of Public Works' approval of Governor Hogan's controversial plan to use private companies to widen highways in the region... with a catch, how the renewed push for D.C. statehood could have major consequences for the Old Line State, and Natasha Mehu is back to discuss how major developments in the State of Oklahoma could set a precedent for more than 1,500 lawsuits against opioid manufacturers.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a new report from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation criticizing state efforts on bay cleanup – with its sharpest barbs for Pennsylvania, new cost estimates for Baltimore City to recover from a devastating ransomware attack, the growing cybersecurity threat, and a breakdown of the latest article from a special Conduit Street blog series on Maryland's school funding formulas: School Funding, Part 2: Money Changes Everything (The Wealth Formula).
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Signing off, Cleaning up, and Checking on Tech
May 24, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the significance of Governor Larry Hogan's decision to cancel the final bill signing ceremony of 2019, the status of the Clean Energy Jobs Act... an issue being reframed by Governor Hogan's expression of support for expanding the mandate to 100% clean energy by 2040, and explain why new technology (particularly ride-sharing applications and traffic navigation aides) is driving new policy in Maryland and across the United States. MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally sit down with the founder of the Eye on Annapolis and co-host of The Maryland Crabs podcast, John Frenaye. Listen in for the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including state and local politics, budgets, and a look ahead to the 2020 and 2022 elections.
Key Court Cases, City Shuffle, Maryland Shines in South
May 09, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Les Knapp discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including two Maryland court decisions with major implications for local governments, big changes in Baltimore City leadership, and a look at why, when it comes to the state of state and local politics, Maryland has a leg up on our friends down South.
Madame Speaker, Mister Mayor
May 03, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the historic election of Delegate Adrienne Jones as the 107th Speaker of the House, the looming uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the [Kirwan] Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, and big changes in Baltimore City leadership.
Complete Count Conversation
Apr 25, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the latest in the three-way race for Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates. Also this week, tricky policy issues for county human resources offices and a look at the 2020 Decennial Census. An accurate census count, or lack thereof, has a lasting effect on counties, particularly when it comes to the distribution of federal funds. With the 2020 census nearing, the 2020 Maryland Complete Count Committee (CCC) helps the state prepare and mobilize for the 2020 decennial census. The Maryland CCC includes nonprofit leaders, elected officials, state agency heads, and county and municipal government representatives.
After-Session Afterthoughts
Apr 17, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the three-way race for Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, the latest on the potential for a special legislative session in the coming weeks, and a rundown of legislation that could be subject to a gubernatorial veto.
Session-End Summary, Toasting the "Coach"
Apr 12, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the tragic death of Michael E. Busch, the longest-serving House speaker in the history of Maryland and 40-year-veteran of the Parks and Recreation Department in Anne Arundel County, recap a number of issues that came down to the wire as the General Assembly adjourned Sine Die, rundown major issues of the 2019 session, and consider the political posture of the Maryland General Assembly.
MACo has made the podcast available through both iTunes and Google Play Music by searching Conduit Street Podcast. You can also listen on our Conduit Street blog with a recap and link to the podcast.
Pre-K-Through-12, Prescription Drugs, Preakness, and More!
Apr 05, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including an update on "The Education Blueprint for Maryland's Future," new developments on prescription drug affordability, the status of legislation concerning the future of Pimlico Race Course, and a preview of what's to come before the General Assembly adjourns sine die.
"Spring Cleaning" Policy Roundup
Mar 29, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including an update on the budget, a strange twist on the End-of-Life Option Act, vetoes, veto overrides, redistricting, new rules for ticket resellers, and a proposal to change the definition of milk.
Major Issues Mashup
Mar 21, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including the status of the "Fight for Fifteen" minimum wage bill, the Clean Energy Jobs Act, a proposal to abolish the Handgun Permit Review Board, school funding, school construction, and intriguing language in the Senate's version of the 2019 Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act "BRFA."
Dueling Budgets, Solar, Septics, General Issue Updates, and More!
Mar 15, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including dueling budget proposals from the House and Senate, an update on small cell wireless siting, and general news and notes from the Maryland General Assembly.
Also this week, Les Knapp joins the podcast to provide updates on solar siting, septics, the Forest Conservation Act, and the "Green Amendment."
Breaking Down the Kirwan “Blueprint”
Mar 08, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally break down "The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future," legislation to transform the State’s early childhood, primary, and secondary education system into a world-class system based on the recommendations of the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education.
This bill implements the “blueprint” for the goals of the Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, and takes first steps toward funding multiple educational priorities shared across multiple stakeholders including counties. Even with the longer-term efforts of the Commission still unfolding, and the county obligation toward those ends still unclear, county governments support these steps to target new funding, provide new direction and accountability, and set new expectations for Maryland’s educational system.
Committee Crunch Time, Public Safety Pop-Ups, and More!
Mar 01, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including a week of big hearings on Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911), funding for local health departments, school construction, and small cell wireless siting, a proposal to ban the use of public genealogical databases to solve criminal cases, and examine the impact of a recent Supreme Court decision holding that civil asset forfeiture at the state and local level must occur under the same constitutional protections against excessive fines as they do at the federal level.
Weekly Annapolis Roundup, Prickly Projects, Personal Privilege, and Public Polling
Feb 22, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including some very interesting and thoughtful remarks from Senate President Mike Miller regarding Maryland's Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the latest on the future of Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore City, the status of a plan to build a new football stadium in Prince George's County, new developments on the push to legalize adult-use cannabis, and intriguing numbers from the latest Goucher Poll.
Brinkley on Budgets, Amazon's About-Face, Action on Airbnb, and More!
Feb 15, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and notes from Annapolis, including Secretary of Budget and Management David Brinkley's presentation to MACo's Legislative Committee, the latest on a proposal to allow school systems to start school before labor day, new developments on the race for Maryland State Treasurer, big news on Amazon's HQ2, a new proposal to require short-term hosting platforms like Airbnb to collect sales and use taxes, and a preview of the latest Goucher Poll.
Session Shakeup, School-Year Suspense, and More!
Feb 08, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally recap the latest from Annapolis, including a deluge of bills, a new panel to select the next Maryland Treasurer, the latest on a proposal to strip the Maryland Comptroller of regulatory authority over alcohol, tobacco, and petroleum, the national vote interstate compact, and school year suspense.
State of the State, Party Priorities, Jail-Based MAT, and More!
Feb 01, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Natasha Mehu recap Governor Larry Hogan's fifth State of the State address, discuss the legislative priorities for both Maryland Democrats and the Maryland GOP, and explain the push to mandate medication-assisted treatment in Maryland's prisons and jails.
Kirwan Commission Wraps 2018 Work, Fiscal Mother Lode, and the Latest from #MDGA19
Jan 25, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally recap the final meeting (sort of) of the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, discuss local requests for education funding, explore the Department of Legislative Services' 2019 Fiscal Briefing, and round up the latest news from the Maryland General Assembly.
Clues to Hogan's Budget Proposal, Economic Uncertainty Looming, and the Latest from #MDGA19
Jan 18, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest on Governor Hogan's highly anticipated budget proposal, explain why economic uncertainty looms large over Annapolis, examine the potential ramifications of a protracted federal government shutdown, and highlight the latest news and notes from the Maryland General Assembly - including new proposals for sports betting and the "Fight for $15."
2019 Session Preview
Jan 11, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson, Kevin Kinnally, and Natasha Mehu preview the 2019 session of the Maryland General Assembly. Education, healthcare, minimum wage, Tobacco 21, cannabis, sports betting, redistricting, public safety, and criminal justice issues are all hot topics.
Delayed or Derailed? What's Next for Kirwan? #MACoCon and More!
Jan 01, 2019
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the fallout from the decision to further delay a final report from the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, look ahead to what Kirwan recommendations may still be on the table for 2019, preview the (record-breaking) 2019 MACo Winter Conference, and more!
Kirwan's Kryptonite, Stadium Squeeze, WotUS, and More!
Dec 20, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the fallout from the decision to further delay a final report from the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, review Governor Hogan's plan to keep the Washington Redskins in Maryland, and review the latest proposal to revamp Pimlico Race Course.
Also this week, Les Knapp, MACo's Legal and Policy Director, joins the podcast to discuss the latest on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) new proposal regarding the definition of the Waters of the United States (WotUS).
Major School Construction Proposal, Clues to the Kirwan Cost Split, and More!
Dec 13, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss Governor Hogan's new proposal to dedicate nearly all of the revenues resulting from the education "lockbox" constitutional amendment to school construction, examine the latest clues from the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education on what a county funding component might look like in a post-Kirwan landscape, review MACo's Half-Day Annapolis Immersion Training, and recognize the Department of Legislative Services for their recent award from Governing Magazine.
#NG911 Report, Kirwan Testimony, Ranked-Choice Voting, #MACoCon, and County Awards
Dec 05, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally dig into the final recommendations from the Commission to Advance Next Generation 9-1-1 Across Maryland, discuss testimony from last week's meeting of [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, and examine ranked-choice voting systems.
Also this week, Virginia White, MACo's Member Services Director, joins the podcast to preview the 2019 MACo Winter Conference, including the Newly Elected Officials Orientation and the MACo County Champion Awards.
Spending Affordability, Volatile Revenues, & a Touch of Kirwan
Nov 28, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally examine Maryland's short-term and long-term fiscal outlook. In the short-term, legislators are mulling an FY 2020 budget that includes a $168 million cash balance and a $2 million structural balance. But will the good times last? Plus, a recent article by Len Lazarick from the Maryland Reporter details the possible fiscal impact of the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education's recommendation to increase teacher pay by 10% and reduce actual classroom teaching time from 80% of the current school day to 60%. We'll discuss.
Election Tidbits, Congressional District Dilemma, and Amazon Is Coming! ... Sort of
Nov 15, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss some of the "too close to call" election races in Frederick County, review the fate of some of the more intriguing ballot questions from across the country, explain the significance of a federal court's ruling that Maryland's 6th Congressional is unconstitutionally gerrymandered and must be redrawn in time for the 2020 election, and ponder what Amazon's decision to co-locate its HQ2 headquarters in Arlington, Virginia and New York City might mean for Maryland.
Special Edition: General Election Roundup
Nov 07, 2018
On this special edition of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Natasha Mehu breakdown state and local results from the 2018 primary election.
Kirwan Wrap Up, Early Voting Numbers, Election Preview, and High-Stakes Ballot Questions
Nov 02, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss significant developments from this week's meeting of the the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, preview Maryland's general election, explain the significance (or lack thereof) of the spike in early voting numbers, and examine some of the more intriguing ballot questions from across the country.
School Funding Update, #NG911 Commission Convenes, 21st Century Libraries, and more!
Oct 25, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news from the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, recap this week's meeting of the Commission to Advance Next Generation 9-1-1 Across Maryland, and examine some of the ways libraries are reinventing themselves as content becomes more accessible online and their role becomes less about housing tomes and more about connecting learners and expanding knowledge.
Complete Streets, Small Cell Update, Maryland Health Connection, & Prescription for Change
Oct 19, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally is joined by MACo's Legislative Director Natasha Mehu to discuss Complete Streets, update listeners on the recent action taken by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding small cell wireless siting, explain why Maryland reaps the benefits of a state-based health exchange, and discuss MACo's advocacy for re-prioritizing public health in the face of the opioid epidemic by reviving local health department funding and targeting drug treatment funding to address demand where it is needed most.
Split the Check for School Construction? Not So Fast...
Oct 11, 2018
Kevin Kinnally is joined by MACo's Research Director, Robin Eilenberg, to discuss school construction in Maryland. For many years the State-county partnership on school construction has been strong, with the Department of Legislative Services reporting that from fiscal 2006 through 2013, the State provided $2.4 billion in new funds for school construction while Counties provided $2.1 billion for school construction.
Increases in school construction costs in recent years, however, threaten to strain that relationship and offset the balance of the shared commitment to building and renovating facilities for Maryland’s K-12 students. Eligible cost definitions and state environmental and labor mandates are at the heart of the division.
New Laws Take Effect, Internet Regs Spark Latest Clash Over States' Rights, & More!
Oct 04, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss a handful of new Maryland laws, which took effect this week, explain why California's new net neutrality law sparked the latest debate over states' rights, and examine the impact of congressional action (or inaction) on state laws.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest revenue projections from the Board of Revenue Estimates, discuss the importance of the 2020 Census and how it affects local governments, and answer questions from our listener mailbag.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news and happenings around Maryland.Listen in to hear updates on the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, the Commission to Advance Next Generation 9-1-1 Across Maryland, interesting tidbits from the most recent Goucher Poll, mutual aid in the wake of natural disasters, and the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC)proposed order intended to streamline and reduce industry’s costs for the deployment of small cells in local right of ways at the expense of local authority.
Pondering Potential "Pay-Fors"
Sep 13, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss ways in which Maryland could increase state revenues. The budget deficit, coupled with new and expensive funding proposals, could lead to a plethora of revenue-generating policy proposals, also known as "pay-fors" -- literally, paying for something that the government wants to buy.
Keeping up with Kirwan
Sep 06, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news from the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education, including new recommendations on how to best provide more resources for at-risk students, and explain why the Commission may refrain from issuing recommendations on some of the most critical components of education funding in Maryland.
Digging Deeper on "Elevating Teaching," Candidate Shuffle, & More!
Aug 31, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally discuss the latest news from the Kirwan Commission, including new recommendations on pre-K, teacher pay, and college and career readiness, and explain the process for replacing a candidate for public office in the event they decline their party's nomination, which is exactly what happened this week in Prince George's County.
Smart Growth, Bay 'Pollution Diet,' & #MACoCon Recap
Aug 23, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally are joined by MACo’s Legal and Policy Counsel, Les Knapp, to discuss the future of Smart Growth in Maryland, the health of the Chesapeake Bay, and recap #MACoCon. Listen in to hear an update on "A Better Maryland," the ongoing implementation of the Chesapeake Bay’s "pollution diet," and the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) requirements established by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and overseen by the Maryland Department of the Environment.
Live at #MACoCon with Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger
Aug 20, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally are joined by Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger for a live recording at MACo's Summer Conference in Ocean City, Maryland. Listen in to hear about how Congressman Ruppersberger's experience in local government affect his decision-making on Capitol Hill, the importance of municipal bonds, an update on election security, and more!
Maryland's Opioid Crisis: Where Do We Go from Here?
Aug 09, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally are joined by MACo's Legislative Director, Natasha Mehu, to discuss Maryland's opioid crisis. Listen in to learn how the heroin and opioid epidemic was born, innovative state and local efforts to battle heroin and opioid misuse and abuse, and the resources necessary to stem the crisis in Maryland.
Introducing the DLS Podcast
Aug 08, 2018
The Conduit Street Podcast is pleased to announce that our friends at the Maryland Department of Legislative Services (DLS) have launched a podcast. In this week's premiere episode, Matthew Bennett and Patrick Frank discuss bond sales in Maryland.
A link to the podcast can be found on the DLS website.
The Conduit Street Podcast will be back later this week with an episode on Maryland's opioid crisis.
What's up with the Bay? SALT Suit, & Recruiting Top-Tier Teachers
Aug 02, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss how and why recent storms have sent sediment and debris pouring into the Chesapeake Bay, examine the multistate lawsuit against the federal government in response to the $10,000 limit on the federal deduction for state and local taxes (SALT), and break down the Kirwan Commission's High-Quality Teachers and Leaders workgroup.
New tech Driving New Policy - Part Two
Jul 27, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss how new technology is driving new policy in Maryland. In part two of this two-part series, we focus on small cell wireless technology, solar energy siting, body-worn cameras, and Next Generation 9-1-1.Click here to listen to part one of this series, where we discuss ridesharing, peer-to-peer property rentals, drones, GPS and navigation software, and autonomous vehicles.
On the Road with MACo, "Staggering" Price of Pre-K, & Primary Election Roundup
Jul 19, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss MACo's odyssey across Maryland, update the "too close to call" county primary races, and explore the potential implications of the Kirwan Commission's staggering cost estimates for expanding high-quality, full-day pre-K in Maryland.
New Tech Driving New Policy - Part One
Jul 10, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss how new technology is driving new policy in Maryland. In part one of this two-part series, we focus on new and evolving technology that is external to government - ridesharing, peer-to-peer property rentals, drones, GPS and navigation software, and autonomous vehicles.Stay tuned for part two of our discussion, which will focus on how new policies could impact new technologies and their effect on land use, zoning, public safety, and privacy/transparency.
Beating the Heat, Janus v. AFSCME, & Primary Races We're Still Watching
Jul 03, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss how counties are helping their residents beat the heat, explore the potential impacts of the Supreme Court's landmark ruling in Janus v. ASFCME, and review some of the county primary races that remain too close to call.
Special Edition: 2018 Primary Election
Jun 27, 2018
On this special edition of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson breakdown state and local results from the 2018 primary election. Read our Conduit Street blog for full coverage of the 2018 Maryland primary election.
SCOTUS Sounds Off, Early Voting Boom, Riveting Races, & More!
Jun 21, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss early voting numbers for the 2018 primary election, explore the role of county governments in state and local elections, examine the impacts of three major Supreme Court decisions, review MACo's Legislative Initiatives process, and look ahead to the 2018 MACo Summer Conference.*Note: We'll be back next week with a special edition of the Conduit Street Podcast to breakdown the results of the primary election.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson break down the primary ballot battle between gubernatorial Candidate Valerie Ervin and the State Board of Elections, provide insight on the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence In Education, discuss the latest twist in the Wynne saga, and preview the 2018 MACo Summer Conference.
Procurement, Property Taxes, & Public Works
May 10, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Barbara Zektick discuss the importance of procurement in county government, review a number of property tax bills from the 2018 General Assembly Session, and explain the relationship between local departments of public works and the United States Federal Highway Administration.
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson highlight some of the best resources for information on the General Assembly, provide insight on the [Kirwan] Commission on Innovation and Excellence In Education (which reconvened this week), discuss Maryland's fiscal picture, and preview some hot-button issues for the 2018 interim.
Sine Die Send-Off & Session Recap
Apr 11, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss a number of issues that came down to the wire as the General Assembly adjourned Sine Die. Kinnally and Sanderson also provide listeners with a recap of the 2018 legislative session.
Sine Die Is Quickly Approaching... What's Locked Up? What's Still Lingering?
Apr 06, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss a number of issues that have been resolved by the General Assembly as well as a number of issues that still require attention.
School Construction Kerfuffle, Forest Bill In Limbo, Fending Off Hackers, & More!
Mar 30, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss a controversial measure to change Maryland's school construction funding process, provide an update on the latest iteration of the Forest Conservation Act, examine the impact of cybersecurity on local governments, and recap the final Legislative Committee meeting of 2018
Post-Crossover Roundup, School Construction, School Safety, & More!
Mar 23, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson provide listeners with a roundup of MACo's 2018 Legislative Initiatives, as well as a host of other bills MACo has weighed in on this year, discuss the latest on school construction, and examine the debate on school safety
"Crossover" Coming, Fiscal Follow Up, Body Cameras Back-And-Forth, and More!
Mar 15, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss the looming "crossover" deadline, review the latest on the State's fiscal plan, break down MACo's Legislative Initiative to modernize the Maryland Public Information Act, and look ahead as the dust begins to settle on the 2018 session.
Small Cells, Big Concerns. Fiscal Plan Coming Together, State Song Dilemma, & the Road Ahead
Mar 09, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson pay tribute to the late Senator Wayne Norman, who passed away suddenly last week, discuss the latest on the State's fiscal plan, break down this week's budget decisions, review the latest push for small cell deregulation, examine the state song dilemma, and preview the road ahead.
Local Roads Funding "Deal," BRFA Hearings, Unpacking the Big School Construction Bill, & School Safety
Mar 02, 2018
On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss a potential "deal" on local roads funding, explain MACo's position on the Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act (BRFA), break down the Knott Commission school construction legislation, and examine a new proposal for funding to enhance school safety across Maryland.
Conduit Street Podcast: Call If You Can, Text If You Must. Sunshine Laws, Attorney's Fees, #LIFT4MD, & Beer Wars
Feb 23, 2018
Maryland’s Public Information Act creates a balanced framework for guaranteeing public access to open information, while protecting sensitive and private material. The rapid ascension of new technologies has strained the implementation and effect of these laws – potentially chilling their otherwise beneficial use. SB 788/HB 1638, Public Information Act - Revisions, clarifies and reframes the Maryland Public Information Act to better accommodate citizen electronic engagement, personal surveillance footage from first responders and other county officials, and the release of sensitive personal information.MACo this week testified in opposition to HB 1270/SB 1042. In theory, the bill seeks to ensure there is adequate legal representation for low-income individuals asserting a constitutional claim in State courts. In practice, the bill would trigger a rush of litigation and costs for the State and local governments and create a profoundly unbalanced system that favors plaintiffs over defendants.Governor Larry Hogan this week announced the Board of Public Works’ approval of a new Text to 9-1-1 technology for Maryland, helping to update 1960s-era emergency systems with life-saving technology. This new Internet-based infrastructure allows citizens to send a Short Message Service (SMS) text message to 9-1-1. The Federal Communications Commission estimates that more than 70 percent of all 9-1-1 calls now come from cellular users.Text to 9-1-1 is a component of Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911), an initiative aimed at updating the 9-1-1 service infrastructure to improve public emergency communications services in a wireless mobile society. NG911 will improve and enhance the handling of 9-1-1 calls from cell phone users with technology that will increase response times, location accuracy, and allow text, photo, and video data to be shared by callers to First Responders on their way to the emergency.A perennial MACo initiative, counties have called for the return of their fair share of transportation-sourced revenues to fund their roadwork for years. This year, MACo’s initiative calls for a Local Infrastructure Fast Track – a #LIFT4MD – to bring local governments back their historic 30 percent share of transportation revenues from the State’s Transportation Trust Fund. It also calls for an assessment of the state of local infrastructure in Maryland, and for the State to share any additional federal infrastructure funds with counties and municipalities.After discussing the topic with a myriad of stakeholders, MACo decided instead to introduce a consensus bill, with terms appealing to not only counties, but municipalities and the Administration. Therefore, House Bill 1569, as introduced, restores highway user revenues to counties and Baltimore City in eight years, and municipalities in two years.The hearings on MACo’s Local Infrastructure Fast Track for Maryland Act are scheduled for Wednesday, March 7 at 1 pm in the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee and Friday, March 9 at 1pm in the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee and Friday, March 9 at 1 pm in the House Environment and the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee and Friday, March 9 at 1 pm in the House Environment and Transportation and Appropriation Committees.Maryland lawmakers are considering a bill by Comptroller Peter Franchot that would repeal some of the state’s regulations on craft beer breweries. In November 2017, Franchot proposed the Reform on Tap Act of 2018, a bill to relieve regulatory burdens on craft beer production and sales.The Comptroller's bill would remove the state’s limits on how much beer breweries are allowed to sell on-site. It would also allow breweries to sell directly to retailers instead of requiring them to make franchising agreements with distribution companies. Currently, Maryland craft breweries are allowed to sell up to 3,000 barrels of beer, or about 500,000 pints, directly to consumers each year.
County Collaboration on Tax Reform, Lockbox Redux, Employer Mandates, and Bad Docs
Feb 16, 2018
The MACo Legislative Committee formally adopted a statement this week to express its views on broad-based tax reform proposals pending before the General Assembly, designed to react (in various ways) to the recently enacted federal tax reforms. Absent state action, some Maryland taxpayers would see an increase in their state and county tax liability — the potential means to offset these changes sit before the legislature in multiple variations of changes to deductions, exemptions, rates, and brackets — each with distinct distributional effects.Governor Larry Hogan this week announced a “lockbox” proposal to ensure that taxes on casino revenues set aside for education are used to supplement, not supplant state funding for public schools. Last month, legislature leadership announced a plan to place a constitutional amendment on the November ballot. The ballot question would ask voters to approve of putting a “lockbox” on casino money (around $500M per year), requiring it to be used for education above the amount set by state formulas. The Governor’s proposal would not require a referendum, it would be done through statute.The House Economic Matters Committee voted down SB 304, Maryland Healthy Working Families Act – Enforcement – Delayed Implementation, which would have delayed implementation of the Maryland Healthy Working Families Act until July 1. The vote was 12-11. The focus now turns to a new wave of employer mandate proposals.A proposal to strengthen Maryland’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program is likely to spur a debate over who should have access to the database and under what circumstances. As heroin and opioid deaths continue to skyrocket in Maryland, County Health Officers could play a vital role in sharing vital information and best practices with identified prescribers, and increase awareness and improve intervention efforts in cases of patients who may be doctor shopping.On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson break down MACo’s position on broad-based tax reform proposals, discuss the competing education “lockbox” initiatives, examine employer mandate proposals, preview the looming debate on Maryland’s PDMP, and more!
9-1-1 Takes Center Stage, Huge Drop of Bills Introduced, Sick Leave Law Looms, and Senate Changes Afoot
Feb 09, 2018
Both county and municipal governments, still feeling the permanent effects of devastating cutbacks to state roadway funding, have made restoring Highway User Revenues a perennial legislative priority. HB 1569, introduced today, represents a compromise between counties and municipalities, whereby all local governments would have their local share of Highway User Revenues fully restored.A law requiring employers to provide employees with sick leave will go into effect on Sunday, despite a veto last year from Governor Larry Hogan and a last-ditch effort by the state Senate to delay its implementation. The law requires employers with 15 or more full-time employees to provide workers with at least five days of sick and safe leave per year.The Commission to Advance Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911) (SB 285/HB 634), one of MACo's 2018 Legislative Priorities, had a hearing in the Senate Finance Committee this week. Counties from across the state sent public safety professionals to stress the importance of advancing NG911 in Maryland.The General Assembly is on pace to introduce more than 4,000 bills in 2018. With "crossover" just five weeks away, legislators are scrambling to meet the deadline.Senator Ed Kasemeyer, Chairman of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee, announced he does not intend to seek re-election to another term. His decision would leave yet another member of the powerful fiscal panel uncertain for the next four-year term.On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson break down the compromise on Highway User Revenues, discuss the paid sick leave law, recap the NG911 hearing, preview big changes on the horizon for the Maryland Senate, and more!
#FixtheFund, Opioid Litigation, Wave of HUR Bills, Local Aid Intrigue, and more!
Feb 02, 2018
Maryland lawmakers on Tuesday unveiled a plan to amend the state constitution to ensure that taxes on casino revenues set aside for education are used to supplement, not supplant state funding for public schools.Also this week, Baltimore City became the latest jurisdiction to announce plans to file lawsuits against opioid manufacturers, doctors, and so-called “pill mills,” in an effort to stem the drug abuse epidemic that is killing tens of thousands of Americans each year.Could a compromise be in the works for the restoration of local highway user revenues? A new wave of bills may be pointing in that direction.Finally, the Department of Legislative Services (DLS) has released their annual report detailing state aid to local governments and local effects of the state budget. The report includes details on virtually every component of state aid to local governments in the proposed FY 19 budget.On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson break down the plan place casino revenues in an education “lockbox,” analyze the possible outcomes of opioid litigation, discuss the wave of highway user revenue bills, highlight some interesting tidbits from the DLS report, and more!
New Tax Analysis, Paid Leave Dilemma, Fiscal Outlook, and More!
Jan 25, 2018
The Comptroller’s Office on Thursday held a briefing on its analysis of the impact of federal legislation on Maryland revenues. Meanwhile, Governor Larry Hogan unveiled his plans to protect Marylanders from state & local tax increases resulting from the recent federal tax overhaul.On Monday, the Department of Legislative Services (DLS) delivered its annual fiscal briefing to the General Assembly budget committees. Occurring right on the heels of the federal government shutdown, the tone was markedly different from the Governor’s budget proposal announcement.Also this week, Senate Finance Chairman and chief sponsor of a new law requiring most employers to provide workers with sick leave, Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton introduced a bill to delay enforcement of the new law. While most legislators would seemingly support the legislation, its passage is far from certain.On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson break down the Comptroller's report, analyze the latest news on paid leave, examine the fiscal plan for the year ahead, highlight hot-button budget issues, and more!
Tax Relief Proposals, Governor's Budget... and More!
Jan 20, 2018
House Speaker Michael E. Busch and Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. on Tuesday announced a package of bills designed to ease Maryland taxpayers’ increased tax burden resulting from the federal government’s tax reform package. The legislative package includes a proposed expansion of personal exemptions at the state level and a decoupling of the estate tax from the federal system.The Governor’s proposed budget of $44 billion represents a 2 percent increase over the fiscal 2018 budget – and according to him, “responsibly holds the line on spending without raising taxes, cutting services, or raiding special funds.”Most importantly to counties, the budget shifts nearly all costs of the State Department of Assessment and Taxation onto county governments – raiding county coffers, rather than “special funds.” It makes counties responsible for 90 percent of all costs associated with assessment functions, information technology services and the Office of the Director.On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Natasha Mehu discuss the latest tax relief proposal from the General Assembly, break down Governor Hogan's proposed budget, and more!
The General Assembly Is in Session!
Jan 12, 2018
The Maryland General Assembly is now in session. The 438th session convened in Annapolis on Wednesday. Notwithstanding the pageantry, ceremony, pomp, and circumstance, lawmakers got off to a fast start. On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson recap the week in Annapolis and discuss some of the key issues likely to be addressed between now and Sine Die.
Session 101
Jan 04, 2018
With the 2018 Session right around the corner, it's the perfect time to review the legislative process, define some popular legislative lingo, and highlight dates of interest. On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson present a timely refresher on what to expect when the General Assembly convenes next week.
Small Cell Broadband/Election Issues
Dec 18, 2017
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss small cell broadband and election issues.The future of wireless will evolve from large, macro-cell towers to include thousands of densely-deployed small cells, operating at lower power. Small cell wireless facilities are deployed by mobile operators to extend network coverage and/or increase network capacity. State and local governments across the country have expressed concerns over legislation that would pre-empt local government regulations when it comes to siting antennas and other infrastructure in public rights of way such as power poles, street lamps, and traffic signals.Nine states and the District of Columbia have already approved automatic voter registration, and 32 states have introduced automatic registration proposals this year.Same Day Registration (SDR) allows eligible voters to register to vote and cast their ballots on the same day. Depending on the state, this one-stop process for registering and voting may be offered on Election Day, during the early voting period, or both. Fifteen states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Wyoming) and the District of Columbia have now enacted the reform.
Solar, Solar... Everywhere?
Dec 01, 2017
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Les Knapp discuss the relationship between local governments and Maryland's Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard.
The Power of Partnership
Nov 17, 2017
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss MACo's upcoming Winter Conference. MACo’s Winter Conference will focus on intergovernmental cooperation and ways that counties can partner with entities in the public and private sector to achieve the best results for Maryland’s residents. Sessions will highlight collaboration across county lines and service areas to address priorities like the opioid epidemic, Next Gen 9-1-1, and the environment, along with other important topics like mutual aid agreements and cooperative purchasing. 500+ local government decision-makers will meet to discuss partnership opportunities in the public and private sectors. Don't miss it! The 2017 MACo Winter Conference will be held December 6-8. 2017 at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay hotel in Cambridge, Maryland.
We're Back! Updates On School Funding, Federal Tax Reform, & Maryland's State Fiscal Picture
Nov 09, 2017
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss new developments in education funding, federal tax reform, and Maryland's fiscal picture.
Education Funding In Maryland
Oct 13, 2017
In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss education funding in Maryland.
How Would Federal Tax Reform Affect Maryland?
Oct 05, 2017
Federal tax reform is a hot topic in Washington, and two potential changes could wreak havoc on county finances. Congress is considering eliminating both the deductibility of state and local taxes (SALT) and the tax exemption for municipal bonds to pay for other priorities.On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss how the latest tax reform proposal would affect Maryland.
MACo's 2018 Legislative Initiatives
Sep 28, 2017
In the premiere episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson discuss MACo's 2018 Legislative Initiatives.
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