In This Issue:

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• MML Legislative Committee Adopts Recommendations

• Municipal Services Survey Reminder: Due September 31

• Are Railways a Concern for your Municipality?

• Sustainable Maryland Leadership Training

• The 2040 MTP Draft Plan is Now Available for Public Review

• NLC Leadership Applications – Now Being Accepted

• Bells to be Tolled to Honor WWl Veterans

• Classifieds

MML Legislative Committee Adopts Recommendations for 2019 Legislative Priorities

At a meeting on September 13, the MML Legislative Committee debated and ultimately approved recommendations of one legislative priority and three strategic initiatives for 2019. Following a successful 2018 legislative session that included the accomplishment of all three priorities, 2019 brings new challenges that include building relationships with new legislators following the November elections.

The one legislative priority recommended by the legislative committee is a repeat from last year: preserving local authority in the siting and aesthetics of small cellular tower infrastructure. As a 2018 priority, a statewide bill that would have preempted local governments on this issue was defeated. However, the issue will almost certainly return during the next legislative session as the wireless industry is already in discussions with MML and other stakeholders about a 2019 bill.

The MML Legislative Committee also recommended three strategic initiatives: Opposition to preemption of local government authority in any area; exploration of new revenue streams for municipalities while protecting municipal Highway User Revenue monies to be allocated in the FY 2020 budget, and examining the possible modification of the five-year rule included in Maryland’s annexation statute. Unlike legislative priorities which generally are introduced by a member of the General Assembly in the form of a bill, strategic initiatives can be addressed through other avenues.

For more information contact the MML staff (410) 268-5514: Candace Donoho CandaceD@mdmunicipal.org; Bill Jorch billj@mdmunicipal.org, or Justin Fiore justinf@mdmunicipal.org.

Fall Conference Session Highlight:
Orientation for Municipal Officials (OMO)

Officials who have never been to MML’s Fall Conference or are new to municipal office, should make their first conference activity the Orientation for Municipal Officials (OMO), Thursday, October 11 at 9 a.m.

OMOs are a tutorial on the League’s services and resources.  Attendees will hear from veteran officials that have been engaged with the League for many years, how their municipality has benefited from MML membership and get tips on how to maximize their League engagement.

The OMO is a free session open to all officials. Fall Conference registration is not required to attend.

Are Railways a Concern for your Municipality?

The League was recently contacted by Delegate Jimmy Tarlau (D-47) to inquire about the level of concern local municipal officials have for railways operating in or around their jurisdiction, to include safety, traffic, noise, and any other issue they are experiencing. Delegate Tarlau is willing to facilitate a discussion on the subject if there is interest from municipal and county officials.
 
If you have an interest in attending a yet-to-be-scheduled statewide forum of municipal officials on the topic of railroads operating in your jurisdictions, please contact MML Government Relations Manager Justin Fiore at justinf@mdmunicipal.org or (410) 295-9100.

The 2040 MTP Draft Plan is Now Available for Public Review

The Maryland Transportation Plan (MTP) is updated every five years through extensive consultation and coordination with state, regional and local government stakeholders and outreach to Maryland’s citizens. The perspective of transportation users has been critical in shaping the development of the Draft 2040 MTP: Connecting You to Life’s Opportunities. You can now view a copy of the Draft Plan at the Maryland Transportation Plan website.

The Draft 2040 MTP includes highlights of Maryland’s transportation trends, key challenges and opportunities and high-level transportation needs and revenues over the next twenty years. There will be a two-month public comment period which will end on November 15, 2018. Comments and questions should be emailed to 2019MTP@mdot.state.md.us. Public feedback will be used to inform the Final Plan, which is anticipated to be adopted in January 2019.

NLC Leadership Applications – Now Being Accepted

The online applications for the National League of Cities (NLC) Board of Directors and Officers are now available on NLC’s website, and at the MyNLC Member Portal. Please refer to the candidate information package for eligibility requirements, job description, and how to apply! The application can be found in your member portal under the Leadership Application tab. If you have any further questions, please contact Carla Smith at (202) 626-3179 or smith@nlc.org. Applications are due no later than Monday, October 8, 2018. This is the application period for NLC Board positions. Applications for all NLC Committees and Councils will be accepted later in the Fall.

Legislative Status Link
Classified Section Link
MML Calendar

Maryland Municipal League       1212 West Street       Annapolis, MD 21401

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