Last week, MML staff testified in opposition to HB 831, legislation that would allow all local government employees to participate in a union and collectively bargain. Currently, local governments may allow certain groups of employees (ex. law enforcement, public works) to unionize and collectively bargain but it is at the employer's discretion. The employer can also set the parameters around the negotiations including what types of compensation and benefits are eligible to be negotiated and how an impasse in discussions is resolved. This bill would turn the current arrangement on its head. MML noted the direct fiscal costs associated with increased negotiated compensation and the administrative burden of detailed negotiations and managing potentially multiple contracts as reasons for opposition to the bill.

The Senate cross-file, SB 922 has its public bill hearing on March 12. For more information please contact Bill Jorch, [email protected].

As we celebrate 90 years of the League, now is your moment to step forward as a leader. Serving in a leadership capacity is your chance to make a real difference, lift up our municipal community, and leave a lasting impact. Your voice and public service matter - help shape the next chapter of the League’s story and make this milestone year one to remember.

Ever wondered what it takes to serve on the MML Board of Directors? Join our Lunch and Learn member webinar, The Path to President, as our leadership share their personal experiences and what it means to help lead Maryland’s municipalities. Get inspired. Get informed. Get involved.

New to registering for a MML Conference? Need a refresher on how to register someone on their behalf?

 

Is your city or town anticipating a sizable turnover in elected officials this spring? Would they benefit from engaging in a facilitated team-building dialogue, discussion of roles and responsibilities, as well as a goal-setting exercise to get everyone on the same page?  The Maryland Municipal League has helped more than a dozen member municipalities get their newly elected officials’ terms off to a productive and collaborative start. Standard retreats are five hours long with a facilitation fee of $2,500 for members with populations of 10,000 or less and $4,000 for those with more than 10,000 residents. For more information, contact MML Director of Leadership Development and retreat facilitator Tom Reynolds at [email protected].

Every summer, something special happens in Ocean City.

The League's Speakers Bureau links leadership teams with experienced professionals in municipal operations, nonprofit management, leadership development, and strategic planning. Our speakers share practical, real-world insights designed to strengthen organizational capacity, enhance operations, and encourage innovative thinking.

Interested in having MML leadership speak at your event? Fill out the form on the Speaker Bureau's webpage to let us know!

New to registering for a MML Conference? Need a refresher on how to register someone on their behalf?

 

Showcase Your Downtown:

Host the 2027 Main Street Maryland Conference

MML’s Summer Conference is a vibrant celebration of municipal government and its profound impact on the lives of over 2 million Marylanders. Highlighting the contributions of municipalities and the 44,000 dedicated local government professionals who serve them, MMLCon26 promises to inspire and unite.

Immediately following the closing general session, attendees can experience the highly anticipated MML Main Street event. This exclusive showcase offers member municipalities and MML affiliates a premier platform to spotlight their initiatives, innovations, or community pride. With only 12 spots available, don’t miss the chance to shine and share your story with peers and leaders from across the state.

Looking to secure the final core class credits you need to complete your Academy for Excellence in Local Governance certification? The 2026 MML Summer Conference will offer five core classes to help you reach that milestone:

• Ethics, Sunday, June 14, 1:15 - 3:00 p.m.
• Municipal Budgeting, Monday, June 15, 10:15 - 12:00 p.m.
• Structure of Municipal Government, Monday, June 15, 1:15 - 3:00 p.m.
• Basics of Risk Management, Tuesday, June 16, 10:15 - 12:00 p.m.
• Conducting Effective Meetings, Wednesday, June 17, 10:15 - 12:00 p.m.

Check out MML's website to see the latest summer conference preliminary schedule. For more information on the Academy for Excellence in Local Governance, contact MML Director of Leadership Development and Membership Experience Tom Reynolds at [email protected].

First Call for the Hall – Are You a MML Hall of Famer?

The Maryland Municipal League’s Hall of Fame honors current or former municipal officials (living or deceased) that have served 20 years or more as a municipal elected official. Submissions are now open for those eligible elected officials to join the 286 municipal Hall of Famers.

MMLCon26 registration launches in less than a week. You don't want to miss out on the exciting things we have in store for our 90th Anniversary celebration.

Last week, MML staff testified on the third bill in Governor Moore's 2026 housing package, the Maryland Transit and Housing Opportunities Act. As presented, this bill would automatically designate transit-oriented development (TOD) areas served by frequent rail service as Enterprise Zones, and delay the collection of development impact fees and excise taxes until after construction is complete. It also restricts the authority of local jurisdictions to impose minimum parking requirements, and mandates allowance for mixed-use development within specified distances of qualifying rail stations. 

The Maryland Municipal League's position is Favorable with Amendments. We are seeking amendments to address the automatic Enterprise Zone designation, and the impact fee/excise tax payment delay. Conversations with the Administration and General Assembly Committees are ongoing. Contact Angelica Bailey Thupari ([email protected]) with questions.