NOVEMBER 6, 2020 | 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM (Live)

Economic Recovery in the Time of COVID
Hosted by MD-DE-DC Beverage Association

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NOVEMBER 13, 2020 | 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Live)

Building Resilience for Tomorrow 
Hosted by Cigna

Resilience, commonly defined as "the ability to quickly recover from challenges," has been a key theme of 2020 and will be vital moving forward. A recent study by Cigna shows that resilience is at risk in three of five Americans and the consequences of low resilience can have lasting effects on people, businesses, and communities. However, there are simple ways that local leaders can help build resilience. Learn what the data has shown and hear advice for building resilience for tomorrow. 

Speaker: Sandra Shaklan, LCSW-C, Behavioral Clinical Account Manager

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NOVEMBER 19, 2020 | 12:30 PM – 1:15 PM (Prerecorded)

A Total Approach to Health and Wellness - Accessing Medicare Advantage in Your County 
Hosted by Aetna

Health care is more important than ever. For your county government, retiree health care costs account for a large percentage of any county’s budget. For your employees, offerings toward their security and services after their work years is an essential benefit within your compensation plan. Bringing it all together, outside the confines of basic Medicare Plan A and B, requires a smart blend of offerings. Learn how Medicare Advantage – customized coverage with private sector partners -  can offer a total, connected approach to retiree health, and excellent advantages both to the retirees of your county and your county budget.

Speaker: Marcus Duckworth, Vice President of Client Management, Public Sector

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NOVEMBER 20, 2020 | 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (Live)

Make The Call: Greatest Hits From Your HR Hotline
Hosted by LGIT

Counties who belong to the Local Government Insurance Trust for coverage enjoy a special service – an employment law “hotline.” It’s not only free good legal advice, but LGIT backs it up by halving your deductible if you consult before the tricky HR actions. In this session, veteran MACo presenter Kevin Karpinski, partner of the firm handling the hotline calls, will review hot topics in public sector personnel matters, and will field your questions as we enter yet another “new normal” setting.

Speaker: Kevin Karpinski, Karpinski, Colaresi & Karp

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NOVEMBER 23, 2020 | 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM (Prerecorded)

Developing a Data & Analytics Strategy
Hosted by Moser Consulting

After scores of engagements and clients, spanning multiple technical solutions, Moser has redefined its approach to helping its clients design and implement a data and analytics strategy. In the session, we will define our four foundations of a data and analytics strategy. The strategy and each foundation will cover the Why, How and What questions to help guide businesses toward building data and analytics in a mature and functional method.

Speaker: Shaun McAdams, Managing Director, Big Data

NOVEMBER 24, 2020 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM (Prerecorded)

Connecting Communities During COVID-19 and Beyond 
Hosted by Comcast

COVID-19 highlighted the need for internet access across the nation and close to home. Remote work, virtual learning, telehealth, and online visits with family and friends very suddenly became the only ways to move forward. Learn about Comcast’s initiatives to connect communities through their innovative Internet Essentials and Internet Essentials Partnership Program; and the steps they have taken during the COVID-19 public health emergency to keep customers connected, employees safe, and partners engaged. Find out how you can access these resources to help vulnerable residents in your county stay connected during and after the pandemic. 

Speaker: Kevin Broadhurst, Vice-President of Government & Regulatory Affairs

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DECEMBER 2, 2020 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Prerecorded)

An Epidemic within the Pandemic: Supporting Community Mental Health in the Age of Coronavirus
Hosted by Kaiser Permanente

Even before the coronavirus swept the globe, America was reckoning with a mental health crisis. Now, stress, uncertainty, fear, and anxiety about COVID-19 — along with other societal traumas of 2020 — pose new threats to mental health. As more focus is placed on mental health, communities are embracing new opportunities to support the mental health and emotional well-being for their population. Join this session to explore:

• How relationships have fundamentally changed, and how employers are working to build trust with employees by helping them through this challenging time.
• Challenges for remote, hybrid, and in-person workforces, including working parents and homeschooling, being a caregiver, productivity, and burnout.
• The evolving conversation around mental health and the workplace in the age of COVID-19.

Speaker: Julie Isaacs, Interim Regional Director, Behavioral Health, Kaiser Permanente

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DECEMBER 3, 2020 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Live)

Beyond the 911 Call 
Hosted by Motorola Solutions

When a citizen calls 911 for help, what happens to the request that results in the emergency responders arriving at the scene? Explore a behind-the-scenes look at what is possible in the critical workflow of a 911 call in a cloud-enabled, seamlessly integrated ecosystem from case initiation to case closure. See and experience Incident Awareness, Incident Management and Post-Incident Resolution involving data, voice, and video in the industry's first and only mission-critical ecosystem built for Public Safety and Enterprise. Presenters will demonstrate live and recorded workflows from Motorola's world class Innovation Center.

Speakers: 

• Christopher Geater, Global Customer Experience Strategy Manager, Motorola Solutions
  
• Michael McDonald, Senior Industry Specialist, Motorola Solutions
  

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DECEMBER 4, 2020 | 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM (Prerecorded)

How Is Your County Handling the GASB Fiduciary Reporting Statement? 
Hosted by Zelenkofske Axelrod LLC

This session will provide a brief overview of Governmental Accounting Board Statement No. 84, which establishes criteria for identifying and reporting fiduciary activities for all state and local governments. This standard could have considerable impact on your governmental unit - activities that were previously fiduciary may no longer fit that definition, while others that were never on your financial statement before, now could be. Zelenkofske Axelrod LLC, experts in public sector accounting, auditing, and consulting, will review best practices and what you need to know to implement the standard.

Speaker: Michael Samson, CPA, Partner, Zelenkofske Axelrod LLC

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DECEMBER 9, 2020 | 12:30 PM – 1:15 PM (Prerecorded)

Value What’s Between the Lines: The Benefits of Water and Wastewater Upgrades   
Hosted by NORESCO

Water supply and wastewater treatment systems are among the most energy-intensive local government facilities. Facility leaders are challenged with reducing energy and water consumption, while maintaining high quality operations and complying with standards, codes, and regulations. However, for county governments, water and wastewater can be a hidden resource. Explore the potential flowing between the lines and learn how counties can realize efficiencies in water and wastewater operations with experts from NORESCO.

Speaker: Cherise Seals, Senior Account Manager, NORESCO

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DECEMBER 10, 2020 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Live)

Full Circle Retirement Planning with Social Security 360 
Hosted by Nationwide Retirement Solutions

The financial impact of COVID-19 has many employees reevaluating their retirement investments. Social Security can help form the foundation of a retirement income plan - replacing about 40% of an average wage earner's income - but studies show that fewer than 10% of employees understand what factors determine their amount of Social Security benefit. Join this presentation for an overview of Nationwide's Social Security 360®program, an end-to-end solution that combines education on Social Security, a suite of participant engagement materials, a comprehensive tool for guiding well-informed filing decisions, and broad support for answering commonly asked questions and developing income plans. The presenters will also cover unique filing options that affect government employees, such as the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset. 

Speaker: Roberta Eckert, Vice President of Nationwide Retirement Institute

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DECEMBER 11, 2020 | 12:30 - 1:30 PM (Live)

Defining the Digital Workspace in a Post-COVID World 
Hosted by World Wide Technology (WWT)

The onset of COVID made technologies that were previously thought of as nice to have now being seen as critical business enablers. Enterprise collaboration platforms, and virtual workspaces and meeting spaces were suddenly of utmost importance. Streamlined communications with customers and constituents also became more important than ever. And, of course, cybersecurity could not be overlooked in a rush to provide these enhanced or often new digital services. Combined, these factors caused shifts in digital strategy to accommodate for immediate needs as a part of a larger strategy, so as to not waste money on short-lived solutions. In this session we will discuss how the necessitated shift in IT strategy and lessons learned during COVID will continue to shape the digital workspace in a post COVID world.

Speaker: John Evans, Chief Technology Advisor, WWT

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DECEMBER 14, 2020 | 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM (Live)

_{What’s In It For Me? The True ROI of a Bulletproof Benefit Program}
Hosted by American Fidelity

In this session, you’ll learn from an industry expert who has worked with hundreds of employers across the country to help them evaluate costing solutions, as well as increase their overall benefit program’s value from the employee’s perspective. Gain insight about what common practices are shared by employers who have excelled in benefits administration and employee engagement. Take a deep dive into methodologies, practices, and communication that could help you recruit and retain top employees.

Speaker: Dave Dunlap, Markets Manager, Eastern Region, American Fidelity Assurance Company

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DECEMBER 16, 2020 | 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM (Prerecorded)

LGIT Health: Savings, Transparency & Control 
Hosted by LGIT Health

Health benefit costs keep rising. LGIT Health can put you in control! When you want the savings and control of a health insurance program, turn to the Local Government Insurance Trust (LGIT Health). Since 2010, LGIT Health has specialized in helping employers save premium dollars while providing outstanding benefit coverage to their employees. 

Speakers:

• Dave Wuenschel, Senior Sales Director, Benecon/LGIT Health
• James Hechler, FSA, MAAA, VP Actuarial Services, Benecon/LGIT Health

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DECEMBER 17, 2020 | 12:30 PM - 1:15 PM (Prerecorded)

The Future of Transportation is Approaching at 311 MPH!
Hosted by Northeast Maglev

Now more than ever, investment in infrastructure projects is the key to economic recovery in the state and in the region. Northeast Maglev’s development of a superconducting maglev (SCMAGLEV) system, starting with 15-minute service from Washington, DC to Baltimore with an intermediate stop at BWI Marshall Airport, is a project poised to employ thousands, boost productivity, and strengthen Maryland’s economy. The proven technology will also provide a more efficient and environmentally sound transportation option, moving millions of cars off the road each year. Get an update from Northeast Maglev on a project that will undoubtedly transform how Marylanders live, work, and travel.

Speaker: Craig George, Marketing Manager, Northeast Maglev

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Academy Core Courses:
These courses count toward Core Credit for registered Fellows of the Academy for Excellence in Local Governance certificate program.

DECEMBER 16, 2020 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM (Live)

Public Information Act

What kind of information should be released to the public upon request? Many difficulties can be avoided by knowing the answer. This class helps officials and staff at all levels understand the requirements of state law governing requests for public records and suggests best practices for handling those requests. The class includes discussions using real-life scenarios to further illustrate appropriate responses to requests from the public or the press.

Speakers: 

• Lisa Kershner, Public Access Ombudsman, MD Office of the Attorney General
  
• Judge David Carey, Harford County District Court
  

DECEMBER 17, 2020 | 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (Live)

Conducting Effective Meetings

Conducting public business requires managing the issues that come before a public body. Building an agenda, promoting useful discussion, and providing a structure for decision-making are key goals for an effective meeting and for effective public officials. The instructor also covers the proper use of organized rules of order---known as parliamentary procedure---which allow all voices to be heard but with debate that remains focused and civil.

Speaker: Jay Gullo, Attorney - Gullo Law Firm

Additional sessions to be announced as more details become available

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Questions about registration or payment? 
Contact Allison Valliant

County Officials and Employees, and MD General Assembly Members:
Your registration is free, but required, so please register ASAP

MACo Corporate Partners: 
Please contact Leslie Velasco to activate your complimentary registration

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE MEETINGS

Usually, MACo’s members spend time at their Winter Conference discussing priorities and strategies for the upcoming legislative session. This year, we’ll be having those discussions virtually in a series of informational meetings. These meetings are only open to MACo Members, with a number of virtual “seats” set aside for MACo Corporate Partners. No other individuals may attend. 

Attendance is free, but registration is required. Contact Allison Valliant with any registration questions. 

December 2, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:00 am (Recording Available!)
LEGISLATIVE OVERVIEW

Join MACo's expert policy professionals for an overview of MACo's 2021 Legislative Initiatives, what the legislative session will look like this year, and things you need to know as we move into this unprecedented time of virtual advocacy and public policy-making.

December 4, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:30 am (Recording Available!)

LAND USE ISSUES UPDATE

MACo's Land Use Subcommittee Chair, Frederick County Council President MC Keegan-Ayer, and Policy Associate Alex Butler will lead a discussion on environment and land use issues expected to come up in the 2021 Session. Guest speakers will include Scott Cassel, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the Product Stewardship Institute (PSI), who will discuss extended producer responsibility and Chris Hoagland, Climate Change Program Manager at the Maryland Department of the Environment, who will discuss new recommendations from the Maryland Commission on Climate Change.

December 9, 2020, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
BUDGET & FINANCE ISSUES UPDATE

MACo's Tax Subcommittee Chair, Talbot County Council Member Laura Price, and Associate Director Kevin Kinnally will lead a discussion on state and local budget/taxation issues relevant to the 2021 Session. Guest speakers will include Andy Schaufele, Director of the Bureau of Revenue estimates, who will discuss the state/local fiscal picture and economic outlook, and Mark Ritacco, Legislative Director at the National Association of Counties (NACo), who will provide an update on federal COVID-19 stimulus negotiations.

December 11, 2020, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
EDUCATION ISSUES UPDATE (Part 1)

MACo's Education Subcommittee Chair, Montgomery County Council Member Craig Rice, and Policy Associate Drew Jabin will give an overview of expected education policy avenues in 2021. Public schools and the intersection of virtual learning and COVID-19 will be a top concern, along with the future of the Kirwan bill. Speakers will also cover the ever-increasing importance of staying local for higher education and the critical role of community colleges in our economic recovery. 

EDUCATION ISSUES UPDATE (Part 2) beginning at 11:05 am

Join MACo’s Education Subcommittee for a technical briefing on the Blueprint for Maryland's Future — also known as the Kirwan Commission bill. Marc Tucker from the National Center on Education and the Economy, a nonprofit fueling much of the work of Maryland’s Kirwan Commission, will brief membership on the research, general philosophies, and rationale behind the Kirwan Commission’s recommendations. Rachel Hise, principal policy analyst at the Department of Legislative Services and lead professional staffer to the Kirwan Commission, will be available to discuss what a veto override of the Kirwan bill would mean for counties in the short and long term, and to answer questions related to education funding formulas.