87 days and counting. Prepare yourself for #MMLCon26 by marking these key dates on your calendars

The American Rescue Plan Act's (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) program was a historic investment in communities. It provided direct funding to cities, towns and villages to help communities weather and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. On its 5-year anniversary, the National League of Cities (NLC) has published a report looking back on the wide-ranging impact SLFRF has had on communities and how federal funding dollars can be administered in the future to prioritize both efficiency and federal oversight. The resource page for the report can be found here and a direct link to the report can be found here.

For more information please contact Bill Jorch, [email protected]

Banner City/Town Contenders –  Your Journey to the May 11 Deadline

MML's Banner City/Town Program bestows formal recognition each year to cities and towns that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to MML programs and activities.  The program serves as a guidepost on how to make the most of your MML membership.

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

We are hosting our last Event Registration Office Hour on March 20 from 11 a.m. to noon. You can jump onto the call during that time if you need assistance or have questions as you are registering for the Summer Conference.

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?

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!

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].

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

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.