LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) and leaders from across St. Mary's County Government will be attending the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Summer Conference in Ocean City, MD, from August 12-15, 2026.
The 2026 theme, "Build What's Next," reflects MACo's focus on helping Maryland's counties prepare for long-term growth while meeting the evolving needs of their communities. This year's conference will examine emerging challenges and opportunities facing local governments, with sessions exploring modern infrastructure investment, state-local collaboration, the growing influence of technology and artificial intelligence in public services, and innovative approaches to expanding housing options, enhancing public infrastructure and energy delivery, funding education priorities, and ensuring communities have access to essential resources and services.
The four-day event is expected to draw over 3,000 county and state government representatives, alongside commercial companies from across Maryland—making it the state's largest gathering of local government officials. Participants can expect a dynamic and enriching experience, with countless opportunities to network and build valuable connections across Maryland's government and business communities. With more than 50 educational sessions, forums, and briefings, attendees will explore innovative solutions to the challenges facing counties today and tomorrow. The expansive tradeshow and Tech Expo will showcase cost-saving products, services, and technologies, while numerous networking events will foster invaluable connections within Maryland's governmental and business communities.
"The MACo Conference provides an invaluable opportunity for county leaders to collaborate, exchange ideas, and explore innovative solutions that help us better serve the residents of St. Mary's County," said Commissioner President Randy Guy, who also serves on MACo's Board of Directors and Legislative Committee.
St. Mary's County Government is proud to have Raymond Bivens, Director of Recreation and Parks, presenting at the 2026 conference. Bivens will serve as a panelist for the session, "The Funding of Fun: Parks, Partnerships, and Public Value." The discussion will highlight how counties are expanding parks, recreation, and community amenities through creative partnerships while responsibly managing long-term financial and operational needs. Bivens will share St. Mary's County's successful public-private partnership initiatives, including the new YMCA facility and Early Learning Center, the Makers Space, Maryland International Raceway, and other collaborative projects that have enhanced recreational opportunities and community value.
Note to Members of the Press: You are invited to attend the conference as complimentary guests and may register through MACo's website: https://www.mdcounties.org/SC26Registration.
Please note the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County will not meet on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room (1st floor, Chesapeake Building, 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown). Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or on-demand via www.YouTube.com/@StMarysCoGov.
For more information on SMCG, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates.
