MCCMA Spring Conference 2025: A Gathering of Local Government Leaders
Rocky Gap Casino and Golf Resort, Flintstone, MD
The Maryland City/County Management Association (MCCMA) hosted its Annual Spring Conference from April 23-25, 2025, at the scenic Rocky Gap Resort. This year's conference brought together local government professional staff and experts to discuss pressing issues, share insights, and foster collaboration.
The conference kicked off on Wednesday, April 23, with an afternoon golf outing, followed by a social event at the resort restaurant giving attendees the opportunity to network and unwind before diving into the conference's main events.
Thursday, April 24, began with a breakfast buffet, setting the stage for a day filled with informative sessions and discussions. City of Cumberland Mayor Ray Morriss and MCCMA President Bill Gardiner welcomed attendees, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration in local government.
Julia Novak, ICMA CEO address MCCMA Spring Conference Attendees
The keynote address, Values, Principles, and Pillars, was delivered by Julia D. Novak, CEO and Executive Director of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). Novak's speech highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing local governments today, inspiring attendees with her vision for the future.
Following the keynote, the City of Cumberland's Baltimore Street Renovation Playbook was presented by Melinda Kelleher, Executive Director of the Downtown Development Commission, and Robert Smith, Director of Engineering and Utilities. Their session provided valuable insights into urban development and infrastructure improvements.
Bill Gardiner (MCCMA President) and Julia Novak (ICMA CEO)
Lunch, sponsored by Benecon, offered a chance for attendees to refuel and learn more about LGIT Health, a cooperative self-insurance program. The afternoon featured a Cyber Security Panel Discussion, with experts Van L. (Chip) Watkins, Travis Edwards, and Jason Schaum sharing their knowledge on protecting local government systems from cyber threats.
Julia Novak returned for a Q&A session, engaging with attendees and addressing their questions on various topics. The day concluded with a wrap-up session and a departure tour of Baltimore Street and Downtown Cumberland.
Friday, April 25, started with a continental breakfast, followed by a Legislative Session Update from Senator Mike McKay and other distinguished speakers. The final session, "How to Navigate and Sustain as a Manager in a Small Local Government," was led by Fred Bean, offering practical advice and strategies for local government managers.
The conference wrapped up with an ICMA Update and MCCMA Business Meeting. Dennis Enslinger, ICMA Northeast Regional Vice President and Jerry Giaimis, ICMA Northeast Regional Director, discussed the ICMA ethics tenets the membership will review and possible re-alignment of the ICMA regions. The MCCMA meeting discussed proposed changes to the by-laws and MCCMA’s relationship with MML and possibly the Maryland Association of Counties.
Throughout the conference, attendees had the opportunity to connect with peers, learn from experts, and explore new ideas to enhance their communities. The MCCMA Spring Conference 2025 was a resounding success, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation among Maryland's local government leaders.