The Governor's FY26 budget has arrived, bringing with it a $3 billion gap, $2 billion in proposed cuts, and a host of decisions that directly affect Maryland’s counties. In this episode, Kevin Kinnally and Michael Sanderson dive into the big-picture fiscal plan, unpacking its implications for local governments. From income tax changes and pension cost shifts to funding reductions and the elimination of key programs like Enterprise Zones, this week’s Conduit Street Podcast delivers an insider’s perspective on what the budget means for counties—and what challenges lie ahead.

Tune in for expert analysis, upcoming legislative priorities, and the fiscal nuances shaping Maryland's policy landscape.

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What’s ahead for Maryland in the 2025 legislative session? In this special episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, we’re bringing you a recording of a must-hear panel from the 2024 MACo Winter Conference. Legislative leaders and the Administration share their insights on Maryland’s fiscal outlook, upcoming policy changes, and key issues to watch as the session approaches.

Moderated by 2025 MACo President and Queen Anne’s County Commissioner Jack Wilson, the panel features:

• The Honorable David Moon (Maryland House of Delegates)
• The Honorable Stephen Hershey (Maryland State Senate)
• The Honorable Jesse Pippy (Maryland House of Delegates)
• The Honorable Craig Zucker (Maryland State Senate)
• Eric Luedtke (Chief Legislative Officer, Office of the Governor)

Tune in for their expert analysis and perspectives on what’s next for Maryland’s counties and communities in the legislative year ahead!

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In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, MACo Associate Policy Director Sarah Sample delves into the critical and evolving work of Maryland's aging services community. She is joined by two seasoned leaders: Secretary Carmel Roques of the Maryland Department of Aging and Heang Tan, who is transitioning from Director of Baltimore City's Area Agency on Aging to Baltimore County's Director of Aging. Together, they explore how state and local governments, including the Maryland Department of Aging and Area Agencies on Aging in all 23 counties and Baltimore City, are collaborating to address the needs of Maryland's aging population.

From innovative programs to direct services and advocacy efforts, the discussion covers the strategies and partnerships ensuring Marylanders can thrive at every stage of life. Tune in and learn about the who, what, when, where, and how of services for aging populations in Maryland and their families.

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In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, we bring you an engaging conversation with Dr. Carey Wright, Maryland State Superintendent of Schools, recorded live at the 2024 MACo Winter Conference. Dr. Wright joined MACo Executive Director Michael Sanderson for a “fireside” chat to discuss education reform, the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, and her vision for the State Department of Education heading into the 2025 legislative session.

Hear how Dr. Wright draws on her experience closing achievement gaps in Mississippi and empowering her team to tackle challenges with focus and perseverance. Learn about her plans to drive meaningful change in Maryland’s education system and ensure the success of the Blueprint. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on the future of education in Maryland!

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Maryland faces a growing fiscal crisis, with projections of a nearly $6 billion structural deficit by 2030. This week on the Conduit Street Podcast, our hosts are back to their old tricks, digging into the latest (bad) news about the State's fiscal situation and looking at the road ahead. Where did this shortfall come from - is it the quirky economy, shaky forecasts, or unplanned expenses? (Think: two truths and a lie) And while they lay out the numbers facing the State both in the short term and down the road, they look at the tools that are on the table for decision-makers in the months ahead. Plus, where and how could all this become a county government problem? Listen to the big budgetary breakdown this week!

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As Maryland faces rising energy demand, ambitious climate goals, and shifting federal mandates, what does the future of energy look like? On this week’s episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally, Michael Sanderson, and Dominic Butchko explore Maryland’s evolving energy landscape, focusing on critical challenges like transmission infrastructure, local authority over large energy projects, and the role of renewables and nuclear energy in meeting statewide targets. Tune in to hear about the tensions between state priorities and local concerns, and get a preview of the energy-focused sessions at the upcoming MACo Winter Conference!

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On the latest episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Shantelle Malcolm-Lym joins Kevin Kinnally to break down the Electoral College and its impact on American democracy. They explore how this centuries-old system came to be, why it continues to spark debate, and what potential reforms could mean for future elections. Plus, a dive into the balance between state sovereignty and national interests and the mystery surrounding the framers’ secretive deliberations.

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In this special two-part Ask Me Anything series of the Conduit Street Podcast, our host, Shantelle Malcolm-Lym, dives into part two of listener-submitted questions.
Tune in as Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally tackle a new set of questions that showcase MACo's unique legislative approach of pragmatism and creativity. This candid discussion is one you won't want to miss as it shines a light on the challenges and the unique local quirks that make Maryland governance one of a kind.

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In this special two-part Ask Me Anything series of the Conduit Street Podcast, our host, Shantelle Malcolm-Lym, dives into listener-submitted questions that cover everything from under-the-radar Maryland policies to personal takes on Maryland-themed Monopoly. Listen in as Michael Sanderson and Kevin Kinnally tackle thought-provoking questions about MACo’s role in local governance, the rising influence of technology and AI, challenges in the 2025 legislative session, and dream guests for the podcast.

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In this episode of the Conduit Street Podcast, Kevin Kinnally and Karrington Anderson, in her podcast debut, dive into the world of inclusive playgrounds and the vital role they play in fostering diversity, connection, and community.

Jill Moore, an expert in inclusive play spaces, shares how thoughtful design and collaboration with teams like Sparks@Play can create environments where all children—regardless of ability—can thrive, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging.

From understanding community needs to engaging local resources, they explore how counties can stay ahead of the curve in accessibility. Tune in to hear inspiring success stories, practical tips, and how inclusivity benefits everyone.

More About Our Guest and Inclusive Play
Celebrating Diversity: Jill Moore Of Landscape Structures On How To Build Inclusive Communities

How Building More Inclusive Playgrounds Means More Playtime For Every Child

Next-Level Playground Design

Fair Play: How playgrounds are becoming more inclusive for kids with vision and hearing disabilities

Inclusive playgrounds let everyone in on the fun

Connect with Sparks@Play

Join hosts Kevin Kinnally and Shantelle Malcolm-Lym on this special episode of the Conduit Street Podcast as they sit down with Roger Hartley, Dean of the College of Public Affairs at the University of Baltimore, and Dr. Ann Cotten, Executive Director of the Schaefer Center for Public Policy.

Discover how these institutions are preparing Maryland's future public service leaders, fostering partnerships, and supporting government innovation through key programs like the Maryland Certified Public Manager Program. Don't miss this insightful conversation about leadership, career pipelines, and the role of research in shaping Maryland’s public policy.

Important Links:
Schaefer Center for Public Policy
College of Public Affairs | University of Baltimore (ubalt.edu)