U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen of Maryland speak on MACo Conference
The Maryland Association of Counties
MARYLAND – The Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Summer Conference was August 13th through August 17th at the Rowland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City. This year’s theme was “Turning the Tide”, aimed at innovative solutions for various problems.
U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen of Maryland both agree that the MACo Conference highlights the State’s accomplishments and is an opportunity to support the local community. There were many opportunities to “Turn the Tide” and get involved with local government interests. The U.S. Senators obtained a Congressional earmark of over $1 million to foster a Veterinary Program at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES).
Senator Cardin says this is a huge success. “The MACo Conference is always a great opportunity for elected officials, local officials to get together and talk… They know they have challenges, but they know they’re working together to solve those problems… It’s so needed in this community, we need more vet schools, it’s going to help the economy of the Eastern Shore workforce, it’s going to help particularly in diversity among veterinarians. It’s a real win for this community.”
Senator Van Hollen also highlighted the importance of the program. “There’s a big shortage of Vets around the country, and here on the Eastern Shore, people need them, not only for their pets, but also for fam animals, for livestock… By having it at one of our 4 HBCU’s, we’re also going to be able to significantly diversify the workforce in Veterinary services.”
Senator Van Hollen said they’re also joining with the Army Corp of Engineers to provide $900,000 in federal funding allotted to preserve Assateague Island, which is eroding away due to climate change. “You don’t have to be on Assateague to appreciate it because what it also does is protect the shoreline, it’s barrier island… and if it disappears those coastal communities will be more vulnerable.”
Senator Van Hollen end by saying he always enjoys these types of conferences because it is a way to connect the public and private sectors. He says that all the organizations make this possible, but he made sure to shed light on one in particular. “I always enjoy meeting with the Army and Air National Guard folk from Maryland, I always make a point of stopping at that booth just to thank them for their service to the State and the Country.”
While Senator Cardin isn’t running for re-election, he was glad to attend as “Maryland’s Senior Senator” one last time. “It’s just been an honor to represent the people of Maryland and the state legislature, and in the congress, and Senator for now over 57 years, so it’s been an honor of my life.”
The Conference officially ended Saturday, August 17th with an address from Governor Wes Moore. Officials say the Winter Conference will be held in Cambridge Maryland December 11th through the 13th .
