DHCD to lead discussions on improving local economies and communities
DHCD provided LGIF bond proceeds of $1.4 million for the City of Frostburg to install dome covers for their water plant to protect and safeguard the public water supply from airborne contaminates.
NEW CARROLLTON, MD – DHCD Secretary Kenneth C. Holt and senior department officials will lead three sessions at the MACo Summer Conference on strategies to improve local communities and change Maryland’s economy for the better. TheMACo Conference will take place on Aug. 12-15, 2015 at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland. This year’s theme is – “Energize. Mobilize. Capitalize.”
With mortgage and small business lending capabilities, public infrastructure financing, and grant and loan programs to improve communities, DHCD plays a unique role in building a stronger, healthier Maryland economy.
As part of the Hogan administration’s commitment to improving the economic climate, DHCD has an arsenal of tools to encourage job creation, grow small businesses and increase homeownership in Maryland.
Unlocking your county’s potential
Charles Day Jr., program manager for the infrastructure bond program, and Michael Haloskey, director for business lending, will be among the panelists discussing “Build It and They Will Come: Infrastructure Tools to Attract Private Investment.” From improved water treatment to infill development, to streetscape improvements and new construction, Day and Haloskey will discuss how to leverage the Local Government Infrastructure Financing program and Neighborhood BusinessWorks program to grow existing businesses and attract new investors.
Special guests will also highlight DHCD-funded projects that are making a positive economic impact within their local communities. The special session will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 12, from 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. in Room 205.
Secretary Holt will join DBED Secretary Mike Gill and business leaders for a general session on “Maryland’s Next Frontier in Economic Development.” Secretary Holt will speak about expanding resources for DHCD’s small business lending programs and LGIF to empower communities and grow homeownership opportunities for Maryland families.
The general session will take place on Friday, Aug. 14, from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at the Bayfront Ballroom.
Also speaking at the conference will be Carol Gilbert, assistant secretary for neighborhood revitalization, for a special panel called “Increase Revitalization Investment in Your County.” Gilbert will discuss how DHCD and its agency partners are streamlining the Sustainable Communities designation process so that counties can help older communities and business districts have access to investment.
The special session will take place on Friday, Aug. 14, 12:30 p.m. – 1 p.m. in Room 210.
DHCD representatives will also be available in Booth #120 from Aug. 12-14, to speak with attendees about financial programs available for local officials and business owners who seek to build stronger neighborhoods and businesses in Maryland.
For more information on MACo, visit www.mdcounties.org/MACoCon.
By Samantha Lozano