The County Executives of America (CEA) recently convened at the University of Maryland for a robust leadership summit, blending strategic policy discussions with high-level networking. The event commenced with a welcome dinner, where Executive Director Phil Armstrong set the stage for a weekend of collaboration. The following morning focused heavily on the fiscal health of our communities, featuring a deep dive into public sector healthcare. This panel tackled the rising costs of benefits and provided actionable strategies for communication and savings, while legal experts provided critical updates on the current landscape of municipal litigation.
The afternoon session moved toward the future of governance with a focus on “Artificial Intelligence: It’s Here, Are You Ready?” Moderated by Phil and featuring University of Maryland’s Distinguished Professor Charles Harry, the panel explored the ethical pitfalls and immense time-saving potential of AI solutions specifically designed for county governments. Once the working sessions were complete, the delegation shifted from the classroom to a formal reception at the Irish Embassy in Washington, D.C. This exclusive event offered a unique opportunity for international diplomacy and peer networking, followed by a closing dinner at the Capital Grille, capping off a summit dedicated to innovation and the continued strength of the CEA membership.