Information for New Officials

Things to Keep In Mind

Congratulations on being a newly elected official. MML is both your membership league and primary resource for information on municipal government and operations. The role of a public official is one of the few that comes without explicit instructions or a detailed job description. So, before you roll up your sleeves and get to work, review some of the information below to help you get started.

If you have any questions, please contact us at (410) 295-9100. We are here for you!

  • Review your municipal charter. The charter is the basic legal document that enables the municipal government to exist and act. It informs the elected official, in general, about the authority they possess or do not possess.
  • If your municipality does not provide one, establish an email (ex: councilmansmith@gmail.com) used exclusively for conducting municipal business (i.e., communicating with constituents, other municipal officials, and MML).
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions of veteran elected officials, the administrator/manager, clerk, municipal attorney, and MML’s research staff.
  • Become active in the Maryland Municipal League, your membership league.
    • Attend your local chapter meeting to meet other officials from your region and stay current on what’s happening both in your district and throughout the state.
    • Consider joining the Academy for Excellence in Local Governance, a voluntary certificate training program in partnership with the University of Maryland designed to help public officials meet the challenges of their roles.
    • Plan to attend the annual summer convention and fall conference – MML’s premier training events.
    • Utilize Ask MML. Our library, research files, and information systems help staff respond to requests for information and assistance in a timely manner.
    • Attend an Orientation for Municipal Officials (OMO) to find out the benefits of MML membership.
    • Consider volunteering for an MML committee.

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Quick Guides for Maryland Municipal Officials