Better Communication, Stronger Environmental Health at #MACoCon
The conversations surrounding environmental health are rarely simple, but clear communication can help everyone reach a better outcome. Whether responding to a restaurant inspection, investigating a septic. . .
The conversations surrounding environmental health are rarely simple, but clear communication can help everyone reach a better outcome. Whether responding to a restaurant inspection, investigating a septic system complaint, or helping a business understand permitting requirements, environmental health professionals regularly serve as the public face of local government. Strong communication skills can help turn potentially contentious encounters into productive conversations that build understanding, encourage voluntary compliance, and reinforce public confidence. Description:Environmental health professionals are often on the front lines of complex and sometimes sensitive interactions with residents, businesses, and community partners. From inspections and enforcement to education and outreach, how local governments communicate can shape public trust, compliance, and overall community health outcomes. This session will explore practical strategies to strengthen customer service in environmental health, with a focus on clear, consistent communication. Panelists will share experiences navigating difficult conversations, explaining technical requirements in accessible terms, and balancing regulatory responsibilities with a service-oriented approach. Attendees will gain insights into improving responsiveness, managing public expectations, and building stronger relationships with the communities they serve, while maintaining the integrity of environmental health standards. Speakers:Bob Mitchell, Director, Department of Environmental Programs, Worcester CountyDon Curtain, Director of Environmental Health, Anne Arundel CountyLes Knapp, Deputy Director of the Water and Science Administration, Maryland Department of the EnvironmentLori Graf, Chief Executive Officer, Maryland Building Industry AssociationModerator:The Honorable Kris Fair, Maryland House of DelegatesDate/Time:Thursday, August 13, 2026; 2:00 pm – 3:00 pmMACo’s Summer Conference,“Build What’s Next,”takes place August 12–15, 2026, at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland. For more information, visit theconference website. Learn more aboutMACo’s Summer Conference:Attendee Registration PricingAttendee Online RegistrationSponsorship OpportunitiesExhibitor Details & PricingALMOST SOLD OUT!Tech Expo Exhibiting DetailsSOLD OUT!Golf Tournament DetailsDiscounted Hotel Room Rates2025 Conference PhotosConduit Street Blog Coverage#MACoCon on TwitterQuestions?Contact Virginia WhiteRead more articles