During the Harford County Council's FY26 Budget Public Hearing on April 24, 2025, a significant focus was placed on the security of the county's water facilities, particularly in light of potential cyber and chemical threats. Council members expressed concerns about the vulnerability of the water supply to sabotage, emphasizing the importance of robust security measures.

One council member highlighted the critical nature of protecting the water supply from cyber attacks, noting that the county has invested considerable resources into enhancing cybersecurity efforts. The Chief of Operations was praised for his leadership in implementing effective cybersecurity protocols, making Harford County a model for the region.

The discussion revealed that the county's SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system is designed to be nearly impervious to external attacks, with significant investments made to ensure that the system is isolated from outside threats. This includes creating a "hard break" between the operating systems and any external connections, which is intended to prevent unauthorized access.

The emphasis on water security reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding essential services in Harford County. As the council continues to deliberate on the budget, the focus on protecting critical infrastructure underscores the community's need for safety and reliability in public services.

In addition to water security, other budgetary discussions touched on various community needs, but the priority given to cybersecurity for essential services resonated strongly with residents concerned about public safety. The council's ongoing efforts to address these issues will be crucial as they work towards ensuring a secure and resilient infrastructure for the future.