Maryland Code, Local Government § 1-704

(1) assure delivery of adequate, economical, and efficient water and sewerage services;

(2) avoid duplication of water and sewerage facilities;

(3) control disease and provide for the public health and safety;

(4) prevent environmental degradation;

(5) protect natural resources;

(6) use the public right-of-way efficiently; and

(7) promote the general welfare by providing adequate water and sewerage systems.

(b)(1) Notwithstanding any anticompetitive effect, a county or municipality may:

(2) If another law grants a county or municipality the authority to operate water and sewerage systems, the county or municipality shall operate the systems without regard to any anticompetitive effect.