After examining the issue of HIV/AIDS in Anne Arundel County, a suburb of Baltimore, county officials have formed what is believed to be the state’s first suburban HIV/AIDS commission, The Baltimore Sun reports.

“HIV and AIDS is still a serious matter that we’re going to continue to address,” said Anne Arundel County Executive John Leopold. In 2006 there were 56 new cases of HIV and 40 new cases of AIDS reported in the county. That same year, about 1,000 residents of the county reported living with HIV or AIDS, according the Maryland AIDS Administration. Maryland accounts for 2,100 new infections a year.

Anne Arundel County Councilman Daryl Jones said the commission’s goals are to explore funding for testing and outreach, diminish stigma and educate county residents. Jones also said the commission will put together an annual report to keep council members abreast of HIV-related issues.