Spy-Avalon Survey: Growth, the Environment, Development Costs and Seniors Top County Issues

Spy-Avalon Survey Finds Growth, Environment and Development Costs at Top of Voter Concerns

Nearly 400 people participated in the Spy-Avalon Talbot County Election Issues Survey, providing a useful picture of the issues residents want County Council candidates to address at the October 6 town hall at the Avalon Theatre.

The survey asked 14 questions covering growth, housing, schools, taxes, public safety, the environment, economic development, and county government. Between 392 and 401 people answered each question, and 169 respondents also offered additional issues they believed had been missed.

The survey was voluntary and was not a scientific random sample of Talbot County voters. Its purpose was more practical: to identify concerns among participants and use them to help shape the questions put to County Council candidates. The October 6 program begins at 6 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

One of the clearest themes was concern about growth. Roughly two-thirds of respondents said they were very or extremely concerned that development could change Talbot County’s rural and small-town character.

Environmental protection generated an even stronger response. The large majority expressed high concern about the county’s role in protecting water quality, farmland, open space and environmentally sensitive areas.

Another major issue was who pays for growth. About three-quarters of respondents fell into the two highest concern categories when asked whether developers are paying a fair share of the cost of roads, schools, public safety, water, sewer and other services required by development.

Housing also ranked prominently, particularly the availability of housing that working families, seniors and local employees can afford.

02 housing affordability — One important subject not directly addressed in the original survey was Talbot County’s aging population. Census Bureau data show that 32 percent of county residents are 65 or older. For that reason, the town hall will also include discussion of the role county government can play in supporting health intervention programs and community-based services that help older residents remain healthy, independent, and able to age in place.

National political divisions were another significant concern. A strong majority said they were very or extremely concerned that national divisions are affecting Talbot County government and local decision-making.

The results will now be used to help frame the candidate questions on October 6. The survey’s goal was not to settle these issues, but to ensure the town hall spends its limited time on the questions Talbot County residents most want their next County Council to address.

The Spy and Avalon Foundation thank everyone who participated.

AI Disclosure: The Spy and its writers may use artificial intelligence tools to support accuracy and clarity in our reporting.

The Spy Public Affairs Desk is a collaborative reporting initiative involving Spy writers, community volunteers, and AI-assisted research and production tools. It provides timely, reliable coverage of local government across the Mid-Shore to support the Spy’s educational mission. The publisher retains full editorial responsibility,