The Talbot County Council held their regular meeting on Tuesday, July 11th at 5 p.m.; all Council members were present.

Proclamation: Parks and Recreation Month – Director of Parks and Recreation Preston Peper accepted a proclamation on behalf of the department to celebrate July as Parks and Recreation Month.

The proclamation marks the annual nationwide recognition program, established by National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), that aims to raise awareness of the essential services that parks and recreation facilities and professionals provide to communities across the United States.

For more information on Parks and Recreation Month: County Highlights July 2023 as “Parks and Recreation Month” – Talbot County, Maryland (talbotcountymd.gov)

Leeds Creek Bridge Replacement

Ray Clark, County Engineer, and Assistant County Engineer, Mike Mertaugh, provided an update on the Leeds Creek (Tunis Mills) Bridge Replacement Project.

The proposed bridge plan includes improvements on the previous bridge. These improvements include: adding approximately two more feet of clearance; replacing current timber piles with steel piles; replacing the timber deck surface with new laminated deck surface which allows for paving on the bridge; using a timber safety rail to preserve the historic look; and replacing the current loading dock with a new similar platform.

If approved, the bridge replacement will be funded with 80% federal funds and 20% local funds. The estimated total project cost is $6,000,000.

Once construction has begun, the bridge crossing will be closed for a year. Traffic diversion suggestions are included in the “Maintenance of Traffic” document, which will be included in the proposed project plan.

Council Members asked several clarifying questions. To review the presentation and subsequent questions, watch the Council meeting starting at minute 12.

Council Member Lynn Mielke asked how many residents the bridge currently serves. Mertaugh indicated that the surrounding population is approximately 200 people, providing a good estimate as to how many people the bridge serves.

“I presume the material choices on this, certainly some are guided by maintaining the historic look of the bridge, but the steel and concrete pilings and pierheads are driven by federal requirements?” asked Council Vice President Pete Lesher. “That is correct,” said Clarke.

Public Works will host a public meeting to provide specifics of the bridge replacement project and answer questions. Residents are encouraged to attend the community meeting on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Wye Oak Room at the Talbot County Community Center.

Moratorium on Cannabis Operations and Facilities

The Council held a public hearing and subsequently voted on Resolution No. 344 to adopt a moratorium on the processing, review, and approval of applications, site plans, permits, and other authorizations for the location, construction, and/or operation of businesses engaged in growing, processing, and/or selling cannabis for a period of nine (9) months.

The intent of the legislation is to allow the County sufficient time to enact reasonable, thoughtful, and lawful zoning requirements and other regulations to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.

The Council voted in favor of the resolution, 4-1 with Council Vice President Pete Lesher dissenting.

Other Business

• Council unanimously approved Resolution 343, a Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan amendment which authorizes extension of sewer services to two parcels on Yacht Club Road.
• Public hearings were held for Bill Nos. 1531 through Bill No. 1543. These bills authorize certain capital projects included in the FY24 Budget. Budget authorization requests included:
  • Bill No. 1531, Development of Frederick Douglass Park on the Tuckahoe, 13213 Lewistown Road, Queen Anne
  • Bill No. 1532, Expansion of St. Michaels Branch of the Talbot County Free Library
  • Bill No. 1533, Improvements to the Talbot County Detention Center
  • Bill No. 1534, Purchase of improved or unimproved real property for future County purposes
  • Bill No. 1535, Upgrade or replacement of the wastewater treatment plant at The Preserve at Wye Mills
  • Bill No. 1536, Extension of water and sewer lines to the proposed regional medical center hospital site located between Longwoods Road and U.S.
  • Route 50 in Easton
  • Bill No. 1537, Construction of Emergency Medical Services Stations
  • Bill No. 1538, Improvement and Expansion to Chapel District Elementary School
  • Bill No. 1539, Construction and Improvements to Driving Range Complex at Hog Neck Golf Course
  • Bill No. 1540, Gymnasium addition to the Talbot County Community Center
  • Bill No. 1541, Improvements to County roads
  • Bill No. 1542, Replacement of the 911 Division Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system
  • Bill No. 1543, Replacement of roof at White Marsh Elementary School

Bill Nos. 1531 to 1537, and Bill Nos. 1539 to 1543 are eligible for vote on Tuesday, July 25, 2023. The vote on Bill No. 1538 will be scheduled for the Council meeting on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 to accommodate public comment following community stakeholder meetings scheduled by Talbot County Public Schools on the Chapel District Elementary School project on Wednesday, July 12th and Wednesday, August 2nd.

• A Public hearing was held on Bill No. 1544. The bill proposes to allow inns as a special exception use in the County’s Agricultural Conservation, Countryside Preservation, Western Rural Conservation, Town Conservation and Rural Conservation districts; if approved, the legislation would also permit an increase the number of guest rooms from 10 to 12 and allow historic inns to increase the number of guestrooms outside of the primary structure from 2 to 6. Bill No. 1544 is eligible for vote on July 25, 2023.
• The Assistant County Manager presented one board nominations for the Council’s consideration:
  • Economic Development Commission – Council unanimously approved the reappointment of Walter Chase as the Town of Trappe’s representative.
• Chesapeake College requested approval to revise their FY24 budget. Their revised budget plan addresses the difference between projected state funding to actualized State funding. State funding saw an increase in the amount of $1,883,004 from the John A. Cade Funding Formula & Budget Reconciliation & Financing Act. The additional funding will allow the college to provide a salary increase of 3% to full-time employees, hire additional employees in vital technical areas such as Information Technology, Health Professions, STEM fields and Skilled Trades, and replace interior door locks on the campus property. There is no additional cost for the participating counties. The Council unanimously approved the new revised budget.
• Katie Dilley, Executive Director of Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc., and Bill Webb, Kent County Health Officer, addressed the importance of a Residential Treatment Center for children and adolescents in our region and requested a letter of support from the Council to the Maryland Department of Health regarding service expansion at the Upper Shore Mental Health Center in Chestertown. The request was unanimously approved.
• Department of Public Works requested approval to purchase ten (10) septic tank effluent pump (STEP) systems in the amount of $68,679.44 for the Region II (St. Michaels) Wastewater System as part of new connections related to Resolution No. 235.  The cost of the STEP systems will be paid for by the users.  The request was unanimously approved.
• The Assistant County Manager thanked the Sheriff’s Office, Roads Department, County Building Inspector, Tilghman Island Fire Department, Department of Public Works, Emergency Services, staff of Parks and Recreation, and Communications Coordinator, Sarah Kilmon, for the cross-department and inter-agency response to storms that occurred on July 3, 2023. Property owners are reminded that emergency permits are available for properties damaged by the storm. If residents have questions about the emergency permits, they may contact the Permits Office at 410-770-6840.

The Talbot County Council will hold a work session to discuss a proposed Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan amendment pertaining to Lakeside Development phases and Equivalent Dwelling Units (EDUs)  on Wednesday, July 19th at 5:00 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.  The work session will be followed by a Closed Session.

The Council’s next legislative meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 25, 2023 beginning at 5:00 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room located in the South Wing, Talbot County Courthouse, 11 North Washington Street, Easton.  The work session and the meeting open to the public.

The Talbot County Council is seeking nominees to serve on the County’s Property Tax Assessment Appeals Board (PTAAB).   

The PTAAB has jurisdiction over all appeals in its area concerning property tax assessments, the Home Owners’ Tax Credit Program, the Renters’ Tax Credit Program, the Agricultural Land Preservation Easement Program, and other local tax matters assigned to the board for hearing. This jurisdiction also includes, but is not limited to, appeals concerning local tax credits, local taxes, and special taxing areas. 

Each PTAAB consists of three members and alternates. The members are appointed by the Governor for five-year terms; the chair is named by the Governor.  

Board members may not be actively engaged in real estate sales or appraisals; there are also some limitations which apply to employment in local or State government.  The PTAAB in Talbot County meets only when hearings are scheduled. 

Should a resident be interested in serving the County in this capacity, please contact the Office of the Talbot County Manager at 410-770-8010. Deadline for Council’s consideration is Friday, June 16^th at noon.   

Additional information about the board’s responsibility and purpose can be found at www.ptaab.state.md.us.

The Talbot County Council recently introduced Sarah Kilmon as the County’s first Communications Manager.  Kilmon leads communications, media and public relations, marketing, and digital media strategy for the County.  

Under the direction of the County Manager, she provides timely, accurate information about government programs, news, projects, events, and issues.   

“Sarah is performing an essential role that brings effective and efficient communications for the county”, remarked County Manager Clay Stamp. “Uniting our messaging under one roof, with our own Public Information Officer, has long been a goal.”  

“We are excited to see the progress she is making already, supporting our teams and getting information out to the public in a timely fashion. These efforts will only increase our ability to enhance transparency with our community, in particular issues regarding the safety and security of our citizens.” 

In early 2021, Kilmon moved back to the Eastern Shore to focus on her company, Kilmon Creative, and be closer to family. She also served in the Office of Senator Mautz (MD District 37) through the 2022 and 2023 Maryland General Assembly Legislative Sessions, handling constituent relations and communications.  

Council Member Keasha Haythe knows the importance of this role, having been a part of many effective regional and state-wide initiatives regarding communication and marketing strategies. She is supportive of the new communications position. 

“Providing a clear, two-way dialogue with our citizens is critical to positive relationships with our citizens” she notes, “and this role is a definite step toward greater engagement with our community.”  

Kilmon lives in downtown Easton with her sister and their two dogs. She is active in the community, serving on the steering committee for the Talbot Chamber Young Professionals. She is also a participant in performances with Perfect Storm Productions and the local non-profit performing arts collective, The Factory.

The Talbot County Council held a meeting on Tuesday, May 23 with Council Members Callahan, Stepp, and Mielke in attendance. Council Members Lesher and Haythe were absent.

Proclamation: National Boating Safety Week – May 20 – 26, 2023 – Members of the Coast Guard Flotilla 21 – 03 and Division 21 of the Chesapeake Eastern Shore received a proclamation recognizing this week as “National Boating Safety Week”. The proclamation specifically urges citizens to practice safe boating habits, avoid using alcohol and drugs when operating a boat, and always wear a life jacket while boating.

Proclamation: National Gun Violence Awareness Day – June 2, 2023 – Leadership of the MD Upper Shore Chapter and volunteers from Moms Demand Action accepted a proclamation recognizing “National Gun Violence Awareness Day”. The day is recognized to honor the birthday of Hadiya Pendleton, who was shot and killed at age 15, in January 2013. On June 2, 2023, people across the country will wear orange to raise awareness about gun violence and honor the lives of gun violence victims and survivors.

The Maryland Upper Shore Chapter of Moms Demand Action will host a “Be Smart” gun safety and awareness event in Easton on June 4, 2023. For more information: Attend Wear Orange 2023 Easton Event | Everytown for Gun Safety

Proclamation: National Emergency Medical Services Week – May 21 – 27, 2023 – Members of the Department of Emergency Services, led by Brian LeCates, Director, received a proclamation honoring National EMS Week, celebrating the essential care and hard work of everyone in the emergency system.

“EMS is much larger than just the folks riding around in the ambulance…it starts at the 911 dispatchers providing pre-arrival instructions all the way through to the hospital with the nurses and physicians in the emergency department,” mentioned LeCates. “It’s important to celebrate the entire system, the team, that makes up emergency services.”

Clay Stamp, County Manager, also commented, “Talbot County is recognized as a leader in the state of Maryland for having a comprehensive EMS system, that starts with community awareness and engagement through the Paramedic Foundation in placing AEDs throughout the county, and learning CPR with the CPR marathon every year.”

The Council held a public hearing on proposed FY2024 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects in coordination with Talbot County.

St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP), located at 29533 Canvasback Drive in Easton, is seeking $465,000 in CDBG grant funds to partially fund a 1,920 square foot expansion to their facility that provides food, shelter, clothing, financial help, and comfort to individuals and families in need. A copy of the CDBG application can be found on the County’s website. Grant applications are due to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development on June 7, 2023. Talbot Interfaith Shelter (TIS) withdrew their proposed application.

Following the public hearing, Council approved an Administrative Resolution authorizing the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) SFY24 application for the St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) construction project located at 29533 Canvasback Drive, Easton, Maryland 21601.

There was also a public hearing on Bill No. 1530. If passed, the bill would amend Chapter 190 (Zoning, Subdivision, and Land Development) of the County Code regarding the expansion of structures used for nonconforming uses. Bill No. 1530 incorporates language required by the Maryland Critical Area Commission as a condition of its approval of Bill No. 1525, which the County Council approved on September 27, 2022. Bill No. 1530 will eligible for vote on June 13, 2023

Other Business:

• Bill No. 1529, AN ACT TO ESTABLISH THE 2023-2024 ANNUAL BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE was brought forward for vote. Martha Sparks, Director of Finance, brought forth proposed amendments for the Council’s consideration; the amendments were discussed during budget deliberations on May 16, 2023.
  • Amendments to the General Fund show an increase in grant revenues, a decrease in transfers from the development impact fund and a corresponding increase in General Fund reserves. Changes in expenditures included: decreases in Sheriff salary (due to an overestimation); increases to Circuit Court; and increases to miscellaneous expenses. The net effect of these changes was 0, leaving the overall budget number the same.
  • For Capital Projects, there was an additional request for White Marsh Elementary School’s roof project. Funds requested for Emergency Service’s CAD project were reduced to only include funds needed for FY24. There was also a request to add funds to the TCFL St. Michaels branch library expansion and renovation. The overall net effect of the changes to the Capital Fund is a decrease of $400,600. Due to changes in transfer amounts, the Development Impact Fund received a $274,000 increase.
  • Bill No. 1529, as amended, was unanimously approved by all Council members with Council members Haythe and Lesher voting by absentee ballot.
  • The final budget can be viewed here: FY 2024 Proposed Budget – Talbot County, Maryland (talbotcountymd.gov)
• Council unanimously approved the appointment of Donna Haddaway as an alternate member to the Animal Control Board and Donald Ewing, Sr. to the Board of Electrical Examiners.
• Terry Kokolis, Director, Department of Corrections, and Cindy Green, Captain, Department of Corrections, requested approval to extend two service contracts for the Corrections facility, one for inmate medical and mental health services from Wellpath TM, and the other for inmate meals from Trinity Food Services Group. There are sufficient funds in the budget for both contracts.
• Ray Clarke, County Engineer, asked Council for permission to apply for and accept grant funding from the MD Department of Natural Resources Watershed Improvement Program to assist with the acquisition of a dredged material placement site.
• The Town of Oxford and Talbot Thrive requested a letter of support for their grant coapplication to the “2023 Kim Lamphier Bikeways Program” from the Maryland Department of Transportation for design of a bike trail from Oxford’s Causeway Park to the County owned Oxford Conservation Park.
• Council President Chuck Callahan asked Patrick Thomas, County Attorney, to draft a resolution to move the County Council’s meeting start time to 5 p.m. Once the resolution is presented, the Council can decide if they would like to move the start time or keep it to the current time of 6 p.m.

The next legislative meeting of the County Council will be held on June 13th, 2023. On Tuesday, June 6th the County Council will be meeting with elected officials from the municipalities at 5:00 p.m. in the Talbot Count Free Library – Easton Branch. The meeting is open to the public.

From left: U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Vice Flotilla Commander, Auxiliary Flotilla 21-03 of Easton, MD, Reed Carey; Council Member Lynn Mielke; Petty Officer First Class, United States Coast Guard, Executive Petty Officer of USCG Station Oxford, Bryant Gooch; U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Division Commander, Division 21 Chesapeake Bay Eastern Shore, Thomas Stokes; and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Flotilla Commander, Auxiliary Flotilla 21-03 of Easton MD, Edward Burke.

Leadership of the MD Upper Shore Chapter and volunteers from Moms Demand Action accept proclamation for National Gun Violence Awareness Day from Council President Chuck Callahan.

From left: Director of Emergency Services Brian LeCates, Emergency Services Advisory Board Member Debbie Timms, UM Shore Medical Center at Easton Emergency Department, MSN, RN Jakisha Downing, EMS Chief Matt Watkins, Captain Ben Diefenderfer, Lt. Jackie Reiss, Paramedic Olivia Santos, EMT Trey Pritchett received a proclamation for National Emergency Services Week. The theme for 2023 is “Where Emergency Cares Begins”.

The Talbot County Council held a meeting on Tuesday, May 2 with Council Members Callahan, Haythe, Lesher, and Stepp in attendance. Council Member Mielke was absent.

Proclamation: Older Americans Month – May 2023 – Childlene Brooks, Manager, Brookletts Place – The Talbot County Senior Center, and Ann DeMart, Manager, Bay Hundred Senior Center, received a proclamation recognizing May 2023 as “Older Americans Month”. The proclamation specifically encouraged citizens to “build an even better community for its older residents by: not limiting its thinking about aging; exploring and combatting stereotypes; emphasizing the many positive aspects of aging; inspiring older adults to push past traditional boundaries; and embracing the diversity of our community.”

The Council thanked the senior center staff for their work on behalf of the citizens of Talbot County. “I’m just thrilled to see all that the senior centers, both of them, are doing for our senior populations here. It is good to see that participation has come back in the post-pandemic environment,” said Vice President Pete Lesher.

Brookletts Place – The Talbot County Senior Center, located in Easton, provides individuals 60 years and older opportunities for socializing, recreational fun, lifelong learning, and camaraderie among their peers. The Bay Hundred Senior Center which opened in St. Michaels in 2019, follows the same model. For more information about their programs please visit Senior | Brookletts Place: Talbot County Senior Center | Easton.

Proclamation: Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month – May 2023 – Ken Eaton, Executive Director, ABATE of Maryland and Mark Kerzner, Queen Anne’s County Representative, Mid-Shore Chapter of ABATE of Maryland, accepted a proclamation recognizing May 2023 as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month”. The proclamation encourages all motorists and citizens to join together to improve safety and awareness on our roadways, especially as the weather gets warmer and more motorcyclists will be on roadways.

The Council held two public hearings. The first on the Constant Yield. Vice President Lesher read the following statement into the record:

The County Council, in the FY 2024 Proposed Budget, is proposing to adopt a real property tax rate of 68.20 cents per $100 of assessed valuation for all properties located outside the incorporated towns. This is 2.55 cents higher than the current real property tax rate. This rate is 5.3% higher than the constant yield rate of 64.76 cents, and will generate $1,694,247 more in property tax revenues in FY 2024 from the unincorporated area of the County.

Properties located within the Incorporated Towns will again be granted a tax rate differential which sets their real property tax rates between 6.01 and 13.3 cents lower than the County rate. The County real property tax rates for properties located within the Towns are higher than the constant yield rate for the Towns.

There were no public comments offered on the Constant Yield.

The Council then held the public hearing on the FY 2024 Proposed Budget (Bill No. 1529). Details on the budget and budget process can be found on the Talbot County website at: FY 2024 Proposed Budget – Talbot County, Maryland (talbotcountymd.gov).

Other Business:

• Clay Stamp, County Manager, noted that the County has several vacancies on various boards and committees. Citizens interested in serving may contact the County Manager’s Office at 410-770-8010 or visit the County’s website.
• Brian Moore, Superintendent of Roads and County Facilities, requested Council support to award Bid No. 23-05 FURNISHING AND DELIVERY, WITH POSSIBLE APPLICATION OF CRS-2L, EMULSIFIED ASPHALT WITH POLYMER, to the low bidder, Slurry Pavers, Inc., of Richmond, VA for the unit price of $2.63/gallon delivered and $2.98/gallon delivered and applied, which will supply emulsified asphalt with polymer for seasonal road resurfacing projects. The request was approved unanimously.
• Stamp requested a Letter of Support to extend the operating dates of the Mid-Shore II Regional Landfill located in Ridgely, Maryland from 2030 to approximately 2042. Maryland Environmental Service has stated there is sufficient disposal capacity at the landfill to keep it open through approximately 2042 under existing State permits. The request was approved unanimously.

The next legislative meeting of the County Council will be held on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 beginning at 6:00 p.m. At 3:30 p.m. the Council will be holding a work session with the local delegation to discuss the 2023 State legislative session. Written comments on the FY24 Proposed Budget will be accepted until Friday, May 5, 2023 at Noon.

Childlene Brooks, Manager, Brookletts Place – The Talbot County Senior Center, and Ann DeMart, Manager, Bay Hundred Senior Center, received a proclamation recognizi ng May 2023 as “Older Americans Month”.

Ken Eaton, Executive Director, ABATE of Maryland and Mark Kerzner, Queen Anne’s County Representative, Mid-Shore Chapter of ABATE of Maryland, accepted a proclamation recognizing May 2023 as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month”.

Council members Callahan, Haythe, Mielke and Stepp were in attendance. Council member Lesher was absent.

Update by Maryland Environmental Service – Tim Ford, Managing Director, Environmental Operations, Maryland Environmental Service; Gary Lasako, Project Manager, Maryland Environmental Service – Mr. Ford and Mr. Lasako provided an overview of Maryland Environmental Services (MES), a not-for-profit business unit of the State of Maryland, as well as the history of the Mid-Shore solid waste agreement.  In the early 1980s, Caroline, Queen Anne’s and Talbot counties identified the need for a waste disposal solution.  Mid-Shore I landfill was constructed in Talbot County in 1990, Mid-Shore II landfill was constructed in Caroline County in 2010 and Mid-Shore III landfill is scheduled to open in Queen Anne’s County in 2031.  MES has submitted a draft Phase I Refuse Disposal Permit application for the proposed Mid-Shore III Regional Solid Waste Facility near Centreville, MD to Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and it is anticipated MDE will take action on the application by March 2023.  Since 2012, MES has provided operation of the Mid-Shore Regional Recycling Program.  The Homeowner Drop-Off (HODO) and Transfer Station is still operated at Mid-Shore I in Talbot County at 7341 Barkers Landing Road, Easton.  Mid-Shore I Transfer Station, from January 2022 – December 2022 collected 40,328 tons of solid waste, 3,689 tons of yard waste and had 35,632 scale house transactions.  Mid-Shore II Regional Solid Waste Facility, from January 2022 – December 2022, collected 142,896 tons of billable trash, 8,064 tons of brush, 26 tons of scrap tires, and recycled 36 tons of mattresses. Mr. Lasako noted that MES continues to collect and control landfill gas at Mid-Shore I, manages leachate, and maintains the exposed geo-membrane cap in accordance with post-closure care plan.  Mr. Lasako briefed Council on a pilot renewable energy project in partnership with the Maryland Energy Administration using a Qnergy Stirling Engine which was commissioned on August 18, 2022 and to date has generated 2,875 hours by combusting methane gas generated by the landfill.  Mr. Lasako invited the public to attend the next Household Hazardous Waste Day which will be held on April 15, 2023 in Kent County (HHW-Drop-off-Day-April-2023.pdf (menv.com).

Update by Talbot Humane – Patty Crankshaw-Quimby, Executive Director, Talbot Humane – Ms. Crankshaw-Quimby noted that over the past year, 977 animals have entered direct care through Talbot Humane, 794 animals were adopted, relocated or reunited with their owners or transferred to other rescue groups, 1,264 animals were spayed or neutered, 1,200 animals were microchipped, 327 animals were fostered in the community and over 9 tons of pet food were distributed.  Ms. Crankshaw-Quimby highlighted the work of volunteers who donated over 8,000 hours.  Talbot Humane has 15 staff members and relies heavily on the support of the volunteers.  Animal Control responded to 315 calls for service in 2022 and Ms. Crankshaw-Quimby thanked Animal Control Officer Gonzalez who will be celebrating 20 years of service with Talbot Humane in May.  Talbot Humane has received a grant from Maryland Department of Agriculture in the amount of $43,595 for their spay-neuter program.  Ms. Crankshaw-Quimby noted that Talbot Humane has an internship program for high school seniors in animal science and encouraged interested students to contact Talbot Humane.  Ms. Crankshaw-Quimby invited the Council to tour the Talbot Humane facility located on Ocean Gateway in Easton and noted they are working on plans for a new facility.

Presentation by Talbot County Agricultural Community – Shawn Smith, District Manager, Talbot Soil Conservation District; John Swaine, III, Chairman, Board of Supervisors, Talbot Soil Conservation District and Vice President of Talbot County Farm Bureau; John Barga, County Executive Director, USDA Farm Service Agency; Shannon Dill, Extension Educator – AgFS, University of Maryland Extension – Talbot County – Each of the agricultural agencies provided an update on their particular area of expertise with Ms. Dill noting the overall mission being that farms are profitable and environmentally sustainable.  The Cooperative Extension Office provides research and education through 4-H youth development, agriculture and natural resources and horticulture and nutrition.  The USDA Farm Service Agency provides implementation and funding through federal programs, farm loans and farm support.  The USDA Natural Resources Conservation provides technical assistance of federal programs through conservation planning, soil surveys and financial assistance.  The Department of Agriculture provides leadership and support through regulatory development, marketing and conservation efforts.  Since 1958, the Talbot Soil Conservation District has been providing technical planning and support of State programs through conservation planning, erosion and sediment controls and land stewardship.  The Farm Bureau provides representation and lobbying support.  Ms. Dill announced the Talbot County Ag Fair will be held from July 13 – 15, 2023 and invited the Council to coordinate a farm tour either this summer or fall.

Introduction of Numbered Resolution:

A RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE TALBOT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE WATER AND SEWER PLAN (CWSP) FOR CONSISTENCY WITH DISCHARGE PERMIT NO. 19-DP-3460, ISSUED BY THE MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT ON OCTOBER 27, 2022 AND TO REQUIRE THAT ANY FUTURE EXPANSION OF THE NEW LAKESIDE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT SHALL REQUIRE AN AMENDMENT TO THE CWSP was introduced by Council Member Lynn Mielke as Resolution No. 338.  County Attorney Patrick Thomas briefed Council on the purpose of the legislation which would incorporate provisions of MDE Discharge Permit 19-DP-3460 into the Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan for the Lakeside project.  A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, April 11^th at 6:30 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room located in the Talbot County Courthouse, South Wing, 11 North Washington Street, Easton.

Discussion of General Assembly Legislation:

HB235 – Property Tax – Deadline Extension for Homeowners to Redeem Property Involved in a Tax Sale https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0235.  The purpose of the legislation is to extend the amount of time that has to pass after a tax sale before the holder of a certificate of sale of the property may be reimbursed for certain expenses when the property is redeemed.

SB303/HB700 Talbot County – Speed Monitoring Systems – Intersection of Maryland Route 333 (Oxford Road) and Bonfield Avenue https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/sb0303.  The purpose of the legislation is to authorize the placement and use of a speed monitoring system at the intersection of Maryland Route 333 (Oxford Road) and Bonfield Avenue in Talbot County, subject to placement and signage requirements.

SB498/HB497 Rural Health Collaborative Pilot Repeal and Mid-Shore Health Improvement Coalition Funding https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0498.  The purpose of the legislation is to repeal the provisions of law establishing and governing the Rural Health Collaborative Pilot; requiring the Governor to provide an appropriation in the State budget in certain fiscal years to fund the operations of the Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition; and generally relating to the Rural Health Collaborative Pilot and the Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition.

SB777/HB1118 Middle Shore Counties – Sunday Hunting – Repeal of Time Restrictions

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2023RS/bills/sb/sb0777F.pdf.  The purpose of the legislation is to repeal the time restrictions that apply to Sunday hunting in Caroline, Dorchester, Talbot and Wicomico counties.

Each of the bills was read into the record.  Council requested more information on the bills prior to taking any action.

County Manager’s Report –

• Board and Committee Appointments

o   Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board – Mr. Stamp requested the reappointment of Robert Saathoff, Sr., to the Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board.  The request was unanimously approved by the Council.

o   Animal Control Board – Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of Cassandra Vanhooser to represent the agricultural community on the Animal Control Board.  The request was unanimously approved by the Council.

o   Weed Control Committee – Mr. Stamp requested the reappointment of Michael Weaver and the appointment of Lloyd Pahlman to the Weed Control Committee.  The request was unanimously approved by the Council.

• Request from Eastern Shore Land Conservancy for a Letter in Support of the FY24 Mid-Shore Rural Legacy Applications – Council unanimously approved the request from Eastern Shore Land Conservancy (ESLC), as presented by Anne Roane, Planner III, Talbot County Planning & Zoning, for a letter in support of ESLC’s FY24 Mid-Shore Rural Legacy Applications.  No County funds are required.  In Talbot County, the Rural Legacy Program area includes the Eastern Shore Heartland Rural Legacy Area southeast of Trappe and the Tuckahoe Rural Legacy Area.
• Request from Department of Parks & Recreation – Recommendation to Award Bid No. 23-02, Grass Cutting Services – Parks, Ball Fields and Landings – Talbot County, Maryland – Council unanimously approved the request from Parks & Recreation to award Bid No. 23-03 to the sole bidder, Riverside Lawn Service, in the amount of $44,994 for the 2023 season.  Three potential bidders picked up packets, but only one bidder submitted.
• Request from Department of Parks & Recreation – Recommendation to Award Bid No. 23-03, Portable Sanitary Chemical Toilet Service – Talbot County, Maryland – Council unanimously approved the request from Parks & Recreation to award Bid No. 23-03 to the sole bidder, Pierson Comfort Group, LLC, in the amount of $32,917.50 for the 2023 season.  Six potential bidders picked up packets, but only one bidder submitted.
• Request from Department of Parks & Recreation to Enter Into Pool Management Contract Renewal for the 2023 Season – Council unanimously approved the renewal of the pool management contract with Coastline Pool Services for the operation and maintenance of the George Murphy and Bay Hundred pools for the 2023 season in the total sum of $270,000.
• Request from Easton Utilities for a Letter in Support of Federal Funding for Upgrades to the Town of Easton’s Water Treatment System – Council unanimously approved sending letters of support for Easton Utilities’ application for FY24 Congressionally Directed Spending for the upgrade of the Town of Easton’s water supply and treatment system.  No County funds are required.

The County Council’s next legislative meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 14^th beginning at 6:00 p.m.  The Council will be holding budget presentations from County departments and agencies on Tuesday, March 7 at 4:00 p.m. and Wednesday, March 8 at 4:30 p.m.  The budget presentations will be held in the Bradley Meeting Room and are open to the public.

The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

These highlights only reflect the business items covered from the Council’s approved agenda. To view the complete County Council meeting, please visit: Talbot County Meeting Videos – Talbot County, Maryland (www.talbotcountymd.gov).

Update to Board of Health – Dr. Maria Maguire, Talbot County Health Officer – Dr. Maguire provided statistical information on the demographics of Talbot County citizens compared with other citizens in the state of Maryland by age, ethnicity, average household income, disability, etc., health behaviors of both groups by life expectancy, teen birth rate, smoking, obesity, Emergency Room visits for diabetes, excessive drinking, and that the leading causes of death for Talbot County residents are heart issues, cancer and accidents. She then briefed the Council on the following: (1) Opioid Epidemic – fatal overdoses declined 15% in Talbot County between September 2021 and September 2022; non-fatal overdoses declined by 65% during the same period. Dr. Maguire stated that initial funding in the sum of $60 million from the Opioid Restitution Fund (ORF), created in 2019 to receive funds awarded to the State of Maryland from legal settlements with prescription opioid manufacturers and distributors began to be distributed in 2022; a total of $400 million is anticipated over the 18 years; and (2) Behavioral Health Services – New providers for substance abuse and mental health care to both adults and children, and crisis bed services, are coming to Talbot County to replace services lost when Eastern Shore Psychological Services closed in fall 2022. Dr. Maguire provided updates on on-going and recent public health emergencies including Monkeypox (Mpox); the downward trend of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths; and the respiratory illnesses of influenza and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). Free Flu shots are available Monday through Friday from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Talbot County Covid/Vaccine Center, 102 Marlboro Ave., Easton; walk-ins are welcome. She noted that February is American Heart Month, stating that 80% of heart disease and stroke can be prevented by choosing foods that are heart-healthy, participating in regular physical activity, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. Resources for managing heart health may be found at https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/american-heart-month and https://www.livetothebeat.org/.

Update by Talbot County Department of Economic Development & Tourism – Ken Kozel, Chair, Talbot County Economic Development Commission; Judy Bixler, Chair, Talbot County Tourism Board; Cassandra Vanhooser, Director, Talbot County Department of Economic Development & Tourism – Ms. Vanhooser outlined the Vision, Mission and Value of the Department of Economic Development and Tourism to Talbot County and briefed the Council on additional resources provided to the department during the Pandemic, including funding for from the Maryland Rural Economic Development Fund; the EDA (Economic Development Administration) Grant for Eastern Shore Recovery Project; and ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act of 2021) funding for Broadband. She also presented a summary of the number of clients from Talbot County referred to the Small Business Development Center, a state program that Talbot County partially funds. She outlined the distribution of $10 million in funding provided to the Mid-Shore Regional Council as part the $50 million included in Governor Hogan’s 2022 Budget for the five regional councils throughout the state. Talbot County received $3.233 million which funded 14 projects, 5 of which were County projects. Ms. Vanhooser also reviewed results of the initial Eastern Shore Business Sentiment Survey, a twice yearly survey of Eastern Shore businesses conducted by economic development organizations in all nine counties on the Eastern Shore. Results from the December 2022 survey cited respondents’ top three concerns as payroll/benefits; fuel/transportation; and utilities costs; respondents also expressed optimism toward the continued success or expansion of their businesses over the next five years. Ms. Vanhooser highlighted the success of the recent Business Resource Fair held on January 21; the first of three “Let’s Talk Business” speaker series events; the March 6 speaker for the series is Ken Kozel, President & CEO, University of Maryland Medical System Shore Regional Health; the speaker for the April 3 event is Dick Willey, former president, Perdue AgriBusiness, LLC – Perdue Farms, Inc. Ms. Vanhooser concluded her presentation by stating that her office has relaunched the TourTalbot.org website and is relaunching the Frederick Douglass website in February; flag raising ceremony and ribbon cutting at the Frederick Douglass Mural on the Easton Rail Trail will take place on Saturday, February 18 at 3:00 p.m.

Introduction of Administrative Resolution:

ADMINISTRATIVE RESOLUTION REPEALING ENFORCEMENT RESOLUTION – COVID-19 – ADOPTED AUGUST 25, 2020 was introduced and unanimously approved by all Council members. County Attorney Patrick Thomas noted that the Administrative Resolution formally appeals the Administrative Resolution entitled, “Enforcement Resolution COVID-19” adopted by the County Council on August 25, 2020 in its entirety as it is no longer in force and effect now that the State of Maryland’s Executive Order No. 21-05-14-01 is no longer in effect.

County Manager’s Report –
 Board and Committee Appointments
o Board of Appeals – Mr. Stamp requested the reappointment of Zakary Krebeck and Greg Gannon (alternate member) to the Board of Appeals. The request was unanimously approved by the Council.
o Emergency Services Advisory Board – Mr. Stamp requested the reappointment of Terry Satchell (Easton District) and Ruth Sullivan (Trappe District) to the Emergency Services Advisory Board. The request was unanimously approved by the Council.
o Local Emergency Planning Committee – Mr. Stamp requested approval to forward the name of Commissioner Michael Sullivan, Town of Trappe, to the Governor for consideration of appointment to the Local Emergency Planning Committee. The request was unanimously approved by the Council.
o Police Accountability Board – Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of Gugy Irving, III to the Police Accountability Board as a representative of the Town of Oxford and surrounding community. The request was unanimously approved by the Council.
o Ethics Commission – Mr. Stamp requested approval the appointment of Dr. James Bell to the Ethics Commission. The request was unanimously approved by the Council.
 Request from Department of Corrections to Utilize FY23 Contingency Funds to Replace HVAC Condenser Coils – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Corrections to utilize $31,804 in FY23 contingency funds to repair HVAC condenser coils at the Detention Center. Martha Sparks, Finance Director, confirmed there are sufficient contingency funds for this purpose.
 Request from Hog Neck Golf Course for Fee Increases for 2023 Season – Council unanimously approved the 2023 Daily Fee Golf Rates and annual rates as recommended by the Golf Board.
 Request from Hog Neck Golf Course – Recommendation to Award Golf Course Equipment Lease – Council unanimously approved the request from Hog Neck Golf Course to enter into a lease agreement with Finch Turf Equipment (John Deere) to begin in November 2023. A total of three quotes were received with Finch Turf Equipment being the lowest. The new lease agreement is a fair market value lease for a term of 60 months in the amount of $369,859.40. The golf course is requesting approval now as there is a lead time on ordering equipment.
 Request from Hog Neck Golf Course – Recommendation to Award Contract for Golf Course Parking Lot Lighting – Council unanimously approved the request from Hog Neck Golf Course to enter into a contract with Musco Sports Lighting, Inc. in the amount of $83,707 to install parking lot lighting. The project will repurpose nine (9), 30-ft. light poles from the Talbot County Business Center property. The Golf Course has FY23 budgeted funds of $75,000 for the project and can absorb the overage in their budget and by assisting with trenching for lights.
 Request from County Facilities – Recommendation to Award Bid No. 22-03, Reroofing of Sections of the Talbot County Circuit Courthouse Roof, 11 North Washington Street, Easton – Talbot County, Maryland – Council unanimously approved the award of Bid No. 22-03 and Add Alternate #1 to the low bidder, A.K.J. of Stevensville, Maryland in the sum of $232,500 contingent on permit approval from the Town of Easton. A total of five bids were submitted. Additionally, Council approved the award of Add Alternate #2 (repainting of dome roof on Courthouse) to A.K.J. in the amount of $14,750. There are sufficient funds in the FY23 budget for both projects.
 Request from Department of Public Works – Recommendation to Award Bid No. 22-17, Talbot County Free Library – Easton Branch – Audio/Visual Equipment and Installation (Auditorium Main Meeting Room/Frederick Douglass Room) – Easton – Talbot County, Maryland – Council unanimously approved the award of Bid No. 22-17 to the low bidder, Daly Computers, Inc. in the amount of $85,048. A total of two bids were received. There are sufficient funds in the FY23 budget for this project.

The County Council’s next legislative meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 28th beginning at 6:00 p.m. The Council will be convening at 3:00 p.m. for a Work Session with Easton Utilities for an update on the Connect Talbot Project. The Work Session will be held in the Bradley Meeting Room and is open to the public.

The meeting adjourned at 8:09 p.m.

These highlights only reflect the business items covered from the Council’s approved agenda. To view the complete County Council meeting, please visit: Talbot County Meeting Videos – Talbot County, Maryland (www.talbotcountymd.gov).

Proclamation – National Human Trafficking Prevention Month – January 2023 – The Council presented a proclamation to Julie Crain, President, Harriett’s House, for National Human Trafficking Prevention Month – January 2023.  The proclamation noted that the Eastern Shore Human Trafficking Task Force is engaged in anti-human trafficking activities by encouraging and promoting awareness of the issue of human trafficking and the factors that contribute to same, including the overuse of the internet and social media, involvement with pornography, poverty and drug abuse, a lack of awareness, and changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the work being done to prevent this crime.  The Council urged all citizens to actively work toward the prevention of human trafficking, prosecution of its perpetrators, and support of the survivors of this horrendous crime.

Proclamation – Dr. Martin Luther King., Jr. Day – January 16, 2023 – The Council presented a proclamation to Corey Pack and Sgt. Tim Larrimore, Easton Police Department, in recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – January 16, 2023.  The proclamation noted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy as a passionate leader in the Civil Rights movement who tirelessly promoted his teachings and philosophy of love, tolerance and nonviolence, dedicating his life to advancing social justice, equality and freedom for all people across the United States and whose life and legacy continue to inspire us to pursue a move just society and to stand up against discrimination, injustice and violence.  The Council urged all citizens to embody Dr. King’s ideals to lift one another up regardless of race, gender, creed or religion, rising to the principles first enshrined in the documents of our Founding Fathers.  Mr. Pack and Sgt. Larrimore briefed the Council on the Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Basketball Classic that will be held at the Easton Middle School and YMCA of the Chesapeake – Easton Branch on Monday, January 16, 2023 beginning at 8:00 a.m. for boys and girls in grades 5-8, and invited the public to attend.

Presentation by Delmarva Community Services, Inc. on Transportation Development Plan for Caroline, Kent and Talbot Counties – Santo Grande, Director and Keith Adkins, Deputy Director, Delmarva Community Services – Mr. Grande and Mr. Adkins briefed Council on the Transportation Development Plan developed by KFH Group Inc. for Caroline, Kent and Talbot Counties.  In developing the Plan, discussions were held regarding expanded services, improved bus stop amenities, employer based programs and future development in each of the counties.  An advisory committee was formed with representatives from Caroline, Kent and Talbot counties with additional input being sought from economic development in each county, the University of Maryland, United Way of Kent County, Chesapeake College and Chesapeake Center. Data was gathered through rider, community and employer surveys. Rider survey reflected 65% of the respondents use Delmarva Community Transit (DCT) for work, 15% for social and recreational trips, with most respondents using the bus service 5-6 times per week.  35% of respondents indicated that without access to DCT, they would have had to ask family or friends to take them.  34% indicated that without access to DCT they would have no transportation access.  77% asked for additional service on Saturdays, 36% asked for service on Sundays and 26% asked for evening service.  89% of all riders do not have access to a vehicle and 70% responded they do not hold a valid driver’s license.  Mr. Grande and Mr. Adkins thanked Talbot County for being the lead grant agency on behalf of Caroline and Kent counties and noted that Talbot County has the first Mobility on Demand service for the upper shore.  Council will take action on the Transportation Development Plan at their next meeting on January 24, 2023.

Presentation by Talbot County Free Library – Dana Newman, Director, Talbot County Free Library –Dana Newman and Susan Sherman, President, Talbot County Free Library Board of Trustees updated the Council on the 2023-2025 Strategic Plan for the Talbot County Free Library and plans to expand and renovate the St. Michaels branch.  Ms. Newman noted that through a strategic planning process, the library has an updated vision statement, “The Talbot County Free Library is an integral part of the community, fostering a spirit of exploration and discovery.  We cultivate lifelong learning, creativity, and enrichment.”  Ms. Newman also provided the following statistics for 2022:  27,916 card holders, 285,971 items circulated, 90,977 e-resources used, 84,608 total library visits, 3,506 volunteer hours, 21,683 computer uses, 405 library events with 16,831 attendees.  The Strategic Plan highlighted the need to expand and renovate the St. Michaels library branch with Ms. Newman noting that the project has been included in the County’s capital project list since 2018.  A feasibility study was completed in 2019 with the project slated for design in FY2022-2023 and construction in FY2025.  Ms. Newman provided an overview of funding for the project (anticipated to cost approximately $5.5 million) which will include County funds, capital grant funding from the State of Maryland, other grants, federal earmarks and a capital fundraising campaign.  Benefits of the St. Michaels Library expansion project include:  additional space, improved ADA accessibility, improved interior spaces to meet current needs of library users, improved safety, accessibility, security, and energy efficiencies.

County Manager’s Report –

• Board and Committee Appointments

o   Local Drug and Alcohol Abuse Council – Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of Lynn Mielke as Council’s liaison to the Local Drug and Alcohol Abuse Council.  The request was unanimously approved by the Council.

o   Animal Control Board – Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of Karla Wieland-Cherry to the Animal Control Board.  The request was unanimously approved by the Council.

o   Tourism Board – Mr. Stamp requested the reappointment of Michael Hoffman, Harold Klinger and Jessica Bellis to the Tourism Board.  The request was unanimously approved by the Council.

• Request from Roads Department – Recommendation to Award Bid No. 22-18, FURNISHING AND DELIVERY OF AASHTO M43, SIZE NO. 8 & NO. 7  TRIPLE WASHED AGGREGATE – Council unanimously approved the award of Bid No. 22-18 to the sole bidder, Vulcan Construction Materials, Inc. for the unit price of $37.50/ton with a total bid amount of $112,500.  All stone will be received by May 1, 2023 in time for resurfacing.  The Roads Department has worked with Vulcan Construction Materials, Inc. previously and is confident in their work product.  There are sufficient funds in the FY23 budget.
• Request from Department of Public Works – Recommendation to Award Bid No. 21-15, REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS – ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES – THE PRESERVE AT WYE MILLS REPLACEMENT WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT – TALBOT COUNTY, MARYLAND – Council unanimously approved the award of Bid No. 21-15 to the low bidder, RAUCH, Inc. in the amount of $83,121 conditioned upon Maryland Department of the Environment concurring with the bid award.  A total of three bids were received.  All costs will be paid for by the users of the Preserve at Wye Mills wastewater treatment plant.
• Request from Department of Public Works – Request to Submit Projects for Earmarked Funding to Senators Cardin and Van Hollen – Council unanimously approved the submittal of three projects for consideration of earmarked funding to Senators Cardin and VanHollen’s office.  The projects are:  Resolution No. 250 – Phase 1 – Septic Elimination Project (Bozman & Neavitt) – $12 million; Fairbank and Bar Neck Septic System Elimination Project – Tilghman – $2.19 million; New North Emergency Medical Services Station on MD Route 309 – $3 million
• Request from Department of Public Works – Request to Submit Projects for Grant and Loan Packages Through the Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration – Council unanimously approved the submittal of four projects to the Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration for consideration of grant and loan packages.  The projects are:  Bar Neck and Fairbank Septic System Elimination Program for 110-148 properties ($2.19 million); Replacement of the Martingham Water and Wastewater Emergency Generator – $360,000;  Region I Unionville, Tunis Mills and Copperville and Region II Royal Oak, Newcomb and Bellevue Force Main Pressure Sensors and Region II Martingham Vacuum Collection System Sensors – $800,000; Region I – Unionville, Tunis Mills and Copperville – E-1 Grinder Pump Replacement – $800,000
• Request from Department of Public Works – Bid No. 22-08, Open-Ended Architectural/Engineering Services – Recommendation to Award Architectural Design for St. Michaels Library Expansion Project to Davis, Bowen and Friedel, Inc. – Council unanimously approved the award of architectural design services for the St. Michaels Library Expansion project to Davis, Bowen & Friedel in the sum of $306,200.  The architectural design services will be paid for through a combination of County funds, grants and possible earmarks.  Additional funding will be sought in the FY24 budget.
• Request from Department of Public Works – Recommendation to Approve Amendment No. 2 to Intergovernmental Agreement for Services Between Maryland Environmental Service (MES) and Talbot County, Maryland MES ID Contract No. 2-21-4-05 – Council unanimously approved a contract amendment to the Intergovernmental Agreement with Maryland Environmental Service not to exceed $33,326.  The Department of Public Works will budget sufficient funds in FY24 to cover the amendment.
• Request from Department of Public Works – Bid No. 17-08, Open-Ended Engineering Services – Recommendation to Approve the following Change Orders with Lane Engineering – Council unanimously approved the award of the following change orders for the Royal Oak Pump Station and Sewer Extension to lots included in Resolution No. 235 as follows:

*Change Order No. 1 – Additional Project Scope (Resolution No. 235 Sewer Extension Project) – $57,245

*Change Order No. 2 – Royal Oak Pump Station No. 1 Replacement Design (Resolution No. 235 Sewer Extension Project) – $99,672

*Change Order No. 3 – Royal Oak Pump Station No. 1 Reconstruction – Construction Administration Services (Resolution No. 235 Sewer Extension Project) – not to exceed $152,500

*Change Order No. 4 – Force Main Installation – Construction Administration Services (Resolution No. 235 Sewer Extension Project) – not to exceed $127,500

Total cost is $436,897.  All engineering work will be included in the Maryland Department of the Environment Water Quality Financing Administration Loan and Loan Forgiveness closing.

• Request from Finance Office – Recommendation to Upgrade MUNIS Software Contract – Council unanimously approved the appropriation of FY23 budgeted funds to migrate the County’s MUNIS software to cloud based hosting at an annual cost of $172,651 for the next three years.

The Council’s next legislative meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.  The County Council will be meeting on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. with the Board of Education.  The meeting is open to the public and will be held in the Wye Oak Room, Talbot County Community Center, 10028 Ocean Gateway, Easton.

The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.