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).

Presentation by the Honorable Stephen H. Kehoe, Judge, Circuit Court for Talbot County – Judge Kehoe congratulated the County Council members on their election and stated he looked forward to working with them over the next four years.  Judge Kehoe briefed Council on the purpose of the Circuit Court and invited the members to visit the Court.

Update from Talbot County Department of Emergency Services and Talbot County Paramedic Foundation on the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program – Wayne Dyott, President, Talbot County Paramedic Foundation; Bill Wilson, Board Member and Chair of AED Program, Talbot County Paramedic Foundation; Brian LeCates, Director, Talbot County Department of Emergency Services – Director LeCates briefed Council on the County’s AED public access program that has been in place since 2000.  There are over 220 AEDs placed throughout the County in both public and private organizations and businesses.  Director LeCates noted since the inception of the program, there have been multiple “saves”.  He thanked Talbot County Paramedic Foundation for their partnership in developing a grant program to replace AEDs as units come to their end-of-life cycle.  Mr. Dyott noted that the County’s Public Access Defibrillator program is nationally recognized and in 2001 was given an award by the International Association of Fire Chiefs.  In continuing their partnership with Talbot County Department of Emergency Services, SaveStations AED cabinets are being placed in parks throughout the County including North Easton Park and Idlewild Park.  The SaveStations are lighted, heated, ventilated and fully-monitored and are part of the first gold standard project for the Paramedic Foundation meaning that there is a three-minute response from the time of the cardiac event to accessing the AED device.  Each SaveStation cabinet costs approximately $5,500.  Mr. Dyott thanked Team Trace Foundation from Wye Mills for their partnership in fundraising for the program to offset costs and thanked the Town of Easton, Easton Utilities and Gunther’s Electric for their assistance installing the SaveStation cabinets.

County Manager’s Report –

• Board and Committee Appointments

Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of County Council liaisons to the following boards and committees:

o   Airport Board – Chuck Callahan

o   Board of Education liaison – Chuck Callahan

o   Commission on Aging – Lynn Mielke

o   Economic Development Commission – Chuck Callahan

o   Emergency Services Advisory Board – Dave Stepp

o   Golf Board – Lynn Mielke

o   Talbot County Free Library Board – Pete Lesher

o   Local Emergency Planning Commission – Dave Stepp

o   Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Legislative Committee – Keasha Haythe (primary member); Lynn Mielke (alternate member)

o   Mid-Shore Regional Council – Chuck Callahan and Lynn Mielke

o   Neighborhood Service Center Board of Directors – Keasha Haythe

o   Parks and Recreation Advisory Board – Dave Stepp

o   Public Works Advisory Board – Pete Lesher

o   Talbot County Social Services Board of Directors – Pete Lesher

o   Talbot Arts Council – Pete Lesher

o   Talbot County Chamber of Commerce – Government and Regulatory Workgroup – Keasha Haythe

o   Talbot Family Network Board of Directors – Chuck Callahan

o   Tourism Board – Keasha Haythe

o   Upper Shore Aging, Inc. Board of Directors – Pete Lesher

o   Weed Control Committee – Dave Stepp

Upon motion by Mr. Lesher, seconded by Ms. Haythe, the appointments were unanimously approved by Council.

• Request from Department of Public Works to Purchase Septic Tank Effluent Pump (STEP) Systems for the Region II (St. Michaels) Wastewater System and E/One Grinder Pumps for the Region I (St. (Unionville, Tunis Mills, Copperville) Wastewater System – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Public Works for the purchase of eight (8) replacement E-One grinder pumps from Freemire and Associates in the sum of $25,639.20.  The cost will be charged to the Unionville/Tunis Mills/Copperville operating budget.  Additionally, Council approved the purchase of ten (10) Orenco STEP units in the sum of $68,679.44.  The cost will be charged to the St. Michaels Asset budget.
• Request from Department of Public Works – Recommendation to Award Contract for Expansion of Spray Irrigation Field for The Preserve at Wye Mills Wastewater Treatment Plant – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Public Works to award the spray irrigation work to Sussex Irrigation in the sum of $27,762.68.  The cost will be charged to Preserve at Wye Mills Contractual Services line item.
• Request for Letter of Support for University of Maryland Shore Regional Health’s Certificate of Need (CON) Application to the Maryland Health Care Commission for the Regional Medical Center project – Council unanimously approved submitting a letter of support.
• Request for Mid-Year Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for County Employees – By a vote of 4-0-1, with Mr. Stepp abstaining, the Council approved a 2% mid-year COLA for County employees in the amount of $264,545.  Mr. Stamp explained that due to inflationary pressures and similar COLA adjustments being made by the State of Maryland and Queen Anne’s and Caroline counties, he is recommending the mid-year adjustment to recruit and retain County staff.  There are sufficient funds in the FY23 budget.

The Council’s next legislative meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.  The County Council will be meeting on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. with the local delegation to discuss the upcoming state legislative session and at 4:00 p.m. with Dr. Clifford Coppersmith, President, Chesapeake College for an orientation.  Both meetings are open to the public and will be held in the Bradley Meeting Room.

The meeting adjourned at 6:45 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 – American Education Week – November 14-18, 2022 – The Council presented a proclamation to Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Superintendent, Talbot County Public Schools, for American Education Week – November 14-18, 2022.  The proclamation noted that public education has long been the backbone of our democracy and that since its founding in 1921, the designation of American Education Week has sought to raise public awareness of the importance of education, the accomplishments and needs of public schools and to secure the cooperation and support of the public to meet those needs.  The Council encouraged all citizens to recognize and encourage those involved in the field of education for their invaluable contributions.

Update by Easton Airport – Micah Risher, Manager, Easton Airport; Jack Pettit, President, Talbot County Airport Board – Mr. Risher provided an update on Easton Airport and stated that the self-sustaining enterprise remains strong with many airport businesses growing and expanding.  Aircraft operations have returned to pre-pandemic levels and fuel sales continue to trend higher with the sale of both Jet-A and Avgas up by over 30%.  The Runway Improvement Project has begun and will be designed over the next nine months.  Additionally, community engagement events continue, with Mr. Risher highlighting the success of Easton Airport Day held on October 8, 2022 which approximately 5,000 people attended.  Furthermore, the Aviation Career Education (ACE) program and Walk and Talk program continues.  Since FY2019, the Airport has increased annual revenue by over $149,000 through business expansion.  In closing, Mr. Risher requested a letter of support from the Council for the Airport to participate in the annual Deer Cooperator Program issued through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.  The letter of support was unanimously approved by the Council.

The Council’s next legislative meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.

The meeting adjourned at 3:35 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).

Council members Callahan, Divilio, Pack, and Price were in attendance. Council member Lesherwas absent.

Presentation on Frederick Douglass Day Project – Autumn Redman, Student, Easton High School – Ms. Redman, a student member of the Frederick Douglass Honor Society and student at Easton High School, presented on her service project for her Girl Scout Gold Award.  The Frederick Douglass Geocaching Walking Tour of Easton project will be launched on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in coordination with Frederick Douglass Day events hosted by the Frederick Douglass Honor Society.  The walking tour trail will include six geocaching locations in Talbot County for people to learn more about Talbot’s native son.  Additionally, Ms. Redman has created a Frederick Douglass mosaic which will be incorporated as a community art piece as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project.

Presentation by Brookletts Place, The Talbot County Senior Center – Childlene Brooks, Manager, Brookletts Place – Ms. Brooks and Ann DeMart, Manager, Bay Hundred Senior Center, provided an update on various programs being offered throughout the month of September at both Brookletts Place and the Bay Hundred Senior Center to improve the lives of senior citizens in Talbot County.  Ms. Brooks stated that the National Council on Aging has proclaimed September as National Senior Center Month with this year’s theme being strengthening community connections.  A community panel discussion entitled “Getting Back Out There – How to Re-Engage After the Pandemic” will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 29 at Brookletts Place, 400 Brookletts Avenue in Easton.  The presentation will explore elder abuse and social isolation, as well as how to re-engage seniors as a result of the pandemic. Ms. Brooks stated, “Thank you Council. We are so grateful for all you have done to support our efforts.”

Proclamation – National Senior Center Month – September 2022 – The Council presented a proclamation to Childlene Brooks, Manager, Brookletts Place and Ann DeMart, Manager, Bay Hundred Senior Center for National Senior Center Month – September 2022.  The proclamation noted senior centers act as catalysts for mobilizing the creativity, energy, vitality, and commitment of older residents of our communities through a wide array of programs, services and activities, and called upon residents to recognize the tremendous contributions senior centers make toward the betterment of our communities by strengthening community connections.

Update to Talbot County Board of Health – Maria Maguire, M.D., MPP, FAAP, Talbot County Health Officer – Dr. Maguire provided an update to the Board of Health noting that September is Emergency Preparedness Month and urged citizens to visit www.ready.gov/plan for guidance on preparing an emergency kit.  Dr. Maguire also provided an overview of the Monkeypox virus, its symptoms and prevention strategies, and noted that the current risk of Monkeypox virus in our community is low with no cases reported in Talbot County. She noted that bivalent boosters for COVID are available for people ages 12 and older and stated that boosters are available through the Talbot County Health Department Vaccine Center located at 102 Marlboro Avenue, Easton (410-819-5641) or through local pharmacies (Giant, Hill’s, Pemberton and Walgreens).  Dr. Maguire provided a briefing on school health and stated that a full-time registered nurse is present in seven TCPS buildings with 46,492 health office visits made by students during the 2021-2022 academic year.  She encouraged all citizens to keep up to date with vaccines as data indicates that nationally, children fell behind on preventative care over the past few years. A mobile testing unit is available through the Health Department and has been working closely with the Talbot County Department of Corrections on providing HIV and Hepatitis C screening to all inmates. Dr. Maguire noted there has been a significant increase in behavioral health crisis response and public behavioral health system utilization over the past few years which has been exacerbated by ongoing provider shortages and recent clinic closures.  Dr. Maguire is monitoring this closely with behavioral health providers and the Mental Health Workgroup.  Dr. Maguire noted upcoming events:  November 1 – December 15 Maryland Health Connection enrollment available; Saturday, October 8 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Rabies drive-thru clinic at Talbot County Government Building, 215 Bay Street in Easton at a cost of $6/animal.  In closing, Dr. Maguire encouraged everyone to get their flu vaccine.

Introduction of Administrative Resolution:

A Resolution of Talbot County, Maryland (the “County”), authorizing the issuance and sale of general obligation bondS in a principal amount not exceeding TWENTY FOUR MILLION NINE HUNDRED THOUSAND Dollars ($24,900,000) pursuant to the authority of Bill No. 1522 enacted by the County Council of Talbot County on JULY 26, 2022 (the “Public Local Law”),Section 10-203 of the Local Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland (2013 Replacement Volume, AS AMENDED) (the “Enabling Act”) AND SECTION 623 OF THE CHARTER OF TALBOT COUNTY, MARYLAND (THE “CHARTER”), the bondS, to be designated “Talbot County public improvement bonds, series 2022”, the net proceeds of the sale thereof to be used and applied for the public purpose of financing or refinancing THE PLANNING, DESIGN, ACQUISITION, RENOVATION, CONSTRUCTION AND/OR FURNISHING OF A TALBOT COUNTY PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDING AND A TALBOT COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT; prescribing the form and tenor of the bonds and the terms and conditions for the issuance and sale THEREOF AT PRIVATE OR PUBLIC SALE, INCLUDING THE FORM OF THE NOTICE OF SALE; PRESCRIBING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE BONDS AND ALL OTHER DETAILS INCIDENT TO THE ISSUANCE, SALE AND DELIVERY OF THE BONDS; PROVIDING FOR THE DISBURSEMENT OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE BONDS; AUTHORIZING THE PREPARATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF A PRELIMINARY AND FINAL OFFICIAL STATEMENT IN CONNECTION WITH THE SALE OF THE BONDS; PROVIDING FOR THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ANY TAXES NECESSARY FOR THE PROMPT PAYMENT OF THE MATURING PRINCIPAL OF AND INTEREST ON THE BONDS, AND PROVIDING THAT THE FULL FAITH AND CREDIT AND TAXING POWER OF TALBOT COUNTY, MARYLAND SHALL BE PLEDGED TO THE PAYMENT OF SUCH PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST, SUBJECT TO THE LIMITATION ON THE TAX LEVY SET OUT IN SECTION 614 OF THE CHARTER OF TALBOT COUNTY; AND GENERALLY RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE, SALE, DELIVERY AND PAYMENT OF THE BONDS was introduced and unanimously approved by all Council members present.  Martha Sparks, Finance Director, and Angela Lane, consultant for Talbot County Finance Office, stated that this is the final piece of legislation in order for the County to sell bonds for the public safety complex and health department projects.  Bonds will be sold on Thursday, September 29, 2022.

Introduction of Numbered Resolutions:

A RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE TALBOT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE WATER AND SEWER PLAN FOR THE PURPOSE OF RECLASSIFYING AND REMAPPING CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4480 BACHELORS POINT ROAD, OXFORD, MARYLAND, SHOWN ON TAX MAP 53 AS PARCEL 77, FROM “W-2” AND “S-2” TO “W-1” AND “S-1” IMMEDIATE PRIORITY STATUS FOR WATER AND SEWER SERVICE FROM THE OXFORD WATER AND WASTEWATER SYSTEM was read into the record. Resolution No. 335 was introduced by President Callahanand Council members Divilio, Pack and Price. The public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.

A RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE TALBOT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE WATER AND SEWER PLAN FOR THE PURPOSE OF  ADDING OR MODIFYING THE TALBOT COUNTY CAPITAL PROJECT FOR FISCAL YEARS 2023 AND 2024 TO ADD A NEW CAPITAL PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $4.718 MILLION FOR WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE TOWN OF OXFORD was read into the record. Resolution No. 336 was introduced by President Callahan and Council members Divilio, Pack and Price. The public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.

Public Hearings:

A public hearing was held on Resolution No. 333, A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AMENDED RULES OF PROCEDURE OF THE TALBOT COUNTY BOARD OF APPEALS.  Resolution No. 333 will be scheduled for a vote on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. The public record will remain open until September 23, 2022.

A public hearing was held on Resolution No. 334, A RESOLUTION TO AMEND RESOLUTION NO. 175, A RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH SEWER SERVICE CONNECTION POLICIES FROM THE UNIONVILLE, TUNIS MILLS, AND COPPERVILLE SEWER SERVICE AREA LOW-PRESSURE FORCE MAIN COLLECTION SYSTEM TO THE ROYAL OAK PUMP STATION, FOR THE PURPOSE OF EXEMPTING COUNTY GOVERNMENTAL USES AND SERVICES FROM THE PROVISIONS THEREOF, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN CONDITIONS.  Council member Pack made a motion that Resolution No. 334 be forwarded to both the Planning Commission and the Public Works Advisory Board for a review and recommendation.  Council member Price seconded the motion which was unanimously approved by the Council.  Resolution No. 334 will be brought back before the Council on October 11, 2022.  The public record will remain open until September 23, 2022.

A public hearing was held on Bill No. 1523, A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE TALBOT COUNTY CODE (ZONING, SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT) TO ADD A DEFINITION OF “COUNTRY CLUB” AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXPANSION AND MAJOR MODIFICATION OF A NONCONFORMING COUNTRY CLUB IN THE RESOURCE CONSERVATION (RC) DISTRICT. Bill No. 1523 will be scheduled for a vote on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. The public record will remain open until September 23, 2022.

A public hearing was held on Bill No. 1524, A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE TALBOT COUNTY CODE (ZONING, SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT) REGARDING SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

and

Amendment

At the conclusion of the public hearing Council member Price proposed an amendment to Bill No. 1524 to include wording under §190-32.4.D.1.b. “Large-scale SES proposed to be sited on a parcel of real property greater than 100 acres shall not occupy more than ten percent of the parcel’s acreage”.  The amendment (known as Amendment 2) was seconded by Council member Pack and introduced by President Callahan and Council members Pack and Price.  Council member Pack made a motion that Amendment 2 be forwarded to the Planning Commission a review and recommendation.  Bill No. 1524 and Amendments 1 and 2 will be brought back before the Council on October 11, 2022.  The public record will remain open until September 23, 2022.  Bill No. 1524 expires on October 13, 2022.

A public hearing was held on Bill No. 1525, A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE TALBOT COUNTY CODE (ZONING, SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT) REGARDING THE EXPANSION OF STRUCTURES UTILIZED FOR NONCONFORMING USES, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN CONDITIONS. Bill No. 1525 will be scheduled for a vote on Tuesday, September 27, 2022. The public record will remain open until September 23, 2022.  Bill No. 1525 expires on October 27, 2022.

Presentation of FY23 Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) Easement Applications, Anne Roane, Planner III, Talbot County Department of Planning & Zoning – Ms. Roane presented on the FY23 Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) easement applications and noted that there were 28 applications submitted with 14 applications being approved for easement purchase consideration to be submitted to the State for final approval.  The proposed ranking list of applications has been reviewed and approved by the Talbot County Agricultural Land Preservation Advisory Board and the Planning Commission.  Council concurred with the ranking list as presented upon motion by Council member Divilio, seconded by Council member Pack and unanimous approval by Council.

Presentation of Talbot County Hazard Mitigation and Community Resilience Plan – Geneva Schaffle, Emergency Management Coordinator; Brian LeCates, Director, Talbot County Department of Emergency Services – Ms. Schaffle presented an update on the County’s Hazard Mitigation and Community Resilience Plan which was last updated in 2017.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) requires hazard mitigation plans to be updated every five years.  Talbot County’s Plan has been developed over the past two years and includes the following components:  Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment; profiles of county, towns, environment, and critical infrastructure; capabilities assessment; development of action items/projects; implementation and community pillars (health, safety, welfare; economic stability; education; infrastructure; environmental).  The Plan incorporates all five municipalities (Easton, Oxford, Queen Anne, St. Michaels and Trappe) and has been approved by all five elected bodies FEMA and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management also approved the Plan, pending its adoption by the Council.  A copy of the plan can be viewed at www.talbothazardplan.org.

Introduction of Administrative Resolution:

AN ADMINISTRATIVE RESOLUTION TO ADOPT THE HAZARD MITIGATION AND COMMUNITY RESILIENCE PLAN FOR TALBOT COUNTY, MARYLAND was introduced and unanimously approved by all Council members.  .

Council Consideration of Public Works Agreement By and Between The Preserve at Wye Mills Property Owners Association, Inc., and Talbot County, Maryland – Patrick Thomas, County Attorney and Ray Clarke, County Engineer provided an update on the Public Works Agreement by and between the County and The Preserve at Wye Mills Property Owners Association, Inc. for the purpose of the County acquiring The Preserve at Wye Mills’ wastewater treatment plant and assume operations.  This is consistent with the Council’s action to adopt Resolution No. 326. The agreement was approved upon motion by Council member Divilio, seconded by Council member Pack and unanimous consent by Council.

County Manager’s Report:

• Request from Department of Emergency Services to Utilize FY2023 Budgeted Funds to Purchase a 2023 Horton Ambulance with Ford F-550 Chassis – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Emergency Services to purchase one 2023 Horton ambulance on a Ford F-550 chassis from Fesco Emergency Sales utilizing the HGAC Cooperative Purchasing Agreement in the sum of $298,560. There are sufficient funds in the FY23 budget for the purchase.
• Request from Department of Emergency Services to Enter Into a Contract for Development of a Request for Proposals for the 9-1-1 Division’s Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System Utilizing FY2023 Budgeted Funds – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Emergency Services to contract with Mission Critical Partners (MCP) for the development of a request for proposal for replacement of the 9-1-1 Division’s Computed Aided Dispatch system in the sum of $137,430. Talbot County would be utilizing the HGAC Cooperative Purchasing Agreement to procure services.  MCP is currently assisting all nine counties on the Eastern Shore with migration to Next Generation 9-1-1.  There are sufficient funds in the FY23 budget for the purchase.
• Request from Department of Emergency Services to Enter into Contract for Services for Increased Reimbursement for Transport of Medicaid Patients – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Emergency Services to procure services from Public Consulting Group (PCG) to assist Emergency Services with data collection for submission to the State of Maryland’s Emergency Service Transporter Supplemental Payment Program. This program will allow Talbot County to submit a request for supplemental funding for all transported patients insured by Medicaid.  PCG will bill Talbot County for 12% of received reimbursements.  Talbot County would be joining with other counties to utilize an existing contract from Palm Beach County, FL.  County Manager Stamp noted that several Maryland counties are utilizing PCG for this service.

The Council’s next legislative meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 27, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.

The meeting adjourned at 9:55p.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).

All Council members were in attendance

Presentation of Chesapeake College’s FY23 Revised Budget Request – Dr. Cliff Coppersmith, President, Chesapeake College; Karen Smith, Vice President for Administrative Services, Chesapeake College – Dr. Coppersmith requested Council approval for Chesapeake College’s FY23 revised budget.  The College received an additional $1,295,019 in state funding and will be partially using the additional funds for an additional salary increase to full-time employees of 3% which brings the total increase for employees to 5% for FY2023.   A top priority in the revised budget is to also to fund the recommendations from the compensation study completed in FY 2022. Other additional funding resources will be allocated to enrollment growth/retention/student success efforts and college academic programs. Two fund balance requests were made, one in the amount of $50,000 to retain consultants for the Queen Anne Technical Building Program Statement for drafting the program statement required by the State for consideration for future capital projects and the amount of $50,000 for a new Human Resources Tracking System Software Program and Implementation.  There are no additional County funds needed and the other four supporting counties (Caroline, Dorchester, Kent and Queen Anne’s) have approved the FY23 revised budget.  Council unanimously approved the request.  In closing, Dr. Coppersmith noted that student headcount enrollment this year is up by 4% from the fall of 2021.

Introduction of Administrative Resolution:

ADMINISTRATIVE RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE FREDERICK DOUGLASS PARK ON THE TUCKAHOE COMMITTEE was introduced and unanimously approved by all Council members.  County Attorney Patrick Thomas noted the Administrative Resolution formally establishes an on-going committee that would serve as a liaison between entities fundraising for the park and the Council.  Council member Pack noted, “It will take some time for the completion of this park and since the County cannot fundraise, this committee would work with the fundraising entity to report back to Council on the progress of fundraising and construction.”

Introduction of Numbered Resolution:

A RESOLUTION TO AMEND RESOLUTION NO. 175, A RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH SEWER SERVICE CONNECTION POLICIES FROM THE UNIONVILLE, TUNIS MILLS, AND COPPERVILLE SEWER SERVICE AREA LOW-PRESSURE FORCE MAIN COLLECTION SYSTEM TO THE ROYAL OAK PUMP STATION, FOR THE PURPOSE OF EXEMPTING COUNTY GOVERNMENTAL USES AND SERVICES FROM THE PROVISIONS THEREOF, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN CONDITIONS was introduced as Resolution No. 334 by Council members Divilio, Pack and Price.  The public hearing will be held on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 6:30 p.m.  County Engineer Ray Clarke explained that this is a policy resolution and not part of the County’s Comprehensive Plan. If approved, Resolution No. 334 would establish policy for the force main between the Royal Oak Pump Station and the Unionville Pump Station and would allow the County to extend sewer to a County owned property, although the Resolution does not identify a specific parcel for connection.  Mr. Clarke will provide a listing of all governmental properties located along the force main for Council’s review.

Introduction of Legislation:

A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE TALBOT COUNTY CODE (ZONING, SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT) REGARDING THE EXPANSION OF STRUCTURES UTILIZED FOR NONCONFORMING USES, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN CONDITIONS was introduced as Bill No. 1525 by all Council members.  The public hearing will be held on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. Brennan Tarleton, Acting Planning Officer, and Bryce Yelton, Planner II, explained the legislation is the result of a text amendment application and would allow the expansion of certain nonconforming uses by an additional 3,000 square feet; provided, however, under no circumstances shall any increase exceed 100% of the gross floor area of the nonconforming use.  Approval from the Board of Appeals would still be required.

Introduction of Amendment to Bill No. 1524, A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE TALBOT COUNTY CODE (ZONING, SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT) REGARDING SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS.  Vice President Lesher proposed the amendment which was introduced by Council members Callahan, Divilio, Lesher and Price.  The amendment will be heard along with Bill No. 1524 at the public hearing scheduled for Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. Vice President Lesher explained the amendment would provide for the “incorporation and use of the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation (MALPF) scoring system in identifying the most appropriate location for solar energy systems and will assist in the preservation of some of the county’s best cropland.”

Eligible for Vote:

Resolution No. 331, A RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE TALBOT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE WATER AND SEWER PLAN FOR THE PURPOSE OF RECLASSIFYING AND REMAPPING TWO PARCELS OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 29659 MATTHEWSTOWN ROAD (MARYLAND ROUTE 328), EASTON, MARYLAND, SHOWN ON TAX MAP 26 AS PARCEL 45 AND LOCATED ON CAMAC STREET, EASTON, MARYLAND, SHOWN ON TAX MAP 26 AS PARCEL 186, FROM “W-2” AND “S-2”, PLANNED WATER AND SEWER SERVICE IN 3 TO 5 YEARS, TO “W-1” AND “S-1”, IMMEDIATE PRIORITY STATUS

and

Amendment

County Attorney Patrick Thomas explained that the amendment clarifies parcel 186 parcel C consisting of 1.78 acres of land and exhibit A was updated.  County Engineer Ray Clarke noted the Planning Commission found Resolution No. 331 consistent with the County’s 2016 Comprehensive Plan and by a vote of 5-0 recommended Council approval.  The Public Works Advisory Board reviewed Resolution No. 331 and by a vote of 3-0 recommended Council approval.  Council discussion ensued.  The Council voted unanimously to approve the amendment to Resolution No. 331.  The Council approved Resolution No. 331, as amended, by a vote of 3-2 with Council members Callahan, Divilio and Lesher voting in favor and Council members Pack and Price voting against the Resolution.

Presentation of Draft Talbot County 2022 Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan – Preston Peper, Director, Talbot County Department of Parks and Recreation requested Council approval of the County’s 2022 Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation Plan which is a five-year plan.  Pending Council approval, the Plan will be submitted to the State of Maryland for review and approval.  The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board has reviewed the Plan and recommends approval.  Mr. Peper thanked Planning & Zoning staff and Mark Cohoon, GIS Manager, for their assistance with the Plan.  Mr. Peper noted the Plan includes not only County projects, but municipal parks as well. Council unanimously approved the Plan and its submittal to the State.  Council member Divilio noted, “As the Council’s liaison to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, I am constantly amazed at your hard work Mr. Peper. The County has wonderful parks, pools and playgrounds and it’s due to your leadership.”

County Manager’s Report:

Request from Department of Parks and Recreation to Award Contract for Construction of Pickleball Courts at the Talbot County Community Center Utilizing FY23 Local Parks and Playground Infrastructure (LPPI) Grant Funding – Council unanimously approved the request to award the contract for the construction of eight (8) pickleball courts at the Community Center to ATC Corporation in the amount of $370,204.50.  Talbot County will be piggybacking on the National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance contract for this project.  This project will be funded through the Local Parks and Playground Infrastructure grant issued by the State of Maryland.

Request from Department of Parks and Recreation to Award Contract for Dugouts and Playground at Talbot County Community Center and Playground at Back Creek Park Utilizing FY23 Local Parks and Playground Infrastructure (LPPI) Grant Funding – Council unanimously approved the request to award a contract to GameTime Playground Solutions in the sum of $478,709.10 for the dugouts and a playground at the Talbot County Community Center, and a playground at Back Creek Park.  Talbot County will be piggybacking on the Omnia Partners public contract for this project.  This project will be funded through the Local Parks and Playground Infrastructure grant issued by the State of Maryland.

Request to ask Local Delegation to Pre-File Correctional Officers’ Retirement System (CORS) Membership Legislation for Talbot County – Council unanimously approved the request to send a letter to the local delegation asking them to pre-file the legislation to allow Talbot County to participate in the Correctional Officers’ Retirement System.

Request from Hog Neck Golf Course to Award Contract for Installation of New HVAC Units for Pavilion Renovation Project – Council unanimously approved the award of a contract to Velocity HVAC for the installation of three (3) 5-ton heat pump systems for the pavilion at Hog Neck Golf Course in the amount of $54,789.  There are sufficient funds in the FY23 budget for this project.  Council congratulated Rich Setter, Manager, Hog Neck Golf Course, on the project which will allow year-round use of the pavilion for events.  President Callahan thanked Mr. Setter on his efforts and stated, “You have run the Golf Course well and are to be commended.”

Board and Committee Appointments

Local Emergency Planning Committee – Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of Joyce Harrod to represent the Town of St. Michaels and the appointment of Cheryl Lewis to represent the Town of Oxford on the Local Emergency Planning Committee. The request was approved unanimously by the Council.

The Council’s next legislative meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.

The meeting adjourned at 7:35 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).

Council members Callahan, Lesher, Pack, and Price were in attendance. Council member Divilio was absent.

Introduction of Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Superintendent, Talbot County Public Schools – Council welcomed Dr. Pepukayi who was appointed as Superintendent for Talbot County Public Schools effective July 1, 2022. Dr. Pepukayi grew up in Talbot County, graduated from St. Michaels High School and completed her post-secondary education at Bennett College where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education; a Master of Arts in Early and Middle Childhood Education from Ohio State University; and a Doctor of Education in Innovation and Leadership from Wilmington University. During her time in Delaware, Dr. Pepukayi worked as both a teacher and administrator. Dr. Pepukayi said during her first thirty days she has been on a listening and learning tour of the county, meeting with various individuals and organizations. She said she has especially enjoyed meeting with Talbot County Public Schools students. Councilman Pack stated, “Congratulations on your appointment and welcome back home”.

Introduction of Numbered Resolution:

A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AMENDED RULES OF PROCEDURE OF THE TALBOT COUNTY BOARD OF APPEALS

Resolution No. 333 was introduced by President Callahan, Vice President Lesher, and Council members Pack and Price. The public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room. Mr. Thomas noted that the Board of Appeals requested to update their rules of procedure to clarify inconsistencies. In accordance with Section 503 of the Talbot County Charter, the Council is required to approve any changes to the rules of procedure by legislative act.

Introduction of Legislation:

A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE TALBOT COUNTY CODE (ZONING, SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT) TO ADD A DEFINITION OF “COUNTRY CLUB” AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE EXPANSION AND MAJOR MODIFICATION OF A NONCONFORMING COUNTRY CLUB IN THE RESOURCE CONSERVATION (RC) DISTRICT

Bill No. 1523 was introduced by Vice President Lesher, and Council members Pack and Price. The public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room. Mr. Thomas noted that the legislation was initiated via a text amendment request submitted on behalf of the Talbot Country Club the purpose of which is to add a definition of “Country Club” in Chapter 190 and provide for expansion and major modification of a nonconforming country club in the RC district.

A BILL TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE TALBOT COUNTY CODE (ZONING, SUBDIVISION AND LAND DEVELOPMENT) REGARDING SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

Bill No. 1524 was introduced by President Callahan, Vice President Lesher, and Council members Pack and Price. The public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room. Mr. Thomas noted that the Council had adopted Resolution No. 329 in April 2022 which imposed a temporary moratorium on the processing of large scale solar energy system applications to allow the Planning Commission and staff time to analyze some proposed amendments with regard to mitigation of agricultural lands for large scale solar energy systems. Bill No. 1524 includes some of those amendments. Vice President Lesher stated, “I’d like to thank the Planning Commission and staff from Planning and Zoning for their work on this matter and bringing forward the recommendations. They did quick and thorough work and this is an important matter for the County.” Council noted there may be an amendment to Bill No. 1524 which will be proposed at the August 23, 2022 meeting so the public has an opportunity to review prior to the public hearing on September 13, 2022. Council member Price stated, “We need to remember that it is really the Maryland Public Service Commission who decides where these large scale solar arrays are situated and while we hope they will consult with the County, the Public Service Commission has all of the decision making power with regards to location.”

Presentation of Talbot County Economic Development Commission Recommendations for Funding of Talbot County Projects Through the Maryland Rural Economic Development Fund – Cassandra Vanhooser, Director, Department of Economic Development and Tourism; Reza Jafari, Chairman, Talbot County Economic Development Commission – Ms. Vanhooser provided an overview of the $50 million Governor Hogan included in his budget in February 2022 for economic development in Maryland’s rural counties. Each of the five regional counties received $10 million. The Mid-Shore Regional Council, representing Caroline, Dorchester and Talbot counties, was tasked with submitting applications for up to $10 million to the Maryland Department of Commerce. Talbot County has $3,233,333 available and received 23 applications. Ms. Vanhooser noted the guidelines from Maryland Department of Commerce state, “the Rural Maryland Economic Development funds are to be used for infrastructure projects that will support economic development activity, stimulate private investment and grow jobs in the state’s rural economy. Eligible uses include developing public infrastructure (such as utilities, transportation and broadband) to support attraction, retention or expansion of businesses as well as infrastructure projects related to specific industry sectors such as, but not limited to, manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, cyber-security and agribusiness. Funding can also be used for workforce development and stimulating entrepreneurship and innovation.” A committee comprised of 10 members of the Economic Development Commission was tasked with reviewing and ranking all 23 applications and making funding recommendations to the County Council. The following 11 projects are proposed for funding:

• $257, 500 – Chesapeake College, Future Work Workforce Training Program
• $240,000 – Maryland Broadband Cooperative, Mid-Shore Optical Broadband Network Upgrade
• $500,000 – Avalon Foundation, Stoltz Pavilion
• $501,700 – Town of Easton, Port Street Improvement Project
• $400,000 – Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center, Ag Biotech Manufacturing Project
• $22,000 – Talbot County Free Library, Digital Literacy and Employment Skills
• $87,133 – Building African American Minds, Workforce Development Program
• $50,000 – Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism, Inclusive Ventures Program
• $300,000 – Talbot County Parks and Recreation, Frederick Douglass Park on the Tuckahoe Phase II Predevelopment Engineer, Architecture, and Interpretation
• $125,000 – Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism, Strategic Plan
• $750,000 – Talbot County Public Works, Goldsborough Neck Road Culvert Replacement Project

The Council is tasked with reviewing the proposed recommendations and submitting a ranked list and letter of support to the Mid-Shore Regional Council by Friday, August 12, 2022. The Mid-Shore Regional Council will then review the projects and submit their recommendation to the Maryland Department of Commerce by September 2, 2022. Council discussion ensued about the process used in evaluating all of the grant applications as well as the funding recommendations. Following discussion, Council agreed to meet again on Thursday, August 11, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. to finalize their review and recommendation to the Mid-Shore Regional Council. “The Committee did their job, and while we may need to rearrange and tweak the recommendations, we thank them for their efforts” stated President Callahan.

County Manager’s Report:
Board and Committee Appointments:
Historic Preservation Commission – Mr. Stamp requested the reappointment of Katherine Fones to the Historic Preservation Commission. The request was approved unanimously by the Council.
Local Emergency Planning Committee – Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of Ronald Lewis to represent Shore Regional Health and Nick Greenhawk to represent Easton Utilities. Additionally, Mr. Stamp requested the reappointment of Dana Meintzer, Matthew Spence, Shannon Potter Dill, Sheriff Joe Gamble and Judy Bottorf. The request was approved unanimously by the Council.
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board – Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of Dr. Kristen Ann Lycett as the Town of St. Michaels’ representative on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. The request was approved unanimously by the Council.
Police Accountability Board and Administrative Charging Committee– Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of the following individuals to represent the Police Accountability Board from the following areas:

Chair – Mitchell Ettinger
Easton – John Gilbert
Easton – Chris Rice
Oxford – John Pepe
St. Michaels – Mike Bibb
Sheriff Patrol Area 1 – Connie Webster
Sheriff Patrol Area 3 – JoAnn Murray

The request was approved unanimously by the Council.
Mr. Stamp requested the appointment of Constance Hope and Jennifer Williams to the Administrative Charging Committee. The request was approved unanimously by the Council.
Public Works Advisory Board – Mr. Stamp requested the reappointment of Bill Anderson to the Public Works Advisory Board. The request was approved unanimously by the Council.

• Request from Department of Public Works to Award Bid No. 22-05, TALBOT COUNTY SANITARY DISTRICT – SEWER EXTENSION, COVEY AVENUE – TILGHMAN – TALBOT COUNTY, MARYLAND – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Public Works to award Bid No. 22-05 to the low bidder, Retallack & Sons, Inc. in the sum of $60,000. Following discussion at the last Council meeting, the County Engineer negotiated scope of work with Retallack & Sons, Inc. to align with available budget for project.
• Request from Department of Public Works to Award Bid No. 22-08, REQUEST FOR LETTERS OF INTEREST, ARCHITECTURAL/ENGINEERNG SERVICES FOR TALBOT COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Public Works to award Bid No. 22-08 to the six firms who submitted letters of interest in response to the bid to provide architectural/engineering services. This will allow the County to select a firm that is best suited for any given project. The firms are:
  o Century Engineering
  o Davis, Bowen and Friedel
  o Lane Engineering, LLC
  o Bignell-Watkins Architects
  o RAUCH, Inc.
  o Wallace Montgomery
• Request from Department of Public Works to Purchase 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD Truck for Use by Talbot County Sanitary District – Council unanimously approved the request from the Department of Public Works to purchase a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD with utility body and towing package from Sport Chevrolet Co., Inc. of Silver Spring, MD in the amount of $52,890 utilizing State of Maryland Blanket Purchase Order. Truck will be used by the Talbot Sanitary District and there are sufficient funds available in the FY23 budget for the purchase.

The Council’s next meeting will be held on Thursday, August 11, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. with their next legislative meeting on Tuesday, August 23, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the Bradley Meeting Room.

The meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.