I have practiced law in a variety of public and private sector roles for over 30 years and have been involved in all sides of critical issues. This experience has involved working with a wide range of people, government and businesses to find practical solutions to complex problems, and the skills and experience I developed will enable me to make an immediate and effective impact as a Council member.
Talbot County needs affordable housing to attract young people and a skilled work force in the future. We must preserve currently dedicated affordable housing and work to expand the supply of housing by partnering with developers interested in and committed to building more affordable housing. We need to focus on smart growth seeking set asides for affordable housing as well as incentives for redevelopment of distressed properties.
Create partnerships with public and private entities/stakeholders to support new business development and expansion of current businesses as the chief means to create future employment opportunities.
Increase support throughout the County for mental health and addiction services; Continue to support/partner with local organizations to address health care disparities; Encourage engagement/coordination amongst County departments and administrations (e.g., health department and law enforcement as well as other local organizations) to address drug abuse causes and to develop more effective and timely treatment for County residents.
1. Focus on listening to residents/stakeholders on key issues facing the County and develop practical solutions for key issues;
2. Maintain the preservation of the rural character of the County through effective land use regulation and regulation of lands and waterways in the County; and
3. Promote fiscal responsibility and transparency in County operations.
I have served 2 terms as a commissioner for the Town of St. Michaels. Graduate of Shore Leadership and the sitting president. I was a executive board member of Maryland Municipal League and Eastern Shore Association of Municipalities for 6 years, serving as president and a member of the legislative committee. Vestry member for Christ Church of St. Michaels
Foster collaborative partnerships with developers, investors, and state, federal, and local agencies to explore and implement solutions that expand attainable housing opportunities in Talbot County for working residents seeking permanent homes.
Expand vocational and technical education for students and adult learners to create a skilled, job-ready workforce that strengthens existing businesses and attracts new economic investment to Talbot County. Partner with regional organizations and state economic development offices to promote the region, secure funding, and enhance critical infrastructure.
Talbot County has reduced the number of illegal drug overdoses, but we need to combat prescription drug abuse through education, public awareness campaigns, combined with accessible treatment programs and recovery support. We need to expand and foster partnerships among public health agencies, providers, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations to provide integrated support.
Growth. We need to slow county growth until infrastructure improvements are made, the cost of improvements should not be passed on to current residents.
Climate change is a threat to our farmers, watermen, and tourism. The county should partner with agencies to assist these groups in obtaining grants for prevention/improvements to shoreline and farmland erosion.
Short-term rental program requires better enforcement, licensing, inspection and investigations into complaints and issues.
I'm a local business man and a life time resident in Talbot County. I've been serving on the council for 12 year and enjoying serving the community.
The County's job is to support municipalities on their growth and working with the economical development directors.
Working with the municipalities and the economical directors.
Working with local enforcement in the sheriffs office. Council is very engaged in local enforcement.
Safely / EMS
Economics and taxes
Looking out for the business community
For more than 15 years, I’ve worked directly with young people and families in Talbot County through coaching and mentorship. I also founded the Delmarva AYF youth football and cheer league, which now brings together communities across the Eastern Shore. Along with my professional experience in federal service and the private sector, those experiences taught me leadership, accountability, and how to bring people together to solve problems.
Affordable housing is a real challenge in Talbot County. The people who keep our community running from teachers and first responders to factory and service workers should have a fair chance to live here. The county should work with builders, nonprofits, and community partners to support responsible workforce housing while protecting the character of our towns and rural areas. while protecting the character, farmland, and quality of life that make Talbot County what it is.
Talbot County should focus on supporting small businesses, strengthening tourism, and creating opportunities for local workers to build careers here. That means encouraging responsible investment, supporting workforce development, and making sure our policies help businesses grow while protecting the character and quality of life that make Talbot County such a special place.
Drug abuse impacts families throughout Talbot County. Addressing it requires prevention, treatment, and strong community partnerships. Through years of mentoring young people, I’ve seen how guidance and opportunity can change lives. The county should continue supporting recovery services while investing in programs that help youth and families build healthier paths forward. A lot of issue can be resolved with involvement get former addicts so that we can understand patterns that lead to drugs.
My top priorities are accountability in county government, responsible economic growth that supports small businesses and local workers, and addressing workforce and affordable housing. Through years of working with young people and families in this community, I’ve seen how these issues affect everyday life. My focus is on practical solutions that keep Talbot County strong today and for the next generation.
Campaign Phone
443-786-6949
Campaign Instagram
instagram.com/frankfortalbotcountycouncil
I served as President of the Easton Town Council, where I learned how to balance a municipal budget and handle the pressures of growth. I’ve sat in the hot seat, heard from the public, and made sure our town didn’t grow faster than our roads and utilities could handle. I’m not coming in with theories; I have actual experience making the hard calls. I know how to work with a team to get things done and make sure the County stays fiscally sound for the people who live and work here.
Most of our housing belongs in our towns, not the rural county. My priority is to preserve our open countryside and farms. To help with affordability, the County could make it easier for the private sector to improve empty buildings and vacant lots in areas where roads and power already exist. This approach can provide homes for workers and seniors in the right places, while protecting our rural character and keeping the cost of new infrastructure off the taxpayers' backs.
A strong economy starts with low taxes and a simple plan. Updating our rules could make them streamlined and predictable, giving business owners the certainty they need to invest. By making it easier for the private sector to fix up empty shops already supported by existing infrastructure, we can grow without building over our open fields. Cutting the red tape that slows down our small businesses can keep Talbot affordable and help our community succeed right here at home.
Addressing drug abuse requires a two-sided approach. First, we must provide the Sheriff and local police the specialized resources and coordination they need to keep illegal drugs out of our neighborhoods. Second, the County can work with local groups to make sure help is available for those who want to get clean. By focusing on both strong enforcement and better access to recovery, we can protect everyone and keep our community safe.
1. Public Safety: Funding for our Sheriff's Office and first responders is essential. I will prioritize these core services to ensure a well-equipped, effective team protects our entire community.
2. Investing in Education: I will work to ensure school funding is prioritized for the classroom and focused on results for our children and teachers.
3. Taxpayer Accountability: I will work to eliminate waste and reduce the tax burden on our working families, seniors, and employers.
Campaign Twitter
Pete Lesher
Campaign Phone
4104435440
I have served two terms on County Council, 5 of those years as Vice President and have gained a deep knowledge of and appreciation for Talbot County’s people, resources, and government procedures, budget, and relationships. I’ve served on Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s staff 35 years and volunteered for local various nonprofits including Scout Troop 190, Talbot County Free Library, and Upper Shore Aging.
Affordable housing is a growing challenge. County government can create a fund to offset impact fees for new housing that meets affordability guidelines. It can potentially make county-owned land available where infrastructure is adequate to support new housing.
Council will need to support implementation of Talbot County’s Economic Development and Tourism Strategic Plan, which emphasizes quality of life, economic dynamism, access to natural resources, entrepreneurship, and balanced growth. We need to defend the vitality of agriculture and leverage the new regional medical center. We should continue to empower new entrepreneurs in our community by funding Talbot's Business Academy.
Beyond supporting existing programs like DARE, Council needs to strategically allocate funds from cannabis taxes and opioid settlements with a balance between prevention and treatment. Community resources need to be coordinated by the county—schools, the health department, emergency services, law enforcement, the detention center, and nonprofit partners.
First, preserve the rural character of Talbot County that makes this a great place to live, work, and visit. Second, continue initiatives to protect water quality by improving stormwater management, upgrading sewer systems, and extending sewer to rural areas with failing septics. Third, to lead by example by treating other leaders and members of the public with respect and further improve government transparency.
Campaign Phone
(410)463-4320
My background as a business owner, contractor and property manager has given me hands-on experience managing budgets, overseeing projects, and making practical decisions. Combined with my education in criminal justice law enforcement administration and experience in emergency management, I understand public safety, preparedness, and accountability. As a lifelong Talbot County resident, I’m committed to serving our community with integrity.
Talbot County should take a balanced approach to increasing the supply of affordable housing by encouraging responsible, well-planned development that includes affordable housing options, while reducing unnecessary regulatory barriers that drive up the costs. We should partner with the private sector, support workforce housing initiatives, and ensure growth aligns with our infrastructure, promoting both affordability and the character of our communities.
Talbot County should encourage job growth by supporting small businesses, streamlining permitting, and attracting responsible development that aligns with our community’s character. We must invest in workforce development, strengthen partnerships with local schools and trades, and maintain a business-friendly, fiscally responsible environment that creates opportunities at all economic levels while protecting our quality of life.
Talbot County must take a proactive approach: support our Sheriff and the Narcotics Task Force in cracking down on drug traffickers and dealers, with a primary focus on Fentanyl. Expand access to treatment and mental health services, and invest in prevention for our youth, especially in our schools. We should strengthen recovery support, promote personal responsibility, and ensure residents have the resources needed to keep our communities educated, aware and most of all, safe.
My priorities for Talbot County are improving our schools, strengthening our economy, and ensuring responsible infrastructure planning. We must support quality education, support small business owners, farmers, watermen. They are the foundation of Talbot County's economy. We must responsibly plan for roads and services that support our communities growth while protecting our rural character, and using taxpayer dollars wisely.
Campaign Phone
4103100613
My legal and mediation background trained me to analyze complex issues, listen carefully to differing perspectives, and reach practical solutions. During my first term on the Talbot County Council, I focused on keeping taxes low, responsible land-use planning, careful review of legislation, and protecting taxpayers from the long-term costs of poorly planned growth and infrastructure decisions.
The county should encourage housing that meets the needs of local workers, seniors, and young families while preserving community character and property rights. Housing policy should be coordinated with infrastructure capacity, transportation, and public services so growth occurs responsibly and does not overtax and burden our citizens.
County government should support small businesses, agriculture, watermen, and local entrepreneurs by maintaining predictable land-use policies and investing in infrastructure that supports economic activity. Responsible growth, workforce development, and a stable regulatory environment that fosters job growth while preserving the natural resources and character that attract businesses and residents to our beautiful Talbot County.
Addressing drug abuse requires strong partnerships among law enforcement, public health agencies, schools, and community organizations. The county should support prevention programs, expand access to treatment and recovery services, and continue working with law enforcement and regional partners to reduce the supply of illegal drugs entering our communities.
My priorities are protecting taxpayers through careful fiscal management, responsible growth and land-use planning, and preserving the quality of life that makes Talbot County special. With the knowledge that comes from experience on the Council, I understand the long-term impact of these decisions and how it will impact our Talbot County citizens and will continue focusing on financial oversight, and a responsive local government.
As a commissioned U.S. Foreign Service Officer — who reached flag-officer equivalent rank— I spent 32 years managing complex organizations, building coalitions, and solving hard problems. For the past 10 years, I served as the Deputy Chief of the Mission in Venezuela and the senior-most Political Officer at the U.S. Missions in Canada and Mexico. Talbot County deserves that same experienced, disciplined leadership. Diplomacy is a contact sport, so too grassroots politics; get in direct contact.
Talbot County's workforce — teachers, first responders, healthcare workers — need to be able to afford to live here. The county should put in place the proper frameworks and process as well as partner with developers to incentivize mixed-income housing, streamline permitting for workforce units, and explore inclusionary zoning. Good jobs and good communities require housing people can actually afford.
Talbot has real assets — the Bay, our heritage, proximity to major metros — but we need a diversified economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top. I support expanding broadband access to rural areas, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, and attracting employers who offer living wages. Smart growth protects our character while creating opportunity.
Drug abuse tears families apart and strains public safety. The county must invest in prevention, expand access to treatment and recovery services, and strengthen coordination among health, law enforcement, and social services. As someone who has managed crises professionally, I know that effective responses require sustained effort, adequate resources, and genuine compassion — not just tough talk.
First, fiscal responsibility — protecting taxpayers while funding essential services like public safety. Second, smart growth — balancing development with preservation of Talbot's rural character and environment. Third, workforce needs — housing, broadband, and economic opportunity so the people who make this county run can afford to live and thrive here.
Campaign Phone
410-299-2111
Serving as a current Talbot County Councilman since 2022 will undoubtedly be my best preparation and experience for the position. I’ve had a successful 27-year sales and management career in wireless telecommunications and have also been a proud small business owner in Maryland for 23 years. I’ve served on numerous boards and committees in Talbot County for over 16 years with a particular passion for serving our youth, as they are our next generation of community leaders.
Affordable housing is a numerical value that has a different meaning to everyone. Housing and growth in Talbot County should follow our Comprehensive Plan so that we can maintain and protect the rural character that we all love. Any sizable increase in housing supply, no matter the affordability level, should be considered in the Comprehensive Plan's designated growth areas. Talbot County’s municipalities also play a crucial role in this process.
Talbot county is a great place to live, work, and play and is already home to almost 1,500 wonderful small businesses. Talbot County should simply continue to make it easy for businesses to operate in the county. Keeping Talbot County property and income taxes low is paramount to not just our citizens, but our businesses too and I will continue to introduce and support fiscally-responsible legislation that does just that.
As the Talbot County Council liaison to the Local Drug and Alcohol Abuse Council, I see these problems first hand. We need to fully support our law enforcement and first responder community as they are our first line of defense in regards to this epidemic. The other piece of the puzzle is ensuring that all of our relative community partners are known, utilized, and working together to properly address both the intervention and treatment aspects.
My top 3 issues that I will continue to prioritize will be protecting our citizen’s God-given rights and freedoms, keeping Talbot County the fiscally-responsibility county that it already is by keeping taxes low and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, and consistently staying God-focused while bringing Talbot County together as a community.
Campaign Twitter
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Campaign Phone
4109244639
Campaign Instagram
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Being born and raised in Talbot County drives home the importance of maintaining our commitment to preserving our Eastern Shore lifestyle while balancing the need for sustainable, controlled growth. Being "from here" keeps me in touch with the people and their concerns . My experience in the US Air Force taught drive, integrity, transparency, and determination while promoting actionable problem solving skills. My work in manufacturing helps in finding practical cost savings wherever possible.
Providing affordable housing has to be a balance between land owners rights, zoning proposals, and constituents wishes. Adhering to the comprehensive plan helps keep growth controlled. Zoning for apartments and townhomes can help reduce the cost basis for housing, but creates density and population growth. Developers need to have affordable housing as part of their development plans. A main reason our young people leave our county is the lack of affordable housing.
Another main reason our young people leave our county is lack of good paying jobs. By working with The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism to develop effective strategic plans and provide necessary funding, we can help the manufacturing and technology sectors decide to make Talbot County their home. These two sectors provide better paying jobs for our younger generations and help grow our tax base which will help county funding.
The county needs to assure adequate resources for programs and services necessary to help our addicted citizens move past this troubling time of their life. Our law enforcement and judiciary need to have a zero tolerance for distributors of these illegal narcotics and enforce the laws accordingly. I am not a fan of the liberal cannabis laws nor lack of enforcement regarding the same. Not enforcing the laws gives the impression the laws really don't matter.
In no particular order:
We as a county are failing our youth with our education system. We must ensure the money spent shows a solid return on investment.
Traffic(Safety) and transportation. Our county is a train wreck regarding traffic and roadway infrastructure. We need to work with our local and state partners to help alleviate traffic congestion.
Economic growth and affordable housing go hand in hand. Better paying jobs mean a higher threshold for affordable housing.
