Easton Employee Newsletter - May

EMPLOYEE NEWSLETTER | MAY 2024

Cover Photo by Scott Messick, IT Director

SUNNY DAYS

May is here and we are finally having some warm, sunny days. This month, we have many milestones and achievements to celebrate.

Congratulations to Clarence Gould who is celebrating an extraordinary milestone of 50 years of dedicated service to the Town. He’s made an indelible mark on our community and we’re very thankful for his many years of service.

We also celebrated the dedicated service of Mayor Willey, who was honored by the Easton Volunteer Fire Department for his years of service as a fireman and local leader. His commitment to public service serves as an inspiration to us all.

We would like to extend a heartfelt congratulations to Mr. John Horner who will be assuming the role of CEO of Easton Utilities July 1st. We are confident he will lead Easton Utilities with a vision and dedication over the next several years. At the same time, we congratulate Mr. Hugh Grunden on his upcoming retirement. His leadership and tireless effort has led Easton Utilities through years of growth, innovation and challenges. I would like to express my gratitude for his contributions and I wish him well in his retirement.

Thank you everyone for your hard work and commitment to our town. Here’s to many more milestones and moments of celebration that lie ahead.

Megan

Click HERE to see Kay’s video interview!

Employee Spotlight

KAY SPENCE | EPD EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Meet Kay Spence! Kay serves as the Executive Assistant for the Easton Police Department. Kay has worked with EPD for 37 years!

Kay works closely with Chief Lowrey and the leadership team at EPD, helping with administrative work, handling personnel files, documentation, and is responsible for all of the Police Departments financial records.

Kay loves spending time with her family, particularly her four grandchildren. She is a fan of spending time in Easton for festivals and events, such as the Waterfowl Festival (where her father used to attend as a woodcarving artist), the Festival of Trees, and shows at the Avalon.

LEADING MAN

John Horner named as incoming President and CEO of Easton Utilities

Photo courtesy of Easton Utilities

Easton Utilities has named John J. Horner, Jr. as the next President and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Hugh Grunden who retires on July 1. “John’s extensive knowledge in the energy/utility sector, strong business acumen, and exceptional leadership skills made him the ideal choice to lead Easton Utilities into the next chapter,” states W.W. “Buck” Duncan, Chairman of the Easton Utilities Commission.

In this role, Horner will provide strategic leadership for the seven diverse businesses to assure operational excellence and the safe delivery of reliable services with exceptional customer service. “I am grateful for the confidence placed in me by the Commission and the entire team at Easton Utilities and look forward to navigating the bright future together,” says Horner.

Horner understands the importance of Easton Utilities’ mission “to enhance the quality of life in our community” and plans to carry out the direction and vision already in place. Easton Utilities has an impeccable reputation based on exceptional customer satisfaction, high reliability, and competitive prices. With a constant focus on safety and environmental stewardship, the 175 employees serve more than 11,000 customers in the Town of Easton and portions of Talbot County.

Horner currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Easton Utilities. His focus has been on the oversight of daily operational activities, project management and providing leadership to the multi-disciplinary teams in the organization. He was instrumental in securing the substantial grant funding of approximately $30 million needed for the Connect Talbot project to extend broadband to all unserved residents in Talbot County. “We were committed to being a solution and I am proud of the Easton Velocity team as they continue making significant progress to ensure

everyone has access to broadband, which is needed now more than ever,” adds Horner.

“ I am grateful for the confidence placed in me by the Commission and the entire team at Easton Utilities and look forward to navigating the bright future together .

John Horner, Incoming CEO of Easton Utilities

Horner has over 30 years of industry experience. Prior to joining Easton Utilities in 2016 he was the director of northeast regional electric operations and director of distribution system operations (gas and electric) for BGE. Horner graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a Bachelor of Science in electrical and computer engineering and holds a Master of Business Administration from Loyola College.

He is a graduate of Leadership Maryland, Class of 2020, and a Shore Leadership alumnus. He has a philanthropic spirit and is very active in the community volunteering for numerous organizations over the years including the Talbot County Chamber of Commerce, Talbot Hospice, Friends of Hospice, Tidewater Rotary, and the MD/DC Utilities Association. John lives in Easton with his wife, has two children, and enjoys all the benefits the Eastern Shore has to offer.

A FRESH START

Pennrose and Housing Commission of Talbot Break Ground on Doverbrook Apartments Redevelopment

Pennrose and the Housing Commission of Talbot (HCT) today celebrated the groundbreaking of the Doverbrook Apartments redevelopment, which will replace the outdated 50-unit public housing community with 64 brand-new, energy-efficient mixed-income homes and on-site community amenities. Project partners plan to begin welcoming returning and new residents in Spring 2025.

Speakers at the groundbreaking ceremony included: Patrick Stewart, Regional Vice President, Pennrose, LLC; Don Bibb, Executive Director, Housing Commission of Talbot; Rev. Elmer Neal Davis Jr., 4th Ward Councilman, Town of Easton; Stephanie Staats, Field Office Director, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); Gregory Hare, Assistant Secretary, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development; Chuck Callahan, President, Talbot County Council; Megan Cook, Mayor,

Town of Easton; Michael DiSanto, Senior Vice President, Greater Baltimore, M&T Bank; and Kimmel Cameron, Senior Vice President, Hudson Housing Capital.

Plans for the transformational redevelopment include preserving the affordability of all 50 existing apartments at the community, with one-for-one replacement, and the addition of 14 new apartments supported by Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC). The community is 100% affordable, with apartments available at 30% to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), about $21,700 to $57,900 for a one-person household.

The sustainable development will utilize various features and strategies designed to reduce energy consumption costs for residents, enhance operational sustainability, and limit the project’s overall

carbon footprint, including the use of solar panels and water-saving and energy-efficient construction techniques, fixtures, and equipment. Doverbrook Apartments will meet National Green Building Standard silver certification, ENERGY STAR certification, and will meet criteria for the Department of Energy’s Zero Energy Ready Homes (ZERH) program.

“The Housing Commission of Talbot is honored to be a part of this wonderful housing development,” said Don Bibb, executive director of the Housing Commission of Talbot. “The Doverbrook community has served residents in Easton for over 50 years, but it is time for a new chapter. The opportunity to create a public/private partnership and bring new, energy efficient, and long-term sustainable housing to Easton on the same site is a noteworthy accomplishment. We wish to thank all of the partners that have helped along the way.”

“We are excited to work closely with HCT, current residents, and the local community to preserve, replace, and expand access to affordable and workforce housing in an area that has been severely underserved,” said Patrick Stewart, regional vice president at Pennrose. “Today’s groundbreaking is a major step forward in welcoming future and returning residents into a new, healthy, and amenity-rich home.”

The 50 replacement units will be converted from public housing assistance to Section 8 via the Streamlined Voluntary Conversion process through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). An additional 14 project-based vouchers will be provided to the 14 new units.

The new community will include one-, two-, and three-bedroom

apartments. The unit mix of the new development is based on replacing the current bedroom mix to accommodate Doverbrook residents’ right to return and preserve deeply affordable housing in Talbot County. A relocation consultant has also been working closely with residents to ensure their specific needs are being addressed and the process complies with all of HUD’s requirements. Current Doverbrook residents will have the first right to return to the revitalized community.

The revitalization will help meet the high demand for affordable housing in the region. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, there is a shortage of more than 134,000 rental homes in Maryland. In Easton specifically, the waitlist for affordable units is up to one year long.

The $25 million project will be funded with various state and local proceeds, equity generated from competitive 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, and a loan from M&T Bank guaranteed by HUD as part of the FHA program. The project is receiving a soft loan and a seller take-back note from HCT, and a $400k from the Town of Easton ($250k Affordable Housing Fund, 150k ARPA) and a $150k ARPA fund match from Talbot County.

Pennrose has deep experience developing quality, affordable housing throughout Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic region, and has a proven track record working with the Wicomico County Housing Authority, which falls under the management of HCT. Pennrose and the Housing Authority together completed Square at Merritt Mill, a brand-new 75-unit affordable housing community in Salisbury, and Stone Grove Crossing, the $17 million redevelopment of the former Booth Street Apartments public housing community.

Photos by Sarah Kilmon, Talbot County Government

E LIPSE OVER EASTON

On April 8, a lunar eclipse took place treating skygazers across North America to a stunning and rare spectacle. While Easton, MD was not in the path of totality, we witnessed nearly 90% coverage of the moon briefly blocking out the sun.

In advance of the big event, Discover Easton was providing powerful safety glasses that were able to block out dangerous UV rays while witnessing the event. Like

many places in the area, the Visitor’s Center quickly ran out of stock in anticipation for the eclipse.

Luckily, they were able to get creative and share some resources so employees and passersby could share in the fun. One spare pair of glasses was torn in half and shared by Tim Tarrant and Trevor Newcomb of our Buildings and Facilities team. Val D’Ambrosio of Discover Easton also brought in some welding goggles (used to capture

LIPSE

EASTON

the above picture) and even fashioned some pinhole sheets to create a camera obscura projecting the eclipse’s image onto the ground.

It was an impressive event, hitting its peak around 3:20pm and causing a bit of darkness and tranquility in the area. Experts say the next event in our region will take place in August of 2044. A bit of a wait, but rest assured that the experience is like no other!

SERVICE FOR OTHERS

EVFD hosts dedication event for Mayor Willey, Jeff Parks

It was a big weekend for the Town of Easton and the Easton Volunteer Fire Dept. MD, as EVFD held a dedication ceremony for their new vehicles (Engine 63, Engine 67 and Brush 69) and the Station 60 Day Room, a recreational area for firefighters to relax and enjoy camaraderie.

This event was held on April 20, marking the 216th anniversary of the Easton Volunteer Fire Department (founded 4/20/1808).

Engine 63 was dedicated to former Mayor Bob Willey, who served as Easton’s Mayor for 20 years and is a Life Member of the Easton Volunteer Fire Department. Several members of the Willey family came out to show their support and to celebrate the dedication of the new engine.

The Station 60 Day Room was dedicated to the late Jeff Parks, a former EVFD President. Several members of the Parks family were in attendance to pay tribute to Jeff and to take part in the dedication and reveal of the new room.

Also in attendance were Mayor Megan Cook, Town Manager Don Richardson, Council President Frank Gunsallus, Ward 2 Council Member Don Abbatiello, and Ward 4 Council Member Rev. Elmer Neal Davis Jr., who gave a blessing during the dedication.

Thank you to the Easton Volunteer Fire Department for all that you do for our Town, and thank you to the Parks and Willey families for your roles in making these additions a reality for our firefighters. Congratulations EVFD, and happy 216th!

TWO OF A KIND

Dustin Otto, Rick Farr begin Shore Leadership journey

Town of Easton Construction Division Manager Dustin Otto (pictured right) and Chief Human Resource Officer Rick Farr (pictured left) began their Shore Leadership training this April — kicking off a 9-month long program designed to strengthen their leadership skills.

Dustin and Rick were selected to partake in the exclusive Shore Leadership program, which specializes in educating those in leadership roles to become stronger leaders and to better understand issues and challenges in our region.

Dustin Otto said, “I’m really happy to be selected to attend. In my career path at Public Works there’s always an opportunity to learn more, and I’m always willing to improve myself as a leader.”

Over the course of the program, they will get specialized

training on leadership techniques, tackle several challenging skill-building activities, and engage with their peers in thoughtful conversation on how to foster collaboration and solve problems.

Rick Farr added, “I am honored to have been selected to attend the Shore Leadership Program by the Town of Easton executive leadership. The leadership classes in this program will provide me with a great opportunity to connect with other leaders and professionals within the Eastern Shore of Maryland. I look forward to building a strong network with new colleagues and community leaders that will open up new opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.”

Congratulations Dustin and Rick, we know you’ll make us proud!

A VERY MERRY MILESTONE

Clarence “Smiley” Gould hits 50 years of service for the Town of Easton

Congratulations to Clarence Gould from our Public Works Department on 50 years of service with the Town of Easton!

On April 19, 1974, Clarence started his career with the Town of Easton. Since then, he has held various roles including sidewalk repair, street cleaning, and is currently working with the Bulk Truck crew.

Due to his friendly demeanor and contagious smile, Clarence has been affectionately known as “Smiley” over the years. Clarence is a true pleasure to work with, and is just as likely to bring smiles to those around him as he is to wear one himself.

When asked about his long-spanning career, Clarence said, “I enjoy it, especially being around the guys I work with.

They’re a pleasant group to be around. I try to put my heart into everything I do. I do what I can to help out. It’s always a great feeling to make residents of the Town feel happier and more comfortable where they live. I enjoy that.”

At the Town Council meeting on April 15, Clarence was given a proclamation from the Town of Easton in honor of his service. To see video of Clarence receiving the proclamation, click here: https://eastonmd. portal.civicclerk.com/event/653/media (scroll to the 42-minute mark).

Thank you for your many years of service Clarence. We are proud to have you on our team!

See page 22 for more information on a celebratory breakfast in honor of Clarence and his milestone achievement.

Talbot

County

WHAT A DAY!

Talbot County Celebrates Birthday and Announces Citizen of the Year

The front lawn of the Courthouse was abundant with purple and silver ballons and streamers, and the Courthouse donned a banner that read “Celebrate Talbot County” high above the front doorsteps. On any other Thursday, people may be making their way home from work ready to enjoy their evening–but on this April 25th, individuals instead began to gather with friends, family, and officials in down -

town Easton to celebrate Talbot Day and the birthday of Talbot County.

Under the evening sun, the County Courthouse hummed with excitement. Around 5 p.m., the crowd grew quiet and settled in quickly as Allegro Academy began to sing, creating a tapestry of sound that enveloped the audience.

Following the choir’s beautiful renditions of “In Meeting We Are Blessed” and “Connected”, the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office Color Guard provided the Presentation of the Colors and Council Member Dave Stepp offered the Prayer of Hope, invoking a sense of unity and gratitude.

Council President Chuck Callahan and Easton Mayor Megan Cook extended warm greetings to all before Council Members Keasha Haythe and Lynn Mielke introduced the nominees for the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards.

Formerly known as the “Maryland You Are Beautiful” program, the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards program aims to honor local heroes whose selfless volunteer contributions help make Talbot County a better

place to live, work, and visit. Council Member Keasha Haythe emphasized the program’s continuation as a testament to the enduring spirit of volunteerism and goodwill within the community.

“The program generated enormous state pride, and fostered volunteerism, goodwill, and community support. When the State program ended, the Talbot County Council chose to continue the local aspect of the program, renaming it the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards, and incorporating it as part of Talbot Day,” said Council Member Keasha Haythe.

Council Member Lynn Mielke underscored the impact of these individuals, highlighting their invaluable contributions across various sectors of the community. The nominees were: Dr. Judi Gieske, Lizette Hannegan,

Laura Hiekes, Diana Mautz (posthumously), Michelle Moaney, Dana Newman, Syrinthia Ann-Foster Johnson, Sherye Nickerson, Krisa Paquin, James Redman, Susan Roecker, Susan Sherman, and Angeline Sturgis.

The ceremony included a stirring recitation of Useni Eugene Perkins’ poem, “Hey, Black Child” and an excerpt from “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass” read by students from Building African American Minds (BAAM). Additionally, the winners of the Talbot County Poster Contest were recognized for their artistic talents and creativity. Each winning poster will be displayed on pole banners in downtown Easton around the Courthouse.

Poster contest winners were: Division 1 (Age 0-11), Paige Smith with her poster entitled “Lighthouse and Heron”; Division 2 (Age 11-18), Makayla Moore with her poster entitled “Bay to Beach” and Josephine Shaw with her poster entitled “Home”; and Division 3 (Age 19+), Lisa Ghezzi with her poster entitled “Buzzing Bees”.

The highlight of the evening came with the announcement of the “Citizen of the Year” award, the honor posthumously bestowed upon Diana Mautz for her exceptional service and unwavering dedication to the Talbot County community. In a touching tribute, Diana’s children, Johnny and Danny Mautz, accepted the award on her behalf from the County Council and Delegate Chris Adams.

The ceremony concluded with a performance by the Easton High School Jazz Band, followed by birthday cake adorned with the County’s red lion, a symbol of Talbot County’s heritage.

“Talbot Day is here to stay, and I pray it continues to both grow and celebrate everything that makes Talbot County great!,” said Council Member Dave Stepp.

“ A rising tide raises all ships, and it’s no secret to us that a stronger Easton combined with a stronger Talbot County, makes for a better community for everyone...Together, we’ve accomplished so much to be proud of, and together we’ll continue to make strides that benefit our neighbors.

Mayor Megan Cook

HISTORY OF TALBOT DAY

Established in 1983 by unanimous proclamation of the County Council, April 25th has been recognized as the official birthday of Talbot County. In 2023, the tradition was revitalized with the designation of “Talbot Day,” aimed at fostering community engagement and celebration of the county’s rich heritage.

In April 2024, the County Council, in collaboration with County staff and partners, curated a diverse program to highlight the county’s cultural landmarks, organizations, and events. Leading up to the anniversary celebration, residents had the opportunity to participate in engaging activities such as Talbot Trivia and Bingo, promoting a deeper appreciation for their home.

Additionally, the introduction of the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards, formerly known as “Maryland You Are Beautiful,” highlights the County’s commitment to recognizing and honoring local champions of community service and volunteerism, further enhancing the spirit of Talbot Day.

WE HAVE A WINNER!

Congratulations to Parks and Recreation Director Lorraine Gould for winning the Employee Newsletter Cover Photo Contest!

Lorraine now has a $25 gift card to Gander’s Car Wash for her submission that landed on the April cover of the Town of Easton Employee Newsletter.

You could be the next winner by submitting your potential cover photos to gmueller@ eastonmd.gov. If your submission is chosen, you too will win a $25 gift card!

Birthdays

MAY

Patrick Sally

Zachery Christ

Nicholas Everngam

Daniel Farmer

Milton Orellana

Susan Filbird

Kay Spence

Christy Spindler

Don Abbatiello

Anniversaries

MAY

Megan Cook - 15 years

David Montgomery - 1 year

Maureen Curry - 1 year

John Greene - 22 years

Megan Coxon - 13 years

Nancy Pinkney - 9 years

Jill Sherwood - 5 years

Mark Schinault - 3 years

Kyle Hardy - 3 years

Stuart Coleman - 3 years

Scott Finch - 3 years

Blair Barstar - 3 years

A NICOISE DAY

A Scrumptious, Simple Salad to Celebrate Spring

(Family Features) Letting in a little fresh air with an open window or a screen door is a sure sign of spring, allowing the natural sights and smells of the outdoors to accompany you at the dinner table. Take that open-air freshness to new heights this spring by pairing it with your own signature spin on salad season.

For example, this Tuna and Rice Nicoise Salad offers a new take on tuna salad with olive tapenade, capers, tomatoes, green beans and cherry tomatoes. Its calling card: swapping out potatoes in favor of Minute Yellow Rice Cups, which cook up fast as a convenient and flavor-

ful alternative that saves the chore of washing, peeling and boiling potatoes. Fully cooked and packaged in BPA-free cups, it features white rice lightly seasoned with onion powder, garlic powder and turmeric for a delightful taste ready in just 1 minute.

As a perfect recipe for those who love veggies, this dish combines classic salad freshness with olive tapenade for a briny bite in every mouthful. Canned tuna mixes with bursts of capers, hard-boiled egg, crisp green beans and sweet cherry tomatoes capped off with tart balsamic dressing to round out the dish.

TUNA NICOISE SALAD

Prep time: 4 minutes

Cook time: 1 minute

Servings: 1

1 cup Minute Yellow Rice Cups

2 tablespoons balsamic dressing

2 tablespoons olive tapenade

1 teaspoon capers, drained well

1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1/2 cup frozen green beans, thawed

1 can (3 ounces) tuna, drained and flaked

1 hard-boiled egg, cut into wedges

Heat rice according to package directions.

In medium bowl, combine rice, balsamic dressing, tapenade and capers. Mix well.

Top with cherry tomatoes, green beans, tuna and hard-boiled egg.

Tip: Serve salad over bed of mixed greens, if desired.