Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism Strategic Plan
The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism is updating its strategic plan.
The process includes inviting business leaders, elected officials, and community members to attend a series of public open houses designed to help shape the county’s economic future.
Open House schedule is as follows:
- Tuesday, May 6 | 4:30–7:30 p.m. – Trappe Fire House
- Wednesday, May 7 | 7–10 a.m. – St. Michaels Community Center
- Wednesday, May 7 | 4:30–7:30 p.m. – Tilghman Fire House
- Thursday, May 8 | 7–10 a.m. – Oxford Community Center
- Thursday, May 8 | 4:30–7:30 p.m. – Cordova Fire House
- Friday, May 9 | 7–10 a.m. – Talbot County Free Library, Easton Branch
Your Questions Answered
1. Why is Talbot County creating a new strategic plan for economic development and tourism?
Talbot County is developing a new strategic plan to guide future investments, programs, and initiatives that support a strong economy and a thriving tourism industry. This plan will help ensure that efforts are aligned with the needs and opportunities of our diverse communities.
2. How is this project being funded?
The Talbot County Council approved this project as part of its distribution from the Maryland Rural Economic Development Fund. This strategic plan was subsequently approved for funding by the Mid-Shore Regional Council, the Maryland Department of Commerce, and Gov. Larry Hogan. Talbot County received advanced payment for all Rural Economic Development Fund projects through the Mid-Shore Regional Council and has the funds in hand to pay for this project in full.
3. Who are Camoin Associates, and why were they selected for this project?
Camoin Associates is a nationally recognized economic development consulting firm with expertise in rural and regional strategies. They were selected through a competitive process based on their experience, approach, and successful track record in similar communities.
4. How will the public be involved in shaping the strategic plan?
Community input is essential. Residents, business owners, and stakeholders are invited to attend public open houses, participate in surveys, and share ideas directly with the project team throughout the process.
5. What kind of data and research will be used to inform the plan?
The plan will be based on local demographic, economic, and industry data, market trends, workforce and housing statistics, stakeholder input, and regional benchmarking. Feedback will be gathered at multiple points through community meetings, a survey, interviews, and stakeholder roundtables.
6. How long will the planning process take, and what are the major milestones?
The process will take approximately one year and includes key phases: research and discovery, community engagement, strategy development, and presentation of the final plan by late 2025.
7. How will the voices of small business owners, underrepresented communities, and rural residents be included?
Special attention is being paid to ensure broad engagement. Events are scheduled across the county, and outreach efforts will seek input from historically underserved communities and small businesses.
8. How are current economic trends and challenges being addressed in the planning process?
These issues are central to the plan. The team will explore strategies to expand workforce pipelines, support housing affordability, and address barriers to growth.
9. What is the role of the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism during the process?
The Department is managing the process, coordinating public outreach, and providing local knowledge and resources. They will also be responsible for implementing the plan once it’s finalized.
10. What are the goals or expected outcomes of the strategic plan?
The plan will identify priorities and actionable strategies to grow the local economy, support entrepreneurs, attract investment, and strengthen Talbot County as a tourism destination.
11. How will this plan benefit my town or community directly?
By understanding the unique needs and assets of each area, the plan will recommend place-based strategies that bring resources, visibility, and opportunities to all corners of the county.
12. Will the plan prioritize certain industries or types of businesses?
The plan will highlight key industry sectors with growth potential, such as agriculture, maritime, healthcare, hospitality, and creative industries, while supporting a vibrant mix of businesses.
13. How will the plan be funded and implemented once completed?
Implementation will rely on county investments, partnerships, grants, and public-private collaborations. A roadmap with timelines and responsibilities will guide the work.
14. What metrics will be used to measure success?
Key performance metrics will be identified through this process. KPIs could include job growth, business formation, tourism revenue, tax base expansion, and broadband coverage, among others, depending on final priorities.
15. How often will the plan be reviewed or updated?
While the plan will cover a 5-10 year horizon, it should be reviewed regularly—at least every 3 years—to ensure it remains relevant and responsive to changing conditions.
For more information, call (410) 770-8000 or email Cassandra M. Vanhooser at cvanhooser@talbotcountymd.gov.