Shalunda Collins

The meeting addressed several key matters, including a discussion regarding the Change of Contractor policy and the Board Vacancy. Applications for limited licenses and master electrical registrations were reviewed. Correspondence was sent to the Talbot County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association requesting a recommendation for filling the empty seat on the Board.

Key discussions during the meeting included reviewing the status of voting positions on the Commission, which currently has zero open positions. Sub-committee updates covered the Senior Task Force's focus on short and long-term goals and data gathering. The Senior Resource Fair planning progressed, confirming a date in May 2026 and securing services like catering and transportation, alongside allocating funds for advertising. The Marketing sub-committee outlined its 2026 content plan, including topics like fraud and scams, the Senior Resource Fair, the Senior Task Force, and neurocognitive health, noting a need for a photo for the website. The Nursing Home Sub-Committee is developing a web-based resource guide to demystify processes related to nursing homes, rehabilitation, Medicare, and reporting issues, and plans to send a letter to the County Council requesting a PT Ombudsman. The Senior Supply Drive detailed an updated Amazon wish list, new flyer needs, and established local business partners for collection bins, setting the drive period for late January through late February. New business addressed the continuation of a member on the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board and operational details regarding rent payment portals for Parkview.

The meeting included discussions on old business, specifically the status of voting positions open on the Commission, which currently stands at zero. Sub-committee updates covered the Senior Task Force meeting from December 2025. Key planning for the Senior Resource Fair scheduled for May 20, 2026, was reviewed, including confirmation of entertainment, flyer development, advertising budget status ($1,696.00), and booking transportation. The Marketing sub-committee outlined 2026 topics for Talbot Spy Interviews, starting with Fraud and Scams in the first quarter. The Nursing Home Sub-committee detailed short-term goals, including developing a web-based resource guide and a letter to the County Council requesting a PT Ombudsmen. The Senior Supply Drive plans were confirmed, with the drive running from January 26th through February 27th. New business included scheduling a new group photo.

The agenda for the meeting includes welcoming and introductions, review of meeting goals such as data updates, agreeing on key definitions, reviewing the task force timeline, and receiving updates from subcommittees. The work session is scheduled to feature a guest speaker from the University of Maryland Shore Regional Health and will focus on definitions, subcommittee discussions (Data, Case Studies/Good Ideas, Project Sites), and timeline planning.

The County Council meeting included the approval of the agenda, amended to remove the item regarding tree removal work at Hog Neck Golf Course. Key discussions involved the approval of proclamations recognizing January 2026 as National Mentoring Month and Human Trafficking Awareness Month, with presentations from stakeholders in both areas. Talbot Humane provided a statistical update on its operations for calendar year 2025, including its foster care program and plans for a new facility. Upper Shore Aging, Inc. presented on its mission and the various programs administered for seniors across Caroline, Kent, and Talbot counties, noting Talbot County's high percentage of residents over age 65. An administrative resolution amending the membership of the Senior Citizens Task Force to include representatives from the faith community and Department of Social Services was approved. Public hearings were held concerning amendments to the Comprehensive Water and Sewer Plan for four properties; one resolution was approved, while three others were tabled for further evaluation by the Public Works Advisory Board. Under the County Manager's Report, the Council approved reappointments to several boards and committees, including the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board, Board of Appeals, and Emergency Services Advisory Board. The Council also approved the 2026 annual membership and daily fee rates for Hog Neck Golf Course, and the replacement of the HVAC system for the Roads Department and Emergency Operations Center.