Chesapeake Beach Town Council Appoints Dan Duvall as New Council Member

Chesapeake Beach welcomed a new council member, Dan Duvall, during the town council meeting held on August 21, 2025. The council unanimously approved Duvall's appointment, marking a significant step in enhancing local governance. The decision came after a thorough discussion about the appointment process, which highlighted the need for clearer guidelines in the town's charter regarding filling council vacancies.

During the meeting, council members acknowledged the vagueness of the current town code, which does not mandate a specific procedure for appointing council members. This led to a debate on the fairness and transparency of the selection process. While some council members expressed concerns about the lack of formal requirements, others defended the process as fair, emphasizing that all candidates had the opportunity to present their qualifications.

Duvall, who narrowly lost a previous election by just three votes, expressed gratitude for the support he received from the community and emphasized the importance of civic engagement. He encouraged residents to participate in future elections, underscoring that every vote counts.

In addition to Duvall's appointment, the council discussed ongoing efforts to address water and sewer rates, a pressing issue for the community. Council members are actively working with consultants to develop a model that will help establish reasonable rates while ensuring the sustainability of the utility fund. This initiative aims to provide clarity and fairness in how utility costs are allocated among residents.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to improve the appointment process and enhance transparency in local governance. As Chesapeake Beach moves forward, the council is focused on fostering community involvement and addressing key issues that impact residents' daily lives.