Kent County Economic Development Commission elects Charlie chair, Paula vice chair; two member vacancies announced

The Kent County Economic Development Commission conducted its January election by secret ballot and confirmed Charlie as chair and Paula as vice chair during the meeting on Jan. 31.

Commission staff reported that ballots were collected and announced the results: “Charlie was confirmed as the chair and Paula was voted as the vice chair,” staff said during the meeting. The secret ballot process was used; vote tallies were not disclosed in the meeting.

Staff also notified the commission of two upcoming vacancies. Commissioner Sandy Scott will complete two full terms and is not eligible for reappointment; the staff representative said the commission has one interest form from a Rock Hall resident and staff seeks additional interest forms to ensure geographic and industry diversity before making recommendations to the appointing authority. Charlie (chair) is eligible for reappointment and staff asked members to signal if they are willing to serve.

The commission discussed timing for collecting ballots and interest forms and the desire to preserve a balance of representation across the county and industries. Staff asked members to submit completed interest forms for potential appointees and said county staff will follow up with prospective candidates.

Ending: The commission confirmed the new officers and asked members to recruit candidates for the two upcoming vacancies; staff will coordinate collection of interest forms and notify members of next steps.