More than 50 residents, community leaders, county commissioner candidates, and local officials gathered at Washington College on October 27 for the Kent County Comprehensive Plan Forum, hosted by the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy (ESLC), Kent Conservation and Preservation Alliance (KCPA), and Washington College. 

As Kent County prepares for its next Comprehensive Plan update, the forum provided an opportunity for the community to hear from experts on how comprehensive plans shape decisions about growth, conservation, infrastructure, economic development, and community character. 

Moderated by ESLC President and CEO Steve Kline, the panel featured Dr. Loretta Lynch, Gail Owings, David Dahlstrom, and Tom Leigh, who shared valuable perspectives on planning, implementation, public engagement, and the role of local leadership in turning community goals into action. Following the panel discussion, commissioner candidates and audience members participated in a thoughtful question-and-answer session. 

A central theme of the evening was the importance of broad public participation and strong leadership in developing and implementing an effective Comprehensive Plan. The discussion highlighted both the opportunities and challenges facing Kent County as it plans for the future. 

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the conversation. We are especially grateful to the commissioner candidates who participated, our panelists for sharing their expertise, and our partners at Washington College and the Kent Conservation and Preservation Alliance for helping make this forum possible. 

As Kent County begins developing its next Comprehensive Plan, ESLC looks forward to continuing to serve as a trusted, nonpartisan resource and supporting public engagement in the planning process.