Russell Strickland, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) and his executive team recently toured the Town of St. Michaels to discuss flooding and stormwater issues impacting the town. The site visit included presentations at Town Hall, a walking tour, and a boat ride through St. Michaels Harbor focusing on the town's most flood-prone streets and shorelines.
Casey Rauch, the consulting Town Engineer, gave a presentation on work already underway. He emphasized that much of that work is helping to address the town's flooding challenges, but that long-term strategies are also needed to deliver more impactful solutions.
"This is truly a whole community approach," Rauch said. "Engaging all of the interested parties is allowing us to identify cost-effective solutions and work together in a more comprehensive way."
David Breimhurst, President of the Town Commissioners, shared concerns about how flooding has impacted residents, businesses, and the regional economy. "St. Michaels is the driving force of Talbot County's $300M tourism industry. Two thousand people in the county owe their jobs to tourism. We regard sea level rise as the most existential threat to the town and the broader economy."
Kristen Greenaway, President & CEO of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, led a walking tour of the museum's campus, explaining the direct economic impact of compromised boat docking space, losing visitors, and cancelling festivals.