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County Council Member · Talbot County · 2026 Primary
County Council Members serve as the legislative branch of county government, passing local laws and approving the annual budget that funds public schools, roads, and emergency services. They set local tax rates and make final decisions on land use and zoning, which determines where new homes and businesses can be built. This office is responsible for prioritizing how your tax dollars are spent and managing the long-term growth and infrastructure of your community.
View all candidates in this raceDave Stepp is a lifelong Marylander and current Talbot County Council member seeking re-election in 2026 for the office of County Council Member. He describes himself as a leader, coach, and volunteer with close community relationships established over the last 16 years in Talbot County. Professionally, he has worked in telecommunications for 27 years and owns a small business since 2003. He holds an Associate's Degree from Anne Arundel Community College, a Bachelor's and MBA from the University of Maryland where he graduated with honors. His bio highlights extensive volunteerism including roles with Boy Scout troops, Little Leagues, Parks and Rec Board, Emergency Services Advisory Board, and various community committees. He emphasizes his commitment to serving all 37,000+ Talbot County residents while keeping tax dollars low and ensuring safety.
Sources: Campaign website
"If re-elected to the Talbot County Council, I will continue to make decisions that benefit the greater good of all 37,000+ Talbot County residents."
"You have my commitment to continue to ensure your tax dollars are kept low by making sound financial decisions that also keep Talbot County safe, healthy, and prosperous."
"I will continue to pray for our county and ensure that your God-given rights and freedoms are never infringed upon."
"Consulting with county experts in their respective fields before making crucial decisions on behalf of Talbot County citizens will still be a must for me."
Fiscal Policy
Commitment to keeping tax dollars low through sound financial decisions while maintaining safety, health, and prosperity for the county.
“"ensure your tax dollars are kept low by making sound financial decisions that also keep Talbot County safe, healthy, and prosperous."”
Public Safety
Focus on keeping the community safe through expert consultation and fiscal responsibility.
“"keep Talbot County safe... Consulting with county experts in their respective fields before making crucial decisions on behalf of Talbot County citizens will still be a must for me."”
Government Ethics
Dedication to serving honorably, being held accountable, and ensuring full transparency throughout all levels of government.
“"continue to serve honorably, to be held accountable, and to ensure full transparency throughout all levels of Talbot County government."”
The article from The Talbot Spy lists Dave Stepp as one of five Republicans who have filed for the Talbot County Council in 2026. It notes that he remains active alongside other Republican and Democratic candidates during a competitive election season. No specific endorsements or controversies are mentioned in this external coverage snippet.
“"ensure your tax dollars are kept low by making sound financial decisions"”
Source“"keep Talbot County safe... Consulting with county experts in their respective fields before making crucial decisions"”
Source“"Dave has also been a proud small business owner since 2003."”
Source“"In the community, Dave is passionate about... youth sports, and mentoring"”
Source“"Dave has been a leader, coach, and volunteer in Talbot County for the last 16 years."”
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