Sam Shoge to Host Community Conversation on Affordability in Chestertown

Kent County Commissioner candidate Sam Shoge will host a public Community Conversation on Affordability, bringing together federal, state, and local perspectives for a discussion about the rising cost of everyday life and potential solutions at each level of government.

This free forum will be held Tuesday, September 8 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at The Bank in Chestertown. Comptroller Brooke Lierman and MD-1 Congressional Candidate Dan Schwartz will join Shoge for the conversation.

“Affordability is one of the issues I hear about most from people throughout Kent County,” Shoge said. “Whether it’s housing, groceries, utilities, healthcare, or simply the cost of raising a family, people are feeling squeezed. I want this conversation to move beyond acknowledging the problem and help residents understand what can actually be done about it.”

Federal, State and Local Perspectives on Affordability

The forum will examine how broader economic conditions and decisions at different levels of government ultimately affect household budgets in Kent County.

Participants will share what they are hearing from the people and communities they serve and discuss strategies available at the federal, state, and local levels to address affordability. The conversation will also explore where the responsibilities of each level of government differ—and where greater coordination could make a meaningful difference.

Shoge will moderate the panel discussion.

“Local leaders can’t control every force affecting the cost of living, but that doesn’t mean we’re powerless,” Shoge said. “Part of good leadership is understanding which tools are available to us, being clear about what we can and cannot influence, and working across levels of government when the solution requires it.”

Community Questions and Meet-and-Greet to Follow

The evening will begin with brief introductions and opening perspectives from each participant before transitioning into a moderated panel discussion. Members of the audience will then have an opportunity to ask questions directly to the panelists.

A meet-and-greet with light refreshments will follow the program.

The event is part of Shoge’s Community Conversations series, a campaign initiative designed to create opportunities for informed public dialogue around consequential issues facing Kent County. The series follows the theme “Listening. Learning. Leading.”

The Community Conversation on Affordability is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged.

EVENT DETAILS

Community Conversation on Affordability Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2026

Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m.

Location: The Bank, Chestertown, Maryland

Admission: Free and open to the public

Registration: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/affordability-conversation