Board Members
Clifford O’Connell
Board Chair
Owner/Operator, Cliff’s Hi-Tech Body Shop and Cliff’s Direct Effect
Cliff, a long-time Essex resident and community activist, has owned and operated Cliff’s Hi-Tech Body Shop and Cliff’s Direct Effect in Essex for 35 years. One day, as he walked down Eastern Boulevard, he realized just how much the area had declined over the years. He was motivated to join the Essex CDC Board because of his unwavering commitment to revitalizing the Essex Business District. Cliff’s vision and dedication to making Essex a thriving business community again makes a real difference in the board’s efforts, and we’re glad to have him.
Sam Weaver
Board Vice Chair
Co-Owner/Operator, Weaver’s Marine Service
Sam is an integral part of the community in Baltimore County. His efforts to improve the area shine through his contributions to Essex CDC and many more organizations throughout the county. An avid waterman, Sam co-founded the Maryland Waterways Foundation (MWF) MWF works to help clean up the Maryland waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. No wonder Sam was awarded the Volunteer of the Year distinction in 2018 by PropTalk magazine, which focuses on Chesapeake Bay boating. Sam continues a family legacy of ensuring clean, safe waterways.
Lisa Harlow
Board Secretary
President, Heritage Society of Essex-Middle River
Lisa has lived in Essex for decades and is committed to serving the Essex community. She volunteers her support to the Heritage Society of Essex-Middle River and the Essex Day Festival. Lisa wanted to join the Board, be a part of the excitement, and play a more active role in the Essex renaissance. She actively participates in the many opportunities there are to reinvigorate Essex. She appreciates being a positive voice both in and for the community. Her goal is to pitch in, work with the team, and play a role in shaping the future of Essex.
Nathan Barbo
Board Treasurer
Sr. VP of Operations, MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center
Nathan is thankful for the opportunity to support the exciting work happening in Essex, both personally and professionally. MedStar Franklin Square serves patients from throughout the Essex community while also employing a large number of Essex residents. Outside of work, Nathan and his wife love visiting Essex shops and restaurants. They especially enjoy golfing at Rocky Point Golf Course and grabbing a bite to eat on the Essex waterfront.
John Gontrum
Board Member
Attorney, Whiteford, Taylor & Preston, LLP
John joined the Essex revitalization efforts in 1980 as an associate in Bob Romadka’s law office. He has been an active visionary in the effort for over 40 years. John has served twice as President of the Chesapeake Gateway Chamber, as Co-chair of the Essex Renaissance Committee, and worked as an active member of numerous planning and economic development committees for Essex. He played a pivotal role in forming Essex Development Corporation. We’re grateful to have his help on the CDC board, where he continues contributing to the revitalization efforts in Essex.
Sharon Kihn
Board Member (Ex Officio)
President, Chesapeake Gateway Chamber of Commerce
Sharon has had the pleasure of getting to know and work beside a wonderful group of community leaders from Essex since area revitalization efforts were renewed in 2017. She is excited to work alongside Essex CDC’s Executive Director and other “Champions of Essex” as a new chapter begins with the formation of Essex CDC. There still is so much work to do in Essex, but the vision of a vibrant and sustainable Essex is clear and within reach.
Tony Pearce
Board Member
Owner/Operator, State Farm Insurance on Eastern Blvd. in Essex
For the past seven years, Tony has owned and operated a State Farm Insurance Office in the heart of the Essex Business District on Eastern Boulevard. He became involved with Essex CDC’s revitalization efforts when he applied for and received funding through two grant programs supporting Essex businesses. Tony joined the Essex CDC Board so he could contribute to establishing a better, safer Essex community.
Robert Romadka
Board Member
Retired Attorney at Law
In 1952, Bob began practicing law full-time in Baltimore County and established his sole practice in Essex. At that time, the Essex Business District was fully developed with commercial, professional, industrial, and educational employers. You could also stroll and visit noteworthy retail and dining establishments in downtown Essex. Over 70 years later, much has changed, and the community is again growing and changing. Bob remains steadfast in his efforts to continue building momentum and revitalize the Essex Business District for the good of the community.
Kelly Slocum
Board Member
Real Estate Agent, RE/MAX
Kelly is no stranger to Essex. In fact, she grew up in Essex and has lived here for most of her life. Her connection with the community runs deep. Her career as a working Realtor® for over thirty years has given her keen insight into real estate trends and local growth. In addition to her sales knowledge, Kelly is a licensed real estate appraiser. You might get the impression that she’s all business. Still, she loves to be on the waterfront and indulge in all the available activities there. Her passion for positively impacting the community through the CDC board is evident.
