Essex residents will have an opportunity to hear from candidates and discuss community issues at an upcoming Town Hall & Candidate Forum at Rocky Point.
With Baltimore County’s Council districts changing for the 2026 election, this year provides an opportunity for Essex residents to learn more about the people seeking to represent their community and to take part in conversations about issues affecting the area.
The Back River Neck Peninsula Community Association is hosting a Town Hall & Candidate Forum on Tuesday, October 20 from 6:00–9:00 PM at the new clubhouse at Rocky Point Golf Course.
Candidates for federal, state, and local offices have been invited to participate. The evening will include a discussion of community issues followed by a question-and-answer session where attendees can raise their own questions and concerns.
A New Council District for Essex
The forum comes at a time of change for Baltimore County.
Following voter approval of an expansion of the County Council, the County went through a redistricting process that increased the Council from seven to nine districts. According to the information provided for the event, the County Council approved the new map in September 2025, with the new boundaries applying to the 2026 County Council elections.
Under the new map, Essex is part of Councilmanic District 8 for the 2026 election.
Bringing Community Issues to the Table
The event is expected to address several issues of interest to local residents, including:
- Energy costs
- Public safety
- Community funding
- Environmental concerns
- County services and bureaucracy
- Residential development
The evening will extend beyond the candidate forum. Local organizations and Baltimore County departments will also host community information tables, giving residents an opportunity to connect with resources and learn more about work taking place throughout the area.
Connect With Local Organizations
Essex Community Development Corporation will be among the organizations participating in the event, along with:
- Back River Restoration Committee
- Baltimore County Public Library – Essex
- Baltimore County Police Department – Essex Precinct
- Chesapeake Gateway Chamber of Commerce
- Baltimore County Department of Planning
- And other community organizations and County departments
For Essex CDC, participating in events like this is an important part of community engagement.
Our role is to help residents and businesses connect with information, resources, organizations, and decision-makers that affect the future of Essex.
Community events like this provide an opportunity for residents to become informed, ask questions, connect with local organizations, and participate in conversations about their community.
Town Hall & Candidate Forum
Tuesday, October 20
6:00–9:00 PM
New Clubhouse at Rocky Point Golf Course
Food and soft drinks will be available for purchase.
For event updates, residents can follow the Back River Neck Peninsula Community Association on Facebook.
Come informed. Bring your questions. And take part in the conversation about the future of Essex.
