Kent County Health Department addresses well and septic workforce shortages with Maryland Environment support

Concerns over Kent County's well and septic program took center stage at the recent Commissioners Meeting, as Health Department Director Bill Webb highlighted significant staffing shortages and operational challenges. Webb, accompanied by key environmental health officials, addressed the pressing issues affecting the community's access to essential services.

The meeting revealed that Kent County has been grappling with a severe decline in the environmental health workforce, with a staggering 65% drop in personnel since 2007. Webb noted that the county has not had a licensed well and septic specialist since June 2023, which has led to delays in processing permits and inspections. "We cannot outsource this work to the private sector," Webb emphasized, underscoring the critical need for licensed government employees to conduct inspections.

The discussion also touched on the backlog of applications, with 17 properties currently awaiting wet weather testing. Webb presented data from 2024 and 2025, detailing the number of permits received and pending, as well as the challenges posed by the lack of staff. He expressed concern over the impact on constituents, stating, "These issues involve real money for our residents."

In response to the staffing crisis, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has stepped in to assist with inspections and testing, revealing recurring problems with previous work. Webb acknowledged MDE's support but stressed the need for a sustainable solution to the workforce shortage.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of addressing these challenges was clear. The county's ability to provide essential well and septic services hangs in the balance, with community members eagerly awaiting improvements in the program's performance.