Megan Outten files for Salisbury mayoral race

SALISBURY, Md. – Salisbury’s mayoral election is heating up as another candidate files to run. Salisbury City Council member Megan Outten filed her paperwork Tuesday afternoon.

Campaign Amid City Changes

Six months ago, Outten was appointed to Salisbury City Council’s third district. The appointment came after Mayor Jack Heath was chosen to fill former Mayor Jake Day’s role, as he departed for Governor Wes Moore’s cabinet. As she files for mayor, Outten says she’s feeling excited and energized to hit the campaign trail.

“The last year, I’ve really had a chance to get to know our constituents, really get engaged with the community hands on. I know that I have both the experience, and the energy, and just a comprehensive understanding of all the issues facing our community right now,” Outten told 47 ABC WMDT.

Engaging Young Voters

With the recent changes to city leadership, Outten says Salisbury is at a pivotal point; adding, she feels that residents – young people, in particular – feel disconnected from local government. Outten hopes to change that.

“This past year I’ve spent a lot of time trying to make and rebuild that connection back up for our residents,” Outten said. “Transitions are never an easy task for any organization, much less a city, where there are so many moving parts and players in this. Additionally, I think after COVID we, as a community, are just needing a little bit more connection. The people who are craving it, are really demanding it at this point.”

Outten says she wants to see leadership that will “step up,” and listen to residents’ concerns. Engagement and energy, are what set Outten apart from other candidates, she says.

“I’ve been able to be a big advocate for a lot of the solutions I think we need in our community. Additionally, I have that energy. I think that’s very apparent when people engage with me in the community. I’m out there every day, engaging with my residents in some capacity,” said Outten. “I’m here to represent all facets of this community. Sure, you could argue that it will be different in many ways, I am still going to be my most authentic self when it comes to engaging with my constituents.”

Pushing Transparency

Specifically, Outten says, transparency is hugely important for Salisbury voters.

“I think it’s exactly what the community is demanding and wanting. It’s something, that on Council, I’ve been a strong proponent for,” said Outten. “So, you will absolutely see leadership that is more engaged, more willing for open collaboration and conversation, and willing to propel this community forward in a way that all of our residents feel heard and listened to.”

“Next chapter”

And while Outten says that Mayor Heath has been a mentor to her during her time on City Council, Salisbury needs a change.

“I really think this is where the energy factor comes in. It’s part of that next chapter, that next generation,” said Outten. “We have seen at the local level a slow disconnection with our younger community, our young professionals. I think it’s time for that next generation, that next chapter, of residents to get more involved.”

Top Issues, Looking Ahead

Top issues facing the City, says Outten, include being more fiscally responsible, and public safety.

“A lot of residents, myself included, are starting to feel that pinch in the purse. What can the city do to help navigate this timeframe? [I’ll be] really taking a look at what we can do back at City Hall,” said Outten. “I really want to bring back an era of community work with our front line emergency workers, and really rebuilding that community trust. I can say that [former Salisbury Police Chief] Barbara Duncan left behind a wonderful legacy. We just want to be able to continue that legacy moving forward, under Chief [David] Meienschein.”

Looking ahead, Outten says she plans to hit the campaign trail running. “I think that’s really the feedback that we’re going to need; the candid conversations are really going to help us drive the policy and propel forward some really good collaboration here,” she said.

Outten joins candidates Jermichael Mitchell, and Randy Taylor, in the race. The deadline to file was August 22nd.