Former Chesapeake Beach Town Administrator to Lead Eastern Shore Town
OXFORD, MD – In a much-anticipated announcement, Holly Kamm Wahl, MBA, has been appointed as the new leader of Oxford after a six-month search for a town manager. Currently serving as Chesapeake Beach’s Town Administrator, Wahl will officially assume her new role on January 6, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the town.
A Season of Change and Optimism
During the recent Commissioners of Oxford meeting, Commissioner Katrina Greer shared the news of Wahl’s hiring to a round of applause from residents. Commissioner President Norm Bell commended Wahl’s qualifications and expressed relief at filling the vacancy after a challenging search process. Residents present at the meeting echoed the commissioners’ enthusiasm, with one describing Wahl’s selection as the “best Christmas present.”
Extensive Experience in Public Administration
Wahl brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having served as Chesapeake Beach’s Town Administrator since 2017. During her tenure, she spearheaded transformative financial improvements, including reducing taxes by over 17%, eliminating $9.44 million in liabilities, increasing the town’s net position by more than $21 million, and enhancing the fund balance by over $15 million. Her success can be attributed to strategic fiscal management, grant acquisitions, and process optimization, among other factors.
A Rich Leadership Background
Prior to her role in Chesapeake Beach, Wahl held key leadership positions across various sectors, including serving as the Director of Operations for an affordable housing general contractor, Director of Operations for a homeless shelter and resource center in Annapolis, and Chief Operating Officer for a government contractor managing access control services in Washington, DC, and Northern Virginia. These diverse experiences have equipped her with invaluable skills in organizational management, resource optimization, and community service delivery.
Commitment to Excellence in Governance
Wahl’s academic achievements further underscore her expertise, holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University, an MBA from the University of Maryland, and an Executive Certificate in Public Administration & Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School. She is also pursuing a Doctorate in Public Administration & Public Policy at George Washington University and is a member of the Pi Alpha Alpha Global Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration. Wahl’s dedication to integrity, transparency, and accountability in local government is evident in her professional affiliations, including membership in the International City Managers Association (ICMA).
Oxford’s New Era of Leadership
The commissioners expressed confidence in Wahl’s ability to oversee large-scale projects and secure grant funding, citing her successful collaboration with the Army Corps of Engineers on a federal dredging project as a testament to her capabilities. Commissioner Greer highlighted Wahl’s alignment with the town’s goals and vision for cost savings and improved management.
Resolving a Difficult Hiring Process
Wahl’s appointment follows a challenging hiring process that saw previous setbacks with another candidate. The commissioners acknowledged the obstacles faced during the search but emphasized the importance of learning from the experience and ultimately finding the right fit in Wahl.
Looking Forward
As Oxford gears up for its 50th anniversary, Wahl’s leadership is poised to usher in a new era of progress for the town. Her blend of fiscal responsibility and forward-thinking governance is expected to benefit residents and propel Oxford towards a brighter future.
