Meghan Efland, former Chestertown Council member for Ward 4, was sworn in as the town’s mayor Monday, Jan. 5 at Town Hall. Clerk of the Circuit Court of Kent County Sherise Kennard administered the oath ahead of the regularly scheduled council meeting. With her children holding the Bible, Efland placed her hand on it as Kennard led her through the oath. Efland said her priorities for 2026 include open communication, improved accessibility at meetings through upgraded audiovisual equipment, and regular community outreach.