EASTON, MARYLAND — The Talbot County Health Department has named Rachel Leahy, LEHS, permanent Director of Environmental Health. A county partner-agency press release dated Aug. 18, 2026, says Leahy had been serving as Acting Director and brings experience in public health education, regulatory compliance, and community service into the permanent post.

What the office covers. In the permanent role, Leahy oversees the Office of Environmental Health’s countywide public-health protection work. The county release lists monitoring wells and safe drinking water; septic systems and sewage regulations; food safety inspections; public pools and spas; open burn permits; and animal bite and rabies control. The same release says the office will keep enforcing state environmental laws, managing local permitting, and maintaining 24/7 emergency response for critical environmental concerns.

Health Officer on the record. Dr. Fahmi Fahmi, Health Officer for Talbot County, said: “Ms. Leahy brings valuable experience, and a strong commitment to protecting the health and well-being of our community. Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing our environmental health programs, strengthening public health protections, and ensuring that we continue to provide responsive and effective services to the residents we serve.”

Leahy on the record. “I am honored to step into this role permanently and continue leading our dedicated team,” Leahy said. “Our priority remains safeguarding public health and protecting Talbot County's natural environment while serving the community.”

Office of Environmental Health: 215 Bay Street, Suite 4, Easton, MD 21601. Phone (410) 770-6880; fax (410) 770-6888; email tchd.environmental_health [at] maryland.gov. Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. After-hours emergencies go through the Talbot County Operations Center at (410) 822-0095.