Gavin Hanley

Gavin O. Hanley is a dedicated public servant, lifelong Bel Air resident, and committed Republican currently serving as a Town Commissioner for Bel Air, Maryland, while running as a candidate for the Harford County Republican Central Committee.

Born and raised in Bel Air, Hanley grew up on East Broadway and attended local schools: Bel Air Elementary, Bel Air Middle, and Bel Air High School. He continued his education at Harford Community College before earning a degree in Computer Science from the University of Maryland. This strong local foundation and technical expertise shape his practical, community-focused approach to governance.

Hanley works as a software developer for a defense contractor in Aberdeen. His professional background brings analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a fresh perspective to local government—particularly valuable in addressing infrastructure, growth, and technology-related community needs.

In November 2025, voters elected Hanley (alongside Paula Etting) to the Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners in a competitive race. He was sworn in shortly afterward and has quickly established himself as an engaged and enthusiastic leader.

As a commissioner, he prioritizes:

• Preserving Bel Air’s small-town charm — Advocating against unchecked high-density development and promoting sustainable, ownership-oriented growth that maintains the town’s historic character and benefits residents.
• Infrastructure and safety — Focusing on traffic management, pedestrian safety (including lighted crosswalks and walkability), and supporting local law enforcement.
• Community engagement — Regularly attending meetings, providing public input, and fostering connections through groups like the “Bel Air Town Crier” on Facebook.

His campaign emphasized a youthful, energetic voice dedicated to quality-of-life issues, ensuring Bel Air remains a safe, family-friendly place for current and future generations.

Hanley is now a candidate for the Harford County Republican Central Committee. This role would allow him to further support Republican values, help shape the party’s direction at the county level, recruit strong candidates, and advocate for conservative principles in local policy—building on his proven track record of effective, resident-first leadership in Bel Air.

Hanley represents a new generation of local leaders: deeply rooted in the community, professionally accomplished, and passionate about protecting what makes Harford County and Bel Air special. His hands-on involvement, clear priorities on smart growth and safety, and Republican affiliation position him as a strong advocate for fiscal responsibility, community preservation, and opportunity.

Supporters appreciate his accessibility, proactive stance on development challenges, and commitment to listening to residents. As both a sitting commissioner and Central Committee candidate, he continues to demonstrate dedication to public service and conservative governance.

For more on his work, visit the Town of Bel Air website or his past campaign resources (e.g., Facebook page associated with gavin.hanley.9). Hanley is a positive force for thoughtful, community-driven leadership in Harford County.

Liliana Norkaitis is a dynamic young leader, lifelong Harford County, Maryland resident, and dedicated public servant making a strong impact in education and community governance.

A proud product of Harford County Public Schools (K-12), Norkaitis graduated early from the University of Maryland, College Park, with a degree in Government & Politics and a minor in Rhetoric. Her academic drive and early accomplishments reflect discipline, focus, and a commitment to excellence. While in college, she gained valuable hands-on experience working in both chambers of the United States Congress.

Norkaitis serves as Communications & Community Outreach Director for the Maryland General Assembly (House of Delegates District 7). In this role, she excels at bridging policy and the public, communicating complex ideas clearly and effectively.

Her leadership extends to:

• Vice Chair of the Harford County Commission for Women (appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council).
• Former Chairman of the Maryland Federation of College Republicans.
• Recognized as Maryland GOP Youth of the Year.

These roles highlight her organizational skills, ability to unite people, and passion for service.

In February 2026, Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly nominated Norkaitis (then 21) to fill a vacancy on the Harford County Board of Education (Member-at-Large), and the County Council approved it. She brings a fresh perspective, government experience, fiscal conservatism, and deep local roots to the board as it tackles key issues like budgeting, curriculum, and leadership decisions.

Beyond politics and policy, Norkaitis is an accomplished cellist—showcasing discipline, creativity, and emotional intelligence that enhance her leadership style. She lives in Bel Air, volunteers actively in her community, and remains deeply connected to the school system she now helps guide.

Commentators describe her as a symbol of emerging leadership: energetic, prepared, community-focused, and ready to address challenges in education with innovation and accountability. Her rapid rise illustrates how young, accomplished individuals can contribute meaningfully to public service without waiting decades for the opportunity.

Liliana Norkaitis represents a positive force for the future—rooted in tradition yet forward-looking, with a strong record of achievement and a clear dedication to improving schools and strengthening her community in Harford County. Her trajectory points to continued growth and impact in Maryland leadership.

Matt Sharff is a Republican candidate for the Harford County Republican Central Committee in Maryland's 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election.

He filed as an active candidate (address listed as PO Box 3, White Marsh area or similar Harford ties). The primary is set for June 23, 2026, and the Central Committee role involves party leadership, supporting Republican candidates, organizing, and advancing local GOP priorities like limited government, fiscal responsibility, education, and community issues in Harford County.

• Local commitment: Running for a grassroots party position shows dedication to local Republican politics in Harford County. Central Committee members help shape the party’s direction, endorse candidates, and boost turnout—valuable for community-minded conservatives.
• Active in Republican circles: He appears engaged with local groups (e.g., mentions in Harford County Republican Women and alliance posts), supporting other GOP candidates and events. This reflects involvement in party-building.
• Broader field: Harford has a competitive slate of Republican candidates for council and committee spots, indicating strong local interest in Republican representation amid growth, infrastructure (e.g., data centers), and quality-of-life issues.

Public info on his personal background or detailed platform is limited in current results (typical for local Central Committee races, which are lower-profile). He stands out as one of several Republicans stepping up for party roles.

Jake Taylor is a rising young conservative leader running for Maryland House of Delegates in District 34B (covering areas like Bel Air, Bel Air South, Emmorton, Creswell, and Abingdon). He serves as a Bel Air Town Commissioner and is campaigning on public safety, fiscal responsibility, affordability, and conservative values.

• Lifelong Harford County Resident: Jake grew up in greater Bel Air, where he developed a deep appreciation for his community’s small-town charm, local businesses, and American founding principles. He draws inspiration from the Founding Fathers and Ronald Reagan.
• Historic Election: In 2023, at age 20, he won election to the Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners in a landslide. He became the youngest elected official in Harford County history.
• Track Record in Office: As commissioner, he has:
  • Fully funded the Bel Air Police Department.
  • Supported balanced budgets and infrastructure without raising taxes.
  • Passed measures to preserve the town’s character.
  • Worked as a Legislative Aide in the Maryland Senate and for a local small business.
• Education: Graduate of Loyola University Maryland with a degree in Political Science.

Jake emphasizes practical, conservative solutions to Maryland’s challenges:

• Public Safety: Strong supporter of law enforcement. He opposes policies that restrict police and favors keeping violent offenders behind bars.
• Affordability & Energy: Fights tax/fee hikes and failed energy mandates. Supports reliable power sources like natural gas and nuclear to lower bills.
• Fiscal Responsibility: Advocates for balanced budgets, cutting wasteful spending, and living within means — mirroring what he’s done locally.
• Small Business & Local Control: Defends entrepreneurs against overregulation and pushes back against Annapolis overriding local decisions.
• Overall Vision: Bring fresh energy and accountability to Annapolis as a “new voice for Harford” who puts residents first.

Jake has seen state-level dysfunction up close and believes Harford County needs strong representation to counter big-government policies driving up costs and crime. He positions himself as a proven, steady conservative who delivers results without raising taxes.

Primary Election: June 23, 2026 (Republican primary). Check your district and make a plan to vote at votejaketaylor.com.

Jake represents the next generation of Maryland conservatives: energetic, principled, and rooted in community service. His record shows he’s ready to fight for safer streets, lower costs, and more responsive government. For more details, visit his site or follow him on social media.

Chad R. Shrodes is a longtime Harford County, Maryland, public servant, community leader, and Republican candidate for the Harford County Republican Central Committee in the 2026 primary.

• Born and raised in northern Harford County (Norrisville area), Shrodes is a proud graduate of North Harford High School in Pylesville.
• He attended Harford Community College and earned a B.S. in Environmental & Land-Use Planning from Towson University in 1997.
• He has deep local roots and remains active in the northern Harford community, where he lives with his family.

Shrodes has built a career in real estate and land-use planning. He has worked as a real estate agent (previously with Long & Foster, now with Berkshire Hathaway Homesale Realty) and earlier with the Maryland Department of Planning. His expertise in environmental planning and local governance has informed his public service.

Shrodes served with distinction on the Harford County Council representing District D from December 2006 to December 2022 (multiple terms, including re-elections).

Key contributions and highlights include:

• Land Preservation and Agriculture — He championed expansions to the Maryland Rural Legacy Program and Priority Preservation Areas (especially the Upper Deer Creek Watershed). He helped strengthen the county’s land preservation easement program to encourage more landowner participation and defended agricultural preservation funding.
• Support for First Responders, Teachers, and Employees — He backed restoration of pay increases for law enforcement, teachers, and county government staff.
• Fiscal Responsibility — He contributed to restoring salaries while building the county’s fund balance.
• Broad Board and Committee Service — He served on numerous bodies, including the Board of Health, Core Service Agency (including Mental Health Board), Cultural Arts Board, Economic Development Advisory Board, Public Library Board of Trustees, and Traffic & Highway Safety Advisory Board.

He also graduated from the Maryland Academy for Excellence in Local Governance and the Harford County Leadership Academy, demonstrating his commitment to effective local leadership.

• Active member of the Jarrettsville Lions Club (former program director).
• Sponsor of local events like the Twilight Market at Rockfield Manor and Jarrettsville Hawks Football.
• He maintains strong ties to northern Harford residents through community events, school visits, and constituent engagement.

Shrodes filed to run for the Harford County Republican Central Committee, aiming to continue serving the county and Republican Party after his long tenure on the Council. His experience makes him well-positioned to help recruit strong candidates, support the party’s values, and advocate for Harford County priorities like smart growth, land preservation, public safety, education, and fiscal prudence.

Shrodes brings proven leadership, deep local knowledge, and a track record of results-focused service. Supporters view him as a dedicated advocate for northern Harford County’s rural character, families, and responsible governance. For more on his background or to connect, check local Republican resources or his community presence in Harford County.

Brian Kelly is a committed conservative leader and dedicated public servant running for re-election (or election) to the Harford County Republican Central Committee. He is a longtime Harford County resident passionate about strengthening the Republican Party at the local level, promoting conservative values, and supporting Republican candidates across the county.

Brian Kelly brings deep roots in Harford County and a strong track record of grassroots Republican activism. He currently serves as a member of the Republican Central Committee of Harford County, where he helps shape the party's direction, and as a board member of the Republican Alliance of Harford County, a key organization supporting conservative causes and candidates in the area.

He is known for his clear understanding of the Central Committee's vital role: building party infrastructure, promoting all Republican candidates, conducting community outreach and voter registration drives, leading fundraising efforts, and recommending candidates for vacancies. His practical, boots-on-the-ground approach makes him an effective advocate for Harford County's Republican values.

• Proven Leadership: Brian actively participates in party operations and community events, consistently supporting Republican initiatives and helping to elect strong conservative leaders.
• Grassroots Focus: He emphasizes voter engagement, candidate promotion, and building a robust local party organization that connects to state and national efforts.
• Integrity and Dedication: Colleagues and fellow Republicans recognize him as a reliable team player committed to conservative principles, fiscal responsibility, and limited government.
• Community-Oriented: Through his roles, Brian contributes to a stronger, more united Harford County Republican Party that champions traditional values and responds to local priorities like public safety, education, and economic growth.

Harford County voters who value strong Republican leadership, effective party organization, and principled conservatism will find a strong ally in Brian Kelly. He works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the party remains competitive, engaged with voters, and true to its core values.

If re-elected (or elected) to the Central Committee, Brian will continue advancing these efforts—helping to recruit and support excellent candidates, boost turnout, and keep Harford County moving in a conservative direction.

A reliable, experienced voice for Republican success in Harford County. Vote for Brian Kelly to strengthen our party and our community!

For more information, visit the Harford County Republican Central Committee site at harfordgop.org or follow local Republican groups.

Lee D. Dunbar is a longtime law enforcement leader in Harford County, Maryland, currently serving as Major and Chief of the Police Operations Bureau at the Harford County Sheriff’s Office. He filed as a candidate for the Harford County Republican Central Committee in the 2026 gubernatorial primary (filed around February 2026).

• Career Timeline:
  • Started as a cadet with the Maryland State Police; graduated from the 103rd entrance-level class but was laid off due to budget cuts.
  • Served with the Bel Air Police Department (patrol and Harford County Narcotics Task Force) for about 4 years.
  • Joined the Harford County Sheriff’s Office in 1995 (over 30 years of service).
  • Progressed through roles in patrol, covert narcotics, criminal investigations (homicide, rape, robbery, burglary, white-collar crimes), polygraph, and intelligence.
  • Command positions: Commander of the Special Investigations Division–Harford County Narcotics Task Force, Criminal Investigations Division, and Patrol Operations–Southern Precinct.
  • Promoted to Major in late 2020 and appointed Chief of the Services and Support Bureau (overseeing planning, research, court services, training academy, warrants, HR, etc.).
  • Later transitioned to Chief of the Police Operations Bureau (overseeing Patrol and Special Operations).
• Notable Contributions:
  • Chairman of the Sheriff’s Office Use of Force Committee.
  • Public Information Office media team member.
  • Testified in Annapolis on law enforcement issues.
  • Community outreach on the heroin/fentanyl epidemic (schools, fire departments, medical professionals).
  • Involved in major narcotics seizures (e.g., 2017 case with over $1M in marijuana).
• Education:
  • Harford Christian High School.
  • Associate’s Degree in Political Science, Harford Community College.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Government and Public Policy (Summa Cum Laude), University of Baltimore.
  • Master’s Degree in Public Safety, University of Virginia.

• Running for one of the seats on the Harford County Republican Central Committee (vote for up to 12 in the primary).
• Drew attention for his role as Chairman/Principal Officer on the campaign committee for Sergeant Aaron Penman (another Sheriff’s Office employee running for County Council). Penman later withdrew his council campaign.
• This dual role sparked local discussion about potential conflicts, perceptions of influence, and Maryland election law considerations regarding campaign oversight by active law enforcement personnel.

• Named as a defendant in a 2023 federal civil rights lawsuit (Demurjian v. Dunbar, Case 1:23-cv-03180) alleging unlawful search/seizure related to a vehicle incident. Dunbar was later dismissed as a defendant after amended complaints focused on other deputies. No findings of liability against him.

Dunbar is a highly experienced, educated law enforcement professional with deep roots in Harford County. Supporters view him as a dedicated public servant bringing operational expertise to the Central Committee. Critics have raised questions about insider dynamics and the blending of sworn duties with political roles in a small-county environment. No major personal scandals or sustained misconduct findings appear in public records.

He resides in Bel Air, MD. For the latest campaign details, check the Maryland State Board of Elections or local Harford sources like The Aegis.

Ali Paskun (Republican) is a candidate for the Harford County Republican Central Committee in the 2026 Maryland Gubernatorial Primary (June 23, 2026).

• Location: Harford County, Maryland (resident for several years; previously associated with the Baltimore area).
• Profession: Experienced proposal management professional, writer/editor, trainer, and leadership coach. She has worked in government contracting (govcon) and small business development.
  • Founded/operates ABIL Solutions, LLC.
  • Provides training in management, leadership, and government contracting through the Maryland Small Business Development Center (Western Region) and similar programs.
  • Certified (e.g., AF.APMP) and has contributed to publications like the Journal of the Association of Proposal Management Professionals.
• Community Involvement (notable volunteer roles):
  • Board Member/President of the Board, Fresh Start Furnishings / Found in Faith Ministries (Harford County-focused; provides furniture and home goods to those in need).
  • Grief recovery coaching (Hope Restored Grief Recovery).
  • Past roles with Bel Air Toastmasters, Havre de Grace Elks Lodge (Chaplain), and other local service.

She has a background in leadership training, community service, and local engagement in Harford County.

• Running as a Republican for one of the at-large seats on the Harford County Republican Central Committee (vote for up to 12; she is one of several candidates including Y. Percin Arikan, Joe Fleckenstein, Liliana Norkaitis, Debbie Schreiber, Matt Sharff, etc.).
• The Central Committee serves as the governing body for the Harford County Republican Party, helping with candidate recruitment, party operations, and local advocacy.
• No indication she is running for Harford County Council (District B or other); that race has separate candidates.

For the most current official details (filing, contact info, etc.), check the Maryland State Board of Elections candidate list (updated as of early May 2026) or Harford County resources. Local Republican Party sites or Facebook groups (e.g., Harford County Republican Women, Northern Harford County discussions) may have additional activity.

Aaron David Penman (SGT Aaron Penman) is running for a seat on the Harford County Republican Central Committee (RCC) in the June 23, 2026 primary. He withdrew from the County Council District B race shortly after filing in early March 2026.

His RCC bid comes after a high-profile tenure on the County Council (District B, 2022–early 2025) dominated by ethics violations, court battles over dual employment, removal from office, and public feuds — issues that critics say make him a poor fit for party leadership.

• Ethics Violations and Conflict of Interest: The Harford County Board of Ethics (Opinion 24-01, Dec. 2024) found Penman violated the county’s Public Ethics Law through his dual role as Councilmember and Harford County Sheriff’s Office sergeant. Specific findings included:
  
  • Lobbying fellow council members and voting on Sheriff’s Office budget matters (wages, benefits, capital projects) that directly impacted his own salary, benefits, assignments, and career.
  • Participating in discussions/votes on matters like the Estate of John R. Fauver while employed by the Sheriff’s Office.
  • Creating an actual or apparent conflict that impaired his impartiality.
  • The Board ordered him to sign a strict Non-Participation Agreement (barring involvement in Sheriff-related issues) or resign from the Sheriff’s Office by mid-February 2025. He faced court-ordered removal from the Council.
• Removal from Office and Legal Drama: A circuit court ruled he violated the county charter (Section 207) prohibiting council members from holding other compensated government employment. He was removed in early 2025. Appeals followed: Maryland Supreme Court issued stays and lifts; he ultimately won reinstatement via an April 2026 appellate ruling. Critics view the entire saga as self-serving litigation that wasted resources and highlighted his prioritization of personal/ departmental interests over clear rules.
• Abrupt Campaign Withdrawal: Penman filed to reclaim his District B seat in late February 2026 but withdrew ~10 days later (by March 6). This occurred amid ongoing litigation and timing issues. Skeptics question the motives — possible legal risks, internal party pressure, or strategic repositioning — especially since he then pivoted to the RCC while backing another candidate.
• Pattern of Feuds and Accusations: Penman has repeatedly clashed with County Executive Bob Cassilly, accusing him of “lawfare,” monitoring communications, and misusing resources. He has released attack videos and made claims (e.g., about real estate plats) that county officials called false or outrageous. Critics see this as deflection from his own ethics findings and a sign of divisiveness unsuitable for RCC duties (which involve supporting Republican candidates broadly).
• Broader Criticisms:
  
  • Earlier complaints about using his sergeant title/prestige in campaigns.
  • Allegations of non-cooperation (e.g., Sheriff’s Office ignoring Public Information Act requests tied to the ethics probe).
  • Perception that he acts as an “unabashed lobbyist” for the Sheriff’s Office while in elected roles, undermining public trust in impartial governance.

The Republican Central Committee handles party operations, candidate recruitment, and endorsements. Detractors argue Penman’s baggage — ethics findings, removal saga, short-lived campaigns, and intra-party conflicts — risks further division in Harford County Republicans rather than unity. Supporters (including Sheriff Jeff Gahler’s endorsement) frame him as a pro-law-enforcement conservative, but the ethics record remains a significant liability.

Local commentary and news coverage often portray his actions as prioritizing personal and law enforcement interests over taxpayer accountability and ethical standards. For full details, review the Ethics Board Opinion 24-01 and court filings. His campaign materials emphasize service and conservatism, but the documented controversies dominate critical views of his fitness for party office.

Heather K. Cantos is a Democratic candidate for the Harford County Democratic Central Committee (DCC) in the 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election (June 23, 2026).

• She works as a Legislative Aide to Harford County Council Member Jacob David Bennett (District F) in the Council Administration.
• She has experience in local government, including advocacy for gun violence prevention legislation (monitoring local/state laws and participating in Maryland General Assembly meetings).
• She previously ran/been nominated for a Harford County Council District A vacancy (selected as one of three Democratic finalists by the DCC in late 2024 after Councilman Dion Guthrie's removal; she also runs her own daycare business).
• She participated in the Harford Leadership Academy (Class of 2023).
• She lives in Abingdon, MD (Harford County), and is in her mid-40s.

• Filing: Active candidate (filed around February 2026).
• She is one of several female candidates for the DCC (gender balance rules apply: no more than half of members from the same gender).
• Campaign Presence: Active on social media via Instagram (@heather4harford / Heather Cantos for Democratic Central Committee) and Facebook (Heather For Harford). Her bio describes her as "a wife, a mom, a sister, an auntie, and a friend" focused on bringing new leadership to the Harford Democratic Party and supporting the community.
• She has expressed gratitude for community support and is fundraising (e.g., via ActBlue).

The Harford County DCC helps organize and support Democratic candidates and activities at the local level. Cantos's government experience positions her as someone familiar with county operations and legislative processes.

For the most current details, check official sources like the Maryland State Board of Elections candidate list, her social channels (@heather4harford), or local Democratic Party updates. Campaign websites or detailed platforms may appear closer to the primary.