Update: Frank Thorp’s candidacy has been certified!

Following content from update newsletter sent 02/21/2025 at 8:15 AM Access original newsletter here.

Hello Neighbors,

I’ve got exciting news to announce. My candidacy for Ward 8 alderman was certified by the Annapolis Board of Supervisors of Elections last night.

I’m ready to bring a career of experience to serve—full-time—as Ward 8 alderman. I was born and grew up in Eastport and Annapolis. After attending the Naval Academy, I served 28 years in the Navy with my last two assignments as a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense and then as the spokesperson for the U.S. Navy as the Chief of Information. I worked in the corporate world and then served in non-profits, first as Chief Marketing Officer at USO Worldwide and most recently completing eight years as President and CEO of the United States Navy Memorial.

Our campaign is in full swing! We had an exciting launch in January with more than 150 people in attendance. Since December when I filed, I’ve had more than 100 meetings with residents, business owners and elected officials, learning about your issues, potential solutions and the responsibility of serving on the City Council. I leave every meeting more enthusiastic and more motivated to be a voice for Ward 8. I’ve also been attending and watching City Council, City Council Committee, City Board and Commission meetings as well as doing a deep-dive into the city’s budget—to learn first-hand the details of existing issues and how the city is governed. Several topics continue to come through very clearly:

The number one concern I hear, and wholeheartedly agree with, is that we must maintain our maritime culture. Eastport is unique, and while we work hard to enhance it and make it even better, we must preserve what makes our neighborhood so special.
Communication is extremely important! Residents want to be informed early and responded to quickly. My campaign Communications Committee is developing processes that will continue as constituent services if I am fortunate enough to be elected.
Public Safety must be a primary focus of your alderman. Whether it’s sidewalks, crosswalks, crime, parking or traffic, your alderman needs to work to ensure our community is safe.
Being alderman of Ward 8 is a full-time job. We’re exceptionally fortunate to have an active community association and residents who have a passion and opinions how to improve. Every voice matters.I commit to serving you full-time!

Please visit www.frank4ward8.com to read more about me and my policies and follow me on Facebook and Instagram @Frank4Ward8.

Even better, I look forward to an opportunity to meet with each of you to discuss your concerns and how, together, we can enhance our special community and preserve our maritime culture. I’m me- ting with folks everyday—I cherish the opportunity to better know my neighbors and learn what is important to you. Please reach out and let me know if you would like to get together for a cup of coffee and a chat. You can reach me via email at info@frank4ward8.comor through the Contact Frank page on our website.If you would like to be involved in the campaign, please go to the Get Involved page on our website and sign up for our emails or to volunteer.

This is an “all-hands on deck” effort and we invite you to be a part of it.

All the best,

Frank