About Joe Schanno

Joe Schanno has deep roots in Worcester County and Ocean Pines and wants to serve the community that he loves. Joe believes strong local leadership starts with understanding the people, businesses, and institutions that make Worcester County work.

“Worcester County has given me a solid foundation for success, and I want to make sure all members of our community can have the same opportunities I was given. I will fight for a more affordable county, with stronger schools and pathways to success for the next generation.”

The son of Joseph F. Schanno and Joanna Schanno, both of Ocean Pines, Joe attended Stephen Decatur High School and studied Political Science at Salisbury University. As a community banker and an active community member, Joe has firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing small businesses, entrepreneurs, and working families across the region as well as the experience to help them grow, invest, and succeed.

While serving as a board member for Worcester County Economic Development Board, Joe uses his insight to ensure that Worcester County residents both new and old can turn their dreams into reality. Whether starting a small business, expanding a current enterprise, or helping a family get into their first home, Joe is committed to making Worcester County the kind of place where people want to work, play, and stay.

Joe strengthens families of Worcester County through economic empowerment and poverty alleviation as Vice President of the Worcester County GOLD Board of Directors and member of Bearded Men Society of Ocean City. Joe's work with Worcester GOLD supports their major programs providing emergency financial assistance, youth activities, school supplies, Thanksgiving turkeys, and holiday help for families. Bearded Men Society of Ocean City supports local organizations such as Diakonia and Making Strides for Breast Cancer through fundraising events and in-person service.

Joe believes outdoor recreation is an important part of life in Worcester County. As an Eagle Scout and Committee Chair for Scouting America Troop #261, he has helped countless young people experience camping, hiking, and fishing while building confidence, patriotism, and leadership skills. Joe also served as Special Assistant to the Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, where he worked to simplify hunting and fishing regulations and support policies that allow commercial fishermen to continue making a living from Maryland’s natural resources.

Joe works alongside business leaders, public servants, nonprofit organizations, and community volunteers who are all invested in the future of the county. Joe doesn’t just study county government from the outside, he understands how it works and how decisions affect every resident, business, and community organization.

Worcester first! Support Joe Schanno as your next Worcester County Commissioner, District 5.