Prince Frederick, MD – A clergyman spoke about “taking flight” and Marine aviator compared public service to “packing parachutes.” The topics seemed appropriate for a day when Calvert County’s new board of county commissioners begin the process of getting their four years of administrating off the ground. “The election is over, it’s time to move forward,” declared Commissioners’ President Thomas E. “Tim” Hutchins [R-District 2], just prior to receiving the board’s unanimous approval for the leadership post. The five board members unanimously voted for Kelly D. McConkey [R-District 3] to serve as commissioners’ vice president in 2019.
The new board was sworn in Tuesday morning, Dec. 18 at the College of Southern Maryland’s Prince Frederick campus. In addition to Hutchins and McConkey, the panel includes holdovers Mike Hart [R-District 1] and Steve Weems [R-At Large] and top vote-getter Earl “Buddy” Hance [R-At Large]. Sheriff Mike Evans [R], who is serving his fifth term as head of Calvert’s primary law enforcement agency. Calvert Circuit Court Clerk Kathy Smith [D] administered the oath to the board and then the sheriff. Family members of elected official came up on stage for lapel pinning ceremonies.
In addition to remarks by County Administrator Terry L. Shannon, retired Marine Colonel Arthur Athens, a county resident; the Rev. David Mohler of Life Church in Huntingtown and Bishop William Patton of Calvert Lighthouse Church in Prince Frederick also offered inspiration to the elected officials.
“The position is vital to our community,” said Weems, who noted the board must make crucial decisions affecting public safety, transportation and infrastructure.
“It’s been a long journey for me and my family,” said McConkey, who resigned earlier this week from the Calvert County Board of Education. “We love this community we’re in.”
“I couldn’t appreciate it until I sat there,” said Hart about the responsibilities facing the commissioners.
“It’s a very humbling experience,” Hance said. “We need to make sure we listen to you.”
Evans indicated he was anxious to work with the new board. “I think we’re going to make great strides in the next four years.”
Participating in the brief ceremony were the Calvert High School Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps Color Guard (presentation of colors), local Eagle Scout Michael Lipperini (Pledge of Allegiance), Calvert High School Chamber Choir (Star Spangled Banner) and Patuxent High School Orchestra Chamber Ensemble.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com
