Charles County Commissioners Celebrate 40 Years Of Service, Recognize Longtime Employees

LA PLATA, Md. — Decades of dedication and public service were celebrated Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, as the Charles County Board of Commissioners recognized employees reaching major years-of-service milestones during its regular legislative session.

The recognition, held during the board’s meeting at the Charles County Government Building, honored employees who reached 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 years of service during the fourth quarter of 2025, highlighting the long-term commitment that helps sustain county operations and services.

The ceremony placed special emphasis on two employees who reached the rare milestone of 40 years of service. Robert Johnston and John Earle, both with Public Works Facilities, were recognized for four decades of dedication to Charles County, representing careers spent supporting the community through years of growth and change.

County leaders noted that while reaching 20 years of service is a significant achievement, 40 years reflects an extraordinary level of commitment that few attain in public service. The moment was met with appreciation and applause, underscoring the value residents place on experience, continuity and institutional knowledge.

In addition to the 40-year honorees, employees were recognized across multiple departments for other service milestones.

Those reaching 35 years of service included Randal Davis of Recreation, Parks and Tourism Parks and Michael Stone of Public Works Utilities – Mattawoman.

Employees honored for 30 years of service were Patrick Watson of Public Works Facilities and Robert Romero of Planning and Growth Management Transit.

Recognized for 25 years of service were Kelly Holcomb of Fiscal and Administrative Services Accounting, Stephen Van Bellen of Fiscal and Administrative Services IT – CIO, Tammie Kuss of Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration, and Mary Taylor of Public Works Facilities.

A large group of employees was also honored for reaching 20 years of service, reflecting the depth of long-term service across county departments. Those recognized were Aaron Kidder, Amanda Windsor, Casey Jones, Catherine Reisinger, Dawn Cappel, Donald Giampertoni, Kelly Scott, Melody Hill, Paul Lenharr, Tricia Rogerson, Frank Henderson, Donald Watkins, Danielle Phelps, Steven Stewart and Anthony Saunders.

From those marking 20 years to the rare 40-year milestone, the honorees represented a shared commitment to the community and a level of dedication that continues to shape county government today.

Watch the Feb. 3 Meeting: CCGTV
See Full List Here

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