Commissioners of St. Mary’s honors retirement of LUGM Director Philip Shire
Leonardtown, MD – Jan. 31, the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County honored retiring Land Use and Growth Management (LUGM) Director Philip J. Shire with an award recognizing his 38 years of county government service. During their regular business meeting, a proclamation was read commemorating Shire for his many roles over the years as a St. Mary’s County Government employee.
Commissioner Randy Guy said, “During Phil’s 38 years of service, he has bee
n an effective planning team leader and role model earning the respect and appreciation from those who have worked with him.”
Shire announced his plan to step down from his position back in September 2016, effective Jan. 31, 2017. His dedicated long service began in 1979 as a caretaker for St. Clements Island. Following a short stint as a zoning inspector in the Office of Planning and Zoning (now LUGM), Shire ventured back and forth between the Office of Planning and Zoning, and the Department of Public Works and Transportation, until finally landing as a volunteer in development review at LUGM. In April 1980, he accepted a full-time position as an engineering associate.
Throughout his career, Shire focused on effectively managing growth in St. Mary’s County. His depth of experience and commitment has resulted in many promotions within LUGM. In 2011, as deputy director, he assumed the role of LUGM acting director. In January 2012, he was formally appointed to the position of director.
A press release from the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County Jan. 2 stated that Deputy Director Bill Hunt has been selected as the interim director of LUGM. Hunt has served as the deputy director of LUGM since December 2012. Commissioner President Randy Guy said, “His selection ensures a smooth transition while we search for a new LUGM director.”
Shire was also presented with a 18-by-24, rustic gold-framed painting of the map of St. Mary’s County. The artist, Mary Lou Troutman personalized the artwork depicting the characteristics specific to St. Mary’s County with the county government seal in the center and various points of interest highlighted from north to south county. The commissioners agreed, “It was a tough job and we thank you very much. We are losing a valuable resource.”
Contact Shertina J. Mack at s.mack@TheBayNet.com.
