LA PLATA, Md. (April 20, 2010)—Charles County Commissioner President Wayne Cooper today announced during the Commissioners’ meeting session that he will not seek re-election as President of the Board of County Commissioners.
Commissioner Cooper issued the following statement regarding his decision:
“Representing the people of Charles County for the past 14 years has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Starting as a member of the Board of Education and as both member and its Chairman for three years, as many of you know, education has been near and dear to me and a passion of mine—it’s the reason I entered public service. Since 2003, I’ve had the honor to serve on the Board of County Commissioners, first representing the good people of the second District and now as Commissioner President.
“For the past year, I have been making plans with the help of my long time committee, friends, and family to seek another term as your Commissioner President. I am very proud of the record of this Board of Commissioners and in particular how we responded to the most serious economic crisis facing our nation in the past 70 years. In recent months however, I discovered a medical condition which has forced me to step back and reassess my life, job, and family. For that reason, over the last week I have come to the conclusion, with the support of my family and prayers, that I will not be seeking reelection as Commissioner President in 2010.
“My immediate priorities will be completing the budget for FY2011, continue working to bring business and jobs to Charles County, and complete the work on the decision to build the new High School on Piney Church Road in Waldorf.
“In closing, I want to thank the people of Charles County for their faith and confidence in me over the past 14 years. You have elected me to office four times and I have been humbled by your expression of support. Working together, I truly believe we have, as a community, made a difference by improving the quality of life for our children and families for years to come. To my wife Judy, family and friends, thank you for your support. I could not have done this job without all of you. To my many committee members and supporters, my deepest appreciation and gratitude for all your hard work. To my fellow Commissioners, it’s been an honor to have served with you these past four years. You are the best Board of Commissioners that I’ve seen in Charles County and the people are well served. Finally, to the staff and County employees, thank you for your hard work and dedication on behalf of the citizens of this great County. God bless you all.”