LEONARDTOWN, Md. (January 4, 2012)—Phil Shire has been named the director for the St. Mary's County Land Use and Growth Management department effective January 3. Shire has been performing as the acting director.
Commissioner President Jack Russell said Shire has served admirably as acting director. "After an exhaustive search and two rounds of interviews, it became quite apparent that Phil was the best qualified person to permanently fill the position," said Russell in a statement.
Shire is a career county employee. According to a county government press release, Shire has over three decades in local public service, serving in various positions from caretaker of the St. Clement's Island Museum and as an inspector for zoning, construction, erosion and sediment control to LUGM's Deputy Director and two stints as its Acting Director.
"I have received encouragement and support from both the private and public sectors to accept the Director's position and I'm honored by the confidence others have shown in my abilities," said Shire in a statement. "Serving as acting Director has given me insight into the challenges of the job and my decision to accept the position permanently did not come easily. I pledge my full commitment to the challenge at hand."
Shire is married, has a grown son along with 2 dogs and 3 cats. His hobbies include photography and he considers himself a history buff.
The search for a new LUGM Deputy Director will begin immediately, according to a press release issued by the County's public information officer.