PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — Calvert County Administrator Julian “Mark” Willis will retire on June 30, 2025, concluding a distinguished career in public service that shaped the county’s infrastructure, planning, and governance. Appointed administrator in 2020, Willis leaves a legacy of leadership rooted in his military background and commitment to community progress, county officials announced on April 11, 2025.
Willis served as county administrator for five years, following roles as director of planning and zoning from 2016 to 2019 and deputy director of public works from 2000 to 2016, where he was the inaugural appointee. In public works, he managed critical programs like solid waste, water and sewer, highway maintenance, and fleet operations. His tenure saw advancements in sustainable infrastructure, including upgrades to the county’s water systems, as noted in a 2018 Calvert County report.
Before joining local government, Willis served 21 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, retiring as an officer. Enlisting for a decade, he later earned a psychology degree from the University of Florida and served another decade in roles like drill instructor at Parris Island, instructor at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and air delivery platoon commander at Camp Lejeune. He played a key role in manpower management at Marine Corps Headquarters and was the youngest Marine assigned to the 1979-1980 Iran hostage rescue mission. His military honors include graduating with distinction from the Army War College, Army Ranger School, Airborne School, and Rigger School.
“Mark Willis has been an invaluable asset to Calvert County, leading with integrity, dedication and a deep commitment to our community,” said Board of County Commissioners President Earl “Buddy” Hance. “From his decades of distinguished military service to his pivotal roles in county government, Mark has shaped our county and the progress we see today. His vision, hard work and desire for public service are an inspiration to all, and we wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement.”
Willis reflected, “It has been an honor and privilege to serve this community. I am grateful for the many dedicated colleagues I’ve worked alongside and for the trust the citizens have placed in me over the years. My legacy is that while I was tough at times, I maintained a ‘fair is fair’ approach to every county employee and expressed a sincere desire to provide the best possible service to our citizens. They deserve the best we can offer.”
Raised as a tenant farmer, Willis credited early lessons in perseverance for shaping his leadership. His personal motto, inspired by Rita Mae Brown, guided him: “If the action we are about to take does not make us better, don’t take it.” This principle drove initiatives like the county’s 2019 Comprehensive Plan, which prioritized smart growth and environmental stewardship.
Beyond his professional roles, Willis served on boards for the Calvert County Historical Society, Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum, Relay for Life, Distinguished Young Women, and his homeowners association, where he was president. A 2014 Leadership Maryland graduate and 2021 alumnus of the University of Maryland’s Academy for Excellence in Local Governance, he championed community engagement. His work with Jefferson Patterson Park supported archaeological preservation, aligning with Maryland’s heritage goals.
As administrator, Willis navigated challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, securing federal funds to bolster local businesses and infrastructure. A 2021 county report highlighted $10 million in relief grants under his oversight.He also advanced sustainability, with Calvert earning a 2023 Maryland Green Registry award for reducing energy use.
The BOCC praised Willis for fostering collaboration. His leadership style—firm yet equitable—earned respect among staff, with a 2022 employee survey noting high morale in public works. His planning tenure strengthened zoning policies, balancing development with preservation, as seen in the Solomons Town Center revitalization.,
Willis’ retirement follows a trend of long-serving Maryland administrators stepping down, with counties like Anne Arundel facing similar transitions.Calvert officials have not named a successor but plan a national search, per county policy. The BOCC will honor Willis at a June event, details forthcoming.
His departure marks the end of a transformative era. From modernizing water systems to guiding post-pandemic recovery, Willis’ impact endures. The county’s triple-A bond rating, reaffirmed by Moody’s in 2024, reflects fiscal stability he helped maintain.Community leaders credit him with fostering trust, with 75% of residents rating county services highly in a 2023 survey.
The BOCC expressed gratitude, stating Willis’ legacy of service will influence Calvert for years. As he prepares to retire, Willis plans to remain in Southern Maryland, staying active in veteran and historical organizations, continuing his lifelong commitment to service.
