PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners appointed Cynthia Harris as interim county treasurer, effective June 3, 2025, following the retirement of Tracy Soper on May 30, 2025. Harris, who has served as deputy treasurer since 1995, brings over 30 years of experience to ensure continuity in the Treasurer’s Office during this transition.
Harris has been a key figure in the Calvert County Treasurer’s Office for more than three decades. As deputy treasurer, she managed critical tasks, including the collection of real and personal property taxes, wire transfers, deed and license processing, and staff training. Her expertise extends to budgeting, policy development, and strategic planning, equipping her to lead the office effectively. Board President Earl F. “Buddy” Hance praised her qualifications, stating, “Cynthia Harris has dedicated her career to public service and has a deep understanding of the Treasurer’s responsibilities. We are confident in her ability to lead during this transition.”
Tracy Soper’s retirement marks the end of a 30-year tenure that transformed the Treasurer’s Office. Elected in 1994, Soper introduced significant advancements, such as online credit card payments for property taxes, which streamlined collections and improved taxpayer convenience. She also revamped the office’s web presence, enhancing public access to tax information. Her focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction set a high standard for financial operations in Calvert County.
Soper’s responsibilities were extensive, covering the collection of property taxes, permit fees, landfill income, water and sewer payments, gambling and liquor license fees, dog tag sales, and other revenue sources. She conducted the annual Calvert County Tax Sale and validated deeds before recording with the Clerk of the Circuit Court. Her academic background, including a Bachelor of Science in business management with a minor in accounting from the University of Maryland, supported her effective management. Soper’s contributions earned her recognition, including the 1997 Outstanding Young Women of America award, a 1998 International Who’s Who honor, and the 2016 Public Service Award from Carroll Western United Methodist Church.
Before her tenure as treasurer, Soper worked in banking, rising to assistant branch manager at a regional office. A Calvert County resident since 1970 and a 1984 graduate of Calvert Christian High School, she also holds an associate degree in business management from Prince George’s Community College. Her career was marked by a commitment to technological advancements and exceptional customer service, leaving a legacy that Harris now inherits.
As interim treasurer, Harris is tasked with upholding the office’s high standards while managing its complex operations. Her long tenure provides deep institutional knowledge, ensuring a seamless transition. The Treasurer’s Office plays a vital role in Calvert County’s financial stability, handling millions in annual revenue and supporting public services. Harris’s experience positions her to maintain this critical function without disruption.
The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners has not announced a timeline for selecting a permanent treasurer. Harris’s appointment reflects a strategic choice to prioritize stability and expertise during this period. Her leadership will guide the office as the county plans its next steps in filling the role permanently.
