Charles County Acting Administrator Deborah Hall announced the appointment of Jim Chandler as the new Director of Economic Development, effective Aug. 18. Chandler, a certified economic development professional with over two decades of experience, will oversee efforts to promote job creation, attract businesses and foster growth in areas like Waldorf and the Indian Head technology corridor.
Chandler most recently held senior executive leadership roles in Prince George’s County, where he oversaw strategic initiatives in urban revitalization and transit-oriented development. His career includes leading infrastructure modernization, adaptive reuse of properties, long-range facilities planning and the creation of an award-winning Community Sustainability Plan for the City of Hyattsville. Prior to Prince George’s County, Chandler served 16 years as assistant city administrator and director of community and economic development for Hyattsville, managing local urban revitalization and building partnerships across sectors.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jim Chandler to Charles County,” said Acting County Administrator Deborah Hall. “His proven expertise in leading multiple diverse teams, managing complex redevelopment projects and building strong collaborations across government, private sector, and community stakeholders makes him an ideal leader to advance our county’s economic future.”
In his new role, Chandler will guide the Charles County Economic Development Department, focusing on entrepreneurship support, workforce development and expanding the local economy. Priorities include fostering commercial growth in Waldorf, the county’s suburban center, and advancing the western technology corridor in Indian Head through redevelopment projects with the newly established Industrial Authority. These efforts aim to position Charles County as a competitive destination for investment and innovation.
“I am honored to join the dynamic team at Charles County Government,” said Chandler. “This is a unique and exciting time for the County, and I look forward to building on the strong foundation that has already been laid. Together, we will continue fostering a diverse, sustainable economy that benefits all residents.”
Chandler holds a Master of Public Policy from Stony Brook University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government from Johns Hopkins University. He is a member of national and regional professional organizations dedicated to economic and community development, including the Maryland Economic Development Association, where he serves on the Professional Development Committee.
The appointment comes as Charles County Economic Development continues to build on recent progress. In 2023, the county’s gross domestic product grew by 1.5 percent to $7.7 billion, ranking 11th in Maryland for economic performance and climbing five places from the previous year. This growth reflects diversification in sectors like defense, energetics technology, federal contracting, logistics, health services, retail and agribusiness, according to state economic reports.
Waldorf, as the county’s largest community, has seen significant retail and hospitality expansion driven by population increases and proximity to Washington, D.C. Recent developments, such as The Shops at Fairway, have added commercial space and residences, contributing to an estimated $75 million to $100 million in new capital investment through strategic planning. The Charles County Economic Development Department targets business growth in these areas to sustain momentum.
In the western part of the county, the Indian Head technology corridor spans from Maryland Airport to Indian Head Highway via Maryland Route 210 and Bryans Road. This area, within a 40-minute drive of key federal installations like Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head, has attracted companies in aerospace and defense. For instance, X-Bow Launch Systems Inc. joined the corridor in April 2025, supported by state investments in facilities like the Maryland Technology Center, which received $200,000 in funding to complete its buildout. The Energetics Technology Center, established there, promotes innovation in energetics and related fields, aligning with federal legislation to boost the industry.
Charles County Economic Development initiatives also include programs like the Business Growth Advantage Program, launched in 2022 to aid recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. It has sparked job creation and revenue growth by providing grants and resources to local businesses. Additionally, the county has pursued affordable housing through a Payment in Lieu of Taxes program and developments like Magnolia Gardens in La Plata, which opened 72 workforce housing units in May 2025.
Other recent efforts involve international partnerships, such as the sister city agreement with Matola, Mozambique, signed in June 2025 to enhance trade, education and cultural exchange. The county also launched a resource hub in February 2025 for residents affected by federal employment changes, offering career counseling, business development and support services.
Fiscal planning supports these goals, with the Fiscal Year 2026 budget advancing infrastructure and school funding. Commissioners approved $5 million in July 2025 for the Mallows Bay Visitor Center to improve access to the national marine sanctuary, potentially boosting tourism-related economic activity.
An interactive goals portal, launched in July 2025, tracks the county’s 2023-2026 priorities, including economic development, to enhance transparency. Annual events like the Economic Development Week in May and the fall meeting highlight business achievements and foster networking.
Charles County’s location in Southern Maryland, with its mix of rural and suburban areas, positions it for balanced growth. The Department of Planning and Growth Management oversees comprehensive plans that emphasize smart growth, ensuring economic development aligns with community needs. With a historical focus on the Washington region’s job and household expansion, the county aims to increase its share through targeted strategies.
Chandler’s leadership is expected to build on these foundations, leveraging his expertise in public-private partnerships to drive further progress in Charles County Economic Development.
