PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners presented a citation to County Attorney John B. Norris III on December 18, 2025, recognizing his 14 years of exemplary legal counsel, leadership, and dedication to public service as he concluded his tenure with the county government.
Norris, who began serving as County Attorney in August 2011, provided chief legal guidance to the Board of County Commissioners, County Administrator, all county departments, and advisory boards. His role encompassed overseeing all legal affairs, offering advice on complex matters, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, reviewing contracts and documents, handling civil litigation involving the county, prosecuting ordinance violations, and maintaining the County Code.
The Board highlighted his unique combination of civil engineering expertise and legal knowledge, which proved valuable in addressing issues related to land use, environmental regulation, and infrastructure development. Norris earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and Technology from Old Dominion University and a Juris Doctor from Ohio Northern University. He began his career as a project engineer with NG&O Engineering Inc., focusing on civil site design, permitting, and development for various projects, before transitioning to legal roles, including an internship with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency on environmental law matters.
Prior to Calvert County, he served in St. Mary’s County as assistant county attorney, deputy county attorney, and county attorney from 2001 to 2006. During his time in Calvert County, Norris supported numerous initiatives that advanced governance, policy development, transparency, and long-term county interests. County Administrator Linda Turner stated, “County Attorney John Norris is to be commended for his distinguished tenure with Calvert County and his excellent service to its citizens.”
The Board of County Commissioners, Turner, and county staff extended congratulations on his new role and appreciation for his faithful service.
Norris reflected, “Serving Calvert County has been a great privilege. I am deeply grateful for the 14 years I spent serving the citizens of Calvert County as County Attorney.” He was widely recognized for his integrity, methodical approach, commitment to fairness, and ability to produce detailed analyses efficiently. The citation presentation occurred during a Board meeting, where commissioners also presented Norris with a hardhat and safety vest, acknowledging his engineering background and transition to infrastructure leadership.
Effective December 19, 2025, Norris assumes the position of Director of the Department of Public Works & Transportation in St. Mary’s County, overseeing infrastructure, roadway operations, construction, development review, solid waste, recycling, and transportation services. This move returns him to a county where he previously held legal positions, allowing him to apply his dual expertise in engineering and public law.
The appointment strengthens St. Mary’s County’s focus on project execution and operational services. In Calvert County, the County Attorney’s Office continues to provide legal support to government entities under the direction of the Board, with guidance available only to county officials and departments. Residents seeking personal legal assistance are directed to resources such as the Legal Aid Bureau at 410-535-3278 or the Public Defender’s Office at 443-550-6800.
Norris’s departure follows a period of significant contributions to Calvert County’s responsible growth and regulatory compliance. His engineering-informed perspective aided in evaluating projects, managing risks, and upholding public service standards. The transition aligns with his expressed enthusiasm to leverage his background for direct impact in infrastructure management.
His legacy includes fostering transparent processes and principled decision-making that continue to influence county operations. As Southern Maryland communities in Calvert, St. Mary’s, and neighboring counties collaborate on regional issues, professionals with cross-county experience like Norris contribute to shared priorities in development and public works.
