LEONARDTOWN — Leonardtown is adding a second-in-command at Town Hall whose main job will be bringing businesses to town, and it has hired someone who was doing similar work for the county.
The Commissioners of Leonardtown announced Nov. 13 that Kellie S. Hinkle has been appointed assistant town administrator, effective Monday, Nov. 16. Hinkle was most recently deputy director of St. Mary’s County Economic Development, the town said.
In the new post she will support Town Administrator Laschelle E. McKay in running the town government. The town said her primary focus will be business development, commercial recruitment and the growth of Leonardtown’s Main Street program.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kellie to the Leonardtown team,” Mayor Dan Burris said in the announcement. “Her wealth of experience in Southern Maryland and the broader region, combined with her strong relationships in the business community, makes her uniquely qualified to help guide Leonardtown’s future.”
Burris said her leadership “will be instrumental as we expand our business recruitment efforts and build upon the momentum of our Main Street program.”
Before her county role, Hinkle held leadership and economic development positions with Charles County Government and with Loudoun County Economic Development in Ashburn, Virginia, according to the town. The announcement describes her background as centered on regional economic development, tourism and partnerships among government, business and community groups.
The town did not release Hinkle’s salary or say whether the position is new or replaces a vacancy.
Leonardtown, the St. Mary’s County seat, is governed by a mayor and five council members. Town Hall is at 22670 Washington St. and can be reached at 301-475-9791.
