He replaces Mitch Hose whose retiring.
Frederick, Md (KM) The Frederick County Council Tuesday approved Wayne Howard as the county’s new Human Resources Director. He will take over the position on August 21st, replacing Mitch Hose whose retiring after 38 years.
Howard served as Human Resources Director for the City of Coral Gables in Florida, and also worked for the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. He holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from the University of Maryland.
A statement from the County Executive’s Office says Howard brings a wealth of experience in the field of human resources to the job, including the negotiation of contracts, streamlining HR processes, managing employee benefit programs and putting in policies to comply with complex regulations.
Council President Bud Otis, Vice President MC Keegan-Ayer, and Councilmembers Jerry Donald and Jessica Fitzwater voted to hire Howard. Councilmen Tony Chmelik and Billy Shreve abstained. Chmelik said he believed Howard was qualified for the job, but didn’t like the hiring process. He said it didn’t give the Council enough time to review the information and to interview Mr. Howard.
The Council interviewed Mr. Howard on Tuesday evening, July 18th, shortly before a 7:00 PM public hearing,.
“I am pleased to appoint such a seasoned and dynamic human resources professional as Mr. Howard,” said County Executive Jan Gardner in a statement. “His values are clearly in agreement with my administration’s focus on valuing county employees and treating them with dignity and respect.”
As for Hose, whose retiring after a long time with the county, Gardner said “I appreciate the dedication show by Mitch during his 38 years of service to the county,” she said. “He has overseen many challenging projects, negotiations and strategic goals. I wish him the very best in his retirement.”
Hose was hired as County Human Resources Director on February 5th, 1979.
By Kevin McManus