Gina Gallucci-White
Frederic News-Post

(1/30) Donald Trimmer got into public service more than 20 years ago because he wanted to be involved in the decision-making process for the town.

He has served Woodsboro as burgess for 16 consecutive years and was a town commissioner for eight years. He was also inducted into the Maryland Municipal League Hall of Fame last year, which honors people who have served at least 20 years as an elected official.

Trimmer recently announced that he will not seek re-election this year. He said there is no specific reason he decided to step down; he just thinks it's time to move on.

"I just think it's time somebody else takes care of the town," he said.

Nominations for burgess and two town commissioner seats will be accepted during the town's April 14 meeting. The election wil be held May 9.

Trimmer appreciates all the cooperation he received throughout the years from commissioners, office and maintenance personnel and residents.

"I have no regrets," he said.

Commissioner Scott Brakebill said he is in public service because of Trimmer, who asked him to serve on the Planning and Zoning Committee and run for town office.

"Don is 'old school,' and he definitely lets you know when he agrees with you and when he disagrees," Brakebill said. "Either way, I believe that Don has always made decisions and acted in the best interest of the town of Woodsboro. For that alone we can all be thankful for his dedicated service."

Commissioner Joel Rensberger said Trimmer also encouraged him to run for office.

"I am in public service today partly because of Don," he said. --

Rensberger thinks Trimmer's legacy will be one of fiscal conservatism and responsibility.--

"The town of Woodsboro is in good financial health today," he said, "outperforming other municipalities, and we are grateful to him for that."

Trimmer said he is proud of several accomplishments during his time in office. Replacing the town's 2- to 4-inch waterlines with 8-inch lines, updating the comprehensive plan and bringing zoning ordinances up to date are examples.

But he thinks his biggest achievement was helping to get the town its bypass. Officials had hoped for 30 years to get one and Trimmer said he was glad he could play a role in making it a reality.

"I'm pretty proud of the things we have accomplished in my short period of time," Trimmer said.

While his term is winding down as burgess, Trimmer has filled his agenda with other duties. He is the Woodsboro Volunteer Fire Co.'s treasurer and has been elected president of the town's Evangelical Lutheran Church council.

Trimmer said he hopes his successor will continue to ensure the betterment of the town.