HAGERSTOWN – The Washington County Board of County Commissioners has appointed Randal A. Leatherman to fill the vacancy left by Commissioner Wayne K. Keefer, who resigned in March for personal reasons.
“Randy” Leatherman, 64, is a Fairplay resident with deep roots in public service and community leadership. He was unanimously selected on April 15 and will serve the remainder of Keefer’s term through December 2026.
“Randal’s dedication to Washington County and his leadership experience make him an excellent addition to the Board,” said John F. Barr, President of the Commissioners. “We look forward to his contributions as we address the needs of our community.”
Leatherman’s extensive background includes nearly 30 years with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, where he served as a firefighter, rescue technician and master technician before retiring in 2013. He also played a critical role in search and rescue operations with Virginia Task Force 1 and contributed to disaster response efforts with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and United States Aid for International Development.
A longtime resident and community member, Leatherman has served on the Hagerstown Regional Airport Advisory Committee, Washington County Republican Club and various fire departments throughout Washington County. His contributions to public safety and emergency response have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Fairfax County Fire Department Bronze Medal for Lifesaving and the Air National Guard’s Meritorious Service Medal.
The appointment followed Maryland’s standard process for filling commissioner vacancies. The County Republican Central Committee submitted three nominees, including Leatherman, to replace Keefer, a Republican. The Board’s unanimous decision reflects confidence in Leatherman’s ability to serve effectively.
Leatherman expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “I am honored to join the Board and serve the citizens of Washington County,” he said. “My focus will be on enhancing public safety, supporting economic growth and preserving the values that make our county a great place to live.”
Leatherman will join Commissioners John F. Barr, Jeffrey A. Cline, Randall E. Wagner and Derek Harvey, all Republicans, to address county priorities. His term will conclude in December 2026, following the 2026 general election.
