Prince William County Executive Chris Martino To Retire At The End Of December

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA — Chris Martino, the County Executive for Prince William County, will retire from his position on Dec. 31, 2021, the county announced this week. A successor has not been named, but county officials said a search for Martino's replacement would begin "as soon as possible."

Martino has served in his current role as County Executive for about five years. He has worked for the Prince William County government in different roles for a total of 26 years. Martino previously worked as the Deputy County Executive and as the Director of Finance.

"Prince William County is a very special community, a community in which I have lived and raised my family. It has been my distinct privilege to serve in this role, and I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished during my tenure," Martino said. "This is not an easy decision by any means. I love this organization and the people who work here."

In a news release, Martino said he was most proud of maintaining the county's AAA bond status, maintaining principles of financial management, and changing culture to empower employees, among others.

"It is the work of our employees, however, that makes me the most proud," Martino said.

In the news release, Chair of the Board of County Supervisors Ann Wheeler showed her appreciation for Martino and his years of service in the county.

"He has led this organization through many challenges – a global pandemic, social unrest, changes to the structure of the organization, and much more – and he has done so with passion, determination, and always with the best interest of the community and organization at heart," Wheeler said. "While this is a loss for the organization, we certainly wish him well and the very best of luck."

County officials said they would begin a nationwide search for a new county executive "as soon as possible." Martino will continue to work in his role through the end of the year.