Lawmakers react to mayor's resignation

February 03, 2006|by TAMELA BAKER

ANNAPOLIS

Local lawmakers were stunned as news of Hagerstown Mayor Richard F. Trump's resignation filtered down to the capital.

"I was completely and totally surprised by the news. I had absolutely no clue that this was going to happen," said Sen. Donald F. Munson, R-Washington.

"I wish him well, and I hope that we can replace him with someone that can provide a better Hagerstown, ultimately. I'm confident that we can, and I know that a lot of people are interested in making sure that happens."

Del. John P. Donoghue, D-Washington and a former Hagerstown city councilman, said he was very surprised to hear of the resignation after Trump's "very spirited campaign" last spring.

"I don't know the particulars," he added. "Obviously, the mayor no longer wants to be mayor."

"I was surprised, only eight months into a four-year term," said Del. Robert A. McKee, R-Washington. "It raises a question of whether he thought through whether he thought through whether he wanted to be mayor before he ran, and what goes into being in public office."

"It came out of the blue," said Delegation Chairman Christopher B. Shank, R-Washington. "I certainly hope for the city of Hagerstown that they can find a suitable replacement as quickly as possible that the county and the delegation can work with," he said. "I wish Dick well."

"Knowing Dick Trump as well as I do, hopefully he thought his decision out thoroughly," said Del. LeRoy E. Myers, R-Washington/Allegany and a longtime acquaintance of the former mayor. "I'm sure he's doing it in the best interest of the city of Hagerstown. I was surprised as anyone; whatever it is, I support his decision."

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