[Monday, August 17] Charles County Acting Administrator Deborah E. Hall is pleased to announce the appointment of Lester Flint as the new Director of the Department of Emergency Services. Flint brings more than 34 years of leadership experience in fire and rescue operations, emergency medical services, emergency management, disaster preparedness, training, and public safety administration to the position. His appointment is effective Sep. 8.
Flint most recently served as Battalion Fire Chief and Acting Deputy Fire Chief with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, where he directed emergency operations across five fire and rescue stations, commanded complex all-hazards incidents, and led staffing, preparedness, training, and operational readiness. A familiar face in Charles County's public safety community, Flint has also served with the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department since 1991 and currently serves as a County Battalion Chief, providing operational leadership and countywide command support within the volunteer emergency services system. Flint’s commitment to service reflects a longstanding family tradition, with generations of his family deeply rooted in Charles County and dedicated to serving the community through the volunteer fire service.
"Lester Flint is an accomplished public safety leader whose experience, collaborative approach, and commitment to service make him exceptionally well-suited to lead our Department of Emergency Services," said Acting County Administrator Deborah Hall. "As Charles County continues to grow, we need leaders who can bring fresh perspectives while building on our strong foundation of career and volunteer partnerships. His volunteer experience locally, along with a proven record of leadership regionally, will ensure that we deliver on our mission to answer the call and save lives."
As Director, Flint will lead the County's Department of Emergency Services, overseeing emergency management, emergency medical services, public safety communications, preparedness initiatives, animal care and control and coordination with the County's career and volunteer public safety partners. His appointment comes as Charles County continues to experience significant growth and expands its emergency response capabilities to meet community needs.
“I am committed to leading with integrity, building strong teams, and drawing on my experience to strengthen the organization and serve our community,” said Flint. “This community helped shape who I am, both personally and professionally, and I see this opportunity as a way to give back through meaningful service, collaboration, and a commitment to making a positive and lasting difference.”
Flint holds a Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration from Columbia Southern University, where he graduated with honors, an Associate of Science in Fire Science, and the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence. He also maintains numerous professional certifications in incident command, emergency management, hazardous materials response, instruction, and emergency medical services.
For more information about the Charles County Department of Emergency Services, visit the County website at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov.
