FREDERICK, Md. – Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater has appointed Mr. Lee Zimmerman as Director of the Division of Solid Waste and Recycling. The division manages the County’s Reichs Ford Road transfer station and landfill, as well as countywide recycling efforts. Mr. Zimmerman served as Deputy Director from June 2022 until June of 2024, when he took on the role of Acting Director upon the retirement of Phil Harris.
“In today’s world, we need to shift our approach to waste management by focusing on reducing waste, improving recycling and composting initiatives, and using landfills to generate renewable energy,” County Executive Fitzwater said. “Lee's extensive experience and proven leadership will help us implement these changes effectively and drive us toward more sustainable waste management practices.”
Mr. Zimmerman has worked in several areas of waste management and recycling operations during the past 30 years. Before joining Frederick County Government, he managed municipal solid waste landfills in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. His experience includes preparing budgets, meeting state and federal permit requirements, and managing environmental issues. Mr. Zimmerman prioritizes employee safety and community relations.
Zimmerman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Shippensburg University. He is certified in Maryland as a compost manager for the County’s commercial compost operation. In addition, he is also certified as an FAA-licensed Aircraft Mechanic.
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