Jim Hinebaugh

James Carlton Hinebaugh Jr. is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing District 1A, which encompasses parts of Garrett and Allegany counties. A member of the Republican Party, Hinebaugh has a diverse background that includes military service, local government experience, and a focus on economic development. His legislative career follows a tenure as a county commissioner, where he was involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the local economy and community services.

Early life and career

Jim Hinebaugh was born on December 12, 1946. He completed his secondary education at Southern Garrett High School before pursuing higher education. In 1974, he graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science and mathematics. Hinebaugh furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Business Administration in public administration from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania in 1988.

Hinebaugh's professional journey began with his service in the United States Army, where he was activated in 1966. His military career included deployment overseas, notably in Vietnam, and he ultimately retired as a colonel in 1995 after nearly three decades of service. His military background has likely influenced his leadership style and commitment to public service.

Following his military career, Hinebaugh transitioned into local government and economic development. In August 1995, he was appointed as the Director of the Garrett County Department of Economic Development. During his tenure, which lasted until his retirement in 2012, he played a crucial role in fostering business growth within the county. Under his leadership, the department saw significant achievements, including a reduction in the unemployment rate from 13.7 percent in 1997 to 7.5 percent in 2011. Hinebaugh was instrumental in the establishment of six industrial parks and initiated the Garrett County Scholarships Program in 2006, which provides financial assistance for local high school graduates to attend Garrett College.

Legislative service

Hinebaugh's entry into elected office began when he ran for a seat on the Garrett County Board of Commissioners in District 3 in 2014. He successfully challenged the incumbent commissioner, Bob Gatto, in the Republican primary and subsequently won the general election. He was sworn in on December 9, 2014, and was re-elected for a second term in 2018. During his time as a commissioner, Hinebaugh was actively involved in local governance and represented the interests of his constituents.

In January 2019, he was elected to a one-year term on the board of directors of the Maryland Association of Counties, reflecting his commitment to collaboration with other local leaders. By December 2021, he had advanced to serve on the association's executive board, further enhancing his influence within local government circles.

In 2022, Hinebaugh decided to run for the Maryland House of Delegates, aiming to succeed the retiring delegate Wendell R. Beitzel. He won the Republican primary on July 19, 2022, securing a significant portion of the vote. Following this success, he went on to win the general election held on November 8, 2022. Hinebaugh was sworn into the Maryland House of Delegates on January 11, 2023, where he currently serves as a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, Hinebaugh represents District 1A, which includes parts of Garrett and Allegany counties. His background in economic development and local governance informs his legislative priorities and policy focus. While specific legislative initiatives and positions have not been detailed, his experience in economic development suggests an interest in policies that promote job creation, economic growth, and community support.

Hinebaugh's tenure in the Maryland House of Delegates is characterized by his commitment to serving the needs of his constituents in a rural area, where economic challenges and opportunities differ from those in more urban settings. His previous experience as a county commissioner provides him with insights into local issues, enabling him to advocate effectively for his district's interests.

In terms of his future plans, Hinebaugh has announced that he will not seek re-election in 2026, indicating a focus on his current term and the responsibilities that come with it. His decision to step away from electoral politics may reflect a desire to conclude his public service on his own terms while allowing for new leadership to emerge in his district.

Hinebaugh resides in Oakland, Maryland, with his wife, Barbara. Together, they have four children. He is an active member of his community and participates in religious services at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Oakland. His personal life and community involvement further illustrate his commitment to the region he serves.

In summary, Jim Hinebaugh's career spans military service, economic development, and local governance, culminating in his current role as a state legislator. His experiences have shaped his approach to public service, emphasizing economic growth and community engagement in his legislative work.