Commissioner Tom Gordon III

Commissioner Tom Gordon III is a lifelong Carroll County resident dedicated to serving the community that has been his home for generations. A graduate of Westminster High School and McDaniel College, Tom has built his career around public service, community leadership, and preserving the values that make Carroll County an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family.

Before being elected County Commissioner, Tom spent more than two decades as a successful small business owner in the antiques and collectibles industry. His experience as an entrepreneur gave him a firsthand understanding of the challenges facing local businesses and reinforced his commitment to fostering a strong economy while supporting responsible, business-friendly growth. Upon taking office, he significantly reduced his business activities in order to devote his full attention to serving the citizens of Carroll County.

As the County Commissioner representing District 3, Tom has focused on strengthening public safety, supporting quality education, protecting agriculture and open space, promoting thoughtful economic development, and maintaining Carroll County's long-standing tradition of fiscal responsibility. He believes effective local government is built on transparency, collaboration, and listening to the people it serves.

Tom's dedication to the community began early in life, earning the rank of Eagle Scout, and has continued through decades of volunteer leadership. Prior to his election, he served on numerous nonprofit and civic organizations, including the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee, the Carroll County Land Trust, the Historical Society of Carroll County, and the Boys & Girls Club of Carroll County. His family's farming roots, dating back to 1948, continue to shape his appreciation for agriculture, land preservation, and Carroll County's rural heritage.

Among the initiatives closest to Tom's heart is the Driven to Dream Scholarship, which he co-founded with Janae Henson through the Boys & Girls Club of Carroll County. The scholarship provides financial assistance to students pursuing college, vocational training, or other career pathways, recognizing not only academic achievement but also leadership, perseverance, community involvement, and resilience.

Tom has also been an active supporter of numerous charitable organizations and community initiatives throughout Carroll County, believing that investing in people is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen a community. Whether through volunteer service, philanthropic efforts, or collaborative partnerships, he remains committed to creating opportunities that benefit residents of all ages.

Today, Tom continues to work toward preserving Carroll County's unique character while preparing for its future—supporting families, encouraging economic opportunity, protecting agriculture and open space, and ensuring that future generations enjoy the same quality of life that has made Carroll County such a remarkable place to call home.

Boards, Commissions & Appointments

• Carroll County Board of Health

• Greater Baltimore Committee (now part of the Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore)

• Historical Society of Carroll County — Ex Officio

• Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) — Alternate Representative

• Planning & Zoning Commission — Ex Officio

• Veterans Advisory Council — Ex Officio

Awards & Recognition

• Carroll Magazine Person of the Year (2025)

• Carroll County Veterans Independence Project Red, White & Blue Gala Person of the Year Award (2025) — Frank Valanti & Mike "Mad Dog" Sater Person of the Year Award, presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to the veteran community.

• Historical Society of Carroll County Distinguished Historian Award (2025)