Commissioner, Vice Chairman

Commissioner Jim Martin began his first term as County Commissioner in 2012. He was born and raised in Adams County and graduated from Gettysburg High School. He and his wife Ginny have resided in Menallen Township and Butler Township for the past 37 years, homeschooling their four children, who are all now college graduates and married .

Commissioner Martin holds an Associate Degree and Bachelors Degree in Forestry and a Masters Degree in Agricultural Economics.  Following formal education, Commissioner Martin was employed by the Farmers Home Administration as a County Supervisor of two counties.  This position provided invaluable experience implementing and managing governmental loan programs for individuals and farmers and coordinating with local governmental agencies. 

Commissioner Martin has been employed by local food manufacturers where he was recognized for his cost effective supervision.  During the middle of his career, Commissioner Martin and his family saw the need to minister to troubled young men.  While in that capacity, Commissioner Martin implemented an educational program to help these young men earn a high school diploma.  For the 11 years prior to becoming an Adams County Commissioner, Jim Martin was self-employed as a licensed REALTOR.  As a full-time REALTOR, Commissioner Martin has completed many real estate transactions, both residential and commercial, throughout Adams County.  This experience helped Jim become very familiar with all corners of Adams County.  Commissioner Martin's commitment to serve his community is exhibited by over 30 years of volunteer work with youth programs and prison ministries.

Near the end of 2010 Commissioner Martin was convinced that he should run for County Commissioner. Commissioner Martin considers it a great honor to have been elected by the citizens of Adams County and is humbled to know that he and the other commissioners are entrusted with the administrative decisions of county government.  Making those decisions comes with much responsibility. Commissioner Martin strives to make these decisions based on his experience and wise counsel.

Since becoming Commissioner, Jim Martin has expanded his opportunities to serve Adams County by serving on various boards as director or chairman.  Commissioner Martin is presently Chairman of the Adams County Prison Board, and is a director on the following boards: Adams County Office for Aging, South Central Workforce Investment Board, The 4-H Club, CCAP Agricultural Committee, Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau, Adams County Conservation District, and the PComp.