TARA FISCHER/BAYSIDE GAZETTE
Berlin Councilman Dean Burrell officially stepped down from his position after 32 years of service on Tuesday night. Pictured, from left, are Councilman Jack Orris, outgoing Councilman Steve Green, Valerie with her husband, Dean, Mayor Zack Tyndall and Council members Shaneka Nichols and Jay Knerr.

By Tara Fischer

Staff Writer

(Oct. 15, 2026) Longtime Berlin Town Councilman Dean Burrell completed his final term in local government Tuesday night, wrapping up more than three decades of public service.

One of the longest-serving council members, Burrell has represented what was to become Berlin’s District 4 since 1994. This week, he said goodbye to the position he’s held for 32 years.

Burrell called his time as an elected official a “rewarding experience.”

“I do believe it has made me a better person,” he said.

After spending almost half a lifetime as a public servant, Burrell has worked alongside five different mayoral administrations and n numerous council members. He thanked the recent team, acknowledging how the group found ways to come together for Berlin’s good, even amid disagreement.

“We each have acted in the way we feel is in the best interest of the Town of Berlin,” he said.

Burrell specifically recognized Councilmembers Jack Orris and Shaneka Nichols for their dedication to speaking up about concerns brought forward by their constituents. He said Steve Green has been a voice of reason, offering feedback, and said Jay Knerr always looks at the big picture when debating ideas and policies.

Burrell added that, as he steps down, he trusts the council and Berlin Mayor Zack Tyndall to keep advancing local priorities and making decisions for the benefit of the municipality’s residents.

“[Tyndall] has grown into a fantastic man,” he said. “This guy has the aptitude to lead this town beyond your wildest dreams.”

Burrell also thanked the Town of Berlin staff, whom he called “some of the best people I know.”

The now-retired councilman concluded his service this week as reelected representative Jay Knerr and new members Tony Weeg and Matt Stoehr were sworn in. Burrell challenged the council members to continue the precedent set by the former governing body: working toward a common goal, listening, and considering each perspective.

“This council has walked in the steps of great people before us,” Burrell said. “And I’m calling upon you to do the very same. You’re not going to always agree…but when a decision is made, I ask that you support that decision.”

Burrell is originally from Somerset County but moved to Berlin in 1985 when he married a woman from the area.

He graduated from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 1973 with a degree in sociology. A trained social worker, Burrell worked for SHORE UP! In Salisbury for almost 40 years.

Burrell served as the organization’s Head Start director for 15 years. Head Start is a federally funded early childhood education program serving economically disadvantaged families.

Burrell’s colleagues recognized his commitment to the Town of Berlin Tuesday night.

Outgoing Berlin Councilman Steve Green is pictured with a citation from Mayor Zack Tyndall for his service. Fellow council members and Green’s family are pictured.

Green highlighted just how long Burrell has represented Berlin, noting he “graduated high school the year [Burrell] started his service.”

Green, who also stepped down from Berlin’s governing team this week, added that he’s grateful for the years he and Burrell have worked together on the Town Council and what he’s learned from him.

Tyndall maintained that over his 32 years, Burrell led with balanced, dependable guidance.

“Dean has always been a voice of reason on the council,” the mayor said. “…At the end of the day, we might not vote the same way…but we move forward after the vote. That steady leadership has always served us well…I thoroughly enjoyed our time together.”