Image of pikes peak with "NACO 2022 Achievement Award Logo overlay

May 16, 2022 – El Paso County has been recognized with three Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo). The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents.

“El Paso County, Colorado, is a fantastic place to live and raise a family,” said El Paso County Board Chair Stan VanderWerf. “Our employees are so dedicated to citizen service, and these three awards reflect the great work and achievements of the entire El Paso County team. From award-winning parks to public safety and public health and so much more, El Paso County is honored to receive these awards and will continue innovating to serve our citizens!”

NACo recognized El Paso County for achievement in three categories: Civic Education and Public Information, Criminal Justice and Public Safety, and Health. El Paso County Parks received recognition on their efforts and celebration of the Parks 50th Anniversary, El Paso County Justice Services Department’s Pretrial Services Program was recognized for advancing evidence-based practices through effective collaboration, and El Paso County Public Health for impacting public health through strategic multi-sector partnerships.

We are thrilled to have the work of multiple departments within our team recognized,” said El Paso County Administrator Bret Waters. “Our goal is to continue providing valued and necessary community services to our residents, and we are continuously looking for ways to enrich their lives through the services we offer. I want to thank everyone within the County who worked toward these recognitions.”

NACo President Larry Johnson said, “All across the country, counties are working tirelessly to support residents and drive recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s Achievement Award-winning programs showcase how counties work every day to build healthy, safe and thriving communities.”

Nationally, awards are given in 18 different categories that reflect the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice and public safety, county administration, information technology, health, civic engagement and many more.

Started in 1970, NACo’s annual Achievement Awards program is designed to recognize county government innovations. Each nominee is judged on its own merits and not against other applications received.

To view a complete list of award winners, follow this link: https://www.naco.org/achievement-awards/2022-best-category