Award-Winning Government

Henderson County is known across the nation as an innovative county government. Our county has won numerous national, state, and local awards. In many cases, these awards are won in competition with thousands of other outstanding programs across the nation.

Below is a listing of all awards presented to Henderson County since 1990.

2022

Ron H. Levine Public Health Award

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Steve Smith

Henderson County Health Director Steve Smith, along with all of North Carolina's 85 local health directors, were recognized for their hard work and dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic with the Ron H. Levine Public Health Award at the annual North Carolina Public Health Leader's Conference in Raleigh.

The Ron Levine Legacy Award is a prestigious award named for former North Carolina State Health Director Dr. Ron Levine. Only 28 other individuals have been similarly honored for their distinguished efforts to improve the public health system, expand the scope or capacity of public health services, or build new and lasting partnerships.

North Carolina Outstanding Board of Health Award

The Henderson County Board of Health

The Henderson County Board of Health was awarded the 2022 Outstanding Board of Health by the Association of North Carolina Boards of Health. The board received the 2022 ANCBH Outstanding Board of Health, among the 85 boards of health in North Carolina, for its proactive accomplishments. These include expansion of public health capacity, strategic planning for behavioral health and substance use priorities, progress with local tobacco policy, communications with the public, and prioritization of community partnerships.

2020

School Nurse Administrator of the Year

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Amber Reece-Young, RN, BSN, NCSN

Amber Reece-Young, RN, BSN, NCSN was named the School Nurse Administrator of the Year for the School Nurses Association of North Carolina by the National Association of School Nurses (NASN). Reece-Young was nominated for being a “conscientious and diligent nurse, who constantly evaluates her methods, approaches, and activities to ensure that the needs of our students and staff are met.”

2019

Mother-Baby Friendly Clinic Award, NC Breastfeeding Coalition

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Henderson County WIC

The North Carolina Breastfeeding Coalition (NCBC) has awarded the Henderson County Department of Public Health and WIC Program the Mother-Baby Friendly Clinic Award for outpatient healthcare clinics. WIC joins a growing number of awardees committed to evidence-based, high-quality breastfeeding support.

2018

North Carolina Outstanding Board of Health Award

The Henderson County Board of Health

The Henderson County Board of Health was selected as a 2018 Outstanding Board of Health by the Association of North Carolina Boards of Health. There are 84 Boards of Health in the state of North Carolina. The award was presented for the board’s dedication to public service and its “dedication to population health by expanding the number of school nurses employed by the health department and a visionary approach to substance abuse and mental health.”

Outstanding Health Educator, NC Society for Public Health Education

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Stacy Taylor, MPH

Stacy Taylor, MPH, was awarded Outstanding Health Educator at the 2018 Annual Conference for the NC Society for Public Health Education (NC SOPHE) held in Hickory, November 8-9. The award is given in recognition of “outstanding, long-lasting career contributions and demonstrated commitment to the practice of Health Education in North Carolina.”

USDA Breastfeeding Award of Excellence

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Henderson County WIC

The Henderson County Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program was given the Breastfeeding Award of Excellence by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This award highlights WIC’s successful breastfeeding program, effective peer counseling, exceptional breastfeeding support, promotional activities, and strong community partnerships. Henderson County WIC received Gold Premier level designation and was one of only 12 agencies in the United States to receive this award in 2018.

2017

Safelight Shining Light Award

Henderson County Department of Public Health

The Department of Public Health was awarded a Safelight Shining Light Award in recognition of its work and assistance with the Believe Child Advocacy Center, which provides services to children for interpersonal violence, sexual assault, and adverse childhood experiences. Betsy Alexander, nursing director, accepted the award at Safelight's fifth annual Celebration of Courage luncheon on April 19, 2017.

2016

2016 Director of the Year award

North Carolina Youth Soccer

Henderson County Parks & Recreation Department

Laura Rice

Laura Rice, Henderson County Parks & Recreation was named the NC Youth Soccer 2016 Director of the Year for her leadership, organizational skills and commitment.

2015

Friends of the River Award

RiverLink

Henderson County Parks & Recreation Department

The Friends of the River Award was presented to the Henderson County Parks & Recreation Department in recognition of their significant contribution toward the restoration and enchancement of the French Broad River (or tributaries) as a recreational, economic, and cultural resource.

Mayor's Certificate of Commendation

Hendersonville, North Carolina

Henderson County Board of Elections

Barbara G. Volk, Mayor, Hendersonville, North Carolina presented The Board of Elections, the Director of Elections Beverly Cunningham, Office Staff and Volunteers with the Mayor's Certificate of Commendation in recognition of their outstanding services. The Mayor of Hendersonville recognized The Board of Elections for their dedication, thoroughness, and professionalism in conduting our elections in accordance with the North Carolina General Statutes.

North Carolina Outstanding Board of Health award

North Carolina Boards of Health

Henderson County Department of Public Health

The Henderson County Board of Health

The Henderson County Board of Health was selected as a North Carolina Outstanding Board of Health by the Association of North Carolina Boards of Health. There are 85 Boards of Health in North Carolina. Henderson County's Board of Health was one of two recipients of this award. The board was recognized for its work in commmunity involvement, citizen support, interagency collaboration, innovative approaches, and impact on public health. The award was given at the 2015 North Carolina Health Director's Conference in Raleigh on Januarry 22, 2015, to Steve Smith, Health Director for the Henderson County Department of Public Health

Communicable Disease Nurse Spirit Award

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Justina Hall, RN

Justina Hall, Immunization Clinic RN, was the recipient of the 2015 Communicable Disease Nurse Spirit Award for the Western Region at the 6th Annual Communicable Disease Conference in Raleigh, April 30, 2015. Hall was recognized for her professional expertise and excellent work in communicable disease investigation and reporting, as well as her enthusiasm, good humor, and excellent customer service to clients.

Samuel L. Katz, MD, Excellence in Immunization Award

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Kristina Henderson, RN

Kristina Henderson, Immunization Clinic RN, received the Samuel L. Katz, MD, Excellence in Immunization Award at the North Carolina Immunization Conference held in Greensboro, North Carolina, July 29-31, 2015. Henderson spearheaded the formation of a coalition of providers with the goal of increasing immunization rates in Henderson County. The coalition includes the Department of Public Health, Rainbow Pediatrics, Hendersonville Pediatrics, Hendersonville Family Health Center and Blue Ridge Community Health Services.

2014

2014 Area I Outstanding District of the Year Award

Henderson County Soil & Water Conservation District

Henderson County is one of 16 counties in the Area I Region of North Carolina. Henderson County received this award based on their Annual Report for the 2014 Fiscal Year. Some highlights of this report include Best Management Practices installed this year that have stabilized eroding roads, prevented possible chemical spills into waterways, restored riparian zones, and prevented a signficiant amount of sediment from entering waterways. The District also reached over 4,418 people through outreach and educational events.

North Carolina School Nurse of the Year

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Delores Parris, RN

Delores Parris, RN, school nurse at the Henderson County Department of Public Health, was named the 2014 North Carolina School Nurse of the Year on Thursday, October 2, 2014 at the 31st Annual North Carolina School Nurse Conference in Chapel Hill. The award acknowledges the contributions of school nurses statewide by focusing on one school nurse annually who has demonstrated excellence in school nursing practices.

2013

2013 GlaxoSmithKline Child Health Recognition Award

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services

Henderson County Department of Public Health

The Henderson County Department of Public Health was awarded the 2013 GlaxoSmithKline Child Health Recognition Award at the annual NCPHA Conference on September 18, 2013. The department was recognized in the Local Health Department Recognition category for its School and Community Gardens Program. To combat obesity concerns, the Henderson County Department of Public Health used grants to establish school and community gardens and farm markets that engage students, community partners and volunteers for a healthier Henderson County.

2012

2012 Marvin Collins Planning Award

North Carolina Chapter of American Planning Association

Henderson County Planning Department

The North Carolina Chapter of American Planning Association (NCAPA) presented the 2012 Marvin Collins Planning Award to Henderson County for the Dana Community Plan. The Henderson County Dana Community Plan, adopted by the Board of Commissioners on March 2011, is the third of a series of ten (10) community plans recommended by the Henderson County 2020 Comprehensive Plan (CCP). The recommendations of the Dana Community Plan are comprehensive and community specific (addressing natural resources, cultural resources, agriculture, housing, community facilities, public services, transportation, economic development, land use, land development, community character, and design) but remain sensitive in the acknowledgement of future plans for the remainder of the County.

2011

Outstanding Health Educator Award

North Carolina Society for Public Health Education (NCSOPHE)

Henderson County Department of Public Health

Linda Charping received the Outstanding Health Educator Award from NCSOPHE, which annually recognizes outstanding, significant, and long-lasting contributions made in the Health Education profession. The award was presented on October 7, 2011, at the NCSOPHE Conference in Greensboro, North Carolina.

2010

2010 Area 1 District of the Year Award

Henderson County Soil & Water Conservation District

Henderson County Soil & Water Conservation District has been named the 2010 Area 1 District of the Year. This is the first time the District has been awarded this honor. The recognition is based on the District's achievements and activities during the preceding year, as deailted in its Annual Report.

2009

American Planning Association Marvin Collins Planning Award - Henderson County Land Development Code
Department - Planning

The North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association (NCAPA) presented the 2009 Marvin Collins Planning Award to Henderson County for the Land Development Code (LDC). The Henderson County Land Development Code, adopted by the Board of Commissioners on September 19, 2007, combines all land development ordinances into one user-friendly growth-management document drafted to accomplish the recommendations of the 2005 North Carolina Marvin Collins Planning Award winning Henderson County 2020 Comprehensive Plan. The LDC is original in its content and approach to managing growth and development, and includes density based zoning regulations as opposed to requiring minimum lot size. The LDC provides greater flexibility, supports the preservation of rural character, and encourages appropriate development where necessary infrastructure is available. The development of the LDC from drafting to adoption took just under three (3) years and was a major accomplishment for the County.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving Western North Carolina Sheriff DWI Hero Award
Department - Sheriff: Sheriff Rick Davis

Since 1980 Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has been working to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking. Every year at the annual MADD conference in Raleigh the organization presents the Western North Carolina Sheriff DWI Hero Award to an officer who goes above and beyond his/her job requirements. He/she is dedicated to and involved within their community, is creative and innovative, believes in MADD's mission and is dedicated to the ideals of law enforcement. Sheriff Rick Davis was presented the Western NC DWI Hero Award for 2009.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award Program - Henderson County Animal Services Volunteer Program
Department - Animal Services

While many animal shelters have volunteer programs, the Henderson County animal services volunteer program utilizes its volunteers more than most programs. Volunteers complete a broad range of services in the organization. Their compassionate volunteers assist at adoption events, advertise special events, take pictures, and help with community outreach at local schools. Included in the volunteer roster are professional trainers that do written evaluations on adoptable animal and hold free obedience classes at the shelter. Their involvement enhances the level of service to the community and care given to animals being sheltered by the county at minimal cost to tax payers.

North Carolina Association of County Commissioners Local Government Federal Credit Union Employee Productivity Awards - No Waiting in the Self Checkout Line
Department - Library: Simon Coultas, Mark Burdette, Kathy Kreutter, Myra Vagts, AnnMarie Rowe, Jennifer Deitz, Jennifer Brevard, Sandra Fairbanks, Candis Killam and Kate Whyte

During peak operating hours the lines at the circulation counter can be long. While staff wants to provide personal service to those patrons requiring it, staff does not want to cause delays for other patrons who merely need to check out their items and go. Realizing that most checkout transactions are routine, mundane and do not require human intervention, library administration decided it was time to install machines to assist in this task. The addition of two self-checkout stations provide a convenient option for patrons who wish to quickly checkout their items and leave. The machines proved to be fast, reliable, and easy-to-use and favored by younger patrons. The machines account for roughly 10 percent of items checked out from circulation and have ultimately freed staff from some mundane circulation tasks. In turn, staff has been able to provide a greater level of customer service and special assistance to library patrons.

North Carolina Association of County Commissioners Outstanding County Commissioner
Department - Governing Body: Commissioner Chuck McGrady

The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) Outstanding County Commissioner award is presented annually to a commissioner who has demonstrated special achievements and efforts on behalf of county government through the state and/or region, not just within his or her county. Commissioner McGrady is active in both the NCACC and the National Association of Counties (NACo), including service as co-chair of the NCACC's Environmental Steering Committee. He serves on the North Carolina Clean Water Management Trust Fund, and was a member of the 21st Century Transportation Committee - a blue ribbon panel which made recommendations last year to the Governor and the General Assembly on transportation reform and funding. Commissioner McGrady is also active regionally. He chairs the French Broad River Metropolitan Planning Organization, which does transportation planning, and serves on the Executive Committee on the Land-of-Sky Regional Council, which is composed of representatives of local governments in a four county region.

North Carolina Department of Commerce North Carolina Main Street Award - Restoration of Historic Courthouse
Department - Governing Body: Board of County Commissioners

Henderson County Board of Commissioners received the North Carolina Main Street Award for their leadership in restoring Hendersonville's neoclassical historic courthouse. Built in 1905, the building had been vacant and decaying for roughly 10 years before the county commissioners appointed a citizen committee to find a new use for the facility in 2003. The committee recommended that the building be used for government offices and a new Henderson County Heritage Museum. The NC Main Street Award recognizes excellence in downtown revitalization efforts in categories such as promotion, organization, design and economic restructuring.

North Carolina Governor's Highway Safety Program Directors Award
Department - Sheriff: Sheriff Rick Davis

The North Carolina Governor's Highway Safety Program is administered by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The mission of the Governor's Highway Safety Program is to promote highway safety awareness and reduce the number of traffic crashes and fatalities in the state of North Carolina through the planning and execution of safety programs. Sheriff Rick Davis was the 2009 recipient because of his commitment and dedication to the goals and mission of the Governor's Highway Safety Program, and his emphasis on highway safety and accident reduction in Henderson County.

North Carolina State Grange Law Enforcement Officer of the Year - Deputy Jonathan Tankersley
Department - Sheriff

The North Carolina State Grange serves as a family organization committed to serving its members through a variety of programs and services. The Grange primarily promotes agriculture as an essential industry for North Carolina's economy and promotes the wise conservation of natural resources and the environment. Grassroots involvement in governmental issues is proposed through the development of legislative policy and through the encouragement of political participation. Each year the North Carolina State Grange awards a deserving law enforcement officer the award of "North Carolina State Law Enforcement Officer of the Year". In 2003 the North Carolina State Grange bestowed this honor on Henderson County Deputy Jonathan Tankersley.

United States Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Drug Interdiction Assistance Program's Commercial Motor Vehicle Instructor of the Year
Department - Sheriff: Ray Herndon

The Drug Interdiction Assistance Program (DIAP) is a specialized unit of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration established in 1988. The program was established to assist law enforcement officials in the detection and apprehension of transporters and/or users of illicit drugs involving a Commercial Motor Vehicle. The focus of the program is on the development and distribution of criminal interdiction techniques to rapidly identify in-transit Commercial Vehicles and drivers engaged in criminal activity. Ray Herndon was given the 2009 Commercial Motor Vehicle Instructor of the Year award at the annual DIAP/EPIC conference in Indianapolis.

2008

National Association of County and City Health Officials Model Practice Award - Preventive Dental Program
Department - Public Health

The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) honored the Henderson County Department of Public Health for implementing a program that demonstrates exemplary and replicable qualities in response to a local public health need. The Preventive Dental Program is a unique and comprehensive dental program funded by SmartStart and the Henderson County Department of Public Health. The program provides fluoride varnish, Tooth Time dental education, and dental screening and treatment to children ages zero to age five. The Model Practice Award honors initiative - including programs, resources, and tools - that demonstrate how local health departments and their community partners can effectively collaborate to address local public health concerns.

North Carolina Association of County Commissioners Frank Bonner Scholarship
Department - Human Resources: Yvonne Moebs

The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) presented Henderson County Risk Manager, Yvonne Moebs with the Frank Bonner Scholarship. Mrs. Moebs received a $2,500 scholarship to cover expenses to attend the annual Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) Institute. The scholarship is presented in honor of Mr. Bonner, a longtime Beaufort County commissioner who was instrumental in establishing the Risk Management Pools.

North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services Ronald H. Levine Legacy Award
Department - Public Health: Tom Bridges

The North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services (NCDHHS) presented the Ronald H. Levine Legacy Award to Henderson County Health Director, Tom Bridges in recognition for his contributions to public health on the local, state, and national levels. Named for former North Carolina State Health Director, Dr. Ron Levine, the annual awards honor individuals whose work and commitment on behalf of the public's health has resulted in significant, sustainable, and positive improvements to health and quality of life in North Carolina.

North Carolina Justice Academy Top Sniper Award
Department - Sheriff: Deputy Jonathan Tankersley

The North Carolina Justice Academy, a training institution, is one of six divisions of the North Carolina Department of Justice under the administration of Attorney General Roy Cooper. The Justice Academy is charged with the task off improving the professionalism and effectiveness of criminal justice personnel throughout the state, through training and support. The 2008 Top Sniper award recipient was Henderson County Deputy Jonathan Tankersley.

North Carolina State Grange Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
Department - Sheriff: Lieutenant Tim Gordon

The North Carolina State Grange serves as a family organization committed to serving its members through a variety of programs and services. The Grange primarily promotes agriculture as an essential industry for North Carolina's economy and promotes the wise conservation of natural resources and the environment. Grassroots involvement in governmental issues is proposed through the development of legislative policy and through the encouragement of political participation. Each year the North Carolina State Grange awards a deserving law enforcement officer the award of "North Carolina State Law Enforcement Officer of the Year". In 2008 the North Carolina State Grange bestowed this honor on Lieutenant Tim Gordon.

2007

North Carolina Association of County Commissioners Ralph W. Ketner Employee Productivity Award - Implementing Open Access Scheduling (OAS) for WIC Program
Department - Public Health: Pam Foster

Open Access Scheduling (OAS) is defined differently by different clinics. True open access is when clients are able to call the same day for an appointment. Some modified versions allow clients to call in the week or day prior to schedule the appointment. Henderson County WIC program decided to use True OAS. Henderson was the second county in NC to try open access in a WIC program. Prior to open access, the standard WIC appointment was scheduled 3 months in advance when the client left their current appointment. This type of scheduling resulted in poor show rates (less than 605), inefficient clinics - the level of staffing could not be adjusted, inflexibility for clients, and poor staffing management for WIC supervisors (holidays and vacations would need to be scheduled months in advance). The transition was not as well received by clients initially so staff experienced some resistance in the first few months. However, after 6 months with the new systems, clients and staff favored it (by survey) and our show rate increased to over 98%. Now, staff is able to adjust our schedule daily, staffing management is much improved and production has increased 65% due to little time spent rescheduling appointments.

North Carolina Public Health Association GlaxoSmithKline Child Health Recognition Award - Preventive Dental Program
Department - Public Health

The North Carolina Public Health Association (NCPHA) awarded Henderson County the GlaxoSmithKline Child Health Recognition Award for the Preventive Dental Program. The Preventive Dental Program was created in 1999 to provide a unique and comprehensive approach to serving the dental needs of Henderson County's children. The Child Health Recognition Award encourages creative and successful approaches to improve the health status of children and to honor those who contribute to improving the quality of life of children. Along with the award, the health department will receive a $5,000 grant to be used in the dental program for special projects, staff development, or educational materials.

2006

North Carolina Association of County Commissioners Edwin M. Gill Award
Department - County Managers Office: Selena Coffey

The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners present the Edwin M. Gill award each year to a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Government County Administration Course class member with the most distinguished record. The award is given in honor of Edwin M. Gill, a former State Treasurer and chairman of the North Carolina Local Government Commission. Selena D. Coffey was the recipient for the 2005-2006 class year.

North Carolina Public Health Association's Public Health Nursing Section Margaret B. Dolan Award
Department - Public Health: Barbara Stanley

The North Carolina Public Health Association's (NCPHA) Public Health Nursing Section awarded Barbara Stanley with the Margaret B. Dolan Award. The award is presented each year to an outstanding nursing leader in North Carolina. It recognizes nurses who have made significant contributions to the field of PH nursing.

2005

American Planning Association Marvin Collins Planning Award - Henderson County 2020 Comprehensive Plan
Department - Planning

The North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association (NCAPA) presented Henderson County with the Marvin Collins Planning Award for the Henderson County 2020 Comprehensive Plan (CCP). The CCP is the latest in a series of County comprehensive plans (prior plans occurred in 1977 and 1993). It is essentially a long-range roadmap for the future of the county which examines and makes recommendations on a variety of planning activities such as land use, transportation, utilities, infrastructure, community facilities, housing, the environment, recreation, economic development, and more. It provides information about conditions, trends and issues in a community and identifies actions needed to address such issues. The CCP is intended to provide guidance for a broad range of decisions made by government and the private sector for the next 20 years.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award - Field Operations Guide (FOG)
Department - Emergency Management

During the initial response phase of a large scale disaster/emergency situation, first responders struggle to deal with the unique and sometimes unfamiliar aspects of such an event. The Henderson County Field Operations Guide was developed to support the standard operating guideline elements of the County Emergency Operations Plan. The FOG is utilized by all first responder disciplines (i.e. Law Enforcement, Fire, and EMS personnel) in an effort to establish a standardized approach to unusual disaster/emergency events like aircraft crashes, weapons of mass destruction, landslides, earthquakes, etc. The 4" x 7", 180 page booklet uses a checklist format and is designed to fit into pant and jacket pockets and to be easily stored in the glove box of emergency vehicles. The FOG is also provided in electronic format for portable computer users. First responders now have a resource available to organize the response to unique disaster/emergency events. The FOG has been used by municipal police officers to respond to incidents where biological agents were suspected. Firefighters have used FOG in response to aircraft crashes. Emergency management personnel have used the FOG to respond to several incidents involving Hazardous Materials.

2004

North Carolina Association of County Commissioners Outstanding County Program Award - Mental Health Maintenance of Effort Funds Grant Program

Henderson County implemented a grant program using maintenance of effort funds and solicited applications from mental health service providers. In accord with the County Board of Commissioners stated desire to have the money spent on crisis services, the county solicited project proposals and awarded $528,342 in grants to three providers/programs to train public school staff in crisis response, establish a therapy/jail diversion program for delinquent or undisciplined adolescent girls, and to develop programs that will increase access to the mental health system.

2003

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Samuel L. Katz, MD, Excellence in Immunization Award - "Fight the Flu" Clinic Model
Department - Public Health

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) awarded the Health Department with the Samuel L. Katz, MD, Excellence in Immunization Award. This award recognizes innovative projects that increase immunization rates.

North Carolina State Grange Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
Department - Sheriff: Sergeant Gloria Nock

The North Carolina State Grange serves as a family organization committed to serving its members through a variety of programs and services. The Grange primarily promotes agriculture as an essential industry for North Carolina's economy and promotes the wise conservation of natural resources and the environment. Grassroots involvement in governmental issues is proposed through the development of legislative policy and through the encouragement of political participation. Each year the North Carolina State Grange awards a deserving law enforcement officer the award of "North Carolina State Law Enforcement Officer of the Year". In 2003 the North Carolina State Grange bestowed this honor on Sergeant Gloria Nock.

National Association of County Information Officers Awards of Excellence
Program Title - 2002 Report to the Citizens
Department - County Manager: Public Information Office

The National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO), an affiliate of the National Association of Counties (NACo), awarded Henderson County's Public Information Officer a Superior Award of Excellence for Henderson County's 2002 Report to Citizens. This is the fourth consecutive year Henderson County has won a NACIO award for its Annual Report, and the sixth Award of Excellence won in four years.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the fourteenth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.
North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance Best New Housing Development Award

Category - North Carolina Small Cities Community Development Block Grant

The 2002 Best New Housing Development for Grove Hills was awarded to Henderson County and Henderson County Habitat for Humanity.

The Charlotte Business Journal and The American Institute of Architects 2002 Bottom Line Award
Henderson County Detention Center

Public Relations Association of Western North Carolina Best of the Mountains Award
Program Title - 2002 Report to Citizens
Department - County Manager: Public Information Office

The Public Relations Association of Western North Carolina awarded Henderson County's Public Information Officer a Mt. Pisgah Award for Henderson County's 2002 Report to Citizens.

2002

National Association of County Information Officers Awards of Excellence
Program Titles - 2001 Report to the Citizens
Department - County Manager: Public Information Office

The National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO), an affiliate of the National Association of Counties (NACo), awarded Henderson County's Public Information Officer a Meritorious Award of Excellence for Henderson County's 2001 Report to Citizens. This is the third consecutive year Henderson County has won a NACIO award for its Annual Report, and the fifth Award of Excellence won in three years.

City/County Communications and Marketing Association (3CMA) SAVVY
Best Publication - Annual Reports - 2001 Report to Citizens
Department - County Manager: Public Information Office

3CMA awarded it's prestigious Savvy Award of Excellence to Henderson County's Public Information Officer for the 2001 Report to Citizens. Entries in this competition come from both county and municipal governments, and are grouped by population size. This population group ranged from 87,227 to 200,000 - with Henderson County being on the smaller end of the range.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the thirteenth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

2001

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Special Needs Assistance Database
Department - Emergency Management Office

The Special Needs Assistance Database was designed to facilitate emergency services to persons with special needs during disaster emergency situations. Henderson County has large retiree population and therefore a higher than average median age. This typically increases the number of persons with special needs (i.e. individuals who need assistance with medical care or personal care during disaster/emergency situations because of mental or physical impairment). Records from previous disasters indicate that roughly 80% of persons requiring assistance within the first 72 hours of a disaster situation are citizens with special needs. In order to ensure prompt delivery of emergency services to some of our most vulnerable citizens, the Henderson County Emergency Management Office developed a voluntary database for persons with special needs.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Historic Hendersonville & Flat Rock Internet Site
Department - Travel & Tourism

Travel & Tourism created the web site to create a prominent presence on the Internet. It is designed to increase the occupance rate of Henderson County accommodations, boost the economic impact to the County, and offer community information to the residents of Henderson County. It has evolved over the past three years into the present site. Travel & Tourism includes events and activities of all Henderson, and surrounding County organizations which are open to the public, and keeps an updated calendar of events on the site for planning purposes. Colorful photographs help entice visitors to the area, and local weather reports are available on the website to facilitate proper timing. The result is an attractive, user friendly website which meets the demands of the traveling public and Henderson County residents.

National Association of County Information Officers Awards of Excellence
Program Titles - 2000 Report to the Citizens andElementary School Activity Book
Department - County Manager: Public Information Office

The National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO), an affiliate of the National Association of Counties (NACo), recently awarded Henderson County's Public Information Officer a Superior Award of Excellence for Henderson County's 2000 Report to Citizens. It was the top rated Annual Report in its category, competing against others from counties with populations under 500,000. In addition, an Award of Excellence was given for Henderson County's elementary school Activity Book in the Special Projects category. This booklet was designed to introduce second graders to County Government and some of the services provided to citizens. It included a number of activities tailored to the second grade level. This is the second consecutive year Henderson County has won the Annual Report top award, and the third and fourth Awards of Excellence won in two years.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the twelfth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

2000

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - B-SAFE Program
Department - Fire Marshal

Eighty percent of the eight hundred business inspections conducted annually by the Fire Marshal's Office require some type of follow up or reinspection to insure compliance with N.C. Fire Protection Code. This became very time consuming. The Fire Marshal's Office came up with the B-SAFE (Business Self Abatement Form) program to allow business owners to certify abatement of non-life safety fire code violations utilizing a mail-in process with accompanying compliance evidence. This program improved the efficiency of fire prevention inspectors, reduced the number of reinspections needed, insured the safety of the public, and cultivated a positive relationship with business owners through trust and accountability.

National Association of County Information Officers Awards of Excellence and Best in Class Award Program Titles - 1999 Report to the Citizens and
Millennium Logo
Department - County Manager: Public Information Office

The National Associaltion of County Information Officers (NACIO), an affiliate of the National Association of Counties (NACo), recently awarded Henderson County's Public Information Officer a Best in Class Award and an Award of Excellence for Henderson County's 1999 Report to the Citizens. Not only was this annual report given an Award of Excellence, but it was also judged the best of all annual reports submitted - winning over others by counties more than ten times our size. In addition, an Award of Excellence was given for Henderson County's Millennium Logo in the category of graphic design. These awards are the first communications/public relations awards won by Henderson County .

City/County Communications and Marketing Association (3CMA) SAVVY
Most Creative Program With Least Dollars Spent
Department - County Manager: Public Information Office

3CMA awarded it's prestigious Savvy Award of Excellence to Henderson County's Public Information Officer for the millennium celebration logo design contest. Graphic artists submitted designs for the year 2000 which tied Henderson County to the upcoming millennium, and a panel chose the winning design. Festival and event organizers applied for permission to use the design in the marketing materials for their year 2000 events. The program was designed to give a cohesive look to the various advertising pieces and pull all of Henderson County's special events together during this milestone year.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the eleventh consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Award
Department - Budget & Finance Office

Henderson County won this prestigious award for the third consecutive year. The award is based on guidelines designed to assess how well the budget serves as: a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communication device. Twenty-six criteria in each of the above guidelines must be met, reviewed, and graded by independent reviewers.

1999

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Sheriff's Citizens' Academy
Department - Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Citizens' Academy was created in 1997. Its focus is to educate the public about the operations and programs of the Sheriff's Office, the criminal justice system, and ways to reduce crime. The program enables members of the Sheriff's Office to meet, share ideas, and interact with the community. The instruction covers 20 modules including the functions and responsibilities of the various divisions including patrol, detective, communications, K-9, SERT (commonly called SWAT), drug suppression and the DARE program, and the jail. Over 20 officers have primary instructional responsibilities, with others in supporting roles. A number of non-paid volunteers, County employees, and elected officials also participate in the presentations.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the tenth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Award
Department - Budget & Finance Office

Henderson County won this prestigious award for the second consecutive year. The award is based on guidelines designed to assess how well the budget serves as: a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communication device. Twenty-six criteria in each of the above guidelines must be met, reviewed, and graded by independent reviewers.

1998

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Partners in Health
Department - Henderson County Administration

Due to the fast-growing population of people over age 65, Henderson County was faced with a need to provide both long term care and hospice care. A home was needed to serve individuals who were without an in-home care giver, serve families who needed respite care, and serve patients who needed more intensive care than could be provided at home. The Partners in Health program brought county government, several of its component units, and a not-for-profit organization together to address this need. A unique and one-of-a-kind program was developed and approved by the Board of Commissioners, The Trustees of Blue Ridge Community College, the Trustees of Margaret R. Pardee Memorial Hospital, and the Board of Directors of Four Seasons Hospice. The Board of Commissioners purchased land which will house educational space for Blue Ridge Community College, Pardee Hospital contributed funds for the land and construction of the nursing home, and Four Seasons Hospice purchased an additional tract of land and raised funds to construct the facility.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Sheriff's Mounted Cadets
Department - Sheriff's Office

The Mounted Cadet Program was developed to encourage self-respect, discipline, responsibility, and leadership in the youth of Henderson County. The Cadets, ages 10 through 18, must maintain passing grades in school and agree to remain alcohol, drug, and tobacco free while in the Mounted Cadet Program. Horses are used in this program as a teaching aid in learning to ride and gain understanding of various aspects of horsemanship. The Mounted Cadet Program is a volunteer group and received no outside funding. The Cadets raise their own monies through fundraising projects and contributions. Seized drug money is also used to support the Mounted Cadets. The Cadets provide their own horses, tack, and transportation.

Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Award
Department - Budget & Finance Office

Henderson County won this prestigious award on its first submission. The award is based on guidelines designed to assess how well the budget serves as: a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communication device. Twenty-six criteria in each of the above guidelines must be met, reviewed, and graded by independent reviewers.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the ninth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

Governor's Crime Prevention Community Award
Department - Sheriff's Office

This prestigious new award is designed to recognize communities who excel in the area of crime prevention and to enhance the collaborative efforts of citizens and law enforcement. Recognition of a locality as a Governor's Award recipient demonstrates that it is a community whose residents and law enforcement agencies take their crime fighting responsibilities to one another seriously. A rigorous application process involved meeting eight mandatory requirements such as implementing a community policing initiative and seven optional requirements such as a citizens police academy and a domestic violence prevention program.

National Safety Newsletter Award
Department - Risk Management

The Safety & Health Sentinel Newsletter, a quarterly publication for Henderson County employees, was chosen as the winner of a national contest. J.J. Keller & Associates, a leading national safety publishing and services company, holds the yearly contest. It is open to all national public and private organizations utilizing Keller's software program. Judges looked for the most creative and effective use of the software. Henderson County's entry was judged to have the best format and application of text, graphics, color, and subject matter.

United Way Eagle Award

Henderson County was awarded one of United Way of Henderson County's top awards for it's annual United Way campaign. The county was recognized for its employee education efforts. These included participating in United Way's Day of Caring, having agency speakers at campaign meetings, using posters to tell the stories of those helped by United Way, and holding a United Way kickoff event.

1997

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Henderson County All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Search and Rescue Patrol
Department - Sheriff's Office

The ATV Search and Rescue Patrol is comprised of twenty-six volunteers with a variety of skills and experience such as emergency medical services, law enforcement, firefighting, and business. These individuals contribute many hours of labor in search and rescue missions and provide security at community events such as parades, fairs, and school functions. All volunteers own and maintain their own equipment.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the eighth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

1996

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Quality Unified Incident Command Key (QUICK)
Department - Emergency Management

Henderson County's Emergency Management Operations Plan was more than two hundred pages with technical information requiring multiple reference points. This plan was totally revised. The goal was to design an Emergency Operations Plan that would address all hazards that threaten Henderson County while maintaining a simple, user-friendly format for the forty-one agencies involved. QUICK achieved this goal. It fosters a prompt, efficient, and coordinated response to emergencies by concentrating the total Emergency Operations Plan into a one page reference. This reduces confusion and duplication of services by clear and concise delegation of responsibilities.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Volunteers in Partnership (VIP)
Department - Sheriff's Office

This project provided a more proactive approach to law enforcement by involving citizens in Sheriff's Office programs. Volunteers from diverse backgrounds participate in various ways such as assisting in courthouse security, conducting tours of the courthouse, assisting in traffic control during large events, and assisting with the DARE summer camp, serving subpoenas, and the Toys for Tots program. All volunteer time is at no cost to the taxpayers. The estimated cost savings for these services in 1995 was approximately $71,780.

Ralph W. Ketner Employee Productivity Award
Program Title - Warrants Process Quality Improvement Team
Department - Sheriff's Office

Realizing there was room for improvement in processing and serving warrants, Sheriff Erwin created the "Warrants Process Quality Improvement Team." The team consisted of staff from the detention center, the detective group, communications, records, and each patrol squad. They studied the existing 61 step warrants process, and reduced it to 13 steps. The Sheriff's Office now serves warrants without having an officer go into the community, and an "attempt to serve" is made within one week of issuance. As a result of this process, pending warrants fell from over 2,000 to 250.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the seventh consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

1995

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Emergency Medical Services Special Trauma and Rescue (EMS STAR)
Department - Emergency Medical Services

The EMS Star Team is a specially trained team of paramedics and administration that responds to special emergencies such as searches and fires, and provides medical support to the Sheriff's Office during major incidents.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the sixth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

1994

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Confined Space Recovery Systems
Department - Utilities

A Confined Space Recovery Unit, designed to move personnel and material in and out of confined spaces, was needed by the County's Utilities Department and two county volunteer fire departments. The Utilities Department initiated discussions with the fire departments for a cooperative use of the equipment. The fire departments agreed to supply the trained personnel to operate the device and Henderson County agreed to supply the funding. At the same time, the Fire Marshal came in under budget on a Fire Training Center project. This released additional funding for the Confined Space Recovery Unit. As a result of this cooperation and funds management, several county services achieved a higher level of service at less cost than if they had acted independently.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Emergency Medical Services Manual
Department - Emergency Medical Services

To insure efficiency and understanding of the EMS operations, management, supervisors, and line personnel, with assistance from the County 's staff attorney, worked together to develop a policies and procedures manual. The manual is not intended to solve all problems, but is intended to cover, in a general manner, the responsibilities, obligations, and duties of the supervisors and staff of Henderson County's EMS.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Etowah Branch Library Expansion and Renovation
Department - Public Library

This project expanded and renovated an estimated fifty year old facility into a more modern facility designed to serve the community into the next century. The Library expansion and renovation came together through the efforts of many participants. Molly Wells, a library patron and volunteer, included the Etowah Library as a beneficiary in the distribution of her estate. The Etowah Lions Club has a long history of support and was responsible for furnishing the children's section. Henderson County provided the balance of funding. An individual, a civic group, and county government together present an excellent model of what can be accomplished when working together.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Mountain Seasons Vacation Planner
Department - Travel and Tourism

The Mountain Seasons Vacation Planner and companion pieces are innovative promotional materials which helped increase the tax base, through the travel and tourism industry, by $3.35 million in paid room tax and advertising revenue in the publication. The award was received for "Public Awareness." The Planner highlights historic Hendersonville and Flat Rock, and is advertised in many national and international publications. In 1993, more than 27,000 requests came from all fifty states and thirty foreign countries. A radio show, called Fun Finders, showcased a variety of guests from area attractions and events who gave a rundown of the upcoming week's events.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Paramedic Bike Team
Department - Emergency Medical Services

The Paramedic Bike Team was devised by EMS staff to merge a recreational activity with the delivery of EMS services at a minimal cost to the citizens. The Team was established to provide easy access to victims during the many Henderson County special events which draw large crowds and traffic. Bike Team members are stationed in strategic locations during an event to respond quickly to medical emergencies. Team members can treat and stabilize the patient until the Advanced Life Support Ambulance arrives. Bike Team response time at a large gathering is one to two minutes, a much quicker response than an ambulance during these crowded events. During the 1994 Apple Festival, Bike Team members responded to thirteen calls.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Smoke Detectors Are For Everyone (SAFE)
Department - Fire Marshal's Office

The Fire Marshal's Office wanted a more aggressive approach to distributing smoke detectors, and, in turn, developed SAFE. The Henderson County Fireman's Association agreed to purchase smoke detectors and each local Fire Department agreed to install them. Volunteers from the Council on Aging, through its Meals on Wheels Program, helped locate people who needed smoke detectors. Lowe's, Inc. agreed to sell the equipment at cost., and the smoke detectors were purchased. The SAFE program continues to expand as community awareness increases.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Solid Waste Equipment Sharing Demonstration Project
Department - Solid Waste

An equipment sharing methodology was developed to assist two local governments in cooperatively sharing a large piece of solid waste processing equipment. This resulted in a reduction of the equipment purchase cost, achieving economies of scale, allowing for a more efficient use of machinery (less idle time), and avoiding duplication of efforts. This effort was undertaken with Transylvania County. The two counties jointly applied for a grant to purchase a tub grinder which grinds wood waste into mulch. As a result of this tub grinder, solid waste was reduced by 13%. This project was unique in the State, and resulted in other cooperative solid waste projects between the two counties.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
Program Title - Voluntary Farmland Preservation Program
Department - Soil and Water Conservation

This program allows farmers to voluntarily form Agricultural Districts in Henderson County. The Henderson County Soil and Water Conservation District began investigating farmland preservation strategies in 1986. It worked with several farm organizations to propose the ordinance to the Board of Commissioners, and the ordinance was passed in December 1986. The Commissioners named the Henderson County Agricultural Advisory Board ion March, 1992. Since that time, ten Agricultural Districts have been formed in the County including 450 different farm tracts which total 11,000 acres. The program has been very well received by the Henderson County agricultural community.

National Association of Counties Achievement Award
and
Outstanding County Program Award
Program Title - Mounted Volunteers in Partnership (VIP) Patrol
Department - Sheriff's Office

This program was designed to incorporate non-law enforcement citizen volunteers with deputies into a mounted patrol unit. Participants donate their horses and equipment, as well as their time, to assist in search and rescue operations, parade participation, crowd control, school visits, and promoting goodwill throughout the County.

Ralph W. Ketner Employee Productivity Award
Program Title - Henderson County Child Enforcement Unit
Department - Social Services, Child Enforcement Support Unit

The Unit designed a pre-trial conference program for parents delinquent in child support payment. The meeting is designed to reach an agreement on child support issues such as paternity, payments, and medical insurance. If a pre-trial agreement is reached, the judge receives the signed agreement and neither parent is required to appear in court. The program is very successful. It has increased the number of cases processed each month. Its greatest benefit is to the child who receives child support payments faster.

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

This is the fifth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

1993

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office
This is the fourth consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

1992

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office
This is the third consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

1991

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office
This is the second consecutive year Henderson County has won this award.

1990

Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Department - Budget & Finance Office

In order to be awarded the Certificate of Achievement, a governmental unit must publish an easily readable and efficiently organized comprehensive Annual Financial Report, whose contents conform to program standards. These reports satisfy Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and applicable legal requirements. The Award represents the highest honor in governmental financial reporting.