Annapolis, MD (July 17, 2025) – The National Association of Counties (NACo) has recognized Anne Arundel County with four Achievement Awards, honoring projects led by the Department of Public Works and the Office of Central Services/Risk Management & Safety. The NACo Awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents.
"Receiving four NACo awards is proof of the innovative work happening across our county agencies," said County Executive Steuart Pittman. "These essential local services are truly the backbone of our communities, and they matter more than ever in these challenging times. Each of these teams has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for our residents and our county employees, and I'm incredibly pleased to see them receive this well-deserved national recognition."
The Department of Public Works (DPW) received an award in the County Resiliency: Infrastructure, Energy, and Sustainability category for "The Najoles Road (Millersville Post Office) Pond & Stream Restoration." This project retrofitted a non-functioning stormwater pond and restored 1,800 linear feet of an unnamed tributary to Severn Run in Millersville. This project, a partnership between Anne Arundel County, the Maryland State Highway Administration, and the Department of Natural Resources, employed innovative and cost-effective techniques to achieve key goals of stormwater management, water quality enhancement, habitat creation, and public engagement, benefitting both the local environment and the community.
"This award for the Najoles Road Pond & Stream Restoration highlights the Department of Public Works' commitment to reinventing essential public services through innovative solutions and collaboration,” said Karen Henry, DPW Director. “It underscores our dedication to enhancing environmental protection and improving the quality of life for our communities."
The Office of Central Services/Risk Management received three awards in the Risk and Emergency Management category. Their "Continuity in Care: Creating an Equitable and Accessible Bystander-Access Automated External Defibrillator Program" was honored for its vital role in improving public health and emergency response capabilities. This program ensures that county employees have access to life-saving devices while also supporting underserved, non-profit groups through AED donations, fostering greater preparedness in our communities, and improving public health outcomes in diverse populations.
The second Risk Management program recognized was the Risk Management Safety Series, awarded for its comprehensive approach to employee safety and workplace preparedness. The program is designed to connect Anne Arundel County employees with safety vendors offering products, training, and solutions to enhance workplace safety. Through monthly presentations and activities, employees learn about available safety tools and resources, leading to improved awareness, better safety practices, and a reduction in workplace incidents.
Finally, the county's "Unified Emergency Action Plan Training" was developed to ensure a coordinated, efficient response to emergencies, such as fire drills, shelter-in-place situations, and other critical incidents. By equipping employees with the knowledge to effectively respond to various scenarios, the program ensures that emergency responders can seamlessly take over when they arrive, minimizing disruption and risk to our county agencies and our communities. This program highlights Risk Management's dedication to robust preparedness and coordinated response efforts.
"We are honored that the Risk Management Division has been recognized with three national awards,” said Shannon Hojnowski, Assistant Manager, Safety & Insurance. “Our mission is to provide the safest possible environment for all Anne Arundel County employees. This achievement reflects the strong collaboration we have with every department. Safety is a shared responsibility, and together, we make it possible."
Nationally, awards are given in 18 different categories that reflect the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. Launched in 1970, the program is designed to recognize innovation in county government. Each nominated program is judged on its own merits and not against other applications.
“The Achievement Awards shine a spotlight on the hard work and innovation happening in county governments across the nation,” said NACo President James Gore. “This year’s winners highlight the dedication and creativity of county leaders and our teams to building thriving communities and providing the best possible services to our residents."
Awarded Programs for Anne Arundel County:
- The Najoles Road (Millersville Post Office) Pond & Stream Restoration - Department of Public Works
- Continuity in Care: Creating an Equitable and Accessible Bystander-Access Automated External Defibrillator Program - Office of Central Services/Risk Management & Safety
- Risk Management Safety Series - Office of Central Services/Risk Management
- Unified Emergency Action Plan Training - Office of Central Services/Risk Management Division
For more information, visit https://www.naco.org/page/achievement-awards.