Fairfield County Recognized Nationally for Excellence in Planning Initiatives
Fairfield County Recognized Nationally for Excellence in Planning Initiatives
LANCASTER, OH- Fairfield County has received two Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo), recognizing outstanding efforts in county government innovation and services. Both awards were earned in the planning category, highlighting the county’s commitment to strategic development and collaboration. Since 2017, Fairfield County has received 21 Achievement Awards from the NACo.
The first award honors Fairfield County’s 2024 Comprehensive Economic Development and Land Use Plan, serving as a policy basis for amendments to the County Subdivision Regulations, updates to local zoning codes, additional joint projects to manage growth, and investments to direct development in appropriate locations. This plan helps smaller communities identify and pursue competitive funding opportunities and positions Fairfield County at the forefront of smart planning in Central Ohio.
The second award celebrates Fairfield County’s Grant Writing Support for Local Communities, a collaborative initiative with Hicks Partners that provided grant strategy to villages and townships, empowering them as advocates for their communities and provided financial resources to accomplish growth and development plans. The partnership has since expanded to include other county departments and has resulted in over $3.3 million in grant funding for more than 30 local communities and agencies.
“These awards recognize Fairfield County’s proactive, future-focused approach to planning and our dedication to empowering every community in the county,” said Fairfield County Commissioner Jeff Fix. “We are proud of the thoughtful, inclusive work behind both initiatives and grateful for the strong partnerships that made them possible.”
NACo Achievement Awards, now in their 54th year, honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents. Each nominated program is judged on its innovation, effectiveness, and potential as a model for other counties. Each nominated program is judged on its innovation, effectiveness, and potential as a model for other counties.
Founded in 1800 (three years before Ohio became a State), Fairfield County was the 8th county formed in the Northwest Territory. Today, more than 900 employees serve, connect, and protect the more than 158,000 citizens of Fairfield County, providing high-quality services and outstanding customer service at exceptional value to taxpayers. Fairfield County fosters economic and fiscal sustainability and works to enhance the County's reputation as a high performing, learning, and caring organization. For more information about the county, its services and employment opportunities, please visit https://www.co.fairfield.oh.us/
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Media Contact: Julie Theado, julie@krilecommunications.com, 614-774-6358
