Manatee County Wins Third NACO Award for Smart Justice Month

The National Association of Counties recently awarded Manatee with a First Place Price (Suburban County Category) in the National County Government Month Award program. Manatee featured one month’s worth of public safety and wellness tips throughout April, Smart Justice Month, as part of the National Association of Counties’ annual County Government Month. 

Manatee’s myriad public safety-related and wellness programs were highlighted on the county’s website throughout the month. The County hosted an April 24 Smart Justice showcase on the front lawn of Manatee County Historic Courthouse with displays highlighting community contributions to a safer Manatee. 

The month long event highlights Manatee County Government’s commitment to promoting a safe and healthy community, said Manatee County Community Services Director Brenda Rogers. Rogers has led County Government Month events over the past three years when Manatee County has been recognized with first-place finishes for its County Government Month efforts by the National Association of Counties. 

“Each year we assemble a remarkable team that helps put on a fun event that showcases our county,” said Rogers. “Without the dedication and hard work from those people, this award would not have been possible.” 

Manatee was recognized during the recent County Solutions and Idea Marketplace: the Annual Conference of the National Association of Counties in Tarrant County (Fort Worth) Texas. 

Each year counties across the country celebrate National County Government Month to raise public awareness and understanding about the roles and responsibilities of county government.