Jefferson County Government: Jefferson County 2021 Sustainability Awards Presented

Press release from the Jefferson County Government:

May 11, 2021

On May 11, the Jefferson County Commissioners, on behalf of the Sustainability Commission, presented four Sustainability Awards for outstanding achievements related to environmental stewardship and community cohesion. These awards honor achievements related to environmental stewardship, efficient use of resources, economic vitality, and innovation in alignment with Jefferson County's mission, vision, values, and goals. This year, three Community Awards winners and one Eco-Employee Award winner, honoring a Jefferson County employee, were chosen from several nominees submitted by community members in the county. 

“It is with great excitement that the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners present the Sustainability Commission’s Sustainability Awards this year. 2021 marks the second year for this important opportunity to recognize local organizations and county employees who are leaders in educating, promoting, and implementing sustainable practices in Jefferson County. We are heartened to know we have wonderful people doing this impressive and invaluable sustainability work in our community,” said Jefferson County Commissioner Andy Kerr. 

This year’s three community award winners were the Mountain Resource Center, the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), and Woody’s Wood-Fired Pizza. Mountain Resource Center is being recognized for providing resources to families living in western portions of the county impacted by inequity and incorporating sustainability into its services. NREL is being honored for positive impacts to the community and incorporating sustainability best practices into their Golden campus, including green building design and water conservation. Woody’s Wood-Fired Pizza is being recognized for embracing sustainability in their restaurant business operations, from using rooftop renewable energy and food production, to composting and waste diversion. 

The eco-employee award was presented to the team members from Jefferson County Justice Services. Troy Betz, Christine Decker, and Austin Rudd were recognized for leading and assisting the Community Services Crew in the intensive process of recycling collection from county facilities. 

“The last year has been extremely difficult year for Jefferson County businesses and restaurants. Despite the many challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, these organizations and employees remained committed to their core sustainability values and principles while continuing to serve our community members” said Jeff Wong, chair of the Sustainability Commission. 

This press release was produced by the Jefferson County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.