2023 KLC Awards – It’s Never Too Early to Nominate

It’s not too early to think about the Kentucky League of Cities (KLC) Awards, the only program dedicated to recognizing Kentucky city officials, employees, and cities of all sizes. The 2023 awards nomination links are now available on the KLC website. 

Nominations are not due until next summer, but cities are encouraged to think about entries throughout the year for the Elected City Official of the Year, the City Employee of the Year, the City Government of the Year, and the Leadership Enrichment and Development (LEAD) awards.

“We appreciate the daily drive and dedication of city officials and employees throughout the commonwealth,” said KLC Executive Director|CEO James D. Chaney. “It is always extra special when we get an opportunity to spotlight just a few of those successes.”

Since 1999, KLC has recognized cities, city officials, and city employees for their contributions to the commonwealth. The awards acknowledge the exceptional work done by Kentucky cities and the people leading them. Award winners receive statewide recognition in the media and from their peers. A donation is also made in their honor to support a local charity or city program.

The Elected City Official of the Year Award recognizes a dynamic official who demonstrates outstanding leadership and innovation. Submit an application for the 2023 Elected City Official of the Year here. Sponsored by Adams Law

The City Employee of the Year Award recognizes an exceptional city employee who performs at a distinguished level to improve their local government and community. Submit an application for the 2023 City Employee of the Year here. Sponsored by Freeman, Mathis & Gary, LLP

The KLC City Government of the Year Award recognizes a city that does something transformational. Submit an application for the 2023 City Government of the Year here. Sponsored by Collins & Company, Inc.

Applications are due by July 14, 2023.

Launched in 2020, the Leadership Enrichment and Development (LEAD) Award recognizes a Kentucky mayor whose leadership demonstrates a passion for local public service and a commitment to lifelong learning. The LEAD Award is a scholarship intended to provide KLC event registration for a mayor from a city with a limited education/training budget. The award was named to honor the late Ann Deatherage, a lifelong public servant who served as councilmember and mayor of the City of Carrollton. Submit an application for the 2023 LEAD Award here. Sponsored by Enterprise Fleet Management. 

Applications are due by Aug. 4, 2023.

“We encourage our members to think about their accomplishments and outstanding employees throughout the year,” said KLC Member Relations Manager Terri Johnson. “Anytime is a good time to share the good news about cities and submit a nomination. Beyond the awards, hearing about what cities and people are doing gives our KLC team great inspiration for future education and opportunities to share ideas with our members.” KLC will announce the 2023 award winners at the KLC Conference & Expo Sept. 19-22, in Lexington. 

Learn about the 2022 winners here. 

• Elected City Official of the Year – Jeffersontown Mayor Bill Dieruf 
• City Employee of the Year – Hopkinsville Parks & Recreation Superintendent Tab Brockman 
• City Government of the Year – City of Paducah 
• LEAD Award – Whitesburg Mayor Tiffany Craft