Hamilton County is celebrating the accolades of a man who has dedicated nearly five decades to managing the war against floodwaters. Kenton Ward, the county's long-standing surveyor, has recently been honored with both the 2024 Excellence in Floodplain Management Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indiana Association for Floodplain and Stormwater Management (INAFSM). These awards were presented at the INAFSM annual conference, held in Michigan City, Indiana.

Ward's commitment to floodplain protections, which has spanned the course of his career, earned him the Excellence in Floodplain Management Award. His approach to managing Hamilton County's floodplains has resonated across the state, inspiring adoption by several other counties and municipalities. According to a Hamilton County press release, “His policies have been adopted by several counties, cities and towns throughout Indiana.” Ward is hailed as a forerunner in his area of expertise within Indiana.

The Lifetime Achievement Award follows a distinguished tenure of 48 years in public service. Ward's unwavering endeavor in stormwater and floodplain management has earned him respect and honor from his peers and a plethora of organizations. He has been instrumental as a mentor, and his insight continues to be sought after across the state.

Under Ward's leadership, his office has received several awards, including the Excellence in Stormwater Management Award and a Special Recognition Award during his 12 years as Legislative Liaison for INAFSM. The Surveyor’s Office has also won awards for initiatives like the Cool Creek Watershed Management Plan, the Sand Creek and Cumberland Road Flood Mitigation Project, and the Symons-Krause Regulated Drain Project.

With nearly 50 years of service, Ward's legacy impacts communities across Indiana. His commitment is reflected in strong floodplain management practices and in the governance and mentorship he provided, helping build resilience against natural disasters.