In a recent showing of governmental efficiency, Coconino County Public Works notched its seventh accreditation from the American Public Works Association (APWA), a respected recognition of the agency's alignment with best-management practices in the field of public works. This prestigious accolade, detailed in a report by Coconino County, affirms the organization's compliance with the APWA's Public Works Management Practices Manual, a tome that is the benchmark for assessing the execution of public works policies and initiatives.
During a Board of Supervisors meeting, Kristina Ramirez, the APWA Region 7 Director and bearer of good news, lauded the Public Works' team for their steadfast commitment to community service, and excellence, and the maintenance and stewardship of more than 1,000 miles of roadway, Christopher Tressler, Coconino County Public Works Director, reflected on their journey since achieving their initial APWA accreditation back in 2001, saying "Since becoming the first APWA-accredited county public works organization in 2001, we have remained committed to enhancing the quality of life in Coconino County through strong leadership, professionalism, exceptional customer service and year-round stewardship of more than 1,000 miles of roadway," a dedication that he declares hasn't wavered and thus, their perspective on service and community engagement has only deepened with time.
For public works agencies seeking the APWA's stamp of excellence, the accreditation program mandates a rigorous process involving steps such as a self-assessment using the APWA manual, formal application, a period for improvements, a detailed evaluation by APWA through a site visit, and finally, the decision on accreditation by the APWA Accreditation Council, having recognized the consistent progress and adherence to emerging practices, APWA has thus accredited Coconino County Public Works for the seventh time, a testament to their commitment to perpetual refinement.
At a Board of Supervisors meeting, Kristina Ramirez, APWA Region 7 Director, praised the Public Works team for their dedication to serving the community and maintaining over 1,000 miles of roadway. Public Works Director Christopher Tressler reflected on their journey since first earning APWA accreditation in 2001. He said the team has stayed committed to leadership, professionalism, customer service, and caring for county roads year-round—values that continue to strengthen over time.
Coconino County leads by example in Arizona, being the first agency in the state to seize APWA accreditation in 2001 it has inspired other governmental agencies, such as Mohave County and cities including Buckeye, Chandler, Peoria, and Surprise, to follow suit and strive for the prestigious recognition, according to a report by Coconino County. Interested parties seeking more information about the accreditation process can approach Jeanette Klamm, APWA Associate Director of Credentialing, for further details and insight into the stringent yet rewarding program.
