City falls short for the ‘All-America City Award’

The city of Henderson competed gamely to win the “All-America City Award” but fell short in the effort last weekend.

Ten of 20 finalists that met in Denver last weekend were honored with the award.

The other Kentucky finalist—Lexington—was named a winner.

Aside from Lexington, winners include Danville, Va.; Edinburg, Texas; High Point, N.C.; La Marque, Texas; Monrovia, Calif.; Newport News, Va.; Roanoke, Va.; Watkinsville, Ga.; and Seattle.

Sponsored and judged by the National Civic League, the award honors communities that are “finding innovative ways to equitably engage community members in activities that strengthen local democracy, like making it easier to vote, engage in community affairs, and serve in leadership roles.”

The city’s entry involved the Inner City Improvement Plan, a 4-year plan with a dedicated $300,000 each year for East End projects.

Though Henderson didn’t win, the city “was very well represented,” said City Commissioner Austin Vowels, who attended the event.

Commissioner Robert Pruitt added “we should have been on top.”

Those who represented Henderson at the competition are listed below.

City Employees/Officials

Commissioner Austin P. Vowels

Commissioner Robert Pruitt

Dawn Kelsey

Trace Stevens

Jeremy Conrad

Theresa Richey

Non-City Members