San Bernardino County has once again raised the bar for innovation, excellence and public service, earning more national recognition than ever before.
The county received a record-breaking 430 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo), surpassing last year’s then-record total of 257 awards and once again leading the nation in awards received through NACo’s annual Achievement Awards program.
For four consecutive years, San Bernardino County has led the nation’s more than 3,000 counties in Achievement Awards received, demonstrating that the county’s nearly 2.2 million residents benefit from some of the most innovative and effective public services in local government. As America’s largest county by geographic area, San Bernardino County continues to set the national standard for delivering services across diverse communities spanning more than 20,000 square miles.
“Keeping residents safe and providing opportunities for them to prosper and achieve well-being requires dedication, innovation and a commitment to excellence,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “This achievement reflects the outstanding work of county employees who continuously find new ways to serve our residents and strengthen communities throughout San Bernardino County.”
The NACo Achievement Awards recognize innovative and effective county government programs that strengthen services, improve operations and deliver meaningful results for residents. San Bernardino County earned awards in 17 of the program’s 18 categories, demonstrating the breadth of programs and services that support communities across the county.
More than 30 county departments submitted award entries this year, showcasing innovative programs and services that improve quality of life for residents throughout the county. The San Bernardino County Public Works Department led all county departments with an impressive 93 awards, including recognition for the High Desert Emergency Storm Response and the Route 66 Centennial Revitalization, a public-private partnership helping preserve and celebrate the historic corridor in Amboy.
The county also received the program’s highest honor in Community and Economic Development, with the Liberty Lane Development Partnership earning a Best in Category award. It was the only Best in Category award presented to a California county this year.
Other award-winning programs reflected the diversity of county services. San Bernardino County Child Support Services was recognized for Engaging Fathers, Strengthening Families, a program focused on strengthening family connections and improving outcomes for children. Arrowhead Regional Medical Center earned recognition for its ARMC Go Red for Women event, which raises awareness about heart disease and stroke prevention while promoting healthier communities.
“The Board of Supervisors’ commitment to innovation and excellence empowers departments to think creatively and pursue solutions that make a real difference for residents,” said Chief Executive Officer Luther Snoke. “These awards reflect the talent, dedication and collaborative spirit of our workforce and their commitment to delivering exceptional public service.”
Over 11 years, San Bernardino County has earned more than 1,400 state and national awards recognizing innovative programs, operational excellence, and public service achievements that benefit residents and help the county to achieve the Countywide Vision.
This year’s historic performance reflects the county’s continued commitment to being a model organization and creating a community where residents can live, work and play while prospering and achieving well-being.
“Explore San Bernardino County Services” at sbcounty.gov to learn more about the programs, resources and services available to residents.
Additional County Update News – June 25, 2026
- Board actions, June 23
- Celebrate safely: Fireworks prohibited in most of San Bernardino County
- Quick response, Naloxone helps save a life at Vista Community Counseling
- ICEMA designates Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital as region’s first Comprehensive Pediatric Receiving Center
- Explore San Bernardino County Services: Apprenticeship program creates career pathways for parents and future educators
- Second chance, stronger future: Workforce Development helps Alejandro Perez build an HVAC career
- New Career Spotlights featured on SBC LevelUP
- Hike smart: Know how to stay safe on the trails at Regional Parks during snake season
- A night of dancing, laughter and father-daughter fun in Bloomington
- County Library announces 2026 Love Your Library Bookmark Contest winners
- SBC Through Your Eyes: Piñon Hills
- Submit your photos and videos of the county’s destinations, nature and cityscapes
- San Bernardino County history: Muscoy
- County offices holiday closure
- Glen Helen Regional Park closure notice
- Things to do in San Bernardino County
- Pet of the Week: Pacho and Pierro