Barton County is joining with counties nationwide and the National Association of Counties in recognizing April as National County Government Month. This is an opportunity “to showcase how counties achieve healthy, safe and vibrant communities,” according to NACo.

“Barton County is honored to join the other 3,069 American counties in recognition of National County Government Month,” Barton County Administrator Matt Patzner said. “We are proud of the culture we are building, which is a testament to our outstanding employees’ efforts and care for what they do.”  

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Counties RISE!.”  This is an acronym for and highlights Resiliency, Inclusion, Solvency, and Empowerment – all county priorities undertaken with energy and passion for building stronger counties, said NACo President Denise Winfrey.

“National County Government Month celebrates how America’s counties achieve results for our residents every day,” said Winfrey. “Now is the time to raise awareness about the many ways counties serve our communities, including the broader framework of intergovernmental partnerships wherein county leaders deploy local, state, and federal programs on the ground.”

The same goes for Barton County as well, Patzner said. “Our county officials and staff are committed to strengthening our community, increasing economic prosperity and making Barton County a great place to live and raise a family.”

Since it was launched in 1991, this annual observance has created opportunities for counties to elevate awareness of county roles and responsibilities in serving residents.

“This month, we recognize the tremendous contributions of nation’s 40,000 county elected officials and 3.6 million county employees who build stronger counties that result in a stronger America,” said Winfrey.

Here is a sampling of what counties across the country do:

• Build and maintain 45% of all public roads and 38% of bridges

• Own and operate over 900 hospitals, 750 behavioral health centers and more than 1,900 local public health departments

• Invest over $100 billion annually in public safety and court-related responsibilities

• Support county veteran services officers in 29 states and the District of Columbia

• Provide critical services related to federal public lands in 62% of all counties

• Deliver extensive administrative services, including issuing birth certificates and marriage licenses and elections.

• Build and maintain parks, community centers, libraries and cultural centers.