Every year since 1991, the National Association of Counties (NACo) has recognized the month of April as National County Government Month (NCGM). The purpose of the annual celebration is to raise awareness and understanding of the crucial programs and services provided by county government. Now, more than ever, counties have an excellent opportunity to highlight effective county programs, especially public health.
As published on NACo’s website, “Counties are on the front lines protecting our communities from coronavirus and other illnesses that have the potential to become a pandemic. Counties support over 900 hospitals and operate over 1,900 public health departments, which are the ground troops in the fight against the coronavirus outbreak. Further, says NACo, “Local health departments are working to protect public health by communicating with transportation officials, educating health care providers and communicating to the public best practices to reduce the spread of infectious diseases.”
There are over 3,000 counties across America, and all are battling the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in one way or another. At the same time, they are diligently working to ensure the uninterrupted availability of various essential services. These include housing, welfare, transportation, and economic and community development, to name just a few.
On behalf of the entire BOLDplanning team, THANK YOU to county governments all across our great nation. Your work is appreciated, and for the remainder of the month, celebrated. Enjoy NCGM 2021!