June 29, 2026
From Fairfield County

LANCASTER, Ohio – Fairfield County has earned two 2026 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo), recognizing the county’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and effective public service. Specifically, the County was honored for the Fairfield County Strategic Plan 2025-2028 and the Fairfield County Internal Stop Loss Pool Program.

With these two awards, Fairfield County has earned a total of 21 NACo Achievement Awards in the last 10 years, a notable accomplishment for a county of its size. NACo recognizes programs
from across the nation that demonstrate measurable results, creative solutions, and meaningful
improvements for residents. Fairfield County’s continued success reflects its ability to develop
and implement effective government strategies that enhance operations, maximize resources, and
deliver value to the community.

The Fairfield County Strategic Plan 2025-2028 was created to establish a shared vision for
county government, align organizational priorities, and guide future decision-making. Developed
through collaboration among county leadership, elected officials, department directors,
stakeholders, and strategic planning partner Krile Communications, the plan identifies key goals
and actionable initiatives that promote accountability, transparency, and improved service
delivery. The comprehensive planning process provides a framework for measuring progress,
strengthening organizational performance, and supporting long-term success across county
operations.

The Fairfield County Internal Stop Loss Pool Program addresses rising healthcare costs through
an innovative approach to managing high-cost claims while maintaining quality employee
benefits. Together, these initiatives demonstrate Fairfield County’s commitment to strategic
planning, responsible resource management, and solutions that can serve as models for other
counties.

“Receiving national recognition from NACo is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and
commitment of our employees, elected officials, and community partners” said Fairfield County
Commissioner Jeff Fix. “Earning more than 20 NACo Achievement Awards since 2017 reflects
Fairfield County’s ability to successfully develop, implement, and document impactful
government initiatives. This accomplishment represents more than individual projects, it reflects
a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, responsible stewardship of taxpayer
resources, and a commitment to providing exceptional services to the residents of Fairfield
County.”

Each year, NACo’s Achievement Awards recognize outstanding county programs across 18
categories aligned with the broad range of services counties provide. Categories include children
and youth, criminal justice and public safety, libraries, management, information technology,
health, civic engagement, and more. Established in 1970, the program celebrates innovation in
county government, with each nominated program evaluated on its own merits.

The National Association of Counties represents nearly 40,000 county elected officials and 3.6
million county employees across the United States. NACo advances excellence in county
government through advocacy, education, and leadership development.

Founded in 1800 (three years before Ohio became a State), Fairfield County was the 8th county
formed in the Northwest Territory. Today, more than 900 employees serve, connect, and protect
the more than 158,000 citizens of Fairfield County, providing high-quality services and
outstanding customer service at exceptional value to taxpayers. Fairfield County fosters
economic and fiscal sustainability and works to enhance the County’s reputation as a high
performing, learning, and caring organization. For more information about the county, its
services and employment opportunities, please visit https://www.co.fairfield.oh.us/