AMONG BEST OF GWINNETT

Gwinnett government won honors in five categories for Best of Gwinnett this year. Voters top-rated Gwinnett Parks, Parks and Recreation Programs, Gwinnett Public Library, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful, and named us Best Employer.

Each of these honors is the result of decades of intentional planning, hard work, and dedication of both the public and the government. They’re testaments to setting high expectations and delivering even more than expected. That’s what we call the Gwinnett Standard. This recognition is truly gratifying.

Our accredited system of 50 county parks and greenspaces started nearly from scratch less than 50 years ago when voters approved a countywide recreation fund. Voters have since supported parks through a series of SPLOST sales tax programs, providing more than $700 million to preserve land as natural and recreation space –with restrooms, sports facilities, playgrounds, historic sites, and 140 miles of trails.

Community centers in our parks offer classes, lessons, special events, camps, and so much more for every Gwinnett resident. Sports leagues for kids and adults, run by volunteers, provide countless opportunities to play. Details are at www. gwinnettparks.com.

Two million people visited the 15 branches of the Gwinnett Public Library last year, checking out 3.8 million materials and initiating 1.8 million computer sessions. Library branches offer learning activities for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Learn more at www.gwinnettpl.org.

For more than four decades, Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful has protected our local environment by sponsoring projects like cleanups, stream remediation, recycling awareness, and graffiti and litter removal – improving Gwinnett’s image and brand while encouraging positive behaviors. More at www.gwinnettcb.org.

Finally, I’m so pleased that Gwinnett County Government was named Best Employer. This year, we’re investing in our 5,000-plus employees with pay raises, parental leave, family planning, and language learning benefits. The pandemic was a strain on all of us, and I appreciate the continued dedication and tenacity of the County workforce to maintain the Gwinnett Standard in all we do. There’s much more online at www.gwinnettcounty.com.

On behalf of all Gwinnett County employees, thank you for your support and appreciation of the exceptional services we provide to you – our residents, business owners, and visitors.