Jim Ford Named County Commissioner of the Year
The Wyoming County Commissioners Association honored the Campbell County official with the Riding for the Brand Award.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Rodeo
Campbell County Commissioner Jim Ford was named the 2026 County Commissioner of the Year by the Wyoming County Commissioners Association. The organization presented him with the Riding for the Brand Award for his commitment to serving his community and state.
Why it matters
The association selected Ford for his willingness to tackle difficult policy issues and his proactive approach to securing economic opportunities for the region. His leadership included facilitating direct discussions between local county commissioners and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Jim Ford currently serves in his first term as a Campbell County Commissioner. He actively represents the region on the National Association of Counties Board of Directors.
The players
Jim Ford
He is a Campbell County Commissioner and business owner currently serving in his first term.
Wyoming County Commissioners Association
This organization represents the interests of county officials across the state and promotes local governance.
National Association of Counties
This national organization provides a platform for county leaders to influence federal policy and share best practices.
The details
Ford was recognized for his committee work, including his service on the WCCA Energy and Environment Committee and the NACo Environment, Energy and Land Use Policy Steering Committee. He is an entrepreneur and business owner who has leveraged his role to manage federal-level negotiations in Washington, D.C.
Timeline
Jim Ford received the award in 2026.
Season Trajectory
This award highlights an increasing focus on county-level leadership in federal energy policy negotiations. It reflects a shift where local officials are taking more direct roles in navigating the U.S. Department of Energy's regional engagement framework to secure local economic growth.
Ford's recognition marks a strategic consolidation of Campbell County's influence within the National Association of Counties. This positioning could result in more direct federal oversight or funding support for upcoming energy-related land use projects in the district.
The takeaway
Effective local leadership increasingly requires the ability to translate district-level priorities into actionable federal policy. Officials who successfully bridge this gap, as Ford has, are better positioned to influence long-term economic development in their home counties.
Further reading
For more news on state-level leadership and regional developments, visit the Rodeo section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by County 17.
