FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HARTFORD, Ky. — October 7, 2026 — The City of Hartford was named the 2026 Community of the Year by the Green River Area Development District (GRADD) during the organization’s Annual Meeting on Wednesday, highlighting a day of significant recognition for Hartford and Ohio County.
GRADD is the regional planning agency serving Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union and Webster counties, supporting communities through regional planning, economic and community development, transportation, workforce initiatives and other services.
The Community of the Year Award recognizes a city or county for significant efforts to improve the quality of life for its residents.
Ohio County leaders also received two individual honors. State Representative Scott Lewis received the Wendell Ford Legislative Leadership Award, recognizing legislative leadership and service benefiting the region. Ohio County Judge-Executive David Johnston received the Texal Brooks Regional Leadership Award, recognizing outstanding regional leadership.
“Ohio County was incredibly well represented today, and that is something we can all be proud of,” Hartford Mayor Beau Wright said. “These honors reflect the people and leaders have worked diligently to make our communities stronger.”
The three recognitions made the GRADD Annual Meeting a proud day for Hartford and Ohio County, highlighting the community commitment and regional leadership taking place throughout the county.
