Commissioner Candelaria Honored with Colorado Counties, Inc. Distinguished Service Award

The Montezuma County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that Commissioner Jim Candelaria has been selected as the recipient of the Colorado Counties, Inc. (CCI) Distinguished Service Award, one of the highest recognitions granted to county officials across the state of Colorado.

The CCI Distinguished Service Award recognizes a commissioner whose leadership, integrity, and long-standing commitment to public service exemplify the very best of county government. The award focuses on both quality and length of service, and each year the awards committee evaluates nominees based on their contributions to counties across Colorado and to CCI itself.

Commissioner Candelaria was chosen for this honor due to his long tenure in county government and his outstanding record of public service. Over the years, he has served on numerous CCI committees and task forces, consistently providing thoughtful leadership and a steady, collaborative voice on issues affecting counties statewide.

In announcing the award, CCI emphasized that the Distinguished Service Award is reserved for individuals who unselfishly devote their time and energy to the greater good—whether in their own county, their region, or the entire state. Commissioner Candelaria has repeatedly demonstrated this commitment through his active engagement with statewide initiatives, his willingness to mentor new commissioners, and his dedication to improving the effectiveness, efficiency, and transparency of local government.

Commissioner Candelaria expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that he was “humbled and surprised” by the award. 

Montezuma County administration and staff extend their heartfelt congratulations to Commissioner Candelaria for receiving this well-deserved award.