Congressman Bill Johnson Receives NADO Congressional Partnership Award

MARIETTA – Rep. Bill Johnson (R-Marietta) released the following statement today that the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) presented him with the 2014 Congressional Partnership Award. The award recognizes Johnson’s commitment to federal programs that support investment in infrastructure, job creation, and economic development.

“I am honored to be recognized by NADO and Eastern and Southeastern Ohio development organizations for my commitment to increase development of rural communities and the Appalachian Regional Commission,” said Bill Johnson. “Rural townships and villages, like many of those I represent across Ohio, are essential to the future of America. I’ll continue to work and advocate for these communities, as they confront the challenging economic circumstances they face head on. Investing in these areas create much needed sustainable jobs, a stable tax base, and improve their quality of opportunities.”

Misty Casto, Executive Director of the Buckeye Hills-Hocking Valley Regional Development District added: “With 18 counties in Eastern and Southeastern Ohio, Congressman Bill Johnson has been a strong advocate for the Appalachian Regional Commission supporting the vastly rural region that comprises the 6th Congressional District. He has been a champion for rural and economic development issues, supported programs and initiatives to encourage job creation and also supported issues related to services for veterans and older Americans.”

Created in 2000, the NADO Congressional Partnership Awards Program recognizes Members of Congress who exhibit outstanding leadership and support of federal regional development programs. Nominations are submitted by member regional development organizations – in this case, Buckeye Hills, OVRDC, OMEGA, and Eastgate. Previous winners include Senator George Voinovich, Senator Sherrod Brown, Congressman Zack Space, and Congressman Charlie Wilson.