Kentucky House Speaker David Osborne has been presented a 2021 County Advocate award by the Kentucky Association of Counties (KACo).
Rep. Osborne, who represents a portion of Oldham County and has served as the Speaker of the House since 2019, was selected as a recipient for his steadfast efforts to strengthen counties across Kentucky.
During the 2021 session, Speaker Osborne’s leadership prioritized legislation that helped address county issues including county jail support, broadband funding for unserved and underserved areas of our state, and advancing discussions on local government tax reform.
“This award means a great deal and I appreciate that KACo recognizes the work we are doing to make Kentucky a great place to build a life," said Speaker Osborne. "I’m honored to work with county officials in my own community and really value the relationship I have with them. As we look forward to the next session, county governments are among the stakeholders we will be seeking input from as we craft a budget, consider how to best invest federal COVID-relief dollars, and address the challenges facing our commonwealth."
KACo Executive Director Jim Henderson and KACo Associate Director of Government Affairs Gracie Lagadinos presented the award to Speaker Osborne on behalf of county officials across Kentucky.
“It’s an honor to recognize the House Speaker as a 2021 County Advocate,” said Henderson. “Speaker Osborne has made it a top priority to advance meaningful discussion and legislative solutions to the challenges facing counties. He’s championed reforms in county tax policy, advanced ideas for curbing escalating corrections costs in counties and ensured that real investments were made in broadband infrastructure. These were all top priorities for counties in the 2021 session.”
The County Advocate award is being presented to legislators who supported counties throughout the 2021 session by sponsoring or shepherding legislation that helps counties continue to provide services without unfunded mandates or limiting home rule.
