Information courtesy of Franklin County Public Information Officer James Hicks III
Franklin County Manager Kim Denton received the Outstanding Manager award from the Kerr-Tar Council of Governments during their recent awards banquet.
Last year’s recipient, Henderson City Manager Terrell Blackmon, presented Denton with the award during the Sept. 28 event at Carlee Farms in Granville County.
“Kim embodies the qualities of a visionary leader with unwavering dedication, exemplifying what it takes to steer Franklin County towards a prosperous future,” Blackmon said.
Blackmon said Denton has brought innovation, jobs and investments to the region while overseeing responsible growth and infrastructure enhancements. Spearheading the expansion of broadband internet to previously unserved areas, securing a $160 million economic investment from private industry along U.S. 1 and executing a massive overhaul of the county’s public safety radio system were among the successes noted in the nomination.
“Additionally, she played a key role in securing substantial grant funds for essential improvements to Triangle North Executive Airport, Triangle North Franklin Business Park, and Public Utilities projects,” Blackmon said.
Denton’s commitment to education was also noted as she has served in various roles supporting the Louisburg Athletic Booster Club, Edward Best Elementary School Parent Teacher Association, and many years as yearbook coordinator.
“Denton’s genuine concern for the county’s employees led her to advocate for the implementation of a pay-for-performance system, rewarding hard work and encouraging goal setting among County staff,” Blackmon said.
Denton – who was surprised and admittedly overwhelmed by the honor – said things have been busy in Franklin County.
“I have to say you can’t be that busy without having the right kind of team behind you,” said Denton. “I can’t say thank you enough to all of the team at Franklin County that works so hard to make things happen.”
Quoting Franklin County’s mission – adopted in 2022 by the board of commissioners, Denton reaffirmed the county’s commitment to exemplary public service and “expanding economic opportunities.”
She also represents the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners on the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s P7 workgroup for Strategic Transportation Prioritization (SPOT).
“Her active participation in the work group reflects her commitment to advocating for vital transportation projects across the state and region,” Blackmon said.
Denton said success in one part of the region benefits the entire region.
“When good things happen in one county, good things happen throughout our region,” Denton said.
The criteria for Kerr-Tar COG’s outstanding manager award includes contributions to local government, special accomplishments in the job, innovation and leadership in management or administration, professional skills and expertise, and service on regional, state or national committees or commissions representing local government.
Kerr-Tar Council of Governments, consisting of Vance, Granville, Warren, Franklin and Person counties, is an association of local governments that exists to lead regional planning in the five-county area.