GADD honors regional leaders, state agency during annual meeting

Three individuals and organizations whose leadership and service have strengthened the Gateway region were recognized June 30 during the Gateway Area Development District's 2026 Annual Meeting.

The Gateway Area Development District Board of Directors presented its highest honors to Mayor Gary Hunt of Owingsville, Rep. David Hale and the Kentucky Department for Local Government in recognition of their contributions to regional collaboration, public service and support for communities across the district.

Hunt received the Founders Award for his distinguished service to GADD and the communities it serves. A member of the GADD Board of Directors since 2011, Hunt has served two terms as board chairman and has spent more than a decade on the Executive Committee. According to GADD, his leadership has reflected a longstanding commitment to regional collaboration and improving quality of life throughout Bath, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan and Rowan counties.

The Gail K. Wright Commitment to Excellence Award was presented to Hale for his commitment to regionalism and public service. Since his election to the Kentucky House of Representatives in 2015, Hale has supported GADD's mission and advocated for rural Kentucky. His efforts have helped secure state investments benefiting local governments and regional initiatives, including a $120,000 legislative line item supporting the Gateway Regional Kitchen.

The Kentucky Department for Local Government received the Chairman's Impact Award for its partnership with GADD and the communities it serves. GADD recognized the department for its technical assistance, grant administration and continued support of local governments, noting its role in helping communities complete projects that strengthen infrastructure, expand public services and improve quality of life across the region. DLG Chief of Staff Billie Renee Johnson accepted the award on the department's behalf.

"These awards represent the very best of regional leadership and partnership," GADD Board Chairman and Morgan County Judge-Executive Jim Gazay said. "Mayor Hunt, Representative Hale, and the Kentucky Department for Local Government have each demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to serving others and strengthening our communities. We are grateful for their leadership and proud to recognize their contributions."