Blog | July 16, 2026
Texas counties earn national recognition for innovative programs through 2026 NACo Achievement Awards
Texas counties are once again receiving national recognition for their commitment to innovation and public service.
The National Association of Counties (NACo) recently announced its 2026 Achievement Awards, recognizing outstanding county government programs from across the country. The awards honor creative, effective initiatives in 18 categories that reflect the broad range of services counties provide every day. Since 1970, the program has celebrated counties that find innovative ways to improve government operations and better serve residents.
Among this year's Texas recipients, Harris County, Denton County and El Paso County earned the prestigious Best in Category distinction, placing their programs among the nation's top examples of county innovation. Their award-winning initiatives demonstrated excellence in addressing community needs through forward-thinking solutions and collaboration.
In addition to the Best in Category honorees, counties across Texas were recognized for innovative programs that improve public safety, strengthen communities, modernize county operations, expand health and human services, preserve county history, support residents and enhance the delivery of local government services.
Congratulations to all of this year's Texas recipients:
- Bell County
- Bexar County
- Burleson County
- Cameron County
- Dallas County
- Denton County
- El Paso County
- Fort Bend County
- Harris County
- Hidalgo County
- Lubbock County
- Matagorda County
- Midland County
- Smith County
- Tarrant County
- Travis County
- Victoria County
- Williamson County
- Wise County
These awards showcase the innovation taking place in counties of every size across Texas. Whether developing new technology, improving emergency response, expanding access to health services, strengthening infrastructure or creating more efficient ways to serve residents, county leaders continue to find solutions that make a lasting difference in their communities.
To learn more about the 2026 Achievement Awards and explore the winning programs from across the Lone Star State, visit Achievement Awards Database | National Association of Counties.