Two Oregon special districts and four individuals were recognized on Saturday, February 7th at the 2026 SDAO Annual Conference held at the Seaside Civic & Convention Center in Seaside, Oregon. Each year, the SDAO Awards Program honors member districts for accomplishments which allow them to provide better service to the public and gives recognition to individuals who have greatly contributed to the success of their special district.

Nominations were collected throughout the year and reviewed by the SDAO Awards Committee, and the winners were selected using a scoring matrix. The 2026 award categories and recipients include:

Outstanding Special District Program Award

Special districts are recognized for innovative projects and programs, outstanding safety, public information, public involvement in a district decision-making process, and outstanding achievement.

• 6-25 Employees: Port of Cascade Locks - Award Video
• 26 or More Employees: Western Lane Fire & EMS Authority - Award Video

Outstanding Special District Service Award

This category recognizes an individual board member, manager, staff member, or volunteer who has contributed substantially to the improvement and successful operation of his or her district. 

• Board Member:  Bob Koenig, Santiam Water Control District - Award Video
• Manager:  Ray Monroe, Tillamook Soil & Water Conservation District - Award Video
• Employee:  Joy King-Cortes, Seal Rock Water District - Award Video
• Volunteer:  James Audritsh, Woodburn Fire District - Award Video

The spring issue of SDAO News and Risk Management Review will cover each award recipient and their achievements in greater detail.