For the second consecutive year, Rockdale County Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley has received an Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACO). Started in 1970, the awards program honors innovative, effective county government programs that enhance services for residents.

Hadley earned the 2015 award for his Green Project, which is focused on reducing the consumption of resources, eliminating waste and reducing spending through environmentally responsible practices. The initiative is the only environmental program in Georgia to receive the award this year. Additionally, the Green Project is only the second Rockdale County program to win an Achievement Award. In 2014, Commissioner Hadley's LAUNCH internship program was the first to be honored.

"The Green Project aligns with the Tax Office's function of supporting Georgia's Clean Air emissions standards. As an advocate for sustainable environmental practices, I am especially proud for our team to receive this recognition from NACO," Commissioner Hadley said.

Nationally, awards are given in 21 different categories that reflect the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice, county administration, environmental protection, information technology, health, civic engagement and many more.

NACo President Riki Hokama, council member, Maui County, Hawaii, said, "The National Association of Counties applauds county governments that are embracing innovative and more effective ways to serve their constituents. The Achievement Awards recognize counties' outstanding efforts to strengthen services and deliver results for residents across the country."

The award will be presented at NACo's 2015 Annual Conference and Exposition July 10-13 in Mecklenburg County, N.C