Once again, Johnson County's Public Works team earned the top award during competitive events held during the annual American Public Works Association's Mid-America Equipment Expo. During the competition, 225 contestants representing 23 agencies competed in six events: skid steer, mini excavator, small plow truck, large plow truck, wheel loader and mechanic competitions.

2026 was the third consecutive year Johnson County Public Works earned the team trophy.

"I am so proud of our Public Works team members who had such a strong showing at this event," said Lee Kellenberger, interim director of Johnson County's Public Works department. "It demonstrates a culture of teamwork, experience, preparation and pride in doing the job well. Our employees continue to perform at a high level while maintaining the focus on safety and service levels that Johnson County residents expect."

In addition to earning the team trophy, several of the county's Public Works team members earned awards for top performance:

• Bruce Bilsten - first place, large plow truck
• Clint Atkin - first place, small plow truck
• Braden Galyean - second place, mini excavator
• Joshua Drake - fourth place, skid steer
• Coy Reynolds - fifth place wheel loader

Along with competitive events, the Expo featured training sessions and educational opportunities for those in the public works field. Learn about our Public Works department and see how the crews train for the winter season of clearing roads in the unincorporated portions of the county.