Staff Report
From the Office of State Senator Arthur Orr
Montgomery, Ala. – State Senator Arthur Orr, R- Decatur, was recently presented the Legislative Leadership Award by the Alabama Association of Regional Councils (AARC) before its regular monthly Executive Board meeting at the Capitol City Club.
The meeting is held each month to make key decisions regarding the future planning and implementation of economic development, education, transportation planning and senior services among its members and stakeholders.
Sen. Orr received the award for providing leadership and direction during one of the most difficult financial periods in Alabama history.
Senator Orr serves as Finance and Taxation General Fund Committee and was instrumental in continuing funding technical assistance to local governments through the Regional Councils and helped protect many of the Senior Programs delivered by the 13 Area Agencies on Aging (AAA).
The Regional Councils have received state funding for the last twenty years, providing technical assistance to fund programs designed to make significant contributions to local communities. Some of these funds are also used as matching capital to create jobs through the Revolving Loan Fund, enhance community development, and provide senior services.
Senator Orr feels that the AARC has provided great service and program delivery throughout the State and knows how important the employees are when services diminish with budget cuts.
“Unfortunately, you’re not thanked enough for what you do for our seniors and residents across Alabama,” said Orr, “I want you to know how much I appreciate the service you provide for our citizens and the positive impact you have on Alabama’s economy.
AARC President John Clyde Riggs presented the award to Senator Orr and commended him for standing up for the AARC throughout the decision making process during the 2011 Regular Session of the Alabama legislature.
“The award given to Senator Orr is for legislators that go above and beyond, said Riggs, “He has shown exceptional leadership and is genuinely interested in making sure services go out to the people in this State efficiently.”
The AARC is composed of 12 regional councils. A Regional Council is a public organization that directly serves local governments through local and/or state government laws. They function through communication, planning, policymaking, coordination, advocacy and technical assistance to local governments and citizens in a region.
To learn more about AARC and its programs please visit us at www.alarc.org.
