Via Staff Report - Amador County Recreation agency’s JPA model earned a state merit award recently from the California State Association of Counties. CSAC holds a challenge awards competition every year to honor innovation in county government. ACRA was one of 3 county programs in its population category – 50,000 and under -- to receive a merit award. Executive Director Tracey Towner-Yep said she is honored that CSAC chose ACRA for the award. “This county supports recreation in a manner completely different than any other municipality in the state,” she said. “We are a joint powers authority with member entities that include all five cities, the county and the school district. This level of cooperation allows for collaboration in many different areas of recreation services and maintenance.” Prior to the formation of ACRA, park planning and development did not exist within the county. A county-wide agency formed through a joint powers agreement in 2003. Retired Director of General Services Trevor Mottishaw created the idea for ACRA, Towner-Yep said. Amador County will receive the award and ACRA’s program was selected from more than 255 entries.