Two public figures well known for their civic service were presented with special recognition awards during the Vernal Chamber annual meeting and awards banquet. The first was given to former Uintah County Commissioner Mike McKee who served as Commissioner for 14 years. McKee resigned from his Commission seat earlier this year to accept a position as the Executive Director of the 7 County Infrastructure Coalition. McKee began his public service after being elected to the Uintah School Board in 1997. He served on the school board for 6 years. His leadership in Uintah County has been considered crucial during a period of major growth in the area. The second special recognition award was given to Vernal City Manager Ken Bassett who began his employment with Vernal City in 1978 as the Assistant City Manager. He took over the Manager position in 1981. During his 39 years with Vernal City he has served on countless boards and committees of the state as well as the President of the Utah City Managers Association. Ken is scheduled to retire on June 30th. He and his wife RoJean will be leaving in August for a two year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Istanbul, Turkey.
