Converse County receives award for open government

CHEYENNE (WNE) — Converse County has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the Benjamin Franklin Award for Open Government, a new monthly recognition presented by the Wyoming Press Association to honor exemplary commitment to transparency, accountability and public access to information.

Converse County was nominated by Matt Adelman, publisher of the Douglas Budget and Glenrock Independent and a past president of the National Newspaper Association. In his nomination, Adelman cited the county’s consistent and proactive approach to keeping residents informed — often going well beyond what is required by Wyoming law.

“Converse County government has been at the forefront of keeping the public informed, with strong and consistent support of public notices, even above and beyond what is required by state law,” Adelman wrote. “The county commissioners, clerk and treasurer, in particular, have made strong public and financial commitments to transparency and accountability.”

The Benjamin Franklin Award for Open Government is part of a year-long statewide effort by the Wyoming Press Association to recognize local governments that demonstrate exceptional openness and respect for the public’s right to know. 

One recipient will be named each month in 2026, based on nominations submitted by Wyoming newspapers and statewide associations that represent local governments in the state. Honorees will be selected by the Wyoming Press Association’s Legislative Committee.

This story was published on Jan. 3, 2026.