Feb 06, 2026

Barton County honors employees for years of dedicated service

Posted Feb 06, 2026 1:00 PM
Barton County employees recognized for milestone years of service are pictured with members of the Barton County Commission in the courthouse rotunda, honoring decades of dedication and commitment to serving the community.
Barton County employees recognized for milestone years of service are pictured with members of the Barton County Commission in the courthouse rotunda, honoring decades of dedication and commitment to serving the community.

By ELLE HUTCHINSON
Barton County Media Consultant

During this week’s meeting, the Barton County Commission proudly recognized employees for their continued service to the county, honoring individuals who have reached milestone anniversaries of five, ten, fifteen, twenty-five, thirty, and thirty-five years.

Employee Engagement Committee President Judith Castro introduced the honorees and thanked them for their commitment to serving Barton County residents. The annual recognition highlights employees from a wide range of departments and roles, reflecting the many ways county staff contribute to daily operations, public safety, and essential services.

Employees recognized for five years of service included Dodger Beckman, John Stettinger, Breauna Martinez, Glennda French, Corky Rankin, Stacey Davis, and Renee Kasselman.

Those recognized for 10 years of service were Phil Kepka, Casey Rowland, Gina Werth, Paige Volkel, Aaron Smith, Ethan Bretz, Steve Billinger, and Mark Cooper.

Jennifer Hamby was recognized for 15 years of service, Mike Daniel for 25 years, Dena Popp for 30 years, and Bj Wooding and Bev Schmeidler for an impressive 35 years of service.

Together, these employees represent decades of experience, dedication, and service to Barton County. Many have worked through emergencies, changing conditions, and evolving responsibilities, often behind the scenes, to ensure County services remain reliable and responsive. The Commission expressed its sincere appreciation to each honoree, recognizing that Barton County’s success is built on the commitment, professionalism, and care demonstrated by its employees every day.