The LGA recognizes its members who have performed work on a LGA project or other project of significant importance to the LGA or local government generally. The purpose of the award is to encourage greater service to LGA and/or local government. This award category was established in 2003. In 2020, it was renamed in honor of Walter C., Erwin, III, the long-time City Attorney of Lynchburg, in honor of his embodiment of the principals of the award.

Eligibility

An eligible attorney or project that has made significant contributions based on the evidence of effectiveness and success of the project, including scope, importance, duration of benefits derived by LGA or local government, and membership involvement.

Criteria

The level of difficulty in implementing and/or sustaining the project will be a consideration. Examples of past types of such work include significant work on an amicus brief, the drafting of model procurement forms, distinguished leadership of an ad hoc committee, drafting of model ordinances, and providing guidance on new legislation. 

Additional weight will be given to LGA contributions or accomplishments. Generally, work in the scope of legal representation for a single member jurisdiction will not qualify as a “project” unless there is work product that benefits or was developed in collaboration with other LGA member jurisdictions.

Frequency

Nominations for the award will be considered every year, but the LGA reserves the right not to present the award during any year when it believes there are no qualified candidates. The award, when given, is presented at either the LGA spring or fall conference.

Selection

The LGA solely intends to rely on voluntarily submitted information for making these awards.

Nominations

If you would like to make a nomination for this award, please e-mail the LGA Awards & Recognitions Committee Chair . Please state the reason(s) you believe the nominee(s) should receive the award along with any other pertinent information. Specific deadlines for submission of nominations will be published at appropriate times throughout the year in issues of the Bill of Particulars and on the LGA website.

Past Recipients