Harnett County is proud to announce that County Manager, Brent Trout and Deputy County Manager, Coley Price have been recognized with distinguished statewide awards from the North Carolina City & County Management Association (NCCCMA). Trout was awarded the 2025 County Manager of the Year, and Price was awarded the 2025 Assistant County Manager of the Year.

The awards were announced at the President’s Lunch during the NCCCMA conference on Thursday, January 29, 2026. The award came as a surprise to both recipients, who were unaware they had even been nominated. The surprise announcement made the moment especially meaningful.

Both managers being selected for a statewide award is such an honor for Harnett County and demonstrates outstanding leadership.  

Trout was appointed as Harnett County’s Manager in January 2022 bringing over 35 years of experience. Staff praises Trout for being a supportive County Manager and making his team feel appreciated and valued. Many have described him as a humble person who shows up and is involved and most importantly, a person who empowers his staff with the tools and support to succeed.

Trout stated he feels honored to receive the recognition from his management peers and appreciates the support from the Board of Commissioners, department directors, and staff.

“This award represents all of the accomplishments that we are having in Harnett County because of our elected official’s guidance and the employee’s hard work,” said Trout. “We continue to see the vision and plans that the Board of Commissioners developed, lead to success in our operations. I look forward to the future growth and success of our county with the team that we have established, together we will do great things.”

Trout shared that Price is extremely devoted to ensuring Harnett County is doing all it can to support its citizens and he is very deserving of the Assistant Manager of the Year award.

Price brings over 20 years of experience. He has served as the Assistant County Manager since 2018 and now currently serves as Deputy County Manager since 2023. He serves as co-chair for the Opioid Task Force and chair of the Affordable Housing Committee. Price is devoted in making decisions that best serve all who live in Harnett County.

“I was very humbled by this award and appreciate the opportunity to serve in the capacity as Deputy County Manager. We have such a great County, and I appreciate the dedicated and passionate employees, experienced departments and the vision and leadership from our Board of Commissioners. It is an honor to work for such a wonderful organization, and I look forward to the bright future for our growing County,” said Price.

Harnett County congratulates both recipients on this well-deserved honor and look forward to their continued service and leadership.