Best of West honors Longabaugh for Surprise leadership

Diane Arthur-Grialou, Surprise's public information officer, submitted this information.

Surprise's District 1 City Councilman John Longabaugh won the Leadership Award at Westmarc's 16th annual Best of the West awards banquet Thursday night.

Attendees applauded Longabaugh's lifelong commitment to helping people living with disabilities, their families and caregivers.

Prior to his service on the City Council, Longabaugh, who was born with cerebral palsy, was a charter member and former chairman of the Surprise Disability Advisory Commission, where he was engaged in promoting accessibility for all residents.

Longabaugh was an advocate for Surprise's DreamCatcher Park, an adaptive recreation facility for athletes with physical or mental disabilities. He championed the creation of a Disability Advocate for the city, and has been instrumental in securing funds for citywide projects that support those living with disabilities.

"Through his work, Councilman Longabaugh has positioned Surprise as a leader in disability awareness and advocacy in the West Valley," said Surprise City Manager Randy Oliver. "The Leadership Award is well-deserved."

Westmarc promote the West Valley and advocates on public policy issues.