Walton County – 01/14/26 – The Walton County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) recognized the Employee of the Quarter recipient and Exceptional Customer Service recipient for the fourth quarter of 2025 at Tuesday’s regular meeting.

Walton County Administrator Brian Kellenberger, formerly the head of Beach Operations department, praised Employee of the Quarter Chris Bivens of the Beach Operations department.

“Chris came to work for us about three years ago as a technician. The technicians are the people that keep all the beach and bay amenities in good shape. They are the fix-it people,” said Kellenberger. “Chris came from a manufacturing background and he assimilated right into our group really quick. He became a very valuable employee. We saw Chris’ abilities and promoted him to Crew Leader and

Left to right: Brian Kellenberger, Dan Curry, Tony Anderson, Shane Supple, Joe Ribaudo, Chris Bivens, Danny Glidewell, Josh Ervin, Donna Johns

he has done a fabulous job with the Beach Operations department. We want to make sure that Chris stays with us because he is absolutely a valuable resource to the Beach Operations department and to the county as a whole.”

Administrator Kellenberger also introduced Josh Ervin as the new director of Beach Operations, noting that Ervin had previously worked for the county, left to pursue another opportunity, but has returned to work for Walton County as head of the department.

Joe Ribaudo, Parks and Recreation, was recognized as the Exceptional Customer Service recipient for the fourth quarter. Parks and Recreation Director Shane Supple said, “Joe came on board in 2019 and has taken off and done really well. He is more than just a recreation coordinator; he is a liaison with the local communities. There is really nothing that I’ve ever asked him to do that he doesn’t do. He’s one of those people who works, not for a paycheck, but for someone to say, ‘Hey, you did a great job.’”

“I know for a fact that I could call him anytime, day or night – and I have – and say we’ve got a problem, and he takes care of it. This is well-deserved and I am super-thankful that he is on our team,” he added.

Commissioner Tony Anderson praised both men, noting that, “It’s not easy dealing with the public on a day-to-day basis, but you guys have maintained your poise and done nothing but excellent work and we appreciate you all.”