The Town of Clayton has received the 2025 Sustained Professional Purchasing Award (SPPA) from the North Carolina Association of Governmental Purchasing (NCAGP). The award was given to the Procurement Division within Clayton’s Finance Department, recognizing its consistent performance in public purchasing among local governments across North Carolina.
“This award demonstrates the high standards we set across the Town of Clayton,” said Town Manager Rich Cappola. “It commends the integrity and professionalism of our Procurement Team and the important role they play in supporting the entire organization. Their work strengthens public confidence and helps our community move forward with trust and pride.”
The SPPA is awarded annually by NCAGP to agencies that have shown superior purchasing standards over the previous year. The recognition highlights agencies whose procurement teams use best practices, innovative tools, and responsible management of public funds.
“Earning this award reflects the detailed work our team does behind the scenes,” said Procurement, Contracts, and MWBE Manager Shaun Mizell. “Our role is to guide departments through the purchasing process, review contracts carefully, and make sure each purchase follows state law and Town policy. We work closely with staff across the organization, so projects stay on track and public funds are handled responsibly.”
To receive this award, procurement teams must demonstrate a range of professional practices such as using technology for efficiency, maintaining clear procurement policies, conducting outreach to minority- and women-owned businesses, providing training for staff and vendors, and using recycled products when possible.
“This recognition highlights the strength of our entire Finance Department,” said Finance Director Robert McKie. “Professional purchasing protects public funds, supports every project and service with accountability. When our processes are strong, our community benefits.”
Clayton was one of 19 member agencies statewide to earn this year’s SPPA. The award was presented at the NCAGP Annual Association Banquet & Award Presentation on March 4 in Wilmington.
