The City of Brewton became an Alabama Community of Excellence in 2006 — and on Tuesday Mayor Ted Jennings was recognized with a rare Mayor’s Award from the organization.

“We’re proud to have you as an asset to ACE,” said Saundra Dunaway of Alabama Power. “You’re one of the limited few who have received this.”

Dunaway said the mayor’s award is not even awarded every year.

Jennings was surprised by the honor, which city officials worked to keep secret.

“I accept it on the middle word (of the term ACE), ‘community,’” Jennings said. “I just happen to be the mayor. But it’s actually the people in this community, the mayor and council.”

ACE communities must go through a rigorous process before “graduating” from the program. They must meet certain standards for community leadership, strategic planning, economic development strategy and quality of life.

Brewton has particularly strived toward quality of life projects in recent years, with renovations at area parks among the priorities.