Crook County clerk receives Benjamin Franklin Award for Open Government

SUNDANCE (WNE) — Crook County Clerk Melissa Jones has been selected as the June recipient of the Benjamin Franklin Award for Open Government, a monthly recognition presented by the Wyoming Press Association to honor individuals and local governments that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to transparency, accountability and public access to information.

Jones was nominated by Sarah Pridgeon, publisher of the Sundance Times, Moorcroft Leader and Wyoming Pioneer, who cited Jones’ consistent, proactive approach to ensuring both the press and the public have access to information about local government operations.

"Melissa has always gone above and beyond to ensure I have access to any and all information I ask for," Pridgeon wrote in her nomination. "She is a shining example of how productive and complementary the relationship can be between government and the press."

Pridgeon noted that Jones makes transparency a routine part of her work, not a response to requests. She regularly provides access to meetings, responds quickly to public records requests, and actively keeps the press informed about developments ranging from elections to county business.

Whether arranging virtual access to meetings, inviting the press to observe processes such as ballot testing, or providing behind-the-scenes access to documents and staff, Jones has made it easier for the Sundance Times to keep Crook County residents informed.

"Melissa sees informing the newspaper – and through us, the community – as part of her regular duties," Pridgeon wrote. "It is second nature to her to let us know what's going on – we rarely even need to ask."

The Benjamin Franklin Award for Open Government was created by the Wyoming Press Association to recognize officials and entities that go beyond minimum legal requirements and actively embrace transparency. One award is presented each month as part of a statewide effort that will continue through 2026, coinciding with the nation's observance of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

This story was published on June 4, 2026. 

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