It’s not every day that the mayor of Palm Beach calls you a “rock star” and the “ultimate team player” before an audience of more than 300 people.
All of that while you’re still enjoying breakfast.
But Wednesday wasn’t just any day for Palm Beach Town Clerk Kelly Churney. It got off to an exceptionally good start at a Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce breakfast at The Breakers, where Mayor Danielle Moore announced that Churney is the Town of Palm Beach’s employee of the year for 2025.
Moore said Churney, a town employee for nearly 10 years, embodies all the best qualities of public service – including an unfailing kindness and professionalism.
Moore said Churney “is a public servant who leads by example, lifts others up and makes our town a better place every day.”
As town clerk, Churney is the official steward of town records and clerk of the public meetings, including those of the Town Council. She also prepares town election materials with precision, transparency and respect for the law, Moore said.
Churney’s direct supervisor is Jess Savidge, the town’s administrative and communications manager. Savidge said Churney performs above and beyond the call of duty every day.
“She adds such personalization to everything, she really makes it about the person on the other side of the table,” Savidge said.
Churney is a Michigan native and Palm Beach Gardens resident who joined the town in 2016 as an administrative assistant in the Planning, Zoning and Building Department. She’s been town clerk since 2023.
“I love going to work every day,” she said. “I truly like my job and the people of the town. The residents are great.”
Churney is the 48th person to receive the town employee of the year honor since recognition began in 1978.
Moore thanked the Palm Beach Civic Association and Citizens’ Association of Palm Beach for co-sponsoring the award. In addition to a plaque, recipients receive a $3,500 check donated by the two organizations.
Churney received the plaque from Moore while her husband, daughter, and mother looked on. She later said she felt overwhelmed and humbled by all the recognition, but also deeply appreciated by the town.
“There are so many employees that I think are so deserving,” Churney said. “To be recognized is just a true honor.”
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