Former Marion Planning Board member Norm Hills is a recipient of the 2016 Special Recognition Award from the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD).

Hills was nominated by Grant King, the principal comprehensive planner/information specialist for the organization. In the nomination, King lauded Hills for his work with the planning and conservation committees in Marion.

“His broad scope of service was particularly notable,” said King.

Specifically, King praised Hills’ work with the town’s Master Plan, particularly his push to address the need for preparation against increased storms and rising sea levels.

“[He has] that sort of pragmatic and forward-thinking approach to town planning,” King said.

Hills, who recently lost his bid for Selectman, just hopes to continue working to see through the completion of the Master Plan.

“I hope to be able to stay involved,” he said. “I want to get the Master Plan done and start with the implementation of it.”

The award, which, according to the organization’s website, “honors a person, firm or organization for specific contributions to SRPEDD, the region, or the field of planning or economic development,” goes to two or three individuals a year said King.

“It’s an honor to be recognized for your work,” Hills said.

A “handful” of candidates were nominated this year, and a committee of commissioners meets once a year to review the nominations and choose winners.

The awards ceremony will be held on May 25 in Taunton.