King County Executive Ron Sims got a recent nod as County Leader of the Year for 2008 from American City and County Magazine.

The magazine called Sims’ collaborative, holistic approach to problem solving “the genius” in his leadership style.

In a cover story, the magazine stated that “Sims finds common ground to solve King County’s pressing problems.” It relates Sims taking innovative approaches to solving local impacts of problems of national importance such as adapting to climate change, reforming health care and reducing traffic congestion to benefit county residents. The solutions often make the county a model for other governments.

“Once again, leadership on national issues is found at the local level,” said Bill Wolpin, editorial director of American City and County Magazine.

Sims was nominated by subscribers of the magazine, which has been in publication since 1909 “as the voice of state and local government.”

Sims passed on praise to employees and citizens.

“This award is really about the excellent work of the employees of King County,” he said. “It also represents the public’s support for the work we’re doing to ensure the highest quality of life for the people of King County.”