District 5 Rep. Bill Konopnicki (R-Safford) was chosen as the Arizona legislator of the year by the Arizona Association of Counties — again.

Nicole Stickler, the organization’s executive director, said this is the second consecutive year Konop-nicki has won the award.

She said he was the “guardian angel” of several bills in the Arizona Legislature that were promoted by the organization. The Arizona Association of Counties, known as AACo, was founded in 1967.

The organization offers services to member counties in education, advocacy, communication and cost-saving opportunities.

“AACo does a lot of wonderful things,” Konopnicki said after receiving the award from Graham County Recorder Wendy John, who serves on the AACo Board of Directors.

“It’s always good to be home in Graham County, and it’s good to receive the award here.”

Jennifer Sweeney, AACo government affairs specialist, said the organization plans to address several issues important to Arizona counties, including property tax reform, election procedures, immigration, growth and unfunded mandates.