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Clayton Today
By the People, for the People
Two Former County Leaders Receive Delaware's Highest Civilian Honor
Gov. Matt Meyer awards the Order of the First State to Sussex and Kent County's past council presidents.
Published on Mar. 1, 2026
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Delaware Governor Matt Meyer recently awarded the Order of the First State, the state's highest civilian honor, to several individuals for their exceptional service and contributions to their communities. Among the honorees were two former county government presidents - Mike Vincent of Sussex County and Brooks Banta of Kent County.
Why it matters
The Order of the First State recognizes extraordinary public service, leadership, and community impact. Vincent and Banta's decades-long careers in local government and their focus on strengthening their communities make them worthy recipients of this prestigious award.
The details
Mike Vincent served 14 years on the Seaford Planning and Zoning Commission and 3 years on Seaford City Council before being elected to the Sussex County Council in 2008, where he served as council president from 2010 until his retirement in 2025. Brooks Banta served in public office for over 60 years, including roles in Dewey Beach, Clayton, and on the Smyrna Board of Education. He was elected to the Kent County Levy Court in 1996 and served 14 years as levy court president before retiring in 2020, during which time he emphasized sewer investments, paramedic services, and fiscal responsibility.
- Gov. Matt Meyer awarded the Order of the First State in February 2026.
The players
Mike Vincent
A former Sussex County Council president who served in local government for over 20 years, including on the Seaford Planning and Zoning Commission and Seaford City Council.
Brooks Banta
A former Kent County Levy Court president who served in public office for over 60 years, including roles in Dewey Beach, Clayton, and on the Smyrna Board of Education.
Gov. Matt Meyer
The governor of Delaware who awarded the Order of the First State to several individuals, including Vincent and Banta, for their exceptional service and contributions to their communities.
What they’re saying
“Delaware is a state of neighbors, and these honorees are the kind of neighbors who make a real difference. Each of them has built something that lasts - stronger local government, healthier communities, a richer arts scene and opportunities for young people to grow through sport, mentorship and service. I'm proud to recognize their extraordinary contributions with the Order of the First State.”
— Gov. Matt Meyer (capegazette.com)
The takeaway
The Order of the First State honors those who have dedicated decades of public service to strengthening their local communities. Vincent and Banta's long careers in county government, their focus on improving infrastructure and services, and their commitment to civic engagement make them exemplary recipients of this prestigious award.
