On Tuesday, it was announced that the San Diego County Clerk’s East County office was given the 2020 Orchid award for outstanding architecture.
“This award shows civic architecture can provide a community with the services it needs and enhance its visual appeal. We can have the best of both form and function,” said San Diego County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk Ernie Dronenburg.
The state-of-the-art office opened earlier this year, serving as a one-stop shop for all kinds of documents, maps, certificates, deeds, and other important records.
“Our new Santee location is a state-of-the-art office that reflects the east county community while providing faster quality service and more jobs in East County,” Dronenburg explained back in March.
The net zero energy facility features its own generator, heating and air conditioning, and an advanced fire suppression system. According to County News Center, it is the first zero energy archive in the United States, and the sixth net zero energy facility in San Diego County.
While the office has remained close for indoor operations throughout most of the COVID-19 pandemic, employees continue to serve residents for needs related to taxes, certificates, and weddings. Despite being closed for much of the year, the office has already become an integral part of the East County community.
