HUNTERSVILLE, NC (October 27, 2026) – Behind every safe neighborhood, thriving business, and strong community are the dedicated public safety professionals who answer the call when they're needed most. The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated some of North Mecklenburg's finest during its 24th Annual Public Safety Luncheon held at Northstone Country Club in Huntersville.

The annual celebration recognizes outstanding members of local police, fire, and emergency response departments serving Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville. Each honoree was selected by their respective departments for exceptional service, professionalism, and commitment to protecting the community.

Chamber President Bill Russell and 2026 Board Chair Leah Trowbridge joined Cornelius Mayor Denis Bilodeau, Davidson Mayor Rusty Knox, and Huntersville Mayor Christy Clark in presenting the awards.

"Our police officers, firefighters, and first responders are an essential part of what makes Lake Norman such a special place to live and do business," said Russell. "These individuals represent the very best of public service, and we're proud to recognize their dedication and sacrifice."

The Chamber is pleased to share photographs highlighting the outstanding men and women honored during this year's celebration.

The 2026 Public Safety Luncheon was presented by Carolinas Telco Federal Credit Union, with sponsorship support from Cornelius Today and WSIC.

Detective John Lineberger, named the 2026 Cornelius Police Department Officer of the Year, was recognized for his exceptional investigative skills, unwavering determination, and professionalism in handling complex criminal cases. His meticulous attention to detail, compassion for crime victims, and willingness to go above and beyond his responsibilities have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and supervisors Pictured Cornelius Mayor Denis Bilodeau joins Police Chief David Baucum and Chamber Chair Leah Trowbridge in presenting Detective John Lineberger the Cornelius Police Department Officer of the Year. 

Davidson Police Officer David Andras has distinguished himself through his exceptional commitment to community engagement, building strong relationships with residents, businesses, schools, and community organizations. Over the past year, he coordinated more than 120 community events reaching over 12,000 participants, while also taking the initiative to lead important departmental communications and projects. His professionalism, compassion, and dedication to building public trust have set a higher standard for community policing, earning him recognition as the Davidson Police Department’s 2026 Officer of the Year. Pictured is Davidson Mayor Rusty Knox and Police Chief Philip Geiger with 2026 Officer of the Year David Andras and Chamber Board Chair Leah Trowbridge.

Huntersville Police Detective Tim Lesser has distinguished himself through more than 18 years of dedicated service, earning the respect of his colleagues through his investigative expertise, leadership, and commitment to mentoring fellow officers. Beyond his investigative responsibilities, he actively supports North Mecklenburg Crime Stoppers and has become a leading advocate for educating residents, particularly seniors and small business owners, about fraud, identity theft, and financial scams. His professionalism, community outreach, and unwavering commitment to crime prevention and public safety have earned him recognition as a 2026 Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce Public Safety Officer of the Year.

Photo: Huntersville Police Chief Brian Vaughan along with Mayor Christy Clark presents the Officer of the Year to Detective Tim Lesser. Also pictured is Chamber Board Chair Leah Trowbridge.

Firefighter Matt Greco, selected by his peers as the 2026 Cornelius-Lemley Fire Rescue Firefighter of the Year, was honored for his outstanding dedication, leadership, and initiative in strengthening the department’s emergency response capabilities. A firefighter since 2010, Greco has played a key role in the department’s Special Operations and drone programs, most notably raising more than $10,000 in community contributions to purchase an advanced public-safety drone that will enhance emergency operations and help protect lives. Pictured: Cornelius Mayor Denis Bilodeau is pictured with Firefighter Matt Greco, along with Deputy Chief Andrew Bridges and Chamber Chair Leah Trowbridge.

Davidson Fire Captain Jeffrey Williams has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication since joining the department in 2017, bringing valuable experience from his previous service with the Charlotte Fire Department. Promoted to Captain in 2022, he has played a key role in equipment maintenance, emergency planning, staff scheduling, and the development of departmental policies, while ensuring his crew remains well-trained and prepared to serve the community. His steady leadership, extensive knowledge, and unwavering commitment to public safety have earned him recognition as the 2026 Davidson Fire Department Officer of the Year. Davidson Fire Mayor Rusty Knox presents the 2026 Firefighter of the Year to Captain Jeffrey Williams, Davidson Fire Department. Pictured with Williams is Fire Chief Jeremy Montieth and Chamber Board Chair Leah Trowbridge.

Huntersville Fire Division Chief Adam Maier exemplifies extraordinary dedication to public safety, serving simultaneously as a full-time Fire Captain with the City of Charlotte and Division Chief with the Huntersville Fire Department, averaging more than 72 hours of service each week. His responsibilities include coordinating department staffing, ensuring emergency coverage for community events, and overseeing the preparation and implementation of critical firefighting equipment and apparatus. His exceptional work ethic, leadership, and unwavering commitment to protecting the community have earned him recognition as the 2026 Huntersville Fire Officer of the Year. Photo: Huntersville Fire Chief Jim Dotoli and Mayor Christy Clark present Division Chief Adam Maier with the 2026 Firefighter of the Year with Chamber Board Chair Leah Towbridge.

Representing more than 900 businesses throughout the greater Lake Norman region, the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce remains committed to recognizing those who make our communities safer and stronger.

For more information, visit LakeNormanChamber.org.