City of Statesville Leaders Honored with The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s Highest Award for Service

Pictured from left to right: Jap Johnson, Costi Kutteh, Walter Bowers, and Joe Hudson

Three longtime Statesville leaders – Mayor Costi Kutteh, Council Member Jap Johnson, and Council Member Joe Hudson – have been awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the State of North Carolina’s highest honor granted by the Governor for extraordinary service to the state and its communities.

The awards were presented during their final City Council meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025, by Walter Bowers on behalf of Governor Josh Stein.

Established in 1963, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to North Carolina through exemplary public service, civic leadership, and exceptional accomplishments. Recipients become honorary “Ambassadors” of the state and are recorded on the official Roster maintained by The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society. The Society, considered North Carolina’s highest honorary organization, preserves the history of the award and promotes its core ideals of leadership, service, and accomplishment.

Mayor Constantine H. “Costi” Kutteh

Mayor Kutteh has dedicated more than three decades to serving Statesville, beginning as an at- large City Council member in 1989 before being elected Mayor in 2005. He is widely respected for his collaborative leadership, long-term vision, and deep commitment to community service. Throughout his tenure, he has emphasized inclusivity, unity, and relationship-building as the foundation of Statesville’s progress. His involvement in numerous regional nonprofits and civic organizations reflects a lifelong dedication to improving the quality of life for others.

Council Member C.O. “Jap” Johnson

Council Member Johnson is the longest-serving elected official in Statesville’s modern history, representing Ward 2 for 36 years. First elected in 1989, he is known for his exceptional attendance record, his commitment to fairness, and his steadfast advocacy for residents and city employees. Before his service on City Council, Johnson spent a distinguished career with the Statesville Fire Department. His leadership has strengthened the city workforce, supported economic development, and connected residents with responsive, compassionate representation.

Council Member Lenwood “Joe” Hudson, Jr.

Council Member Hudson has served the City of Statesville for more than 30 years, first as the Director of Water Resources for 31 years and later as the representative for Ward 5 on the City Council. His technical expertise and collaborative leadership have shaped major infrastructure improvements, ensured environmental compliance, and strengthened long-term water security for the community. As a council member, he has championed planning, growth policy, and the development of the citywide Master Greenway Plan. His extensive community involvement, teaching, writing, and volunteer work reflect a career marked by service and integrity.

“Costi Kutteh, Jap Johnson, and Joe Hudson have each given decades of exceptional service to Statesville – not for recognition, but because they genuinely care about this community and its people,” said City Manager Ron Smith. “Their leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment have guided our city through years of growth and change. Receiving The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is a fitting tribute to the impact they’ve made, and Statesville is better because of their service.”