A program recognizing employers in southeast Minnesota has awarded two Austin businesses for their abilities to attract and retain employees.

Austin Utilities and Cooperative Response Center were both recognized by the Best Places to Work program, sponsored by Workforce Development, Inc.

They were among 12 employers in a 10-county area to be recognized by the program.

Each company participating was required to complete a 40-question survey.

The data was measured on parameters including turnover, rate of growth, promotion rates, employee evaluations and feedback, percentage of employees injured, diversity of management, benefits offered, training expenditures, paid days off and increase in pay.

Companies recognized received a special award at a banquet on April 26.