For tenth year in a row, county wins national award for digital excellence

Special to the Outlook

For the tenth year in a row, Leon County Government was named one of the top-ranked digital municipal governments by the Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties.

Leon County placed first in Florida and fourth in its population category. The county has earned top rankings according to how it is harnessing technology to increase services and efficiencies within the organization and for its citizens.

“Leon County continues to set the standard for government digital innovation in every way our citizens need us online,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Bill Proctor. “This national honor highlights the county’s commitment to perfecting high-quality digital performance and citizen engagement through technology.”

The survey provides annual recognition of county performance and innovation in using technology to align with county goals, save tax dollars through newfound efficiencies, boost transparency and cyber-security, encourage citizen engagement and proactively address citizen expectations. The judging results identify the very best examples of counties that are aligning technology to support strategic priorities.

“The Digital Counties Survey Awards showcase the best and emerging technology practices by counties nationwide, and Leon County is at the top,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “As demand for digital services increase, the county remains focused on streamlining efforts within the organization and serving the needs of our community. We are proud of our Information and Technology team and the work they do every day for our staff and our citizens.”

Leon County remains dedicated to providing reliable and effective technology and telecommunication services across all government departments and to the ultimate end-customer, Leon County citizens. The survey recognizes the county’s ability to leverage innovative technologies that increase the County’s efficiencies as well as enhance citizen engagement.

Over the past year, Leon County has implemented numerous technology initiatives and systems to improve internal efficiencies and deliver more effective services to residents, while continuing to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the initiatives that earned Leon County this achievement include:

• Implementation of Leon County’s Text-to-9-1-1 program, which allows residents in need to send a text message directly to a 9-1-1 call taker
• Creation of the Leon County Vax Map, an online tool to locate COVID-19 vaccine, testing and treatment sites in Leon County
• Enhanced wireless connectivity in preparation for sporting events, like the NCAA Cross Country Championship, at the Apalachee Regional Park cross country course, providing access for ESPN and FSU broadcasting of events
• Creation of Leon County’s Text-To-Inspect program, which allows contractors to utilize text messaging to schedule, reschedule, or cancel inspections and obtain inspection results on their Leon County building permits

“This award speaks volumes to the level of support we receive from the whole organization as our entire team continues implementing new technologies and digital solutions,” said Michelle Taylor, Chief Information Officer of the Leon County Office of Information and Technology. “We are honored to be nationally recognized for the tenth year in a row.”