Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett’s focus on improving County services to residents and enhancing technology has resulted in the County being named America’s top Digital County Government by The Center for Digital Government.

In the past four years, Montgomery County has ranked among the top digital jurisdictions in the nation with populations of half million or more. This year, however, marks the first time Montgomery County has occupied first place in the competition. In 2004, the County garnered 10th place honors; in 2005, Montgomery County earned 5th place; and in 2006, the County was recognized in 3rd place.

“We are finding new ways to reach out to our residents and improve our services to them, and technology plays an important role in this effort,” said Leggett. “Being recognized as the Top Digital Government is an honor, and it is a reflection of my commitment to making Montgomery County government more responsive and accessible to the people who live here.”

Thousands of counties from across the nation competed with Montgomery County for the top award by participating in the 2007 Digital Counties Survey, sponsored by the Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties (NACo). County officials nationwide responded to a series of questions that included more than 100 measurements and data points about online service delivery, infrastructure, architecture and governance models.

“Receiving an award is something that all departments can be proud of. The award represents how many departments have embraced the use of technology to serve the community. We now have a goal to show how we can take these services to a new and higher plateau of excellence,” said E. Steven Emanuel, Chief Information Officer for Montgomery County.

“In today’s world, technology is essential for effective and efficient government,” said NACo Executive Director Larry E. Naake. “County governments realize this and are using technology in new ways to improve the delivery of services to Americans. The Digital Counties Survey illustrates the innovation being pursued by counties across the country.” Center Executive Director Cathilea Robinett added, “America’s counties continue to make astonishing strides each year in their use of technology. In doing so, they greatly improve services to their citizens and make even better use of government’s precious resources. Congratulations to all the winners!”

The 2007 Digital Counties Survey is an annual study by the Center for Digital Technology and the National Association of Counties. To recognize the hard work and innovation of the best governments, the survey’s top Digital Counties will be honored at a national awards ceremony which will coincide with NACo’s national conference in Richmond, Virginia July 13-17, 2007. The full list of 2007 winners can be viewed at www.Centerdigitalgov.com.