​The Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo) have announced the winners of the 22nd Annual Digital Counties Survey. The survey, in partnership with NACo, identifies the best technology practices among U.S. counties, including initiatives that streamline delivery of government services; provide data analytics to allow decisions based on performance and outcomes; enhance cybersecurity; and apply innovative and emerging technologies to county priorities.

A few of Palm Beach County, Fla.’s IT priorities include expanding information transparency, increasing collaboration for more effective customer experiences, improving constituent and business engagement, closing the digital divide, and reducing business operating and long-term costs. One way the county is working toward these goals is by implementing a Connect PBC mobile app. In general, the app’s directive is simple: provide a direct line of communication between residents and county representatives. The app also allows residents to submit non-emergency service requests or tips based on their geographic location.

Palm Beach County is also working on a pilot program that uses proprietary and open-source large language models to help residents interpret policies and land development codes, as well as frequently asked questions and other help desk services. Other notable tech efforts include streamlining operations, improving efficiency and enhancing decision-making processes for county agencies with the help of automation and generative AI. In this case, the county is specifically applying the tech to payment processing, claims intake and verification, eligibility assessments, expense reimbursements for county employees, and other finance-related processes.

“The Digital Counties Survey illustrates how counties are on the cutting-edge, pursuing innovative approaches to serve our residents,” said NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase. “Counties are thoughtfully adopting technologies like artificial intelligence and data platforms to enhance civic engagement, increase efficiency, and strengthen our communities today and for the future.”

This year’s winners for 1 Million or More Population are:

• 1st County of Alameda, CA

• 2nd Fairfax County, VA

• 3rd County of San Diego, CA

• 4th Wake County, NC

• 5th Cook County, IL

• 6th Orange County, FL

• 6th County of San Bernardino, CA

• 7th Gwinnett County, GA

• 8th Hennepin County, MN

• 8th Palm Beach County, FL and Hennepin County, Minnesota

• 9th Miami Dade County, FL
  

• 10th Franklin County, OH