PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – Calvert County has again been named the No. 1 Digital County in the United States for populations up to 150,000 by the Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo). This marks the second consecutive year the county has received this honor, underscoring its continued commitment to technological innovation in government services.
The annual Digital Counties Survey evaluates U.S. counties on their use of technology to improve service delivery, increase transparency, cybersecurity and innovation. Calvert County’s top ranking reflects its success in these areas.
Stephen Pereira, Technology Services Director for Calvert County, expressed pride in the achievement. “This award acknowledges the hard work and dedication throughout county government to enhance our technology systems,” Pereira said. He highlighted the county’s efforts to maximize value from existing resources and align with industry best practices and county leadership goals.
Key initiatives contributing to Calvert County’s success include:
- Implementation of a comprehensive Data Classification Policy by the Department of Technology Services
- Launch of OpenAI-powered chatbots
- Expansion of broadband connectivity led by the Office of the County Administrator
- Enhanced citizen engagement through improved website accessibility, innovative outreach programs, and a new county government mobile app by the Department of Communications & Media Relations
- Collaboration between the Department of Community Resources and partners to provide cybersecurity training for older adults and distribute Chromebooks to residents in need
- Introduction of a new online booking system by Parks & Recreation
- Implementation of systems to improve citizen and business experience by Planning & Zoning, Economic Development, and Community Resources
- Efforts by the Department of Public Safety to ensure the resilience of public safety systems
These initiatives demonstrate Calvert County’s comprehensive approach to digital innovation, spanning multiple departments and addressing various aspects of government service and community needs.
The Digital Counties Survey recognizes winners in five population-based categories. Along with Calvert County, other top-ranking counties for 2023 include:
- Alameda County, California (1,000,000 or more population)
- Jefferson County, Colorado (500,000-999,999)
- Chesterfield County, Virginia (250,000-499,000)
- Arlington County, Virginia (150,000-249,999)
Calvert County’s repeated success in this survey highlights its ongoing dedication to leveraging technology for community benefit. The recognition not only acknowledges current achievements but also sets a benchmark for future innovation in local government technology use.
As digital technologies continue to evolve, Calvert County’s consistent top ranking suggests a culture of innovation and adaptability within its government structures. This approach positions the county well for future challenges and opportunities in digital governance.
The award also underscores the importance of cross-department collaboration in achieving technological excellence. From cybersecurity to public engagement, Calvert County’s holistic approach to digital innovation serves as a model for other local governments seeking to enhance their technological capabilities.
As counties nationwide strive to improve their digital services, Calvert County’s success story offers valuable insights into effective strategies for technological advancement in local government. The county’s achievement demonstrates that size is not a limiting factor in digital innovation, with smaller counties capable of implementing cutting-edge technologies to serve their communities effectively.
