The Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo) announced the winners of the 18th annual Digital Counties Survey. The survey, conducted by CDG in partnership with NACo, identifies the best technology practices among U.S. counties, including initiatives that streamline delivery of government services, encourage open data, collaboration and shared services, enhance cybersecurity and contribute to disaster response and recovery efforts.

The Digital Counties Survey is an annual event where applicants are encouraged to go through a stringent application process. The survey is a data-gathering tool and a competition in which the counties that have pursued innovative solutions to problems are ranked according to their survey answers.

This was the first year Columbia County applied for the Digital Counties survey in the 150,000 – 250,000 Population Category, and the county is pleased to announce that they received the fourth place award out of all the applicants in their category. First place for the 150,000 – 250,000 Population Category went to Arlington County, VA with Washington County, AR coming in second and Cabarrus County, NC coming in third.

“We applaud this year’s Digital Counties Survey winners for maximizing the benefits of technology in serving our residents, especially during a time when technology has become even more instrumental in connecting people and places,” said NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase. “The Digital Counties Survey demonstrates how we embrace cutting-edge approaches to strengthening our communities and achieving healthy, safe and vibrant counties acrossAmerica.”