South Tidewater News

City recognized for using technology to boost resident experience and citizen services 

The Center for Digital Government unveiled its 2023 Digital Cities Survey winners and Virginia Beach has maintained a position among the top five cities in the 250K-499K population category. Launched in 2001, the annual ranking evaluates how U.S. cities leverage technology to elevate citizen services. This year’s winners were acknowledged for their innovative responses to cybersecurity, transparency, digital privacy, digital equity and social challenges.

“The Digital Cities survey winners continue to push the envelope of how government agencies deliver modern services during a period of rapid technological change,” said Todd Sander, vice president of the Center for Digital Government and Governing Institute. “Today we recognize and congratulate these trailblazers who are helping to build a government that works for everyone.”

Virginia Beach was highlighted for introducing a chatbot on its recently revamped website, expanding open data initiatives, enhancing public safety from local and regional angles, and establishing a new data center.

“It is gratifying to consistently earn a spot on this list of leading public-sector innovators. Digital Cities Survey highlights the trends that are inspiring local governments to take meaningful action, especially around fast-evolving technologies,” said Peter Wallace, the City’s chief information officer. “AI has compelled Virginia Beach to redefine our approach to everything from citizen services to cybersecurity. Such technological advancement invites opportunities to be more creative and thoughtful when reimagining City services.”

The 2023 Digital Cities Survey Awards will recognize the top 10 cities from each population category. This complimentary event is open to the public sector only and will take place during the National League of Cities “City Summit” on Nov. 16 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Original source can be found here.