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The Voice of the People Awards

Recognizing Leaders in Community Engagement

The VOP Awards honor local governments that best engage residents and include public opinion in community decisions.

The honor are the first and only nationally recognized awards given to local governments based on resident input.

Presented by Polco and the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). 

the voice of the people awards

 

“There are acute challenges disrupting local government, from polarization to a lack of trust. Collaboration, resident participation, and data-informed decision-making are the only ways to solve these complex issues. These amazing communities are national models for taking on pernicious problems in government. It’s why the VOP awards are so important—these organizations are making the blueprint to better democracy in an era of profound transition."
Nick Mastronardi the voice of the people awards
Nick Mastronardi

CEO of Polco

About The VOP Awards

Many award recipients were nominated after receiving the highest or most improved ratings from residents on The National Community Survey (The NCS).

The NCS is a nationwide community livability assessment with the largest database of its kind and nearly a thousand participating municipalities throughout the last 30 years. The database represents perspectives of more than 50 million Americans, and well over 100 jurisdictions conduct the survey in each year.  

Other winners demonstrated outstanding online engagement or the innovative use of simulation-based technology to educate and connect with residents. The simulations, provided by Balancing Act from Polco, allow residents to show what they value most by ranking budgeting and other priorities.

 

Award Categories 

  • Economy
  • Safety
  • Natural environment
  • Health and wellness
  • Mobility
  • Education
  • Parks and recreation
  • Utilities
  • Housing
  • Finance
  • Online engagement
"ICMA is proud to present the Voice of the People Awards in partnership with Polco. All of the award winners have done great work and shown excellence in leadership. They are truly deserving of this recognition."
Mark Ott

ICMA CEO/Executive Director

The Voice of the People Awards at the ICMA Annual Conference

Each year Polco and ICMA present the Voice of the People Awards on the national stage at the ICMA annual conference. 

Past Winners

the voice of the people awards

ICMA Executive Director and CEO Marc A. Ott and Polco CEO Nick Mastronardi present the VOP awards at the ICMA Annual conference

Read about past VOP Award winners