Local Government Innovation

Over the next decade, Minnesota cities, counties and schools face challenges as difficult as anything they’ve faced since the Great Depression. Yet they also face continued citizen demand for services and economic growth with growing populations. Tax increases and service cuts are traditional responses to reduced revenue, but difficult times require fundamental innovation and service redesign.

To support local government redesign efforts and recognize the innovative work already underway, the Public and Nonprofit Leadership Center has partnered with state associations in the following initiatives:

Local Government Innovation Awards

For five years, the Local Government Innovation Awards program has recognized outstanding cities, counties, and schools in Minnesota that demonstrate results in improving local services. The Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota is partnering with the Association of MN Counties (AMC), the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC), and the MN School Boards Association (MSBA) to conduct the 2010–11 Local Government Innovation Awards. The Public Strategies Group and Ehlers provide financial support for the awards.

This year’s awards focus on service redesign. Entries were judged on innovation, impact, sustainability/potential for growth, and public support. An awards ceremony was held on April 13, 2011, to publicly recognize the winning accomplishments and celebrate the innovative spirit of Minnesota cities, counties, and school boards.

Local Government Innovation & Redesign Guide (Updated June 2011)

This comprehensive guide provides an introduction to local government innovation for managers and elected officials in city government. It also serves as a logical framework for innovation and redesign efforts and details real-life examples from cities across the state of Minnesota.

Download the Complete Guide (Updated June 2011)