Athens-Clarke County is joining a network of cities nation-wide that are committing to using data to address challenges including public safety, poverty reduction, and economic prosperity. Athens was selected by Bloomberg Philanthropies’ What Works Cities Initiative.
ACC Manager Blaine Williams tells us what it means for the community.
"What it means is free technical advice. They're linking us up with John Hopkins University. To help us to use our data in a more meaningful way, measure performance and then make evidence-based decisions," said Williams.
Selected cities must meet certain criteria.
"Well they look at several things I think," said Williams. "One is how well does the government perform? Number two is there a real earnestness to do the work? And number three, is there a need?"
Through the program, Athens will establish and improve performance management programs to set, track, and share progress toward priority goals, strengthen accountability, and achieve better results.
"Well we're just now initiating it. But we're going to be looking at economic development and community development. And really as a follow-on to Envision Athens as our community partners begin to implement that we need to measure our success to make sure we're actually making an impact. You know it is a recognition but it's also an initiative that we're going to have to follow through and do good work on," said Williams.
Athens joins Chula Vista, CA; Colorado Springs, CO; Gainesville, FL; and Palmdale, CA, as the five new cities.
