The Union County Information Technology (IT) Department has earned a national award for the eighth year in a row for using innovative technology and cybersecurity practices to enhance services for our community and bring meaningful change to the workplace.

The County placed fourth in the category of U.S. counties with populations between 250,000 and 499,999 in the 2026 Digital Counties Survey by the Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo). The survey, created by CDG in collaboration with NACo, recognizes counties that use technology to strengthen public services, improve services to residents, and enhance government operations. Union County has participated in the survey for eight years and has earned a spot in the top ten each year.

"Being recognized at the national level is a tremendous honor for our entire team," said Jon Amelio, Information Technology Director. "This award shows our commitment to integrating state-of-the-art technology and strong cybersecurity practices in our daily work to improve how we help our residents while setting a standard for what local government can achieve through digital innovation."

Each year, the Digital Counties Survey allows counties to provide updates on current technology initiatives. IT staff worked with several County departments to share accomplishments from the last 12 months, showing their strengths in strategic planning, cybersecurity, digital services, organizational technology leadership, data management, and innovation. The recognition also highlights practices that help counties improve performance and handle financial and operational needs.

"One of the clearest trends this year is that leading counties are moving beyond individual technology projects,” said Rob Lloyd, Executive Director of the Center for Digital Government. “They are connecting their investments, priorities, and building the governance, leadership, and organizational capacity needed to sustain over time. Through responsible AI, stronger data practices, and workforce investments, this year's winners are creating foundations that will help their organizations adapt and serve their communities better into the future.”

To learn more about the Digital Counties Survey and see other counties recognized, visit the Government Technology website.