Congrats to our city for being selected as a finalist for the best in the nation!

Marietta selected All-America City finalist among best in nation
May 11, 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MARIETTA, GA — The National Civic League has selected the city of Marietta as a 2006 finalist for the All-America City Award, the oldest and most respected community recognition program in the nation. Only five percent of the communities that began the application process were selected as finalists for the award, which recognizes exemplary grassroots community problem-solving.

Since 1949, the All-America City Award has encouraged and recognized civic excellence, honoring communities of all sizes in which citizens, government, businesses and volunteer organizations work together to address critical local issues. Being selected a finalist substantiates Marietta is a model for the nation with extensive planning efforts and approaches to facing difficult challenges in innovative and collaborative ways.

“The city is honored to be chosen a finalist, because it means the work we’re doing is among the best in the country,” Marietta Mayor Bill Dunaway said. “It doesn’t mean we’re perfect, but says we’re being innovative and working with the community to solve our problems. I think what we’re doing is wonderful, and it’s great to know others recognize it, too.”

This is the first time Marietta has been selected a finalist, and the city should experience economic and community benefits as one of only 34 finalists in this year’s national competition.

“Being a finalist validates the initiatives we’ve undertaken, and we should find it easier to attract and retain businesses, which generate jobs and a stronger tax base,” City Manager Bill Bruton said. “This is the premier national award for communities, and winners have seen an increase in tourism, grants and better bond ratings.”

“Everyone in the community should be proud because being a finalist is the result of the community’s work together,” Bruton said.