Local leaders, whether elected, appointed or hired to work in municipal governments, are in a position to make a difference. Public service awards recognize individuals who bring passion and excellence to their roles, as well as local government entities and projects that inspire progress. 2026 brings the following opportunities to reward leaders who distinguish themselves by going above and beyond expectations. Click on the award program name for more information on how to submit nominations
To submit or update information on an awards program, email us at [email protected].
ICMA Local Government Excellence Awards
The International City/County Management Association recognizes individual municipal administrators and employees in five categories of awards: the Award for Career Excellence, Award for Career Development, Assistant Excellence in Leadership Award, Early Career Leadership Award and Advocacy for Profession Award. Nominees must be ICMA members. Nominations are due March 13.
Smart Cities Dive Awards
The Smart Cities Dive Public Service Awards recognize exemplary individuals who drive local impact. The awards are a continuation of the American City & County Exemplary Public Service Awards, following last year’s merger between AC&C and Smart Cities Dive. The deadline for Public Service Award nominations is March 31. Nominations will open in June for the Smart Cities Dive Community Project Awards, highlighting projects that serve community needs through innovative use of resources and technology. Those awards are a continuation of American City & County’s Crown Communities Awards.
Top Influencers in Local Government
Engaging Local Government Leaders each year honors 100 people who make a difference in their communities. Nominees must work in the public sector or adjacent and related fields. Current ELGL board members, recent Top 10 honorees and self-nominations are not eligible. Nominations are due April 1.
Teree Caldwell-Johnson All-America Leader Award
This award from the National Civic League recognizes individuals for outstanding civic contributions. Nominations, which must be made by a third party, are due April 20.
Public Leadership in the Arts Awards
With these awards, Americans for the Arts honors elected officials who advance the arts and arts education within their communities and provide leadership to heighten visibility of the arts’ value. Nominations for the County Arts Leadership Award, honoring an elected county official, are due June 6. Nominations for the City Council Leadership Award, honoring a city council member, are due Oct. 9.
Local Leaders Climate Awards
In partnership with C40, Bloomberg Philanthropies celebrates “the most daring, impactful, and people-centered climate breakthroughs led by cities, states and regions.” The 2026 application deadline has not yet been announced.
Community Development Leader Awards
These awards, sponsored by SAFEBuilt, recognize a City Manager of the Year, Civil Engineer/Public Works Director of the Year and Community Development Director of the Year. The awards also name a Sustainability Trailblazer and Public Service Innovator. Deadlines for 2026 nominations have not been announced.
