Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – The technical team at the County of Marin has once again won one of the most prestigious awards in its history as a direct result of improvements to government operations and strengthening public services.
The County’s Information Services and Technology Department (IST) captured first place in the 2026 Digital Counties Survey for its innovation, leadership, and real-world impacts. County IST was honored by the Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties (NACo) within the population category of 250,000 to 499,999. Department representatives were on hand to receive the award on July 17 at the annual NACo Conference in New Orleans.
The 2026 honor was the department’s second No. 1 award under the leadership of Liza Massey, who is retiring in August. County IST was also recognized in its population category in 2021 for its work in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The department has placed in the survey’s top 10 four times over the past eight years.
”We are honored to once again be ranked No. 1 in our population category in the 2026 Digital Counties Survey,” said IST Interim CIO Angie Goldman. “This national recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire IST team and our County partners. It is an achievement we are all proud to celebrate, and one that reflects the exceptional leadership of our outgoing CIO, Liza, whose vision has helped establish Marin County as a leader in digital innovation.”
Only five out of California’s 58 counties were recognized in this year’s awards among all population categories.
Marin County Supervisor Brian Colbert, who was at the Digital Counties Survey award ceremony, has served as a strong advocate for digitizing County customer services and keeping pace with technological trends.
“This is an outstanding and well-deserved achievement that reflects the innovation, dedication, and hard work our teams bring to Marin County every day,” Colbert said.
IST’s submitted nomination for the Digital Counties Survey award included details about its recent projects involving the use of artificial intelligence (AI), data collection and sharing, cybersecurity measures, transforming legacy operations, digital infrastructure advancements, tech leadership, and much more.
“Our staff is celebrating this recognition because it shows we’re clearly utilizing our resources in a way that benefits our residents,” said IST Assistant Director Supriya Menon, who accepted the award. “A lot is being asked of technical staff at local governments these days because new tools are being created and launched so quickly. This award is motivating for our team because it shows we’re a leader of the pack and on the right path. We’re addressing needs of our departments and residents while striving to stay ahead. We’re grateful for the contributions of our entire team; we couldn’t have achieved this honor without them.”
IST supports all County departments with accessible, high-value applications and technology products and services.
In addition to IST, the Office of the County Executive created its Digital Services & Innovation Division, which goes by DITO. Both IST and DITO participate in the Marin Digital Collaborative that brings together partners from across jurisdictions to make advancements in accessible services, cybersecurity, efficiencies, and customer outcomes.
"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.”