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Local governments have long been the keepers of community records, collecting and storing a tremendous amount of data. New technologies are being introduced every day that enables local governments to use these data in innovative and pioneering ways, informing policy and enhancing services for citizens.
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To support managers and their information technology professionals in the constant race against hackers and other cybercriminals, ICMA offers resources that describe ransomware and other cyberattacks, explain vulnerabilities and risks, and provide advice for securing systems and preventing breaches.
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Community members pay taxes and consume local government services, and they most likely have opinions about the quantity and quality of those services and about the community as a place to live and work. Citizen and resident surveys can tap those opinions and provide valuable input to city and county managers and elected officials as they set priorities and allocate resources. Where formal performance management systems are in place, survey responses are frequently used as indicators of service quality.