DELRAY BEACH, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2025 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — The City of Delray Beach has once again been recognized as a leader in municipal innovation, earning a 2025 Digital Cities Award from the Center for Digital Government. The annual survey honors cities that elevate public service through modern technology, focusing on data-driven decision-making, cybersecurity leadership, and a commitment to digital equity.
Jay Stacy, the city’s Chief Technology Officer, attributed the repeat recognition to a deliberate investment in both people and processes. He noted that the city’s strategy goes beyond simple upgrades, focusing instead on how innovation directly serves the community. “This year’s accomplishments demonstrate how innovation truly serves our residents—whether by improving accessibility, modernizing daily interactions with city services, or strengthening the resilience of our entire digital ecosystem,” Stacy said.
A major factor in the award was the city’s effort to streamline government access. Over the past two years, Delray Beach has transformed traditionally paper-based tasks into online workflows via its eServices Portal, making it easier for residents and businesses to navigate city requirements. To support this, the city introduced technical strategist positions—specialists embedded within departments to ensure new technology aligns with real-world community needs, alongside digital tools like the MyDelrayBeach mobile app and the CodeRED emergency alert system. BocaNewsNow.com highlighted the city’s CodeRED use over the summer.
The city also drew national attention for its pioneering use of artificial intelligence. This includes an AI-powered virtual receptionist, initially launched to help a blind constituent access City Hall services more easily. The city is now expanding responsible AI use across other sectors, including the Police Department’s Real-Time Crime Center and a Public Works pilot program that uses AI-driven monitoring to assess pavement conditions.
