Staff report

SALISBURY — Rowan County government has been named one of the best digital counties in the United States.

The honor, from the Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties, identifies best technology practices. They include initiatives that streamline delivery of services, encourage collaboration and shared services, enhance cybersecurity, and reduce carbon emissions.

Rowan County was named the ninth-best county with under 150,000 in population in the U.S.

Rowan was the only county in North Carolina to be selected in the 150,000 population category.

“All the credit goes to the staff in the information technology department,” said Chief Information Officer Randy Cress, who supervises the department. “They all have worked long hours and made sacrifices to create the digital footprint we now have. But the work has just started; staying in the 21st century requires daily maintenance and attention to social media outlets and our website.”

County Manager Aaron Church said Cress has helped guide the construction of a “solid digital footprint.” Church said departments provide transparent information to residents and prospective employees through the county’s digital presence.

He also recognized Creative Services Manager April Everett, who keeps the county’s social media up to date in addition to other job duties.