Arlington Mayor Dr. Robert Cluck

Effectively serving Arlington is the city’s goal. Measuring that effectiveness is sometimes more difficult than one would assume. One efficient way to find out how we are doing is to submit programs and activities for review by professional organizations and our peers.

Being recognized for cutting edge activities, progressive programming and service oriented can accomplish the initiatives the Council and I have set for the City. This month we have been recognized for excellence, innovation and quality programming.

I am happy to announce that the City of Arlington Purchasing Division has been recognized for the fifth straight year for their achievement in meeting purchasing initiatives and personnel training/certification. The Purchasing Division earned the 2008 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award. This is our fifth consecutive award (2004 - 2008), placing Arlington among the top 10 cities nation-wide. This prestigious honor is only earned by public entities that score highly against the National Purchasing Institute's standardized criteria. The program measures innovation, professionalism, e-procurement, productivity and leadership.

At Parks and Recreation, the Arlington Tennis Center received the 2008 Outstanding Facility of the Year Award from the United States Tennis Association (USTA). The Tennis Center was judged on the quality of its programs, staffing, special events, facility appearance, amenities and adherence to USTA standards. The Arlington Tennis Center has also won five national awards and six sectional awards.

Also this month, Arlington earned a Playful City USA Award. The City was recognized along with 67 other communities nation-wide. The award was presented by KaBOOM!, a national non-profit organization whose vision is for every child in America to have a place to play within walking distance.

Promoting naturally fun neighborhoods, programming productivity into our facilities and creating professionalism in our staff and processes is how we achieve excellence. I am thrilled to congratulate our Purchasing and Parks and Recreation employees for their efforts in meeting and exceeding the needs of our residents and guests.

Robert N. Cluck, M.D.
Mayor of Arlington