By TIM THORNBERRY
Kentucky Correspondent FRANKFORT, Ky. — A state program has been named to the 2007 Top 50 Government Innovations list compiled by the Ash Institute for Democratic Governance and Innovation. The Kentucky Agricultural Develop-ment Fund was chosen by the Institute – part of Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government – as one of the semifinalists for its work in providing capital for projects that help diversify the state’s tobacco-dependent economy. These investments include local and state projects designed to increase farm income and create sustainable farm enterprises. All semifinalists for the awards are eligible to win one of seven $100,000 grants. The Fund is overseen by the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board, which was established by the 2000 General Assembly as a way to disburse funds created by the Master Settlement Agreement (Phase I), which was originally between the four largest tobacco companies and 46 states and six U.S. Territories. “Government agencies today must have the ability to respond efficiently to the ever-changing needs of citizens,” said Stephen Goldsmith, director of the Innovations in American Government Program. “We are pleased to recognize these programs that have capitalized on creative thinking to increase the effectiveness of government.”
Keith Rogers, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy (GOAP), said receiving of such an honor demonstrates the success of the program. “I am very excited that the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund was chosen to be among the Top 50 Government Innovations,” said Rogers “This program is the only one representing Kentucky in the top 50, and I’m thrilled to be part of this effort. “This recognition shows that the creation and development of this program is truly innovative and will continue to move Kentucky agriculture forward.” According to the Institute, “the Top 50 programs representing government agencies at the federal, state, county and city levels were selected for their novelty and creativity, effectiveness at addressing significant issues and their potential to be replicated by other jurisdictions. “Chosen from nearly 1,000 applicants, they represent government’s best efforts across a variety of policy areas, ranging from education to the environment, criminal justice to health care and management to community development.” The Ash Institute was founded in 2003 to promote excellence in government throughout the world. “The programs represent the very best of public management,” said Ash Institute Director Gowher Rizvi. “We are honored to highlight innovative practices that produce renewed confidence in public service.” Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher commended the program and said, “This fund has allowed the Kentucky agriculture community to be innovative by taking the commodities of today and turning them into the opportunities of tomorrow.” Eighteen finalists will be selected from the Top 50 program and announced on May 2. The Innovations in American Government Awards National Selection Committee, chaired by David Gergen, will select seven winners, including two special awards: the Annie E. Casey Innovations Award in Children and Family System Reform, and the Fannie Mae Foundation Award in Affordable Housing. The seven recipients of the $100,000 awards will be announced in the fall at a dinner celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Innovations in American Government Awards Program in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.ash institute.harvard.edu/Ash |
