Government Experience

Data center builds are on the rise across the country to power cloud computing and AI. Here’s how some local governments are taking action to ensure projects benefit the communities in which they are built.

The career technologist, who has held leadership roles in IT from Arizona to Oregon and San Jose to Seattle, will depart the public sector this month to join the division of e.Republic.

Plus, Massachusetts is opening applications for its Digital Accessibility and Equity Governance Board, Denver launched a streaming platform, experts dub fiber broadband deployment as essential, and more.

The state will widen its use of an American Sign Language app across all agencies and buildings, in an effort to bring new levels of service for people who are hard of hearing.

States have until April to meet the federal mandate established under the Americans with Disabilities Act, requiring all digital products be accessible for people with disabilities. Readiness levels vary.

Tekquell Watson has more than 25 years of military and federal experience, including senior technical and leadership roles. She will oversee technology operations across the consolidated city-county government.

After more than eight years shaping the county’s technology direction and strategy, Mancini left the position earlier this month. During his tenure, he led a comprehensive modernization of legacy.

In 2025, the state launched its Frontier Stable Token and advanced system modernization; in 2026, the IT team will build on that foundation to leverage technologies like AI while building trust.

The Ulster County Department of Motor Vehicles will reopen Thursday following a system update that compelled DMVs across the state to shutter. The state has implemented the first phase of a multiyear project.

The Secretary of State seeks $9.8 million from the state budget for the ongoing project. A request for proposals is expected this spring to refresh the legacy platform used by more than 146,000 notaries.

A report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation finds a stark contrast — a “digital marriage divide” — in how different states allow residents to apply for and file marriage licenses.

The state’s new accessibility and equity strategy focuses on how state agencies design and run digital services. It aims to ensure government websites and other online resources can be used by all.

Having realized efficiencies through their use of a technology project management platform, city officials are contemplating where else it might bring transparency, save time and accomplish routine tasks.

The state is upgrading its Division of Motor Vehicles technology system this month to improve security, usability and efficiency. To do so, several temporary service closures are planned.

Mark Combs, Vermont’s inaugural chief technology and enterprise services officer, helped expand the scope of state digital services as his role changed. Officials are now seeking his successor.

Amy Tong, the former director of the California Department of Technology and state CIO for more than five years, was most recently senior counselor to Gov. Gavin Newsom. Her last day in the role was Jan. 31.

Lee E. Micai, a longtime technologist in Mercer County government, has been named to the role, which he said entails responsibilities previously assigned to the head of IT. His tenure began last month.

New research from Georgetown’s Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation reveals how states are navigating technology, governance and operations to improve access to public benefits like SNAP and Medicaid.