The Texas Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program and the Hobby Center for Public Service at Texas State University are proud to announce the recipients of the Balanoff Good Government Award, a distinction honoring Texas municipalities that make good government not merely a goal, but a daily practice.

Named in honor of Dr. Howard Balanoff and Marilyn Balanoff, the award recognizes communities that live the values Texans expect from their local governments — strengthening public trust and inspiring others to raise the standard for serving their communities.

2026 award recipients

The Town of Ransom Canyon, Texas

The City of Pharr, Texas

The awards will be presented during the CENTEX ASPA Public Service Recognition Awards Luncheon on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in San Marcos.

Recipients were evaluated against the Ten Texas Traits of Good Government — a framework that calls on municipalities to be Respectful, Responsive, Effective, Transparent, Competent, Ethical, Lawful, Innovative, Economical, and Accountable. A judging panel assessed applicants, recognizing those organizations whose governance practices consistently reflect these values in service to their residents.

"This award exists because good government is not accidental — it is the result of people who show up every day with integrity, skill, and a commitment to the communities they serve. This year's recipients have demonstrated exactly that."

— Dr. Miha Vindis, Director, Texas Certified Public Manager Program

The Balanoff Good Government Award is presented annually. Texas municipalities that apply but do not meet the scoring threshold receive written feedback from the judging panel to support continued improvement and are encouraged to reapply in a future award cycle.  

Applications for the 2027 Balanoff Award will be accepted from December 1, 2026, through February 15, 2027. For more information on the Balanoff Award and how to apply, please visit the Texas CPM website at https://texascpm.com/balanoff-good-government-award/.

Award sponsors

Bojorquez Law Firm, LLC and City Hall Essentials, LLC