Pioneer's Better Government Competition

An annual contest open to all, the BGC seeks innovative, concrete ideas to improve the quality and cost-effectiveness of government services in Massachusetts.

The 19th Better Government Competition awarded ideas and programs that help govern in a time of crisis – that provide savings, reduce duplication, and avoid future fiscal crises.

Pioneer is proud to announce that the winner of this year's Competition is Containing the Cost of Medicaid by Providing Housing for Homeless Individuals, which was made possible by Massachusetts Behavioral Health Partnership (MBHP) and Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance (MHSA).

To read more about this exciting program, and all of the Runners-Up and Special Recognition Winners, click here.

Speaking at this year's awards dinner was U.S. Senator Scott Brown. Senator Brown was elected to the United States Senate in a special election on January 19, 2010. Previously, Senator Brown served in the Massachusetts State Senate, where as a free-market advocate, he fought against wasteful government spending and higher taxes. His career in public service begain as a selectman in Wrentham. He served five years as a State Representative before three terms in the State Senate.

Competition winners over the years are listed below.

• › 2009: Senior Link
• › 2008: Florida Virtual School
• › 2007: Unified Permitting System for The Redevelopment of Ft. Devens
• › 2006: Short Trial Program for Civil Trial Litigation
• › 2005: Streamlining Massachusetts Government
• › 2004: State and Local Focus
• › 2003: Innovative Ideas on Key Public Policy Issues
• › 2001: Law Enforcement, Education, Housing, Family Preservation
• › 2000: Better Government Competition 10th Anniversary
• › 1999: A Wise and Frugal Government
• › 1998: Streamlining Government
• › 1997: Bringing the Benefits of Competition to State and Local Government
• › 1996: The Fight Against Crime
• › 1995: Local Solutions to Public Problems
• › 1994: Welfare in Massachusetts
• › 1993: Policies and Programs Affecting Children
• › 1992: Environmental Policies and Programs
• › 1991: Restructuring/Privatizing State Operations

The Roe Better Government Network

Please also visit the Roe Better Government Network page.