The City of Redmond’s digital magazine, efocusonredmond.com, recently won a national Savvy award as best in class for government digital news magazines. The Savvies are awarded by the City and County Communications and Marketing Association (3CMA) out of Washington, DC. This organization has recognized excellence in government communications for over 20 years.

In commenting on the entry, the 3CMA judges stated that the digital magazine’s approach of combining together a variety of communications tools, such as video, print and Web technology was innovative and informative. They went on to say how the magazine saved the jurisdiction money while creating a better product.

“I’m happy for the staff who earned this award for EFocus,” stated Redmond Mayor John Marchione. “Citizen communications is as a top priority for the city and this recognition reinforces our commitment to keep our residents informed in an interesting, innovative and cost-effective manner.”

The latest issue of the magazine is now live. Included in the Fall issue is an introduction to the city’s new Police Chief, Ron Gibson, several articles on how to help the salmon in local creeks and information on a newly approved traffic safety camera program to begin in early 2011.

The magazine also includes short videos on the best way to compost food, the latest on the repairs to Redmond Pool, a conversation with Chief Gibson and why residents should continue to “Think Redmond” when shopping.

The digital magazine is developed using in-house staff and has no mailing costs. While the city continues to send a printed newsletter to Redmond households and businesses, it is smaller than the previous publication, saving the city approximately $20,000 a year in printing and mailing costs.

To be notified when the next issue of efocusonredmond.com is available, send an email with Efocus in the subject line to mgronlund@redmond.gov.