.webp)
City recognized for innovative digital government system, pioneering cloud-only operations without traditional hardware.
The city of Mableton has been awarded the 2026 Smart 20 Award for its groundbreaking initiative to implement a fully cloud native municipal infrastructure. This recognition from Smart Cities Connect positions Mableton as the first city in the United States to operate its entire government system without traditional on-site hardware. Titled “Zero to 80,000: Building America’s First 100% Cloud Native Municipal Infrastructure,” the project enabled Mableton to establish a digital city hall within just six months of its incorporation. The city was notably selected alongside major metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles and Las Vegas highlighting its innovative approach to municipal governance.
Mayor Michael Owens, who has a background in cybersecurity and information technology, spearheaded the initiative in collaboration with the City’s IT Security Risk Department. The cloud-based platforms deployed in Mableton have not only streamlined city operations but have also avoided millions in upfront infrastructure costs, as well as significant consultant fees. Owens described the setup as the “City-in-a-Box” model, which could serve as a blueprint for other municipalities across the nation.
“In Mableton, we believe that a modern city doesn’t need a server room to be secure and efficient,” Owens stated. This approach reallocates taxpayer dollars towards community development instead of on depreciating hardware, eliminating the ongoing expenses associated with replacing outdated technology.
With 60 employees overseeing services for the city’s 80,000 residents, Mableton leverages advanced artificial intelligence tools, such as Google Gemini, to enhance operational efficiency. For residents, the cloud-native infrastructure ensures that government services are secure, high-speed, and devoid of physical server dependencies. To further safeguard municipal data, the city has adopted a “Zero-Trust” security model, similar to those utilized by global financial institutions. Mableton will be formally honored at an awards ceremony on March 10 in Raleigh, N.C., where it is also a finalist for the “Grand Challenge” title, awarded to the top three overall projects.
.webp)
.webp)
