The City of Kannapolis is receiving national attention for its innovative communication strategies, winning two top awards at an industry conference. Recognized by the City-County Communications & Marketing Association, Kannapolis earned awards for a contest that engaged residents and celebrated municipal services in a cost-effective way, according to the City of Kannapolis.
Competing against cities with populations under 85,000, Kannapolis aimed to stand out creatively and cost-effectively. Their entry in the Name the Truck contest not only won local support but also secured first place in the ‘Most Creative Activity with Least Dollars Spent’ category. The contest featured inventive designs and names from local children, with winners getting their names displayed on city trucks. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about the important work of Kannapolis' Transportation and Environmental Services Department. As Michael Rattler, the department's director, noted, "This was a fun way we could bring attention to the work our staff members do each day to ensure streets and stormwater drains are clear of debris and leaves," as stated by the City of Kannapolis.
The trucks, decorated by children, remind people to keep the streets clean and appreciate important services that often go unnoticed. Rattler hopes that "the trucks will make residents smile and think about how important it is to not litter and to help us keep our streets clean," as mentioned by the City of Kannapolis.
