Frank Fairbanks, city manager of Phoenix, was presented with the prestigious 2004 John J. DeBolske Professional Excellence Award at The Arizona City/County Management Association's mid-winter conference.

Fairbanks was recognized by more than 188 management peers from Flagstaff to Yuma for his exceptional ability to promote organizational innovation, create a risk-taking environment and effectively measure results through the successful management of more than 13,000 city employees.

"I cannot think of a more deserving recipient," said George Hoffman, city manager of Apache Junction and President of ACMA. "Frank has the sort of talent, dedication and drive that is motivational not only to his employees, but also to the 79 other municipal managers that serve cities and towns in Arizona. Our state is a better place to live and work because of his tireless daily contribution."

Fairbanks has worked for the city of Phoenix for 32 years and as City Manager for 12. He joined Phoenix in 1972 and has served as a management assistant, executive assistant to the city manager, and assistant city manager. Under his leadership, the city has garnered coveted national awards for management efficiency including: "Best Managed City in the Nation" in 1995 by Financial World magazine and the "Best Run City in the World" in 1993 by the Bertelsmann Foundation of Germany.

Created in 1997, the award recognizes the highest level of excellence among Arizona local government professionals. The award is named in honor of John "Jack" DeBolske who served as the Executive Director of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns for forty years.

ACMA is a professional association of more than 260 local government managers and staff throughout the state that focus on professional development and information sharing, while promoting professional local government management.