The TaxWatch Productivity Awards are made possible through the generosity of Kyra Solutions, Inc., as Presenting Sponsor, and the vision of the late J.E. Davis and A.D. Davis, co-founders of Winn-Dixie Stores Inc. and co-founders of Florida TaxWatch. Since 1989, the Awards program has publicly recognized and rewarded state employees and work units whose work significantly and measurably increases productivity and promotes innovation to improve the delivery of state services and save money for Florida taxpayers and businesses.

Over the 30-year program, more than 16,000 nominations have been received, and awards have been given to state employees for saving or maximizing state dollars to the tune of approximately $10 billion.

The program is a major government improvement initiative co-sponsored by Florida TaxWatch, The Florida Council of 100, and the state of Florida. In addition to Kyra's generous support, numerous corporate, individual and philanthropic contributors supplement the awards program.

The awards program also recognizes achievements that are particularly beneficial to citizens and the private sector.

We welcome and encourage all state government employees and private citizens to submit nominations, and look forward to even greater taxpayer improvements in next year's program.