The ENCOMPASS work using Appreciative Inquiry, a whole-systems change management process, with the Department of Housing and Community Development, City of Dubuque, Iowa, has been nationally recognized. The Department made impressive changes in the way they communicated with key customers and constituents and in their processes for code interpretation and enforcement. They developed new collaborative relationships with other departments, invited citizens and stakeholders into policymaking processes, and launched initiatives that created significant improvements in neighborhoods and affordable housing. This work culminated in a community-wide consensus for a Consolidated Plan for Housing, Community, and Economic Development for 2000-2005.

In 1999 the City won a Best Practices Award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for its work in engaging citizens with the government to achieve a community-wide consensus on public policy on affordable housing issues.

In 2000 the City won an Iowa HUD Best Practices Award for its successful resolution of contentious relationships between landlords and the government, and its achievements in establishing exemplary customer service.

In 2000 this work was recognized with a National Merit Award from the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials for its achievements.

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