Earlier today, The United States Conference of Mayors presented Mayor Lionel C. Guay, Jr., with an "Outstanding Achievement City Livability Award" for the City of Lewiston's leadership in advocating the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

Lewiston was one of twenty communities, nationwide, who received the 2006 Livability distinction, and the city was honored at today's 74th Annual United States Conference of Mayors event in Las Vegas.

Mayor Guay responded, "Not only have we cut taxes in Lewiston, but we're also proud to be a creative leader in an effort to put additional money back into citizens' pockets, as well as into the local economy."

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a Federal benefit for eligible low & moderate income workers that not only helps individuals increase their financial stability but is intended to reduce their tax burden, supplement wages, and assist with the welfare-to-work transition.

For the 2004-2006 tax seasons, Lewiston has partnered with numerous community organizations, as well as the City of Auburn, to promote the Earned Income Tax Credit, secure/train volunteers for tax preparation purposes, establish free tax prep sites, and provide residents with asset-building opportunities in regards to financial literacy.

As a result, the organized effort, known as the Lewiston-Auburn Tax Credit Awareness Coalition, has returned $2,274,089 to this area. In 2006 alone, those who utilized the Coalition's free tax prep sites claimed $958,722 in Federal refunds and $175,221 in State refunds.

Guay also noted, "Lewiston is very proud of its leadership in this awareness campaign and is equally proud of the various collaborations that have developed for the benefit of residents who are eligible for the EITC. Truly, this is an initiative that continues to make a very positive impact on the lives of our residents."

City Administrator James A. Bennett responded, "The momentum for this creative effort continues to build each year, and Lewiston will maintain its commitment to reaching eligible citizens to enable them to move one step closer to prosperity through the attainment of this Federal benefit."

Dottie Perham-Whittier, Lewiston Co-Chair of the Coalition, added, "Our municipal slogan is 'Setting the Pace,' and with the overwhelming support of our elected officials, we look forward to reaching even more individuals and families next tax season with the message of 'Take the Money; You've Earned It.'"

Lewiston and the Coalition have been lauded by the Center for Economic Progress National Tax Coalition, and Lewiston has received a US Department of the Treasury Award "for its EITC leadership, dedication, and contributions in building a stronger community." In addition, for the 2006 tax season, the Coalition received a Department of Justice Community Capacity Weed & Seed technical grant, which resulted in the establishment of a "MEGA free tax prep site," providing extended hours at the local Multi-Purpose Center to assist residents.

As a Livability winner, the City of Lewiston will be able to utilize the exclusive City Livability Award logo; will be the focus of a national media campaign; will be highlighted in the U.S. Mayor and on the USCM's website; and will receive assistance in planning and conducting a local recognition ceremony.

Bennett added, "This is just the latest award in an ever-growing list of public recognition and awards that Lewiston is receiving. Even the greatest of skeptics has got to recognize that there is an amazing transformation occurring within our community. I am certain that it won't be the last national award that Lewiston will receive in the immediate future."

In addition to Lewiston, other 2006 Livability award winners in the "cities under 100,000 in population " category were Euless, Texas; Lake Oswego, Oregon; Redmond,Washington; Wilmington, Deleware; Carmel, Indiana; Columbia, Missouri; Coral Gables, Florida; Kokomo, Indiana; and Lauderhill, Florida. Livability award winners in the "cities over 100,000 in population" catagory were Chicago, Illinois; Austin, Texas; Dallas, Texas; Houston, Texas; Miami, Florida; Irvine, California; Jacksonville, Florida; Kansas City, Missouri; Las Vegas, Nevada; and St. Petersburg, Florida.

The City Livability Awards are sponsored by The United States Conference of Mayors and Waste Management, Inc., and honor mayors for exemplary leadership and achievement in developing programs that enhance the livability of America's cities.
 

FOR MORE INFO on any Press Releases contact:
Dot Perham-Whittier - Community Relations Coordinator
Lewiston City Hall
784-2951 - Extension 110
dottie@ci.lewiston.me.us