The Indiana Association of Cities and Towns (IACT) announced that Dan Strong of Cicero has been awarded the 2013 IACT Larry A. Conrad Civic Service Award. This award honors the contributions made by private citizens, companies or civic organizations to municipal government. Strong received his award during the Presidents’ Reception, on Oct. 7, at the 2013 IACT Annual Conference & Exhibition in Indianapolis. “Dan Strong has been a valuable asset to the Town of Cicero. Dan is thorough in every aspect of his decision making and has provided this town with years of hard work and dedication. His exceptional service to our community both professionally and through his civic duties has helped make Cicero a wonderful place to live.” stated Eric Hayden, member of the Cicero Town Council.
“Dan Strong was chosen for this honor based upon his passion for Cicero, selfless sense of services, and commitment to making the community a better place to live and work,” said IACT Executive Director and CEO Matt Greller. “Through his service on many boards, such as the Fire Department Merit Board, Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals and Redevelopment Commission, Dan’s reach goes deep into the town,” said Greller. 
Strong and his wife Terri have been residents of Cicero for more than 15 years. Strong is the owner of the local McDonalds, which gives him a catalyst for sponsoring local community events, offering free food and water to emergency personnel in urgent times, helping feed families displaced during fires, securing youth related grants and much more. Strong’s volunteer service has helped the Board of the Hope Clinic whose mission is to serve the medical needs of uninsured and underinsured families in Cicero and Hamilton County. “Dan is truly a prime example of someone who has the core values for which this award represents.” exclaimed Paul Munoz, the Plan Director for the Town of Cicero.
In its 37th year, the IACT Annual Awards program, presented by Umbaugh, recognizes communities and individuals in municipal government for excellence and outstanding achievement. A nine-member panel of qualified judges selected this year’s winners from a competitive field of nominees from around the state.
The Indiana Association of Cities and Towns (IACT) is a coalition of municipal officials who seek to improve the quality of life in Indiana through effective government, and is a member of the National League of Cities. Founded in 1891, IACT is one of the oldest state municipal organizations in the country, with 470 cities and towns as members. IACT advocates for municipalities as the official voice of municipal government in Indiana, and promotes good government through education, training and leadership.