Bethlehem, NY (WRGB) — People in Bethlehem have long considered their town a standout. Now, a new statewide program is putting that reputation into an elite category.
The Town of Bethlehem in Albany County received a Gold award from the New York Association of Towns’ inaugural Towns of Excellence Program. Only 13 towns out of 933 statewide received the recognition, and Bethlehem is 1 of 6 to achieve the Gold standard.
Town Supervisor David VanLuven attended NYAOT’s 2026 Annual Meeting in New York City on Feb. 16 to accept the award on behalf of the town. Award recipients will be featured on NYAOT’s Towns of Excellence webpage and are authorized to display the official Towns of Excellence badge on municipal materials and the town’s website, stating,
People who live here have always known Bethlehem is a special place. Now the rest of New York knows it, too. This Gold designation reflects the everyday work of our town employees, volunteers, and community partners who are committed to delivering excellent services and protecting the quality of life our residents value.
The Towns of Excellence Program recognizes municipalities that demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation and a commitment to serving residents. Towns are evaluated in categories including economic development, sustainability and sound planning, community engagement, quality of life, governance and transparency, and workforce development. Towns can receive Gold, Silver or Bronze recognition. After three years of Gold status, towns are eligible to be selected as the annual Platinum Town of Excellence.
Christopher Koetzle, NYAOT executive director said,
We are incredibly proud to recognize these thirteen towns that are setting the standard for excellence in local government across New York State. Each of these communities has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation, transparency and serving their residents. The Towns of Excellence Program celebrates the extraordinary work happening in New York’s towns every day.