Bethesda, Maryland—On June 29, 2005, the Serbian Municipality of Loznica recognized Development Alternatives, Inc. (DAI) during an official awards ceremony for its “exceptional contribution.” Presented by the mayor of Loznica, the award recognizes the Serbia Local Government Reform Program (SLGRP), implemented by DAI and funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development. In the speech prior to the presentation of the plaque, the mayor thanked SLGRP for “providing financial support, education, and technical equipment” that contributed to the “fast, successful, and humane development of the Municipality of Loznica.”

DAI has worked in Serbia since 2001, helping 87 of its 145 cities promote citizen participation in government, expand the use of information technology, improve municipal service delivery, and carry out responsible financial management. In Loznica, these goals have been achieved through budget development training programs, guidance to the government on how to better administer public utilities, and the creation of Citizen Advisory Boards, made up of representatives from all social spheres who are able to offer the government a broad view into the public’s needs.

Another important component of the SLGRP program in Loznica has been the establishment of a Citizen Assistance Center (CAC). This center supplies citizens with adequate and timely information regarding their government, and functions as a one-stop location for obtaining civil documents, ranging from birth and marriage certificates to construction permits. The CAC also provides for government transparency and efficiency by enabling employees to offer their services in a faster and more consolidated manner. Further, the center reduces the opportunities for corruption by simplifying procedures and employing an open-space concept. CACs established in other municipalities have been very successful: the time for obtaining construction permits was cut from an average of 30 days to an average of 7 days and the time for social service applications was reduced by half—from one month to two weeks.

As Loznica continues to grow into an important metropolitan center, DAI, through SLGRP, will continue to help the Loznica government support its citizens in a transparent and efficient manner.

About DAI
Development Alternatives, Inc. (DAI) is a global consulting firm providing social and economic development solutions to governments, communities, and companies with projects in developing and transitioning countries. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in the Washington, D.C., area, DAI now includes companies in Brazil, South Africa, Palestine, and the United Kingdom. DAI’s 2,000 employees work in 75 countries. Clients include international development agencies, international lending institutions, global corporations, and host-country governments.