The title, given to 10 cities across the U.S., is for cities that demonstrate problem-solving skills and civic pride. Lewiston submitted an application for the honor in April, highlighting the Lots to Gardens community garden project, the city council's youth advisory council and its efforts to increase low-income residents' use of the Earned Income Tax Credit program, according to a press release. Lewiston was a finalist for the award last year.

City officials began marketing the title yesterday, hanging a sign on Alfred Plourde Parkway, according to the Lewiston Sun Journal. "It doesn't mean we don't have any problems," City Councilor Norm Rousseau told the paper. "It means we come together to solve the problems we have. This group and these judges, from across the country, recognized that."

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