State Auditor Rob Sand has announced the counties, cities and school districts that have been recognized for their participation in the 2022 Public Innovations and Efficiencies program (PIE). According to a news release, Sand created the PIE program in 2019 “to encourage governmental entities to implement cost-cutting measures and spark innovative ideas to save public funds. Local leaders can collaborate and share their ideas on the Auditor of State’s website. Participation in the program increased by more than 55% since last year with 84 counties, 310 cities, and for the first time, 121 school districts submitting entries. The award for best performing country, city and school district went to Johnson County, Des Moines and Hamburg, respectively.