The 2010 edition of the Florida Communities of Excellence Awards is now accepting nominations. A distinguished judging panel of independent experts with backgrounds in community management, consulting, public safety, public policy, education, journalism and environmental advocacy will evaluate and rate entries in the following nine categories:

1. Environmental Protection & Preservation
2. Energy/Water Conservation
3. Disaster Preparedness
4. Safety & Security
5. Financial Innovation
6. Community Relations & Communications
7. Best Website
8. Civic Volunteerism & Advocacy
9. Family Friendly Programs & Initiatives

The awards are open to all Florida Community Associations (Condominium, HOA, and Cooperative).

A total of 18 communities will be recognized for their achievements, with separate judging in each category for communities that have more than 200 units and communities with fewer than 200 units. From the 18 category winners, one "Community of the Year" also will be chosen. This condominium, HOA, or cooperative will be the one whose level of achievement in its category is so high that it stands out from all the other award recipients.

Finalists will be announced in the March issue of the Florida Community Association Journal. Winners and finalists will be honored at the Florida Communities of Excellence Conference & Awards Ceremony, March 23, 2010, from 1 PM to 6 PM, at the Fairwinds Alumni Center of the University of Central Florida Main Campus in Orlando

There is no cost to submit an entry and communities may enter in multiple categories. Award winners may not re-enter in the same category in consecutive years, but are eligible to enter in any other category. The deadline for submissions is January 15. 2010.