Michael Sarasti will now be the city's director of innovation and information technology.

Billed as the 'world's first fully integrated smart city ecosystem,' a 300-kiosk project will bring new connectivity and data to city streets.

A diverse array of challenges face those pursuing a smart city future, but a panel of government technologists say the biggest task could be trying to get everyone on the same page.

Winners will receive products, support and advice from vendors and industry experts as they pursue smart city goals around affordable housing, transportation and public safety.

StateScoop interviewed dozens of industry and public sector officials to identify 10 cities — from Austin to New York to San Francisco — that are setting the pace pursuing smart city strategies.