Local governments often give special recognition to individuals and
organizations. It's part of promoting the good works that are being
done in the community. But it is also, of course, a form of
preferential treatment. For every individual and organization that
is recognized for good works, there are many others that are not
recognized.
If each high-level official could provide his own special
recognition to individuals and organizations in the community, then
everyone would have a better chance of being recognized. But there
would also be more chance for the misuse of office to reward (and
obtain) supporters and contributors rather
than good works, and to get in the good graces of various
constituencies in the community.
This interesting issue arises from a front page
article
in today's New York Times about the frequency with which New
York City's comptroller has handed out official commendations, 760
of them in his two years in office, a little more than one a day.
Not only does he make the commendations, but he gives priority to
the ceremonies attached to them. Unlike other officials, he usually
delivers the commendations personally at events.