This city award is called  the Hamilton Beautification Awards Program.

Every year a group of judges go through the city and pick 2 gardens in each zone.  There are 28 zones in the city and surrounding area.  This is run by the City of Hamilton to help improve the overall appearance of the city and surrounding areas.

I just happened to be one of the two they picked in my zone for 2006.

The front gardens must have curb appeal in order to qualify.  They have to show that the home owner cares how their property looks in any particular neighborhood which enhances the neigborhood.... there are a  large number of questions the judges need to check off on their long list of requirements. With 2 judges per zone it takes them 2 to 3 months to go and visit, and judge each and every property. 

My neighbor to the north of use received one in 2005.. 

If you would like to read up on this award, heres a link: http://www.myhamilton.ca/myhamilton/CityandGovernment/CityDepartments/PublicWorks/Parks/Horticulture/TrilliumAwards

Ron ~ zone B ~ Ontario