Portland Mayor Tom Potter could be pioneering a new trend in government communication … his blog is an effective way to foster two-way communicate with citizens.
Economic Development – Local Agencies/Organizations
Chicago Takes Bids for Citywide Wi-Fi Service
Chicago is the largest U.S. city to date to move forward with plans to build a citywide wireless network. Mayor Daley aims to bridge the digital divide, making the Internet and computer technology accessible to all residents.
Guidelines Help Charlotte, Mecklenburg County Evaluate Return on Business Grants
A new set of guidelines should help Mecklenburg County and Charlotte determine appropriate economic development incentives offered to businesses looking to relocate or expand in the area.
New Dallas Web Site Easier to Navigate, Offers Enhanced Service Delivery
Dallas recently launched a “new and improved” version of its city web site. The redesigned site features more intuitive organization, more emphasis on city news and events, and easier access to online services.
Sheriffs E-Mail Alert System Keeps Will County Residents Informed
The Will County, Illinois Sheriff’s Office recently launched an innovative service that sends an email message to registered users when a crime, traffic incident, or other public safety issue occurs. Residents ?and anyone else who signs up for the free service – can specify the types of alerts they want to receive, and can also indicate their towns or villages of interest in their user profile.
Live Help Enhances Customer Service Orientation of State Web Site
In an effort to help online visitors increase the ease and efficiency in using its web site, the state of Colorado recently introduced a “live help” feature. Visitors to the site can have an online conversation with a state employee who functions, in many ways, like a customer service representative.
Flagler County Leads the Nation in Population Growth
According to new U.S. Census Bureau estimates released today, nine of the ten fastest growing counties between 2004 and 2005 are located in the South or West regions of the country. For the second year in a row, Flagler County, Florida claimed the number one spot in the ranking, which compares annual percentage gains in population.
Phoenix Prepares for Special Bond Election on March 14
Phoenix will be holding a special election on March 14, when voters will be asked to approve the issuance of bonds to finance citywide improvements. To help voters prepare for the special election, Phoenix has posted an information Election Information page on its web site.
Motor City Gets Ready for Super Bowl; Racing Legend Penske Rallies Volunteers
Detroit, Michigan prepares for Super Bowl XL, 24 years since its previous opportunity to host football’s biggest game. City and business leaders are working hard to change 40 years of bad PR and get momentum behind urban renewal efforts.
Redevelopment Agency Demonstrates Exemplary Disclosure Practices
San Jose Redevelopment Agency sets a high standard for financial disclosure among municipal bond issuers. The agency’s website also features monthly project updates, retail vacancies and live broadcasts of board meetings.