Local Community Web Sites: Getting Connected

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Local Community Web SitesGetting Connected

• Tanesha Hixon, Office of Technology
  Partnerships
• Michigan Department of Information Technology

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This will only hurt for a moment!

• Creating maintaining a Web site is a lot like
  getting a shot
• Its much less painful than you think (and less
  expensive)
• And it will pay dividends for years to come!

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Why the Web?

• Web sites are contributing to better government
• Allowing programs and services to be offered in
  a more dynamic and interactive way
• Providing a 24x7 opportunity for citizen
  participation
• Reaching more members of the communities
• Furnishing a venue for new programs
• Improving trust in government and reputation
  among constituents

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But, dont take my word for it!
Listen to what your counterparts are saying
Still not convinced?
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Quotes SlideContacting locals..

• XYZ Township
• Village of Kent City
• City of XYZ

Still not convinced?
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Improving Productivity Reducing Cost

• Adding a Web site for your community will
• Reduce paperwork
• Reduce phone calls
• Avoid mailings
• Help residents help themselves!
• Lead to lower administrative costs
• Increase time available for critical tasks

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Enhancing Economic Development

• Increase tourism with online marketing
• Promote your local and historical attractions!
• Attract new businesses and residents
• Make your community visible to potential new
  residents and businesses looking to relocate!

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Improving Resident Service

• Increase convenience and speed in obtaining
  information or services
• Residents can get current meeting minutes in just
  seconds!
• Access to accurate, up-to-date information
• 24x7 access to government services
• Residents can access information on their own
  time!
• Utilization of e-government services, saving
  annual trips to the local government office
• Residents can obtain and submit forms and permits
  online!

What goes on the Web?
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You control the content Showcase your most
pertinent news

• Meeting minutes
• Contact information
• Services
• Forms permits

• Events
• FAQs
• Department listings
• Newsletters

Web-based programs are also well received
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Web-based applicationsOnlinenot in line!

• Property tax data
• Online payment of property taxes
• Permit portal for obtain and submitting permits

So, how does all of this work?
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Ways to get started

• MDIT free programs!
• Work with a local university
• MDIT is partnering with locals, universities, the
  Michigan Township Association and the Michigan
  Municipal League
• Over 71 sites have already been created!
• Use the local government development template
• Allows you to customize the template when
  convenient
• Comes with detailed how to guide
• Contact us for an electronic copy today!
• Contact a web development company
• Will develop and maintain your website for you
• Help is only a phone call away!
• Customized look and feel

We can help!
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Contacts Questions

• MDIT Office of Technology Partnerships
• George Boersma, Directorboersmag_at_michigan.gov
  [phone]
• Tanesha Hixonhixont_at_michigan.gov [phone]