From Deseret News archives:
Salt Lake lauded for government Web site
The Center for Digital Government has announced that Salt Lake City tied for third place in its annual survey that assesses how city governments are utilizing information technology to connect with and deliver quality service to constituents.
Since the survey's inception in 2001, Salt Lake City has been ranked in the top 10 six times, placing fourth last year.
"We have worked hard to ensure our city Web site enhances communication with the people of Salt Lake City, to provide transparent access to important information and services, and enhance community dialogue on critical issues," Mayor Rocky Anderson said. "Providing so many city services online decreases paper waste and makes city government more convenient and user-friendly for our residents."
Mayors, chief information officers and city managers in more than 300 cities were invited to participate in the survey. Questions focused on the implementation and adoption of online service delivery, planning and governance, and infrastructure and electronic architecture.
"We want to make it as easy as possible for residents to conduct business with the city online," said Bill Haight, Salt Lake City's acting director of information management services. "We're pleased to be recognized for our efforts and will continue to find new ways to improve our level of service."
The survey grouped cities into four categories based on population: 250,000 or greater; 125,000 to 249,999; 75,000 to 124,999; and 30,000 to 74,999. Salt Lake City tied for third place with Alexandria, Va., and Madison, Wis., in the 125,000 to 249,999 division.
Salt Lake residents can manage several city services online at www.slcgov.com/online, including viewing and paying water bills, making parking and traffic ticket payments, renewing business licenses, making permit applications, making building inspection requests, conducting property zoning research, accessing voting information, viewing property valuation and tax information, and making bowery, picnic or camping site reservations.
The city Web site also provides access to on-demand programming and a live feed of SLC-TV Channel 17, which provides government information to residents and visitors. Watch SLC-TV at www.slctv.com.
E-mail: jpage@desnews.com
