1. Local Community Web Sites: Getting Connected Tanesha Hixon, Office of Technology Partnerships Michigan Department of Information Technology

2. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 2 2 From Vision to Action This will only hurt for a moment! Creating & maintaining a Web site is a lot like getting a shot…  It’s much less painful than you think (and less expensive)  And it will pay dividends for years to come!

3. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 3 3 From Vision to Action 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

4. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 4 4 From Vision to Action But, don’t take my word for it! Listen to what your counterparts are saying… Still not convinced?

5. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 5 5 From Vision to Action Quotes Slide Contacting locals…..  “ ”  XYZ Township  “ ”  Village of Kent City  “ ”  City of XYZ Still not convinced?

6. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 6 6 From Vision to Action 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

7. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 7 7 From Vision to Action  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! Enhancing Economic Development

8. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 8 8 From Vision to Action  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! Improving Resident Service What goes on the Web?

9. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 9 9 From Vision to Action You control the content: Showcase your most pertinent news  Meeting minutes  Contact information  Services  Forms & permits  Events  FAQ’s  Department listings  Newsletters Web-based programs are also well received…

10. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 10 10 From Vision to Action Web-based applications Online…not in line!  Property tax data  Online payment of property taxes  Permit portal for obtain and submitting permits So, how does all of this work?…

11. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 11 11 From Vision to Action 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!

12. State of Michigan Department of Information Technology 12 12 From Vision to Action Contacts & Questions MDIT Office of Technology Partnerships  George Boersma, Director boersmag@michigan.gov (517) 335-1507 boersmag@michigan.gov  Tanesha Hixon hixont@michigan.gov (517)373-9502 hixont@michigan.gov