Public Technology Institute launched a new program that will recognize city and county governments that use Web 2.0/social networking-type technologies to reach out to citizens.
Local governments are expanding their use of this type of technology for citizen outreach. They are using it to inform the public about issues affecting the community and the public’s quality of life and to encourage collaboration with and engage the public in government decision-making.
The goal of local government Web 2.0 portals is to help bridge the divide between citizens and the government by encouraging residents to take a more active role in local government, while also streamlining government services.
"Local government use of Web 2.0 applications takes advantage of efficient and effective technology tools and demonstrates value for community and digital inclusion," said Alan Shark, executive director of PTI.
PTI will:
• Host a series of webinars that explore how local governments are using the various Web 2.0 tools, policy implications of using these tools, lessons learned, and effective practices
• Create a Web 2.0 State and Local Government Awards and Recognition Program. PTI is convening an advisory board of local government officials to identify award guidelines
• Produce a series of articles and other outreach to promote the concept of virtual town halls to both the local government community, in particular elected officials, and to the public.
The National League of Cities, the International City/County Management Association and the National Association of Counties sponsor PTI. For more information, visit www.pti.org.