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New software designed to make city more responsive

The city has a new feature on its Web site that will allow people to keep track of service requests, and will allow city employees to also stay on top of work that is being done.

At their meeting Tuesday, City Manager Doug Russell gave a demonstration of the software, and said the program is designed to make the city more responsive and more efficient.

"When we did the citizen's survey, one of the main things people wanted was improved service," he said, adding that he got this program as a way to improve service.

On the Web site there is a link to "Access Arkansas City," which takes people to the program.

On the program people can make requests, offer suggestions and feedback, make complaints or give compliments. That information is then automatically put into a data base and sent to the appropriate department head.

People may also keep track of their requests. Russell also explained that city employees can also keep track of progress on various requests.

For instance, if someone reported a pothole in the street, they could then come back to the site and see what progress has been made in getting the problem fixed.

People will have to register in order to check on progress. They may register anonymously or with their name.

The system will automatically send emails to the appropriate people, and will send out updates to the person making the request.

"It gives people a way to see if their requests are being resolved," Russell said.

The program costs $4,000 per year. Russell said other programs he looked at were in the $7,000 range.

The program is not designed to replace personal contact. People may still call city hall talk to people. This is just another tool for people to use, Russell said.

Chief of Administration Steve Archer said the program will allow employees to access a request while on the phone when someone calls, so they can be given specific information about a project.

In other matter the commission:

* Passed an ordinance that will authorize the city to remove graffiti from people's property if they do not remove it within 48 hours.

City officials feel it is important to remove graffiti quickly, especially if it is gang-related. When it is reported, people will be notified that they have 48 hours to either remove the graffiti or make arrangements to do so. If that does not happen the city will remove it. The property owner will be billed for the removal.

How much the fee will be will depend on how much graffiti is involved and what method is used.

* Passed a resolution approving the sale of shares of Covista Medical Center, LLC to SCKRMC , and releasing Cardiovascular Hospitals of America, LLC from Covista Medical Center, LLC Agreements.

* Passed a resolution supporting the Northern Flyer Alliance and extending AMTRAK service between Oklahoma City and Kansas City, which would pass through Arkansas City.

* Approved the mayor's appointment of Judy Morrison to the beautification board.

Above: People can keep track of their requests to the city with new software on the city Web site, at www.arkcity.org.