Technology requires an investment in order to gain benefits. The
Town should make that investment whenever the technology will contribute
to making information more available, increasing feedback from
citizens, or facilitating efficient operations.
Computers and the Web
We
recommend making town business -- codes, studies, applications
for development, etc.
available
for review on
the web.
Publish
the Town calendar, meeting notices,
agenda,
and minutes
as an RSS feed and on the town web site.
In
selecting software, utilize software design that enables
departments and committees to update their pages directly and
facilitates resident feedback, on-line discussion, and interaction.
Request
developers submit planning documents in digital format;
publish those documents on the web site.
Network
the town departments and develop a shared database
to facilitate communication and record keeping.
Town telephone system
Update
the Town telephone system to reduce busy signals. Evaluate systems
that can accommodate
automated call groups for emergency notification.
Community Wireless and Cell Phone Coverage
We
recognize the tension that exists over siting towers for wireless
and
cell communications.
However, we
value the benefits
of improved cell communications. In particular, emergency
services and
small business
people who rely on cell communications suffer from currently
spotty coverage.
The
Town has procedures in place for handling cell tower applications.
Other Technologies
Individual town departments should be encouraged to explore technologies
that could facilitate their operations more effective or efficient.
Analysis should include an estimated return on investment.
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