The City of Corpus Christi has been notified by the Center for Digital Government that, for the second year in a row, it has been recognized as the 2006 Number One Digital City in the United States.
The most technology-advanced cities in America have been named by the Center for Digital Government (
Some of the new web applications for the City of Corpus Christi this year include the Customer Online Center, through which citizens can use the City web site to search City service FAQs, send comments or questions, and submit service requests. The Call Center is unique in that call representatives issue work orders utilizing the department's software system. The City's web site also features a new "Ready Corpus Christi" site for hurricane and other emergency information and notification; several new public safety sites, such as CrimeStoppers; and a rotating web cam with great bayfront views. Other web applications include community and entertainment calendars, video streaming of Council meetings, and many online forms, applications and payments processes. Spotlighted in the survey were "seamless City service" initiatives, using technology to integrate the City web site, the Customer Call Center and telephone Interactive Voice Response for processes like utility bill payments and building inspections; a new automated citywide "Balanced Scorecard" for measuring and tracking performance of departments; and online Latchkey registration and payments, Museum Gift Shop, facility reservations, "What's Happening" sites, and other arts, cultural and recreational sites.
The survey also includes questions about IT strategic planning, infrastructure, security audits, and web technology.
The Center for Digital Government (
www.centerdigitalgov.com) based on its 2006 Digital Cities Survey. The sixth annual study examines how city governments are utilizing digital technologies to better serve their citizens and streamline operations. "We were so happy to see the fantastic improvements and innovations made by cities from coast to coast," said Cathilea Robinett, executive director for the Center for Digital Government. "Each year, while conducting the Digital Cities Survey and other popular survey programs, we continually see America's state and local governments raising the bar and expanding their use of technology to serve citizens. We can't help but be inspired and impressed by the amazing strides made by this year's participating cities." While the survey is open to all U.S. cities with populations of 30,000 or more, there are a handful of cities consistently at the front of the pack. Of note, Corpus Christi, Texas has been in the top 10 since 2003.www.centerdigitalgov.com) is a national research and advisory institute on information technology policies and best practices in state and local government. A list of this year's winners can be found at http://www.centerdigitalgov.com/surveys.php?survey=cities.
