There is no denying that the web has become one of our main sources of information. With the increasing prevalence of smart phones, tablets and other portable devices, we are able to get the information we need, at our fingertips, whenever we need it.
It’s something we expect and demand, and understandably so. As technology improves and information becomes even more readily available, our expectations will grow, as well.
When I ran for mayor, I made a promise to run the township more efficiently and effectively. Part of that efficiency is giving members of the public access to the tools and information they need, without having to call or visit town hall.
For the last 15 months, we in town hall have worked diligently to meet residents’ expectations and keep my promises by expanding the municipal services that are available online — starting last spring with the launch of a new, more interactive and user-friendly township website at www.CherryHill-NJ.com.
The new website, which featured a brand-new look, expanded e-mail alerts and a revamped Citizen Request Tracker, now serves as a sort-of “virtual Town Hall” that puts vital information at residents’ fingertips 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — without taking time off from work or time away from their homes and families to make a trip to the Municipal Building.
It doesn’t get more efficient than that.
That’s why I’m extremely proud of some news we received last week from Monmouth University’s Polling Institute and Graduate Program in Public Policy. According to a study released last Tuesday, Cherry Hill’s new website ranks among the best in the state, particularly when it comes to resident interaction and the availability “e-government” services.
That fact is thanks in large part to the changes we have made since January 2012.
We know for a fact that websites have become one of the most important tools for citizens to get information about the local government and the current events and activities in the communities in which they live. A 2011 Monmouth University Poll showed that New Jerseyans look to their municipal websites before any other source when looking for information on government services. The study also showed that residents were far more likely to engage their elected officials via e-mail and the web than by phone or traditional mail.
A few of the most useful tools you’ll find at CherryHill-NJ.com include:
• Citizen Request Tracker: Clicking on the “Report a Concern” tab on the Township website directs you to our Citizen Request Tracker (also available as a free iPhone app), where registered users can submit requests, report concerns, track the progress of previously reported issues, reopen closed issues, and request information related to any Township department. My office receives dozens of resident requests through this online forum every week, and we work closely with other departments to ensure a timely response to every resident who reaches out.
• Expanded e-mail communications: By clicking on the “Notify Me” tab online, users can customize the alerts from a full menu of available subscription lists, including Emergency Alerts, News Updates (for traffic alerts and other breaking news), Recreation Events, the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, and of course, my Mayor’s Weekly Briefing.
• Tax- and sewer-bill reminders: Property owners can sign up to receive free e-mail reminders one week ahead of property tax and sewer bill due dates. To subscribe, click on the “Notify Me” tab, enter your preferred e-mail address, and scroll down to select the icon next to “Taxes.” You will receive a confirmation email from Listserv@civicplus.com. Click on the link within that e-mail to validate your subscription — and remember to set your spam blocker to allow emails from that address.
• Online tax/sewer information: Click on the link to “View Tax/Sewer Information Online” on the left-hand side of our home page to access this public information. Users can search by name, address, block and lot, or tax account ID.
• Events Calendar: Users can see that gives residents a look at upcoming public meetings, Recreation classes and activities, Mayor’s Wellness Campaign activities, and much more.
And those are just a few of the newer and more interesting features on our website. With just a few clicks of the mouse, residents will also find meeting agendas and minutes; public bid information; links to search Township resolutions and ordinances; Township budget information; commonly requested forms; and frequently asked questions.
In addition to the information, services and resources we offer at www.CherryHill-NJ.com, we have also expanded out outreach via social media. If you aren’t already doing so, I encourage user to “like” Cherry Hill Township on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter @CherryHillTwp.
The township was recognized for its web-related achievements at a special reception last Thursday at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, and while we are very excited by the recognition received and the progress we have made, there is always more that can be done.
We are continually looking for ways to improve residents’ online experiences, and hope to add additional helpful and informative features as we move forward. As with any other issue, public input is critical to our success, and I invite you to share your thoughts by calling my office at (856) 488–7878, or e-mailing me at MayorCahn@chtownship.com.
Mayor Chuck Cahn
