A few weeks ago we received an email from a county Emergency Manager in the United States. The unnamed manager was excited about SeeClickFix as a gateway reporting tool to emergency and crisis reporting.
His vision was that citizens would use SCF as an easy on ramp to reporting to city government for issues like potholes and graffiti in their every day comings and goings. In an emergency they would use the same tool that they had already acquainted themselves with to help out their neighbors in an earthquake, fire or other natural disaster. Not only would they be able to quickly report issues to their government but to their community as well.
We were excited to get started in this new county with the endorsement of Emergency Management but the idea was quickly shot down in a meeting in which we demo'd the product to Public Works and other non-emergency service departments. The other managers were upset that someone was proposing that citizens be able to give more feedback. The Emergency Services manager felt bad for our Government Relations Manager and ended the call early only to be reprimanded afterwards by his co-workers for suggesting an additional layer of accountability in the name of public safety.
Sadly, it is not always easy being a forward thinking individual that puts the interests of tax-paying citizens first when you're working inside an institution with a lot of cob-webs to dust. Sometimes I feel like a therapist for these officials who think that what they are experiencing is unprecedented.
Of course there are always barricades in every city to open government. If there wasn't SeeClickFix would not be championing civic disruption as the first step towards open government.
So what tools are best suited for this situation? How can we assist the Emergency Manager from the outside without placing his job on the line?
1) The Sales Pitch Top Down: Politics is always a good angle though not our favorite. I might email the Mayor and pitch him on this great idea that a nameless employee had. We've found that open government has made its way into the political agenda of many municipal officials. A campaign to increase participation and safety at the same time would be a great way to hold staffers accountable and garner public favor.
or
2) The Disruption Bottom Up: We could get the word out to citizens in the county through media widget embeds and community groups. When issues were reported alerts would be sent to the Public Works Director's email and residents could get their attention regardless of whether or not it was being asked for. Now the Citizens would be telling the Public Works Department what to do without invitation and the Emergency Management employee could work with the City to help adopt this new form of participation.
For the sake of this experiment I'll try both and keep you posted.
Grist Recommends Using SeeClickFix for a New Year's Resolution
Yesterday, Philly.com also featured a New Year's Resolution list on how to be a better citizen. Coming in at number 6, SeeClickFix was featured as a way citizens can communicate with the city.
Well we agree, what better way to start off 2011 by making your neighborhood a better place... and using SeeClickFix!
Update: Help Improve an Intersection in New Haven
SeeClickFix users have helped improve a dangerous intersection in New Haven. Last month, there was a post on the SCF blog about the intersection of Livingston and Edwards Streets because the issue received so much attention within hours of being posted. Users noted the limited visibility for drivers caused by illegal parking and said that speeding cars only worsened the problem by placing more pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers at risk.
The City of New Haven has responded, and a speed table will be added to the intersection of Livingston and Edwards Streets.
As City Engineer Dick Miller (left) explains in the New Haven Independent, the street will be
raised about six inches to slow traffic at the intersection. The City will also add bump outs (which extend the curb further out into the street in order to slow down turning vehicles and reduce the amount of time it takes for pedestrians to cross). Lastly, according to the Independent, "The intersection will also feature planted medians, textured and multicolored crosswalks, and yellow-patterned paving" along with newly planted trees. The City hopes that drivers will see all of these changes as "visual cues" to proceed through the intersection more carefully, in addition to the other infrastructure changes mentioned above.
For more information about how speed tables have worked elsewhere, check out Mark Abraham's post on this improvement on the New Haven Safe Streets Blog. As Mark points out, not only do speed tables calm traffic, but they can also help increase the sense of community in the area by making the street a more inviting place.
Great work by our users, the City of New Haven, and the New Haven Independent.
See the original post below:
(Photo: Thomas MacMillan/New Haven Independent)
The City of New Haven has responded, and a speed table will be added to the intersection of Livingston and Edwards Streets.As City Engineer Dick Miller (left) explains in the New Haven Independent, the street will be
raised about six inches to slow traffic at the intersection. The City will also add bump outs (which extend the curb further out into the street in order to slow down turning vehicles and reduce the amount of time it takes for pedestrians to cross). Lastly, according to the Independent, "The intersection will also feature planted medians, textured and multicolored crosswalks, and yellow-patterned paving" along with newly planted trees. The City hopes that drivers will see all of these changes as "visual cues" to proceed through the intersection more carefully, in addition to the other infrastructure changes mentioned above.
For more information about how speed tables have worked elsewhere, check out Mark Abraham's post on this improvement on the New Haven Safe Streets Blog. As Mark points out, not only do speed tables calm traffic, but they can also help increase the sense of community in the area by making the street a more inviting place.
Great work by our users, the City of New Haven, and the New Haven Independent.
See the original post below:
In just a couple of hours, an issue reported in New Haven's East Rock neighborhood has attracted over 60 views, 7 votes, and several comments. The issue: limited visibility turning onto Edwards Street from Livingston Street due to illegally parked cars.
So far, a number of solutions have been suggested. Among them are increased parking enforcement in the current no standing zone, or changing the intersection to add bump-outs, bollards, a roundabout, curb extensions, or converting it to a raised intersection.
What do you think? How can the City of New Haven improve this problem?
(Photo: Thomas MacMillan/New Haven Independent)
Winter 311!
Last week as Minnesota was hit with a huge snow storm, the citizens of St. Paul turned to SeeClickFix to bring attention to areas that needed the most help. Over 40 snow related issues reported in St. Paul alone ranged from unplowed streets, bus stops, sidewalks, and snow covered traffic lights. We give a special thanks to the Minnesota Public Radio, who has made it possible for the citizens of Minnesota to report community issues on the SeeClickFix map widget straight from their site.
Any snow storms coming towards your town? Be sure to utilize SeeClickFix!
Huntington, NY fixes problems FAST!
Residents of Huntington, NY are speaking up via SeeClickFix -- and local authorities are stepping up fast! It’s impressive to see local government responding to issues in such a timely manner. Huntington authorities have been wisely delegating the problems that are reported, which boosts the feel of collaboration and engagement within the town.
For instance, when a traffic light problem was reported about a month ago, the issue was sent to the director of transportation for Huntington, who promptly routed it to the New York State DOT. The light was fixed within a few days. The grateful citizen closed the issue, and all was well again at the intersection of Eldorado Dr. and the Jericho Turnpike!
In another case, a tenant reported “No heat or hot water” at an apartment complex. The problem was fixed in ONE DAY with the help of another 311 platform, HeatWatchNYC, which was created specifically to address heating and water issues in New York City and operates similarly to SeeClickFix. It’s great to see this kind of teamwork in addressing community problems.
Huntington is a unique and forward-thinking town, interested in utilizing technology to improve the community. The Huntington Water Treatment Plant has become the first location in the country to install a new technology compressor in one of the plant’s blowers, which is projected to save around $80,000 a year. The town is also working on a major renovation of Betty Allen Park Preserve, a popular hiking and nature observation area with a freshwater pond for fishing. In addition, Huntington has released several open datasets through their online library to help citizens find community info and forms.
Helping and empowering citizens is obviously a priority in Huntington, NY. It’s our top priority too! We look forward to working with Huntington to solve more issues FAST.
For instance, when a traffic light problem was reported about a month ago, the issue was sent to the director of transportation for Huntington, who promptly routed it to the New York State DOT. The light was fixed within a few days. The grateful citizen closed the issue, and all was well again at the intersection of Eldorado Dr. and the Jericho Turnpike!
In another case, a tenant reported “No heat or hot water” at an apartment complex. The problem was fixed in ONE DAY with the help of another 311 platform, HeatWatchNYC, which was created specifically to address heating and water issues in New York City and operates similarly to SeeClickFix. It’s great to see this kind of teamwork in addressing community problems.
Huntington is a unique and forward-thinking town, interested in utilizing technology to improve the community. The Huntington Water Treatment Plant has become the first location in the country to install a new technology compressor in one of the plant’s blowers, which is projected to save around $80,000 a year. The town is also working on a major renovation of Betty Allen Park Preserve, a popular hiking and nature observation area with a freshwater pond for fishing. In addition, Huntington has released several open datasets through their online library to help citizens find community info and forms.
Helping and empowering citizens is obviously a priority in Huntington, NY. It’s our top priority too! We look forward to working with Huntington to solve more issues FAST.
SeeClickFix is on Craig Newmark's phone and its his fav!
Appolicious asked Craig Newmark, founder of Craig's list, what's on his phone.
The Answer, "SeeClickFix"
Why you ask?
Newmark: "Real eGovernment. If you see a problem, you take a picture, geotag it, and send it to the right local government people to get it fixed.”
Check out the post here and get excited for our shiny new app to be released in the first week of the New Year!
If you've never heard of this little site Craig runs you should check that out as well.
How to Fix America Segment on PBS featured SeeClickFix this weekend
This weekend on Need To Know Anya Kamenetz and 8 other thinkers discussed their big ideas for how to fix America in a segment aptly called "How To Fix America"
Some of the topics that were interesting to me included
- Opening the conversation around race such that talking about race is not considered racist.
- Changing the public welfare system to guarantee more public service jobs while throttling back handouts.
- Opening data and the wealth of government information to allow for a more informed and distributed self governed society.
Anya, discussed SeeClickFix as the focal point of her segment as a great example of increasing participation by opening data and increasing access points. She sites SCF because, "Most importantly your neighbors can see what your concerns are, which aggregates your voice in a very powerful way and it connects directly to government so it does not go unnoticed."
Its exciting to see authors like Anya bringing the transformation of local community's and their governments to the near front of popular culture on national networks like PBS. The only way we can help every community help itself is if they "Know."
Check out the segment on Need To Know and Anya's article on the open government movement in Fast Company this month.
Rockford Register Star Launches Problem Tracker
Today rrstar.com launched "Problem Tracker" with the SeeClickFix map widget featured as it's main problem tracking tool. Users in Rockford, IL can now report and track issues that are reported in their community. We think the page looks rockin!
Proactive Community Group in DC Using SeeClickFix
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| Meridian Hill Park, Washington DC |
Yet another community group is using SeeClickFix to report issues -- the Meridian Hill Neighborhood Association (MHNA). This non-profit, forward-thinking organization is dedicated to the improvement and beautification of the community surrounding Meridian Hill Park in Washington, DC. The boundaries of MNHA are relatively small (a few miles square) but these civic-minded citizens make a big impact on their corner of the world. Taking responsibility for their area, encouraging public involvement -- those are a few our favorite things! Naturally, SeeClickFix is proud to help MNHA in their efforts to create a better community.
The association has been working tirelessly to foster relationships between neighbors, businesses, developers, schools, churches, and local government. Toward that end, MNHA heads up all kinds of involvement projects: litter clean-up, lobbying for green spaces and walkable areas, “meet & greet” with local officials, and more. Their website is a valuable resource for citizens, featuring meeting agendas, local business listings, and an informative blog, along with pertinent city info like weather and holiday trash schedules.
SeeClickFix is a great tool for such a proactive group. MNHA created a watch area for their boundaries, so they can follow issues within the area and keep group members aware of local activity. Plus, a reporting widget on the MNHA website is coming soon. Community groups using SeeClickFix help to foster citizen involvement. We’re excited to be part of what MNHA is doing in their area. Welcome aboard and keep up the great work!
The association has been working tirelessly to foster relationships between neighbors, businesses, developers, schools, churches, and local government. Toward that end, MNHA heads up all kinds of involvement projects: litter clean-up, lobbying for green spaces and walkable areas, “meet & greet” with local officials, and more. Their website is a valuable resource for citizens, featuring meeting agendas, local business listings, and an informative blog, along with pertinent city info like weather and holiday trash schedules.
SeeClickFix is a great tool for such a proactive group. MNHA created a watch area for their boundaries, so they can follow issues within the area and keep group members aware of local activity. Plus, a reporting widget on the MNHA website is coming soon. Community groups using SeeClickFix help to foster citizen involvement. We’re excited to be part of what MNHA is doing in their area. Welcome aboard and keep up the great work!
The Battle for Control of Smart Cities: SeeClickFix mentioned again on Fast Company today
The Rockefeller Foundation released an info graphic today displaying the "The Future of Cities, Information and Inclusion" In a a Fast Company story titled The Battle for Control of Smart Cities the highly informative graphic is discussed in more detail. One of the bubbles in the graphic: "Crowdsourced public services (best exemplified in the U.S. bySeeClickFix)"
Our friends at CroundCrew are also shown in the graphic. If you have not yet, you should definitely check out their platform for mobilizing citizens to solve problems in the public space.
Below is a snapshot from that graphic.
Nicco Mele Highlights SeeClickFix in Parker Spitzer Interview
Today SeeClickFix was mentioned in the Parker Spitzer blog "Mele: Give Assange internet access." For a Parker Spitzer exclusive blog post, leading expert in social media and Web 2.0 politics, Nicco Mele was interviewed with five "OFF-SET" questions, one of them which prompted Mele to highlight SeeClickFix.
Mele was asked "do you think the internet is turning us into more informed citizens and improving the civility of our society - or is it helping segregate Americans into separate groups based on what people say they believe?"
Mele responded, "When I look at the wide range of exciting and engaging things happening online to better engage citizens - projects like SeeClickFix and Wikipedia - I think that the internet is transforming our society for the better." Mele further explained how he believes the internet will be the "engine for civic innovation."
SeeClickFix thanks Mele for the mention, we love it!
Check out Mele's appearance on the Parker Spitzer show on CNN tonight at 8pm ET and 5pm PT.
New Friends from Coast to Coast...Yeah!
Today SCF has two new media partners. One in Mass and the other in New Mexico.
These two new media partners add to nearly 1,000 media partners working with SeeClickFix to deliver citizens' concerns to their governments and each other. As we grow SCF we are ever grateful for the 4th estate's willingness to disrupt at the local level. Both of these hyperlocal sites are providing a valuable service to their communities and we salute them for that.
Worcester Wired has created their own section for SCF which you can check out here: http://www.worcesterwired.com/seeclickfix-2/
and Rio Rancho has SCF embedded on the homepage here: http://www.rrobserver.com/
Cheers to new friends!
These two new media partners add to nearly 1,000 media partners working with SeeClickFix to deliver citizens' concerns to their governments and each other. As we grow SCF we are ever grateful for the 4th estate's willingness to disrupt at the local level. Both of these hyperlocal sites are providing a valuable service to their communities and we salute them for that.
Worcester Wired has created their own section for SCF which you can check out here: http://www.worcesterwired.com/seeclickfix-2/
and Rio Rancho has SCF embedded on the homepage here: http://www.rrobserver.com/
Cheers to new friends!
Neighbors helping Neighbors to get their heat on in NYC
In New York City this is a phone call that would take 15 minutes to report to the the City which would then in turn might create a notice or fine against the landlord. The whole process for a single issue could cost the city hundreds of dollars. (Speculative opinion based on conversations with municipal workers) Aside from the cost savings there is the added benefit, through public documentation, of showing others that problems like this can be resolved by speaking up. A sort-of viral feedback loop through the network created on SeeClickFix.
We love Penny and Heatwatch. If you want to help her help other neighbors, you can contact her at heatwatchnyc.org
Check out the fixed issue at http://www.seeclickfix.com/issues/67973
SeeClickFix on The Local East Village blog
Today we have launched SeeClickFix on The Local East Village (LEV) blog, a collaboration between The New York Times and New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute to cover New York City's East Village.
Using SeeClickFix, the LEV hopes to raise awareness about different issues in the East Village. This collated information is directly available and can be viewed from the East Village watch area on the LEV site.
We hope that local government officials, neighborhood groups and private individuals will sign up to receive notifications about posted concerns. Anyone can also follow posts within the East Village area via @SeeClickFixLEV on Twitter.
As journalists, we particularly hope to use the information to help us report more effectively on neighborhood concerns and draw attention to them.
We look forward to hearing what our neighbors think most needs fixing in the East Village.
James Matthews is a contributor to The Local East Village and a member of the student development team for the blog. He is a graduate student at New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute.
Inc. names Ben Berkowitz as an entrepreneur they love
Inc. Magazine just published their top entrepreneurs of 2010 that they love, and guess who made the list? SeeClickFix's very own co-founder Ben Berkowitz.
Inc. stated that they "selected entrepreneurs who feel like discoveries and whose innovations or achievements excite us personally. Many of these people are on a social mission."
Ben, along with 23 other entrepreneurs including big shots like comedian Will Ferrel, Chris Anderson of TED, and app developer Ge Wang were featured in exclusive articles explaining their road to success.
Be sure to read Ben's spotlight along with the other 23 well deserving entrepreneurs!
Why PhP?
Every user or a surfer hangs out to only those websites which looks attractive and amusing to them. PHP is the best answer to this, its customer oriented approach makes it most suitable scripting language now days for building up the new websites which includes the most complex websites, shopping sites, web-based applications, custom applications and CMS, chat software, and developing dynamic tools.
PHP programming is a crucial part of Web development mechanism, and a very useful tool in the open source development like Magento, Zen Cart, OS Commerce, Joomla and WordPress development and many more.
PHP development have been grouped with more than one dynamic services which make the web development more easier and with the power to excel more visitors from its look and to force them to have a deep look into website and turn into leading customer, those services grouping PHP and building effective and influential pages are:
- PHP application development
- PHP programming
- PHP Zend development
- CakePHP
- PHP e-commerce solution
- PHP web application development
- Custom PHP applicationsg
PHP (Pre Processor Hypertext) is a server-side scripting language, it's a best choice for developing the dynamic webpages and building an interactive B2C relation.
Advantages:
- Download it for Free. Here
- User Friendly as compared to other Web Development languages.
- Resourceful: OS and Server Friendly.
- It can manage lot of database.
- Faster Downloading
- Easy Navigation
- Consistent, Affordable and Fast
Why PHP developer?
As the Website for any online business is it's only front and rear, one must be very careful that users enjoy well and get full information that your business is claiming for and website have to be interactive enough to stick user on its pages.
Outsourcing your PHP Development helps you in many ways like:
- Affordable
- Full technical knowledge
- Available at low price
- Use expertise only for your project
- Rapid development work process
- Creating dynamic web applications
- Do the work according to your needs
- Keeping update himself
- Expertise in web development
iPhone Applications For Business Developers
Today iPhone is on the top of the leading smart phones and the Qualities which make it the best are:
- Multitasking: Multitasking is a task switcher by which you can switch from one application to another application in your iPhone device.
- Enterprise: You can find amazing functions like wireless app distribution, multiple exchange account and many others.
- iBooks: It is an e-book reader. One can buy new content through an e-book store.
- iAd Function This feature of iPhone is basically for the application developers by using latest tools of Apple to steady the users into the application while displaying them advertising.
- Game Center: It provides a multi-player network to connect games. It has also a third-party service.
- E-mail: Unified inbox allows the users to see their mails in a single box and provides best experience of e-mail to the users.
- Folders: This feature helps users to manage their applications and to access it fast. By dragging an icon of app into another you can find auto created folder in your device.
iPhone is smartest of all the phones in this time Period designed by Apple Inc. the fastest growing mobile phone industry in the market. Apple Inc. introduced new version of iPhone OS called IOS4. The new IOS4 accessible with APIs and SDK4 for the powerful iPhone application development. The user friendly features, APIs and SDK4 allow iPhone developers to create customized and advanced iPhone apps. The iPhone web developers provide multitasking features of the new IOS4 allowing programs to perform various task at background. The new IOS4 is consistent with iPhone 4 applications and iPhone 3G.
About Author:
Elan Emerging Technologies offers Offshore Software Development Services like iPhone App Development, PHP Web Development, Outsource iPhone Development, Web Design and Development, Blackberry Application Development, E-commerce Solutions, Mobile Application Development, ASP.Net Web Development, Ajax Web Development and Outsource Microsoft Technologies Development.
Android Latest SDK Version "2.2"
This is update list for the Android 2.2:
- Nexus One: It has been updated as this is the flagship phone pg Google.
- HTC EVO 4G Also been updated being the first carrier specific device to recieve the upgradation.
- Motorola Droid { Updated] this verzion was rolled out in August shortly, after the EVO. Enabling Adobe Flash Support. For getting this functionality user have to redownload the software from the Adobe market.
- HTC Droid Incredible [UPDATED]
- HTC Desire [UPDATED]: Started with the unlocked version of the phone now rolling out on carrier – branded devices.
- Motorola Droid X [UPDATED] : Started with the My Touch 3G later included MyTouch 3G Slide and MyTouch Fender Limited Edition .
- Acer Liquid E [NEW ADDITION]: this was updated for his liquid E Handset and the update was availiable directly from the download center.
- Dell Streak [UPDATED]: Call it a tablet, call it a phone, call it whatever you want -- Dell's plus-sized Android device is finally getting its fill of Froyo.
There are many other phones that are expected to get Froyo in the comming Future including
- HTC Wildfire
- Samsung Intercept
- Motorola Defy
- Samsung Galaxy S
- LG Ally
- Motorola Milestone
- Samsung Transform
- HTC Legend
- Motorola Backflip
- Sony Ericsson Xperia X10
- Motorola Backflip
Froyo will further expected to Tab into the corporate Market for offering exchange compatibility, security features and syncing calender facilities. Till now Google as a Enterprise has suffered a great deal of inacceptance from the corporate world due to the data and privacy concerns.
Currently devices that are equipped with the Froyo are tagged with the error collecting application so as to get the reports on the various errors and bugs faced by users. Still many Android Application development firms have adopted Froyo as part of the Android family and has been developing applications to ensure that users have full access to the Froyo's capabilities.
Huffington Post's Greatest Person Of The Day: SeeClickFix Co-Founder Ben Berkowitz
Today, the Huffington Post announced that SeeClickFix's co-founder Ben Berkowitz is the Greatest Person Of The Day. The Huffington Post poses the question, "Who are the people in your community who are responding to the economic crisis with creativity, generosity, and passion?" Users can answer this question by nominating who they think is "The Greatest Person Of The Day".
Check out the article that features an exclusive interview with Ben and the Huffington Post!
Providence keeps their parks safe
Eighteen days ago, issue #65289 was reported through the SeeClickFix mobile application in Providence, Rhode Island. A SeeClickFix citizen posted a broken swing located in Lippitt Memorial Park. It was reported just 4 days later on SeeClickFix that the swing was fixed!
SeeClickFix featured in Fast Company with clients Tucson and Manor and co-conspirator Code For America
If you have not picked up the latest Fast Company for December 2010, you really should!
SeeClickFix is featured alongside our clients Tucson, AZ and Manor, TX along with Gov20 Co-Conspirator Code For America.
The article tells of the coming shift to muni government and some of the folks that are helping to make that happen. If you're not feeling committed to a print copy you can read the articles here:
http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/151/upright-citizens-brigade.html
and here:
http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/151/icitizen-bonus.html
The Saratogian Shares Community Question: Can Saratoga Springs rent out Visitor Center Space?
Reported by The Saratogian, members of the Saratoga Springs community ask if it is possible to outsource the Saratoga Springs Heritage Area Visitor Center to another community group in light of budget difficulties, raised in Issue #64475.
Community member Brian on SeeClickFix encourages a healthy discussion to ensure city tax payers are getting the most values. Other members supported Brian's opinion and added that the Visitor Center should be a priority because tourism brings the most revenue to the city. As outlined in The Saratogian, government officials have acknowledged the issue and are discussing the options.
WECT investigates traffic signal in NC
WECT of North Carolina investigated issue #61816 , which reported a potentially dangerous area coming out of the Food Lion shopping center on Carolina Beach Road. It has been requested that a traffic light be put in place to prevent an accident. Other concerned citizens have commented on the issue in agreement that this is a dangerous location and that they've witnessed accidents as well.
WECT interviewed the N.C. Department of Transportation, and found that according to them "any time a development causes an impact to existing traffic it is the developer's responsibility to make improvements."
According the WECT, a traffic signal is planned for the shopping center in conjunction with the new McDonald's restaurant!
Help improve an intersection in New Haven
In just a couple of hours, an issue reported in New Haven's East Rock neighborhood has attracted over 60 views, 7 votes, and several comments. The issue: limited visibility turning onto Edwards Street from Livingston Street due to illegally parked cars.
So far, a number of solutions have been suggested. Among them are increased parking enforcement in the current no standing zone, or changing the intersection to add bump-outs, bollards, a roundabout, curb extensions, or converting it to a raised intersection.
What do you think? How can the City of New Haven improve this problem?
So far, a number of solutions have been suggested. Among them are increased parking enforcement in the current no standing zone, or changing the intersection to add bump-outs, bollards, a roundabout, curb extensions, or converting it to a raised intersection.
What do you think? How can the City of New Haven improve this problem?
Bronx News Network integrates with SeeClickFix
The Bronx News Network recently integrated the SeeClickFix map widget onto their website. Community members of the Bronx can now report and vote for issues directly from The Bronx News Network site. So far, a number of issues have been reported within the Bronx area, and Councilman Fernando Cabrera has created a watch area!
The Saratogian helps address dangerous intersection
On Saturday, November 13, The Saratogian addressed issue #64748, where a SeeClickFix user posted an issue regarding two cedar trees that were planted near a stop sign and are obstructing the view of oncoming traffic between the intersection of Hawthorne Blvd. and Hutchins Rd. in Saratoga Springs, NY.
It was reported that there are community concerns that this intersection is dangerous and could cause an accident. With further investigation, The Saratogian found out through City police Sgt. Andrew Prestigiacomo that there was one accident reported at this intersection so far, caused by a driver failing to yeild to the right of way.
Public works was also interviewed and reported that they will work to assess this intersection within the next two upcoming weeks. Tim Cogan, the Deputy Public Works Commissioner, was reported saying that "We'll trim the trees."
Civic Group Grows with SeeClickFix
Local governments across the country are cutting back. While these cuts can strain a city's ability to provide services, they also present city residents with opportunities to become more engaged and fill in the gaps with civic action. That's what we're seeing in Philadelphia, and SeeClickFix is proud to help.
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter announced a series of budget cuts in May, including about $1.7 million to an office that oversees the city's Town Watch Integrated Services. The program works with local residents to help them patrol their own neighborhoods and create safer communities. In the face of these cuts though, one civic group in Philadelphia is still growing.
The Passyunk Square Town Watch is recruiting members, reporting issues, and working to help solve them. By working through SeeClickFix, their group just gained one more partner: SCF user Bob Shipman. Bob has been reporting issues in the group's watch area and recently contacted the group's leadership to get more involved. This is exactly how ordinary citizens can work together to change their communities.
Keep up the good work!
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter announced a series of budget cuts in May, including about $1.7 million to an office that oversees the city's Town Watch Integrated Services. The program works with local residents to help them patrol their own neighborhoods and create safer communities. In the face of these cuts though, one civic group in Philadelphia is still growing.
The Passyunk Square Town Watch is recruiting members, reporting issues, and working to help solve them. By working through SeeClickFix, their group just gained one more partner: SCF user Bob Shipman. Bob has been reporting issues in the group's watch area and recently contacted the group's leadership to get more involved. This is exactly how ordinary citizens can work together to change their communities.
Keep up the good work!
Open Web Platforms, Local Activists and the US Coastguard: Next Generation Democracy
Next Generation Democracy - What the Open Source Revolution Means for Power Politics and Change ,written by Jared Duval, was released today by Bloomsbury. (Full disclosure for this review: Jared has become a friend since he first interviewed us for the SeeClickFix chapter in the book. He also now lives in New Haven. Both are likely to bias my opinions.)
Guilty of dedicating little time to reading I expected to vainly consume only one chapter. However on a recent flight to Toronto I failed to only scope the index for references to SeeClickFix and finished Next Generation Democracy before touching down.
Next Generation Democracy chronicles distributed and open movements and organizations that are reshaping the face of democracy. Through the stories of ordinary people who have made instrumental impact on the world, Jared links the similarities in effecting change back to the principles of the open source software movement.
The forward by Tim O'Reilly reads, "...now is the time for government to reinvent itself, to take the old idea of government 'for the people, by the people and of the people' to a new level."
This is the story of people who are helping government to think of itself in a new light. This is the story of government as a partner with its citizens and as a platform for participation. This is the story of government as an enabler. Most importantly this is not the story of the government that sits solely inside city hall, this is the story of the government that sits in the collective actions of all of us and sparks the average citizen to speak up and enable their neighbors to do the same.
Malcom Gladwell wrote in the New Yorker a few weeks back that, "Social media can't provide what social change has always required."
I understand the point that a tweet about global warming is a sorry substitution for tying one's self to a tree. However Gladwell misses a point which Mr Duval clearly recognizes:
That first tweet about global warming is a much easier on-ramp for the average citizen. Those that will tie themselves to trees and show up to City Hall for town meetings are not less likely to do so. In many cases social web platforms can enable those that tie themselves to trees to get many more to do the same. In the same way that a few check-ins on foursquare can lead to a swarm, organizers can get those to rally in real life. Between 40,000 and 100,000 people still attended the Copenhagen Summit and gave cause for 968 arrests.
Its not the individual tweet that creates a revolution but the trending hashtags of thousands of tweets that provides awareness to many who would not have been previously aware. Social Media personalizes our new global consciousness through the voices of our friends. The platforms teach us that leveraging users and citizens will only make the platform/democracy stronger . The read write principles of the web platform are what's fundamentally changing the way we organize and effect change.
From the evolution of Linux to the distributed mechanisms of the US Coastguard, Next Generation Democracy shows us how being more inclusive in our decision making and providing easier access to governance can reshape democracy for the 21st century. As a perfect debunking of "Why the revolution will not be tweeted." Jared tells the Story of SeeClickFix users who met online and formed a block watch off-line to improve the real space around them.
For a more detailed review of Next Generation Democracy, by Yasmin Fodil: http://governingpeople.com/wethegoverati/18471/next-generation-democracy-what-open-source-movement-means-power-politics-and-cha
And to purchase the book: http://www.amazon.com/Next-Generation-Democracy-Open-Source-Revolution/dp/1608190668
Guilty of dedicating little time to reading I expected to vainly consume only one chapter. However on a recent flight to Toronto I failed to only scope the index for references to SeeClickFix and finished Next Generation Democracy before touching down.
Next Generation Democracy chronicles distributed and open movements and organizations that are reshaping the face of democracy. Through the stories of ordinary people who have made instrumental impact on the world, Jared links the similarities in effecting change back to the principles of the open source software movement.
The forward by Tim O'Reilly reads, "...now is the time for government to reinvent itself, to take the old idea of government 'for the people, by the people and of the people' to a new level."
This is the story of people who are helping government to think of itself in a new light. This is the story of government as a partner with its citizens and as a platform for participation. This is the story of government as an enabler. Most importantly this is not the story of the government that sits solely inside city hall, this is the story of the government that sits in the collective actions of all of us and sparks the average citizen to speak up and enable their neighbors to do the same.
Malcom Gladwell wrote in the New Yorker a few weeks back that, "Social media can't provide what social change has always required."
I understand the point that a tweet about global warming is a sorry substitution for tying one's self to a tree. However Gladwell misses a point which Mr Duval clearly recognizes:
That first tweet about global warming is a much easier on-ramp for the average citizen. Those that will tie themselves to trees and show up to City Hall for town meetings are not less likely to do so. In many cases social web platforms can enable those that tie themselves to trees to get many more to do the same. In the same way that a few check-ins on foursquare can lead to a swarm, organizers can get those to rally in real life. Between 40,000 and 100,000 people still attended the Copenhagen Summit and gave cause for 968 arrests.
Its not the individual tweet that creates a revolution but the trending hashtags of thousands of tweets that provides awareness to many who would not have been previously aware. Social Media personalizes our new global consciousness through the voices of our friends. The platforms teach us that leveraging users and citizens will only make the platform/democracy stronger . The read write principles of the web platform are what's fundamentally changing the way we organize and effect change.
From the evolution of Linux to the distributed mechanisms of the US Coastguard, Next Generation Democracy shows us how being more inclusive in our decision making and providing easier access to governance can reshape democracy for the 21st century. As a perfect debunking of "Why the revolution will not be tweeted." Jared tells the Story of SeeClickFix users who met online and formed a block watch off-line to improve the real space around them.
For a more detailed review of Next Generation Democracy, by Yasmin Fodil: http://governingpeople.com/wethegoverati/18471/next-generation-democracy-what-open-source-movement-means-power-politics-and-cha
And to purchase the book: http://www.amazon.com/Next-Generation-Democracy-Open-Source-Revolution/dp/1608190668
Newberg loves citizen involvement -- so does SeeClickFix
We are honored to recognize Newberg, Oregon as recent partners of SeeClickFix. As you will see, this community is all about citizen participation. And so are we!
Newberg is a small but vibrant community with big dreams for the future. Conveniently situated just 25 miles southwest of Portland, Oregon, yet surrounded by a greenbelt of farmland and forest, Newberg retains a sense of place that makes citizens feel part of something special. And they are indeed. Newberg is a fast-growing, business-friendly city that still understands the value of citizen involvement.
The participation and input of citizens is a vital part of any community’s future. When the people have a voice in the actions and plans of the city, municipal leaders gain a unique perspective and a relationship with their citizens that promotes smart, organic growth. Newberg administrators have this figured out, so it’s no surprise they are integrating SeeClickFix into the workings of their service departments. Community reporting is the perfect complement to their citizen-focused approach.
SeeClickFix is just one way the people of Newberg can participate in local affairs. The city was recently presented a “STAR Award for Community Involvement,” a recognition of exemplary efforts to involve citizens in a land use planning process. Newberg ran a public outreach campaign to get feedback on their 30-year community growth plan.
Partnering with the Downtown Coalition and other organizations, the City of Newberg is currently running a “Cultural Center Plaza Survey,” which involves plans for the revitalization of the area around the Newberg Library and the Chehalem Cultural Center. Inviting feedback and ideas of from its citizens, the community will benefit from multi-faceted, creative participation.
That’s our vision too, from the perspective of fixing issues (big or small). The city officials alone are hard-working; the citizens alone are well-intentioned. Bringing them together with a platform that makes communication easy, we hope to provide a powerful tool for growth and improvement, for any city like Newberg -- one that recognizes the change-effecting value of citizen involvement.
Newberg is a small but vibrant community with big dreams for the future. Conveniently situated just 25 miles southwest of Portland, Oregon, yet surrounded by a greenbelt of farmland and forest, Newberg retains a sense of place that makes citizens feel part of something special. And they are indeed. Newberg is a fast-growing, business-friendly city that still understands the value of citizen involvement.
The participation and input of citizens is a vital part of any community’s future. When the people have a voice in the actions and plans of the city, municipal leaders gain a unique perspective and a relationship with their citizens that promotes smart, organic growth. Newberg administrators have this figured out, so it’s no surprise they are integrating SeeClickFix into the workings of their service departments. Community reporting is the perfect complement to their citizen-focused approach.
SeeClickFix is just one way the people of Newberg can participate in local affairs. The city was recently presented a “STAR Award for Community Involvement,” a recognition of exemplary efforts to involve citizens in a land use planning process. Newberg ran a public outreach campaign to get feedback on their 30-year community growth plan.
Partnering with the Downtown Coalition and other organizations, the City of Newberg is currently running a “Cultural Center Plaza Survey,” which involves plans for the revitalization of the area around the Newberg Library and the Chehalem Cultural Center. Inviting feedback and ideas of from its citizens, the community will benefit from multi-faceted, creative participation.
That’s our vision too, from the perspective of fixing issues (big or small). The city officials alone are hard-working; the citizens alone are well-intentioned. Bringing them together with a platform that makes communication easy, we hope to provide a powerful tool for growth and improvement, for any city like Newberg -- one that recognizes the change-effecting value of citizen involvement.
Philly sets standards, provides feedback
Last spring, the Philadelphia Bike Coalition established watch areas of their own, and actively encouraged cyclist participation in the improvement of Philly roads. Later that year, we were thrilled to see a non-profit environmental group (IdleFreePhilly) tag-teaming with the city government by taking responsibility for certain types of reports. What stellar initiative! Philadelphia has really set the tone for maximizing the benefits of SeeClickFix, which has provided an example for other communities and increased awareness of our services too.
And the city continues to promote smart answers to pressing issues, empowering citizens and leaders alike. Last month, Mayor Michael Nutter welcomed a number of mayors and CIOs from across the nation to the Mayors' Technology Summit, an event to encourage the use of relevant IT solutions for cities. Topics included mobilizing city workforces, embedding smart technologies in key city operations, and connecting to urban residents through the Internet.
In keeping with this spirit of collaboration, SeeClickFix is always open for comments, opinions, and ideas for improvements. Our friends at Philly311 recently suggested a feature which has now been implemented -- the ability to “hide” an issue on the Dashboard. To reduce clutter or temporarily remove an issue from “front and center” (perhaps for long-term or extra-involved projects), an administrator may choose to “hide” it from the primary issue list until it’s ready to be addressed.
This is really what SeeClickFix has been about from its inception -- working together to improve communities, without a lot of fuss about who gets credit. The focus is where it should be -- on results. We continue to welcome comments, constructive criticism, and new ideas. Thanks to Philly311 for helping us get closer to our goal of providing an adaptable and relevant tool that meets the needs of each unique community.
Local Community See, Click, Fixing
About a month ago, a citizen reported issue #57229 in Providence, RI, stating that there was an abundant amount of trash and weeds along Smith Street, Orms Street and Tyndall Ave sidewalks. The reporter suggested adding more trash barrels as a solution.
A few days later, another citizen in Providence had suggested the solution of organizing a street clean-up and getting "Providence College and St. Patrick's school involved."
Well just 2 days ago, it was reported by the original poster of this issue that a "Neighborhood organization and some residents and students performed a clean up of trash and weeded tree wells." She also stated that a half demolished building has also been addressed and that a fence has been erected with signs of construction work beginning to take place.
We love community action!
A few days later, another citizen in Providence had suggested the solution of organizing a street clean-up and getting "Providence College and St. Patrick's school involved."
Well just 2 days ago, it was reported by the original poster of this issue that a "Neighborhood organization and some residents and students performed a clean up of trash and weeded tree wells." She also stated that a half demolished building has also been addressed and that a fence has been erected with signs of construction work beginning to take place.
We love community action!
Congratulations to Lincoln Chafee and Open Gov!
A few weeks ago we wrote about Rhode Island Gubernatorial Candidate Lincoln Chafee and his Open Gov platform for Rhode Island.
Today I write simply to say...He Won!!!
Want to win an election? Put Open Government on the agenda.
Today I write simply to say...He Won!!!
Want to win an election? Put Open Government on the agenda.
Welcome, Roosevelt Island!
We’re pleased to welcome aboard the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (“RIOC") -- a public benefit corporation and a political subdivision of the State of New York. On its website, the corporation states its mission to promote and develop the mixed-use residential community on Roosevelt Island, and to provide beneficial services and governance. The area is in progress mode, as evidenced by new residential and commercial development, as well as an energetic Board Director by the name of Jonathan Kalkin who reached out to SeeClickFix as a logical next step in his plan for moving Roosevelt Island forward.
Kalkin is all about technology’s potential to improve everyday life for citizens of Roosevelt Island. He recently reported on a multi-faceted plan to improve the area’s transportation system, which relied heavily on creative uses of technology. It makes sense that SeeClickFix would integrate into the future of a forward-thinking community like Roosevelt Island.
Thanks to Kalkin and other progressive minds, the future is bright for RIOC -- and we look forward to being a part of it!
Kalkin is all about technology’s potential to improve everyday life for citizens of Roosevelt Island. He recently reported on a multi-faceted plan to improve the area’s transportation system, which relied heavily on creative uses of technology. It makes sense that SeeClickFix would integrate into the future of a forward-thinking community like Roosevelt Island.
Thanks to Kalkin and other progressive minds, the future is bright for RIOC -- and we look forward to being a part of it!
Speedy Cleanup at Intersection in Albuquerque
In one day, Albuquerque 311 Citizen Contact Center had responded to Eric, stating that "his request had been sent to the appropriate department for handling." Two days later, they reported that the Street Maintenance Division had swept the area!
Leaning Stop Sign and Graffiti Fixed in Providence
In less than 2 weeks, Issue #61451 was resolved in Providence, RI. Stephanie Gerson had reported that there was a leaning stop sign with graffiti on October 16th, while participating in her SeeClickFix Storm.
Four days after the issue was posted, Jason Rodrigues had stated on SeeClickFix that a work order had been put in to "replace the defaced stop sign and straighten the bent u-post on Williams St. @ Brook St." A week later, the stop sign had been replaced and the bent u-post was straightened. Great job Providence!
The Saratogian works to improve dangerous intersection
Issue #42101 was investigated by WECT, which reported a dangerous intersection between Village Rd, Old Fayetteville Rd and S. Navassa Rd in Leland, NC.
After WECT investigated a little further, they found that the North Carolina Department of Transportation will be working hard on fixing this intersection. They reported that "crews are widening the road and making other changes," and that the construction is projected to be completed next summer.
NYC Heat Watch
HeatWatchNYC and SeeClickFix have partnered together to help citizens in New York City report heat and hot water issues within their neighborhoods. Currently, there are a total of 80 issues reported concerning heat and hot water issues in the HeatWatch NYC watch area, with 59 of them open and 21 already closed. So far Angela Thorton, Council Member James S. Oddo's Deputy Director of Constituent Services, has played a great role in acknowledging the heat and hot water issues reported on SeeClickFix.
HeatWatchNYC not only provides a tool for citizens to report their heat issues, but also includes information on getting involved in your community and knowing your rights as a tenant.
HeatWatch NYC was created by Penny, who has worked hard to help NYC citizens with their heat and hot water issues on SeeClickFix. Thanks Penny!
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