Model City Charter Revision Project - Eighth Edition
Option Memo
Issue: E-government
Seventh Edition: The seventh edition of the Model Charter does
not have language encouraging cities to adopt rules relating to e-government.
Proposed Language: The Model could have the following provision:
"The city may establish and maintain reasonable internet presence
through a web site providing contact information of the council and
manager. Nothing in this subsection shall prohibit the city from expanding
the web site to provide additional features, including, but not limited
to, this charter, ordinances enacted by the council, and interactive
services."
Analysis: As we proceed into the 21st century, the growing popularity
of e-government reflects government's desire to remain relevant in a
technological era and to capitalize on the benefits technology offers.
Many local governments are beginning to view e-government as a valuable
resource to disseminate information and foster communication with their
constituents.
Approximately 3,000 local governments across the country host websites
that provide their constituents with pertinent information. Some are
even interactive, allowing citizens to register for their licenses on-line,
listen to city council meetings, vote on capital expenditure projects,
comment on pending legislation, etc.
Importantly, these websites can also act as "performance measurement
tools." In a poll recently conducted by the Council for Excellence
in Government, nearly two-thirds of the respondents said that e-government
would make agencies and public officials more accountable, and provide
them (the respondents) with the ability to communicate their opinions
to public officials and agencies.
If implemented and managed properly, e-government can be an inexpensive,
yet effective way for government to communicate with its citizens, business,
and other government entities, while encouraging citizens to participate
in the governmental process.
The question then becomes whether e-government is feasible and/or desirable
for every local government. This is a case-by-case, fact-based determination
that must be made by the people who will be most affected. In determining
whether e-government is a viable option, a governing body must consider
its available resources and continued commitment to the project. E-government
does not have to be expensive or high maintenance, but it is important
that the benefits to government and its constituents outweigh the costs.
Options: The Committee should choose one of the following options
by the end of the June meeting:
- No change. The Model Charter should remain as is without
reference to e-government.
- E-government provision. The Model should use the proposed
language and thereby encourage local governments to implement and
utilize e-government where it is feasible and desirable.
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