Technology
Technology is pivotal in modernizing local and state government operations, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and service delivery. From digital infrastructure to cybersecurity, technology enables governments to better meet the needs of their communities. Staying informed about the latest technological advancements is crucial for effective governance. This directory offers articles on technology, along with related topics like Product News, which covers the latest tools and innovations that can be integrated into government services.
According to Alex Stamos, former Facebook chief security officer, there’s little the government can do at this point to make sure the 2020 vote is unhackable.
Thirty years ago, the city of Santa Cruz, California, was nearly decimated by the Loma Prieta earthquake. It has since taken steps to make sure that never happens again.
The ShakeAlert system will warn Californians several seconds to a minute before an earthquake begins, enough time to duck under a desk or otherwise protect themselves from harm.
Police in Redwood City, California, are using a first-of-its-kind video chat system, which is already saving money and enhancing service levels. Details, how it works,
Sustainability
Several new rooftop farms are making Brooklyn the focal point of the nascent urban farming movement. Inside are details on the trend, its success drivers, examples from other cities, and resources to get you started.
This week, we look at the “Open Data” initiative in Palo Alto, California, and provide details on the trend, the coolest apps, updates from other cities, and steps your town can take today. Plus, an exclusive audio recording with tips from Palo Alto City Manager James Keene.
IBM has started the application process for its $50 million, 100 city “Smarter Cities Challenge.” See inside for application deadlines, grants, forms, benefits, earlier winners
Starting this summer, subway riders in New York City will be able to connect to the wireless Internet free of charge. The service is courtesy a major sponsor, who is underwriting the WiFi service through the summer. Details, pricing, the sponsor, and implications for municipalities are inside.
Two cities in Texas have passed laws that deter “serial requestors” of public records. These citizens allegedly present an undue burden to local government, and the incident revives a long-standing debate. Inside, we look at the problem, and offer lessons from the public and private sectors.
Cities are finding creative ways to cut information-technology costs by consolidating with other departments, outsourcing, and even becoming “revenue neutral.” Options, ideas, examples, research, RFPs and contracts are inside.
The Department of Labor announced nearly $147 million in grants to workforce agencies in 26 cities and towns as part of a “Pay for Success” program. Details are inside, and, yes, there is more money available.
System will send alerts and routing information during disasters
The mayor of Los Angeles formed an innovation council earlier this month, the latest municipal initiative to cultivate entrepreneurship and capital investment. Inside, we look at recent efforts in LA and other cities to spark entrepreneurialism and establish regional innovation “clusters,” providing summary approaches, models, and resources for you to consider.
The city council of Mesa, Arizona, has adopted an innovative zoning strategy aimed at transforming its downtown into a more walkable neighborhood. Extensive details on its “form-based code,” including examples, research, and the actual zoning code, are inside.
Bristol, Conn., recently issued several “Requests For Information” from private contractors to take over numerous town functions, such as park maintenance, information technology, janitorial services, and trash collection. Details, the RFIs, and the bids are inside.
Despite spending $9 million on city-wide renovations, a survey of residents in Boynton Beach, Florida, still associated the city with crime, guns and bums. Read how the city pursued a critical rebranding and reinvention strategy.
The mayor of Louisville, KY, has created an “Innovation Delivery Team” to tackle five challenges, utilizing data analysis and innovative approaches.
The city of Boston has created a radical new department that acts as an urban innovation lab, piloting civic innovations that improve the quality of city services. Details, live examples, operations, and contact information are inside.
A British city has saved $750,000 dollars by ‘hot desking,’ which sounds randy, but is really just a shared desk approach.
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