NOVEMBER 16, 2009

FROM: CITY OF PUEBLO PUBLIC INFORMATION DEPARTMENT

CONTACT: LORI PINZ, INTERIM DIRECTOR
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
719-553-2400

City of Pueblo Named One of Top Digital Cities in Country

For the fourth year in a row, the City of Pueblo has been recognized as one of the Top Ten Digital cities in America.

The City took sixth place honors in a survey conducted by the Center for Digital Government and Digital Communities Magazine.

The survey examines how information technology is entwined with the operations of the City whereby enhancing the citizens experience with their local government.

The competition is broken down by population into four categories, with the City of Pueblo falling into the 75,000 to 125,000 population grouping.

“This year’s winners demonstrate how cities have faced economic challenges with creativity and innovation in the use of information technology,” said Cathilea Robinett, Executive Director of the Center for Digital Government. “The Survey clearly shows that cities place a high value on positive experiences for their constituents when using government services.”

Pueblo Information Technology Director Lori Pinz says she believes there are many reasons for the City’s high placement in the survey, but cites several specifically. They include improvements in the City's "green" network infrastructure, Public Safety systems, Geographic Information System (GIS), intergovernmental collaboration and on-line citizen access and services.

“We’ve come a long way in improving service for our citizens,” says Pinz. “Information technology advancements have improved the efficiency and responsiveness of our Police and Fire departments, and have brought 21st century technology to our citizens. For example, job applicants no longer have to venture to City Hall to obtain and submit job applications, and citizens wishing to take part in Parks and Recreation activities can now go on-line to register and pay for their desired program. This can all be done from the comfort of their own home. Day or night."

Pinz says the Information Technology Department will continue to implement the technology solutions that provide a benefit to the whole community.

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