Without face lift, Dunedin's Web stays a flatliner
Though the city is ahead of the curve in offering universal wireless service, its Web site is so last century. Regular updates are in the works.
By MEGAN SCOTT
Published August 6, 2005
DUNEDIN - This burg may be the first in the state to offer universal wireless service.
But the Web site needs a face lift.
It's not updated enough.
It doesn't show the meetings.
You can't access your utility bill.
"We have had comments that our Web site is way behind the curve," said assistant city manager Maureen Freaney. "It's one thing to establish a Web site, but the real key is to keep it up to date and changing."
Later this year, the city will hire a multimedia content specialist whose primary responsibility will be updating and maintaining the site, which receives an average of 430 hits a day.
That person will report to Jack Martin, TV Production Coordinator for Dunedin 15. Martin will then become communications manager.
"We have never had a full-time Web site person," Martin said. "It's usually handled by a couple of people who have other duties.
"It has just become extremely important that we provide a lot of information about city government on the World Wide Web."
Will Viviano, a member of the city's public relations advisory committee, said an improved Web site is much needed.
"There are a lot of people online now," he said. "Our Web site not being updated really makes it worthless."
He said people visit the site to find out about upcoming events.
"I feel it's a good use of taxpayer money," he said.
The $32,000-a-year position is included in the 2005-06 budget, which is scheduled for final approval Sept. 22. The budget goes into effect Oct. 1.
Freaney said there are all sorts of things Dunedin could be providing for residents: video streaming of the meetings, a fun online newsletter, or the ability to sign up and pay for an exercise class through the Web site.
James Guerin, information technology director, said he is working on some of those things. A few of those services could be available as early as October.
He has been concentrating on the city's wireless Internet service, which should be up and running by the end of the month.
Citi WiFi Networks has to sign an agreement with Progress Energy in order to place transmitters on the light poles. The two parties reached a tentative agreement last week.
As for video streaming, Guerin said that is another two to three years away. The service is expensive, and Dunedin does not currently have the capability.
But even without it, this city is still on the cutting edge of technology.
"I would definitely match our city against any city of equal size in Pinellas County," said Guerin. "And we'll probably surpass them in the next couple of years."
Staff writer Katherine K. Lee contributed to this report. Megan Scott can be reached at 445-4167 or mscott@sptimes.com