The first phase of the portal is expected to go live in late 2009. Once fully implemented, residents and businesses will see a dramatic improvement in online service capabilities.
The new portal will feature:
- personalized access to municipal services and information
- self-serve capabilities for businesses and constituents
- faster response to customer inquiries
- increased public participation and awareness opportunities – allowing Internet access to information anywhere, anytime.
“We know Markham residents are e-savvy and appreciate the convenience of online services,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “That’s why we are very excited about the new possibilities the Internet portal will provide, and the value it will bring to residents and businesses.”
Markham has been continually increasing its use of online technology – streaming live audio during Council meetings, webcasting public participation programs and developing e-services. The Internet portal technology will add to Markham’s growing list of innovative projects, providing better service and efficiency for everyday transactions, and advancing its position as a leader in e-government services.
Regional Councillor Tony Wong, Chair of Markham’s Information Technology Committee, added, “This initiative reflects Markham’s commitment to an economic development strategy that provides leading technology to improve services for residents and businesses.”
"As an early advocate of portal technology I am thrilled to see Markham adopting this technology,” said Regional Councillor Jim Jones. “Portal technology represents a new way of doing business for us and is a significant step forward to help improve efficiency in our services to the community.”
Markham approved the portal project in 2007 and since then, has been coordinating the vendor selection process, leading an evaluation team with representatives from York Region, and the Towns of Richmond Hill, Aurora, East Gwillimbury and Newmarket.
Earlier this year, Markham issued a Request For Proposals for the joint portal solution.
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Quelle/Source: Exchange Morning Post, 21.11.2008
