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Cracking down on complaints
Editorial
Not even three weeks into her first year as town supervisor, Mary Holtz appears to be taking the same approach to her new job as she did to her previous job as town clerk: seeking innovative methods to save time and money while better serving the public. This approach is not only resident-friendly, but also encourages open access to government.
Presiding over her first regular meeting on January 7, Holtz announced that the town will terminate its photocopier lease contracts in favor of purchasing outright new machines through a New York State bid. The move will allow the town to purchase the items at a lower cost, while eliminating interest that accumulates through expensive leases. Not bad for her first week.
Holtz followed up that announcement with a request that the town board consider purchasing computer software entitled "Everest" that will enable instantaneous recording of, and access to, complaints. The software is so flexible, that personnel from every town department could eventually use it for their own daily tasks. Better yet, town councilmembers can monitor complaints without making several follow up phone calls.
As town clerk, Holtz took several steps to modernize that office. Using new computer software, she placed the town code on Cheektowaga's Web site, providing the world with instant access to town ordinances and zoning codes. More access to town government was created when she used another software package to place meeting agendas online.
Both moves enable residents to review town documents without having to step into their cars and drive to town hall. There's no waiting in line, and it allows town employees to address other issues as well. While the computers work, an employee can perform another task, and the customer-resident saves time and gasoline. Everyone wins.
Holtz is encouraging board members to observe the system "in action" next week. If the Everest software is anything like previously purchased software, it has the potential to be another win-win scenario- one where efficiency improves, complaints are addressed in a timely fashion and the public wins.
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