City's new Web site to have plenty of bells and whistles

Making requests for services via the Web or smart phone app, getting texts or e-mails about upcoming meetings or community events, and paying bills online count among the benefits of the city of Wauwatosa's redesigned Web site, which will be accessible April 21.

The relaunch of wauwatosa.net is a move toward more transparency and accountability on the city's part, Mayor Jill Didier said in a statement.

The city worked with Kansas-based CivicPlus to redevelop the site. The technology allows city staff to update content as needed.

The new site will offer a service called Citizen Request Tracker, which will allow residents to make a request for service, submit or report a concern, and view the status of each request. Residents will be able to attach a photo to illustrate the problem. A free application for the iPhone will also be available to make and track requests.

People will be able to subscribe to receive notifications via e-mail or text messages for agendas and minutes, bid postings, community events, employment opportunities, meetings and emergency alerts. The city is hoping to cut down on the number of paper copies of the quarterly newsletter that has to be printed and mailed.

Social networking sites Twitter and Facebook will be used to provide news and updated information.

Soon, residents will have the opportunity to participate in a pilot program to make online payments for property taxes and water bills.