What is a Smart Community?

According to the World Foundation for Smart Communities, a Smart Community is one that has made a conscious effort to use information technology to transform life and work within its region in significant and fundamental, rather than incremental, ways. This transformation is beneficial to the community and attracts local participation and cooperation among community groups, government, business and education.

The ultimate result is citizens experience increased control over the demands placed upon their lives from the convenience offered by a community-wide information infrastructure. Too, the sense of community can be enhanced when the Smart Community offering is fully utilized. Participating organizations benefit by leveraging their investments in web sites that explain the services or products they provide. Smart Communities are also economically competitive in the new global economy and attract commerce as a result of an advanced telecommunications infrastructure.

What we are introducing today is the first iteration of what we ultimately hope to provide. We would like to work with our participating organizations to provide opportunities for our residents to serve themselves over the Internet. This might include someday obtaining various permits, registering for activities, reviewing menus and ordering take-out meals, access to their alderperson and council minutes, etc. - all on line. The opportunities are endless. It will take time to mature however. Your suggestions are welcome at info@westbendconnections.org.