Is there a damaged curb in your neighborhood or a pothole that needs fixing? Now you can help report non-emergency problems such as these to the City of Danville using a free mobile app available for iPhones and Android phones.
Called “Fix It Danville,” the app uses GPS technology to help the City know exactly where the problem is. Citizens also can use their phones to send a picture of the issue – be it an overgrown lot or a road problem.
"We are always exploring ways to make it easy and efficient for people to interact with city government," said Inez Rodenburg, director of information technology. “Fix It Danville allows all of our citizens to be the eyes and ears of the City. It provides a convenient and efficient way to report issues on the go, beyond traditional office hours.”
Rodenburg cautions that this reporting system is for city maintenance issues only.
“If you have a need that requires immediate attention or police response, please call 9-1-1,” she said. “While not intended for emergencies, the app gives Danville residents another way to report issues as they see them in the community.”
Citizens are encouraged to report the following issues:
• Damaged curbs and sidewalks
• Dead animal pick-up
• Graffiti
• Overgrown grass/weeds
• Potholes
• Signs – missing/damaged
• Unsafe blighted buildings
When submitted, the issue is directed to the appropriate city department, which reviews the concern and submits a work order for any repairs or services needed, or provides any information requested. Departments will respond to issues during regular business hours. If a report comes in on a holiday, weekend or after-hours, it will be read on the next business day.
"Once you have sent your report, you will receive email communication from the city acknowledging your service request,” Rodenburg said. “They system follows the problem until it is addressed, so you can continue to check on the status of the repair online.
“When the work is complete or the issue has been resolved, you will be notified by email as well.”
App users will be able to search other reports, to see whether neighbors have already complained about the issue. They also can engage by voting and adding comments on issues reported.
Fix It Danville uses a Web-based map that is accessible by any device, whether mobile phone application, tablet, laptop or desktop. The address is http://fixit.danvilleva.gov. The map displays all reports and comments. Users may add comments, suggest resolutions or add video and picture documentation.
In addition to fostering interactivity between government and citizens, the site allows for anonymity of reporting as a way to encourage more citizens to report issues.