Parkersburg launches PKB Connect app
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PARKERSBURG -- Residents don't have to wait until regular business hours to let City of Parkersburg officials know about a potential problem.
The city on Thursday announced the launch of PKB Connect, a mobile citizen engagement application that enables residents and property owners to request services and report issues.
"You can engage with the appropriate city personnel at your own leisure, your own schedule," city Development Director Ryan Barber said.
It should be beneficial to city employees as well, he said. Instead of a person calling in and saying there's a pothole on 23rd Street, they can take a photo and submit it on their phone, complete with information identifying the specific location.
"People can pinpoint the exact GPS coordinates where that issue may be occurring," Barber said.
The app also allows people to follow along as their concern is addressed, he said. When citizens submit a request, they will get a notification acknowledging it has been received.
"When that ticket is closed or updated, you also get a response," Barber said.
Personnel will use the app's dashboards and reporting tools to "identify trends, streamline communications and effectively prioritize projects to address the needs of our community promptly and efficiently," according to a release from the city.
"This app represents a significant step forward in our commitment to transparency, accessibility and citizen engagement," Mayor Tom Joyce said in the release. "I want our residents to feel heard and empowered, and PKB Connect accomplishes just that. By leveraging technology, we can strengthen the connection between city services and our community, fostering a stronger and more responsive Parkersburg."
PKB Connect integrates with the city's newly redesigned website, which launched Wednesday, and also provides information on ongoing events.
Purchase and implementation of the app cost $26,560, according to Finance Director Eric Jiles, while the renewal for the next year, beginning Sept. 1, is $28,368.
The app is free and available for download on iOS and Android devices, the release says.
City personnel will be available to assist residents with downloading the app and setting up their user accounts next week from 10-11 a.m. Monday through Friday on the fourth floor of the Municipal Building. More information is available at parkersburgwv.gov.
Evan Bevins can be reached at ebevins@newsandsentinel.com.