Stop and reflect for a moment, if you will, on all the time that has gone by since the internet became a tool for information and communication. Think about when the Town of Christiansburg first had an internet presence.
Think about how it was abandoned and neglected for years, even though staff positions were filled to address information and computer technology needs. Think about all the excuses and delays for why improvements couldn't be made, and the VML's suggested "admit one" ticket campaign which was an embarrassment at best.
Think about all the time and money that has been invested in this vital tool over the past 18 months, and the January launch of a revamped website.
Now visit the town's website and think about regularly scheduled meetings, such as the Parks & Recreation (first Monday of each month) or Aquatic Advisory Board (first Wednesday of each month) and why these aren't being calendared.
Basic protocol is to send invites so they are received a minimum of two weeks in advance of the date. In today's hectic world, a better rule of thumb is a minimum of three weeks, with a reminder 5 business days in advance.
Note the town's website has an E-services link which can be utilized to push out information (News Flash and Notify Me) to anyone who signs up to receive public notices. This tool should be used for all press releases and within 24 hours of any public meeting being scheduled -- regardless of what the FOIA minimum requirements are. Does someone need an operator's license or training to start using this tool effectively?
Note that a Finance Committee meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 24th at 9 am in the Administrative Conference Room on the second floor of Town Hall. No agenda is included, yet citizens should therefore presume this might include something relative to the hiring of a Treasurer/Finance Director and beginning to work on the 2009-2010 Fiscal Year Budget.
Think about attending the Finance Committee meeting, even if you have to schedule a vacation day from work. Visit the DepotDazed blog and see the "pay the bills" information bought from the town because it isn't available in an electronic format, and peruse the data given to Town Council.
Think about whether you want meeting legal minimums to be our ultimate goal, or whether you'd rather have transparent government working to meet the letter and intent of the law in a progressive and professional manner.