Councils close to web talk

By WAYNE THOMPSON

Auckland local bodies are near to adopting a "wired cities" plan to allow citizens to use the internet to gain access to their council.

They will be able to get instant answers to requests for council information, pay accounts and, eventually, cast votes for electing councillors.

Spurring the move is a finding that 56 per cent of Auckland region residents have access to the internet.

Time and cost savings for both councils and citizens are aimed at in a plan to be presented to chief executives of the seven Auckland councils in a fortnight.

"We see the internet as one more channel for people to have access to their councils, along with visits to the counter, phone calls and letters," said North Shore City's Tony Rogers, who is coordinating the regional internet plan.

"But we are convinced the internet will become the dominant channel in the next three to five years."

Those without access to the internet at home could use computers in public libraries, citizens advice bureaus, community houses and even special kiosks in shopping malls.

Neighbours might share internet access with those without.

Mr Rogers said councils would at first introduce services which could be done quickly and cheaply, and then gradually expand.

The greatest expense would be in keeping information resources accurate and up to date.

He thought that instead of adding to council's costs, internet services would iron out inefficient processes.

Citizens could now read information only on a council website.

"But people will be able to interract ... they can ask council for something and we would like to send back an answer instantaneously."

Mr Rogers said councils are working together to present a common e-local goverment face to the community and to fit in with internet services to be introduced by the Government.