County Web site to get makeover

Mike Morell
Published: March 7, 2008

Amherst County residents may soon be able to conduct business with county offices without ever having to leave home.

On Feb. 5, following a demonstration by the county’s Information Technology Department, the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to proceed with a redesign and update of the county’s Web site.

Viar and Network Administrator Matt Woernle said their goal was to have a Web site that offered more functionality to citizens and businesses in the county.

“We need a website with more features,” Woernle said. “We think that eGov Strategies, the company we have recommended can provide what we need.”

The company has more than 10 years experience in developing local government websites, Viar said. Viar and Woernle gave the board a demonstration, using several of the sites created for other communities and municipalities.

Features available and under consideration by the county include the ability to submit applications and pay fees online, the ability to register complaints and follow them up on line and the ability to communicate directly with county departments.

“We already have the money in our budget to make the changes,” IT Director Jackie Viar said.

At a cost of $14,767.74, with an annual maintenance fee of $3,155, Woernle said it would be cheaper than what the county was currently paying to keep the current site up and running.

Acting on a motion from Chairman Vernon Wood, the board voted 5-0 to direct Viar and Woernle to proceed with the project.