Last month, the King County Council voted unanimously to require county agencies to publish what they call “high value” data to a new Web site. The “one-stop” data Web site is where the public can go to access such information as crime statistics, transit data and construction schedules, wastewater and flood information or information on public parks.

A key goal of open government advocates, government datasets or databases are designed to leverage more user-friendly technology and provide for more transparency and accountability. This takes the value of sunshine laws to a new level and opens up the business of government with a click of the mouse.

In addition to leveraging new technologies, how transparent or accountable county government operates is also about creating a stronger communication link between county residents and public officials. That is why Countywide Community Forums is providing both small forum meetings and online opportunities for people to provide important feedback on issues impacting their communities.

Through June 13, forums are being offered throughout King County with an online survey option available beginning in June.

The forum topic, “Public Trust: Customer Service and Public Engagement,” is about how we interact with essential services and access important information. Countywide Community Forums wants to know how county government can be more responsive and accessible to you — the public. Visit www.CommunityForums.org to learn more.

Carrie Shaw

Deputy Citizen Councilor

Countywide Community Forums