Martinsburg launches Web site

June 11, 2009|By MATTHEW UMSTEAD

MARTINSBURG, W.VA. -- The City of Martinsburg launched a new Web site this week that City Manager Mark Baldwin said not only provides residents with a wealth of information about city services, but also markets the municipality to a virtual world.

The Web site, www.cityofmartinsburg.org, opens with a welcome letter by Mayor George Karos and images of the city.

"The City of Martinsburg is pleased to provide an opportunity for citizens to communicate electronically and participate in their local government," Karos said in the letter.

With the Web site's launch Wednesday, residents can avoid a trip to City Hall to obtain building permit applications and business and occupation tax forms. Instead, they can download the forms from their home or office computer.

Martinsburg City Council meeting agendas and minutes, and copies of budgets approved for the 2009-10 fiscal year and two previous budget years also are on the Web site.

A map that can help residents determine what council member is elected from their ward of the city also is posted online, as well as updates on city projects, including the Raleigh Street Extension and comprehensive signage system.

While readily admitting the Web site wasn't flashy, Baldwin said Thursday he hoped residents would find it to be a good resource to obtain information and user-friendly.

It does not include e-mail addresses for city officials, but Baldwin said that communication channel might be opened in the future.

In addition to city information, the Web site also features links to a number of other government entities and community organizations.

Residents who wish to offer feedback on the city's new Web site can call City Hall at 304-264-2131.

|

|

|