Gilroy residents can now access community information via their
touch tone telephone thanks to the city’s new automated
service.
Gilroy residents can now access community information via their touch tone telephone thanks to the city’s new automated service.
With an “All Aboard!” slogan, Information Express provides 210 pre-recorded messages regarding topics from courts to utilities to trash and recycling. The system will also be able to fax the caller forms such as building permit applications and water and sewer rate sheets.
“It’s not to replace anything, but is another method of outreach,” said Public Information Officer Joe Kline.
Previously, residents had two ways to get information: directly from City Hall or by going to their Web site. Both these options have limitations, as City Hall is only open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, and not everyone has access to the Internet.
With the telephone system, such barriers are removed and residents can get information 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“Everyone knows how to use the telephone,” said Kline.
Residents can access Information Express system by dialing 408-846-9588 and entering a four-digit code.
For example, if swarming bees are a problem, residents can dial the number and punch in 1-7-1-6 for information. To get a re-roofing permit faxed over, residents can punch in 1-0-5-4.
Codes for subjects and usage instructions will be in a glossy brochure sent out the first week of June with the utilities bill. Verbal messages in the system can also be found online at www.ci.gilroy.ca.us.
The service cost $60,000 and includes a separate service for building contractors with construction information.
Currently, the service is available only in English. There is the option of adding a Spanish version when demand for the service is reviewed in six to 12 months, according to Kline.
Visit the City of Gilroy’s Web site at www.ci.gilroy.ca.us.
