FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 12, 2014

MEDIA CONTACTS
Gwen Schuler, Media and Communications, gschuler@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-5160
Maria Lee, Media and Communications, maria.lee@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-2054

New Mobile App Connects Residents to City Services

The City’s Customer Support Center – a “one-stop shop” for City services offering a concierge feel in the way of reception, face-to-face interaction, 311 telephone support and online resources – has served nearly 34,000 residents since its opening last fall. Today, it offers mobile app connectivity and features refreshed branding.

Development of the app was spearheaded by the City’s Information Technology Department. The app gives community members the ability to make and track non-emergent service requests, and find answers to frequently asked questions. 

The updated brand – TacomaFIRST 311 – reflects the commitment made by the City through its Public Access, Service and Security initiative to providing residents and visitors with a level of access to services designed with an enhanced customer experience in mind. 

“The FIRST in TacomaFIRST 311 stands for Fast Information Resource Team, and that’s who we are,” said Customer Support Center Manager La’Toya Mason. “We’re fast, we can connect you with the information you need, and the City believes in putting your needs first."

“Civic engagement is very important to the City,” said Information Technology Director Jack Kelanic. “We’re excited to provide this new platform that the community can use with mobile devices to obtain information and let us know about issues that need to be addressed.” 

As part of the Public Access, Service and Security initiative, office footprints have also been reassessed through space planning efforts in the Tacoma Municipal Building complex, with the goal of moving all public interface functions to publically accessible floors. 

“The Public Access, Service and Security initiative ultimately makes things easier for the community members we serve,” said Assistant to the City Manager Nadia Chandler Hardy. “It prioritizes simple, efficient and effective access to City services.”

More information is available at cityoftacoma.org/tacomafirst311.