The city contracted with Vision Internet – a company that calls themselves “The Government Website Experts” – back in August 2011 to change the website. A modification of that contract put the final price tag of the site at $32,805.
Public Information Officer Lisa Mosca said the process to create the new website began in January although work was delayed about 6 weeks during the height of the Trayvon Martin/George Zimmerman incident in March and April.
Prior to completing the website the city solicited comments from residents to find out what they would want to see in the new layout. Mosca said residents wanted a better staff directory, easier access to meeting information, photos, event listings and emergency contact information.
Additionally, residents said they wanted access to outside links, such as the Orlando Sanford International Airport and Sanford’s historical groups.
The page also features a section called “Community Links” which will direct users to other pages.
“That now will be an opportunity to add more links to outside community events,” said Mosca.
Also included on the site is an online service request form, an action request tab and a way for residents to sign up for e-notifications.
From now on each department will be responsible for updating their portion of the site and adding pictures from events.
“That’s my vision,” said Mosca. “To see the departments really be creative.”
Although the new site has gone live, Mosca said there are still kinks to be worked out. Representatives from Vision Internet are in constant contact with the city as links are updated and more aspects are added.
“What you see generally up there is what we have,” said Mosca. “It’s a foundation to now be built upon.”
Click here to visit the City of Sanford's new website