July 11, 2019

Ottawa County website ranks 10th in the nation

The Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo) announced the winners of the 17th annual Digital Counties Survey today. Ottawa County, Michigan's technology practices and website, miOttawa.org, were named 10th in the nation compared to counties with populations from 250,000 - 499,000. The award, given by CDG in partnership with NACo, identifies US counties with the best practices, including initiatives that streamline delivery of government services, encourage collaboration, and enhance cybersecurity.

“It is an honor to be recognized nationally for our technology. Offering a secure website, robust in services is simply good customer service. Citizens can access permits, records, and other needs 24-7 without leaving home. It is efficient for citizens and the County." said Shannon Felgner, Ottawa County’s Communication Manager.

The 2018 citizen survey found support for Ottawa’s online presence as well: 

• 76% of residents who had visited miOttawa.org offered a positive assessment.
• 81% of citizens aged 18-49 said they would prefer doing business online versus visiting an office.

Citizens in Ottawa County are actively visiting miOttawa.org for those online services. During the fiscal year 2018, a total of 79,781 transactions were completed online, translating to $2,540,274 worth of services. Online services are efficient for both customers and the County. Last year, miOttawa.org had over 1.7 million visitors.

The County’s first e-service was property tax searches, initiated in October of 2005.

Along with services, residents can stay connected through technology. Ottawa County added email subscription services in 2015 to engage and inform residents. To date, more than 37,000 people are subscribed to receive county news.

"Though we have consistently been recognized for having a quality website, miOttawa.org is always a work in progress. We continue to grow our online services, increase transparency and to use technology in creative ways," Felgner added. Ottawa County has been honored with a Digital Counties Survey Award ten times since 2008.

Ottawa County works with WebTecs, Inc. for its suite of online solutions.

Only two other Michigan Counties made the top ten list in their population categories: Oakland County and Allegan County. See all the winners and their rankings and comments from leaders of NACo and CDG.

Visit our suite of online services.
miOttawa.org/ServiceCenter

Media Contacts:

Shannon Felgner | Ottawa County Communications Manager | 616-738-4672 | 616-610-4401

Janet Grenslitt | Director of Surveys and Awards-Center for Digital Government