Community standards are the foundation of a thriving neighborhood. Municipalities are responsible for maintaining property aesthetics, ensuring public safety, and enforcing building and zoning codes. While many local governments are comfortable with traditional code enforcement methods, these approaches can be time-consuming and inefficient. Moreover, they often lack transparency.

Digital transformation initiatives are revolutionizing how municipalities approach code enforcement today. The Accela Civic Platform, a cloud-based government software solution, offers a suite of tools that can significantly enhance community standards through effective and efficient code enforcement. Accela helps municipalities:

 

1. Streamline Case Management

  • Accela provides a centralized repository for all code enforcement cases to eliminate paper records and improve data accuracy. A centralized database ensures easy access to case history, violations, and enforcement actions for all stakeholders.
  • The platform automates workflows and routine tasks like case assignment, scheduling inspections, and issuing notices. Workflow automation frees up code enforcement officers to focus on more complex issues and prioritize efforts.
  • Field officers can access case information, update records, and conduct inspections using mobile devices, which increases efficiency and responsiveness.

 

2. Enhance Citizen Engagement

  • Citizens can easily report code violations online through the platform’s citizen portal. The Accela web portal empowers residents to actively participate in community improvement and fosters a stronger sense of ownership.
  • Accela facilitates clear communication between citizens, code enforcement officers, and property owners to improve transparency and build trust within the community.
  • Automated notifications can be sent to residents regarding upcoming inspections, deadlines for compliance, and case updates; so everyone can be informed and execute timely actions.

 

3. Make Data-Driven Decisions

  • Accela has robust analytics capabilities. Code enforcement agencies can analyze data on common violations, identify problem areas, and track enforcement trends to understand the root causes of issues.
  • Key performance indicators (KPIs) can be tracked to measure the effectiveness of enforcement efforts and identify areas for improvement.
  • By analyzing historical data, the platform can help predict potential future violations and proactively address emerging issues, preventing problems before they arise.

 

4. Improve Compliance and Enforcement

  • The platform can automate inspections scheduling and reminders to ensure timely compliance checks.
  • Digital photos and videos can be easily captured and stored within the system, providing irrefutable evidence of violations.
  • Accela can automatically generate and deliver notices of violation and citations, streamlining the enforcement process and ensuring consistency.

 

5. Integrate with Other Systems

  • Accela integrates with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map violations, identify hotspots, and prioritize enforcement efforts.
  • Online payment processing can be integrated into the platform, making it easier for property owners to pay fines and fees.
  • Accela can facilitate data sharing with other agencies, such as law enforcement and public works departments, to improve coordination and response times.

 

By leveraging the capabilities of the Accela Civic Platform, code enforcement agencies can:

  • Increase efficiency and productivity
  • Improve citizen satisfaction
  • Enhance community safety and quality of life
  • Ensure fair and equitable enforcement
  • Make data-driven decisions to improve outcomes

 

Ultimately, by embracing technology and implementing innovative solutions like the Accela Civic Platform, municipalities can create a more efficient, effective, and transparent code enforcement process that benefits the entire community.

3SG Plus is an authorized Accela reseller, integrator, and professional services provider. We work with local municipalities to design and deploy Accela solutions designed to help agencies improve efficiency and meet business objectives. Our end user training programs and post-deployment support services ensure that platform utilization, system uptime, and improved ROI.

Are you ready to improve community standards in your neighborhood? Fill out the form below, and one of our Accela specialists will be in touch.