Orange County NC Website
19 <br /> c. The two staff members should seek additional avenues for coverage. For example, they could <br /> ensure that meetings by the Board of Commissioners and County advisory boards are included in <br /> the weekly "bulletin boards"published by local newspapers. <br /> C. DIRECT TELEPHONE ACCESS <br /> 1. Direct line <br /> A direct telephone number will be established that will receive questions, comments, <br /> suggestions, requests and complaints from citizens. This number should be located in the office <br /> of the Clerk to the Board, and should be answered at all times during regular business hours. <br /> The Clerk will develop and implement a procedure for these calls that will include such things as <br /> a reasonable but specific response time, a method for keeping Commissioners apprised of the <br /> nature of citizens' concerns, how the number will be advertised, and who should answer the <br /> telephone. The Clerk should take into account such factors as knowledge of county government, <br /> pleasant telephone manner, and whether the person can be helpful when talking with callers who <br /> have limited English proficiency. <br /> 2. Automated Alternatives <br /> The County's automated telephone system should be augmented to include an option that <br /> provides direct access to the office for the Clerk to the Board. Further development of County <br /> telephone resources should include simplifying public access to post-5 PM voice mail for County <br /> employees. <br /> D. INTERNET SITE <br /> 1. Accessibility to County Commissioners <br /> Provision of e-mail addresses for Commissioners, and a listing of phone numbers and mailing <br /> addresses on the County Web site, combine to make them readily accessible to citizens and <br /> others. In addition to photographs, other information about members of the Board, such as brief <br /> biographical data, could also be added. <br /> 2. Improved Provision of Information <br /> Any improvements to the Web site should ensure that at least the following elements are <br /> accomplished: <br /> a. Current information is provided in a timely manner. There should be a dependable schedule <br /> for the appearance on the site of key information (e.g. the monthly calendar of events) and for <br /> updating that information (e.g. changes in meeting times and dates). <br />