By Commissioner Sue Gunzburger
Broward County Commission, District 6

In the last decade, the internet has become our primary source for information, a major shopping service and an instant method of communications.

As gasoline prices continue to climb, more and more Americans are now shopping online, not only for the convenience, but to save money. The National Retail Federation (NRF) and Shop.org said total online sales this year, including travel, are expected to increase 18 percent to $259.1 billion.

Governments across the United States are using web-based technology to “reinvent government” by improving services and reducing bureaucracy. In addition to generating revenue, Broward County’s internet site is proving to be one of the County’s must successful endeavors. Convenient access to information and direct, on-line communication with County agencies is providing a new level of citizen involvement with County government.

Broward County’s website is now more user-friendly with a new design, a calendar of events and a new search engine which was developed in cooperation with the United States government. The web site, with more than 25,000 pages of data, is regularly used by approximately a third of the County’s residents, which is double the national average. Nearly half a million visitors log-on to the web site each month.

E-commerce transactions show significant increases for utility payments, permit applications and property tax payments. Last year, Broward County collected $244.8 million in taxes through e-checks and credit cards.

I have updated my web site which contains important links to County services and agencies. You might want to put my site into your “Favorities,” because it contains all the important links you will need in accessing or contacting Broward County government. From my website, you can email me at any time regarding a request or complaint. You can read Bridges, a weekly electronic newsletter, or Community Update, a monthly newsletter. Both publications feature news and stories about Broward County government. You can register for these publications from my site and even register to receive storm updates during the hurricane season.

There are links on my site to the three municipalities in our district—Hollywood, Hallandale Beach and Pembroke Pines. There are also links to the county’s “Constitutional Officers,” where you can obtain records and information from the Sheriff, Property Appraiser, Clerk of Court, State Attorney, Public Defender and the Supervisor of Elections.

From my page, you can search for property tax information, search for lost pets and obtain airport information. You can renew licenses, search for public documents and even purchases tickets from he Performing Arts Center.

If you don’t have a computer at home, you can always visit one of Broward County’s libraries, where public computers are available. If you’re hesitant about using internet technology, free computer classes are available on a regular basis at libraries.

As always, fee free to contact me or share your concerns and priorities – you can email me or, if you wish, call me at 954-357-7006.