Covet and Awe: County Government Contracts, Purchases Now Viewable Online

This is how it's done:

That's a screen grab I got from the new website page called "Open Government," (you can see my screen grab page here).  It was unveiled yesterday and is provided by the new County Executive, with the support of County Council (according to the Plain Dealer's article about it this morning).

It's not rocket science - it's a matter of political will and recognition of what taxpayers deserve and have a right to see, including where and when.  Here's the press release from CE Fitzgerald about the new site:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                        

Media Contacts:

Nicole Dailey Jones, 216-263-4602 or 216-338-0863; ndjones@cuyahogacounty.us

John Kohlstrand, 216-698-2099; jkohlstrand@cuyahogacounty.us

                                                           

FITZGERALD ANNOUNCES NEW OPEN GOVERNMENT WEBPAGE

County Executive Also Delivers a Video Update on Progress Made in County Government

CLEVELAND – As one of the first steps in creating a more transparent and efficient government for Cuyahoga County residents and businesses, Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald announced today the launch of the new Open Government webpage.

“In an effort to continue to increase the openness of county government you will notice a new link on our webpage,” explained FitzGerald.  “Follow the door to the Open Government webpage and you will find, for the first time ever, links to review contracts that are under review, contracts that have been signed, and speadsheets on items that the County has purchased. “

FitzGerald also recorded a video update on the progress that has been made in county government since he has taken office on January 1, 2011.  The video can be seen at:

http://executive.cuyahogacounty.us/en-us/20110303-PR-FitzGerald-Open-Government.aspx

The new Open Government webpage can be viewed at either of the following links:

http://www.onecuyahoga.com/

http://www.cuyahogacounty.us/

“Every dollar the county spends belongs to the public and we want the taxpayers of this county to know that we are accountable for what happens with their money,” FitzGerald continued.   “I am pleased that we have taken the initial steps to bring county purchases and contracts into the light for public review.”

Remember, Pepper Pike is represented by County Council Member, Jack Schron of Chagrin Falls.