E-Mail Becoming Important Tool in Emergencies

SAINT PAUL, Minn. -- The city has provided an exclusive e-mail communication service for citizens following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11. The new e-mail communication from Mayor Norm Coleman would be issued in the event of any disruption in city services as a result of a terrorist attack or threat upon the city. More than 100 citizens have already signed up for the service since it was activated late last week. The service will only be used in the event of a problem with city services and is offered on a voluntary basis.

"We have received a number of phone calls and e-mails thanking us for providing this service," said Mayor Coleman. "The threat here is extremely low, but it is in the best interest of the citizens that we be prepared on all fronts. As we learned from Y2K, it's imperative that we are prepared for the possibilities."

The city is using Saint Paul-based GovDocs to provide residents with the ability to sign up to receive special communications by e-mail. Saint Paul currently uses GovDocs to offer more than 150 various city documents online. They also provide customized e-mail subscriptions for citizens ranging from City Council agendas to dog licensing information and library newsletters.

"I remain very confident in our local emergency response capabilities. And using our technology continues to be a positive way for the citizens to feel connected to their local government," added Coleman.

Access to the new e-mail service is available on the cities Web site by clicking on the "September 11th Response" link.