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New Hampshire Tests Interactive Town Meeting

Participants call toll-free number to join discussion

Last week the New Hampshire Office of Information Technology (OIT) assisted Councilor Ray Burton to efficiently communicate with District One constituents. Sitting at his desk, Burton was able to share his message with a wide audience.

"I am excited to see the Office of Information Technology exploring new ways to use available technology solutions to enhance the services offered to citizens and businesses," said Gov. Craig Benson. "The work of the OIT is very important. They provide cost-effective methods for information sharing, minimize travel, and maximizing outreach". As part of a pilot test project the virtual town hall meeting used technology provided by MCI. Using a toll free number, participants throughout New Hampshire's North Country were able to dial into the interactive call, listen, and ask questions.

Burton discussed forthcoming Governor and Council nominations and confirmations, as well as solicited ideas and concerns about participants' local towns. "I worked closely with Robert Anderson, the State CIO, to explore using technology to help me communicate to people within my district", said Burton. "I wanted a way to reach many people all at once in a live format, in addition to my current modes of communication, which are standard mail, E-mail, Web site, phone calls and personal visits."

This solution, along with the state's videoconferencing capabilities, will become common in the future. OIT is also testing Internet-based live meeting software.