These days, just about everyone has a Facebook account or a Twitter handle, and the city of Bonita Springs is no exception. The city has kicked off a new campaign to stay connected in hopes of better serving you.

"Everybody has an iPhone in their pocket," Mayor Ben Nelson said. "Everybody is looking to go online and find things and we want to make that as easy as possible."

Mayor Nelson has a smart phone, though he admits he doesn't have a personal Facebook account.

But Thursday, he was parked in front of a laptop, hosting the city's first ever live online chat.

Residents submitted questions moderated by the city's IT staff, and the mayor answered via written response.

He addressed a variety of questions and comments, including one regarding the tone of last Tuesday's elections.

Mayor Nelson says he's ready and willing to hear community concerns.

"That's what it's all about," he said. "Getting information to people as quickly as possible, as easily as possible."

So far, the website overhaul and "Going Social" communication campaign has cost the city about $4,500.

Among other changes, the city has made the site easier to navigate, added new programming to BTV Channel 98, and committed to publishing monthly newsletters.
     
"We're increasing our connectivity and our transparency with residents," Communication Coordinator Lora Taylor said. "It's just a really great way for us to connect with our residents."

The campaign also includes a QR, or Quick Response code feature, where anyone with a smart phone can scan bar codes in the area and be connected to important information.

The mayor and council members will host an open house to present the connectivity campaign to the public on Saturday.

Click here to view the city's updated website.

Click here to connect with the city on Facebook.

Click here to "follow" the city on Twitter.