Town of Seekonk Eyes Digital Government

Computer-savvy Seekonk residents may find it easier to interact with our local government soon. The town has applied for a grant that would help implement online and digital government solutions.

Seekonk joined Dighton, North Attleboro, Fall River, Lakeville, Freetown, Taunton, Mattapoisett and Westport in applying for the Community Innovation Challenge Grant.

“It is a regional effort because it’s cheaper to hire a company and have them do it for nine towns, rather than for each individual town,” said Town Planner John Hansen.

Hansen said the grant would allow for online permitting and online payment for those permits.

“E-gov can help improve services and improve public access,” Selectman John Whalen said at last week’s meeting. Whalen noted that moving towards e-government is environmental friendly as well.

The multi-year agreement provides financial support for transitional costs related to regionalization of programs and transitioning to e-government.