Tonight, the City council approved reviewing the idea of establishing a technology and innovation commission. The City has done some incredible things in technology, including our Go Long Beach smartphone application, our new online permits and licenses, the use of social media, an open government initiative, an online city contract database, free WiFi initiatives for our parks and libraries and upgrading our technology throughout the city.
To ensure we continue providing cutting edge services to our residents, visitors and businesses, and that we maintain, expand and capitalize on our leadership position, Long Beach will create a technology and innovation commission.
Technology and innovation is needed in Long Beach because we are facing high unemployment (11.3%) and a high poverty rate (22%). These industries are where the new jobs will come from.
Last year, I proposed that the City explore a Clean Tech Zone which would attract these businesses. With this Commission, we can move that idea forward.
We are fortunate that we have had a technology advisory committee comprised of residents who have expertise and willingness to share, who have served for several years. I have asked that these members be allowed to serve on any new commission concerning technology.
Long Beach is seeing a boom in technology . We have We Labs and Long Beach Tech. We have offers from Code for America to help form a “brigade” – wizards who can create applications and software for public use. We have so much potential.