GOVERNMENT

On Monday, July 21, Washington, D.C., unveiled two major plans for it’s open data strategy, the first being the launch of a new Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) processing system, and the second are its plans to hire a chief data officer to oversee an open data policy and portal.

"They are taking cues from the commercial sector, which normally leads trends like this. Especially in big organizations, they’ve started to get their hands around how valuable it can be if we reduce the silos [that keep data sets private] and bring some of those silos together."

Hundreds participated in the 12th annual survey in their respective population categories for demonstrating technological success in the areas of citizen engagement, policy, data and operations.

"This update demonstrates New York City’s commitment to government transparency and openness," O’Brien said. "New York is a national pioneer in open data, and this plan provides a road map for our continued leadership in this area," O’Brien said.

Entrepreneurs, real estate developers, architects and city planning departments can use the new tool to expedite the business application procedure.

Mike Kadas pitched the idea that public disclosure of sales prices is a valuable tool for property owners to use when challenging the department’s valuations of their property.