Continuing a recent trend of embracing innovation and open government, Los Angeles shored up its reputation even more by appointing the city’s first Chief Innovation Officer this week. Peter Marx, appointed by Mayor Eric Garcetti, will be tasked with making over the city’s website and mobile app. He will also represent a key cog in the wheel of open government by overseeing the release of the data collected by city agencies.
“Harnessing technology is critical to the future of our economy and improving city services,” said Mayor Garcetti in a statement. “I’m thrilled to have [Marx] on the team and look forward to working with him to better serve Angelenos and foster the already strong tech ecosystem here in the City of Angels.”
This tech ecosystem referred to by the mayor is in reference to LA’s efforts to embrace open data, transparency, and unique ways of using technology to achieve those goals. The Los Angeles City Controller has brought LA’s financial data to the people with easy to use resources. Los Angeles is in the beginning stages of seriously considering free, citywide Wi-fi. This is not a city stuck in the 20th century, and the appointment of a Chief Innovation Officer hammers that home even more. Continue >>>
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