Elizabeth Anderson says Such a fantastic idea. The problem of how to create an effective link between the community and the government is an issue I work on everyday. If I were able to connect my clients directly with the populations they are trying to serve through a software package, well - then I might be unemployed. I've been so wrapped up in my work in this capacity that I wasn't able to vote for this startup during the voting period - which I'm more than annoyed about (bad, Elizabeth). Anyway, I think this idea has the possibility of being wildly successful - and you if are in need of a marketing/pr/communications aid - well, you know who to call. Good luck!

Lorraine says Excellent idea; convenient for busy people. Very positive!

Vincent says This is a fantastic idea, it's stunning that it hasn't been implemented yet, the market is so huge and given the current, technology loving political climate, I can't imagine a better time to start something like this. Great job, great video! Best of luck in the competition!

Mike G says Can't see how this won't have a positive impact on local politics.

Hakan B says I would definitely use a product like this. I feel extremely disconnected from my local government in New York City, and would love a centralized location where I could browse information relating to my neighborhood and community. A system like this sounds like the perfect way to bridge that gap.

Philip says Yes! This is exactly what we need! What cities will you be launching your pilot it? I hope you guys decide to launch it in Pittsburgh. Our leaders are looking for ways to connect with us. And residents, including myself, are desperately looking for new venues to create positive change. This is a great start to opening up conversation. Also, my children go to school is Philadelphia, so I would love if there was a simple way to track and see what issues are developing in both cities. Good luck – this is an incredible initiative!

Jessica Luk says Looks great!

Nora says Great idea! Our community is having a difficult time interfacing with local government over some sustainable development issues. Our small city has an adequate website, but participation is very much stunted by fear and intense controversy. Another value of this kind of forum would be offering a wider view to both citizen participants and government officials. Perhaps gaining some broader perspective could help with normalizing communication and forging productive alliances. Wishing you success in your venture!

Lily Liu says Thanks for your post! We absolutely agree that as governments across the nation are facing budget cuts, it’s important that city’s do not create a more costly government. However, regardless of the country's fiscal situation, governments still have certain obligations, like communicating and interacting with their constituents. The question is not whether governments need to offer these services, but it is an issue of how efficiently and cost-effectively they can do it. The combination of service expectations and traditionally high costs for software services, places cities in a very difficult situation! In light of this, we will offer cities a solution that will allow local governments to save resources (hundred of thousands for traditional software) and increase efficiency (save $33/phone call, Forrester Research), while continuing to support civic engagement in their communities. Our software is also scalable, offering flexible and customized solutions. I hope this helps to address some of your questions.

Kevin says I like the idea...but how do you create value for the city governments themselves? In tough economic times when they are cutting expenses, how does this software create value for them? Migh twant to address that in your summary. Best of luck.

Priscilla Roe says Not only is this a great idea but necessary in today's world! Thanks for being an agent of change--- I hope you win!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sheri Lapidus says This is a great idea! So simple, yet very necessary. Best of luck - I hope you win the funding.

Cheryl says What a great, timesaving way to make your needs, observations & opinions known without getting lost in the government phone systems

Venu says This really makes sense! I always put off contacting the city about problems in my neighborhood because of all the nonsense and wasted time that goes with it. And the websites that some cities I have lived in have were pretty archaic and very difficult to navigate. I really hope this comes through...

Tarrah says Excellent idea - there is nothing worse than trying to navigate a government website to submit a comment.

Jimmy Suggs says What a brilliant idea!

Morena Vattuone says I think the Obama campaign showed us how effective a grassroots effort can be when combined with a concerted social media, internet, and technological strategy. Our city governments can harness that same power to improve our communities in tangible ways that matter to us all while driving costs down and driving accountability up! This is what Americans want now more than ever!

Natalie says Great idea and great video—it’s about time governments got up to speed with using the internet. I’m a mother of two, so I definitely don’t have time to spend tracking my representatives down, but I would definitely use a site from home that would allow me to get involved! Great idea and good luck!!

Greg Carder says Major pot hole- on the 490 on/off ramp eastbound between the exits of Monroe Ave. and Culver Rd. (Rochester, NY)