Officials say clunky Access database hinders enforcement; push to modernize reporting tools

Inspectional and compliance staff told the committee that their case-tracking and reporting rely on an aging, in-house Microsoft Access database that limits the city's ability to pull enforcement metrics quickly.

"We have a clunky old homemade access database that we use and the reporting features are not very good," a staff member said when asked for citation and fines data. Councilors urged officials to request improved software as part of budget planning and to coordinate with the IT department and the mayor's office on any procurement.

Councilors and staff also discussed reviving or replacing a citizen-facing reporting tool to allow residents to log potholes, illegal dumps and other hazards. Chris Hathaway and other staff said the city aims to field a better online reporting channel and estimated an initial rollout within about a month, contingent on proper filtering and department assignment so reports do not get lost.

Councilors emphasized that improved data systems could speed enforcement, make collection of fines more reliable and reduce administrative burdens on staff who currently compile records manually. The committee asked staff to scope requirements for a modern case-management and public-reporting portal for consideration in the next budget cycle.