Branson's citizen phone line gains popularity

In 2006, 133 calls were made, up from 109 calls in 2005.

Most calls concern repairs or improvements that need to be made to city property or violations of the city’s property maintenance codes, according to a city news release.

The city’s goal is to respond to all call requests within five business days, though problems can take longer to fix. Callers are kept informed of progress, and when a request has been completed, the city asks them if they are satisfied with the resolution.

The line, (417) 337-8502, was instituted in 1998 to respond to citizens’ concerns without transferring them to several departments.

The city also asks its own employees to phone in concerns and needed improvements they see while traveling around the city.

“Call It In” stickers with the request line phone number have been placed on city vehicles to remind employees of the service.

This story originally appeared in SBJ’s Jan. 3 free e-news Daily Update. Click here to register.