Hoffman Estates launches mobile app for smartphones

The Village of Hoffman Estates is pleased to announce that online citizen support services are now available through a free mobile application for smartphones.

The primary purpose of the Hoffman Estates app is to give smartphone users an easy way to report problems or concerns within the village using their “Citizen Support Center” login. Depending on the issue, the mobile app report features a voice memo option, a photo option and a locator tool to provide staff with exact locations of a reported concern.

“This is a natural extension of the online reporting tools that we already offer on our website, www.hoffmanestates.org, under the ‘I Want To ...’ tab,” said Village Manager Jim Norris. “We are always looking for new ways to connect our residents and businesses to the services we provide.”

The Hoffman Estates mobile app, available on both iPhone and Android operating systems, is the latest venture by the village to connect with residents and businesses via new media. The village also launched a Commercial Real Estate Site, www.hoffmanestatessites.com, as well as a robust social media program that includes Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.

“It’s important that our residents feel comfortable communicating concerns and feedback with us,” said Mayor William D. McLeod. “This mobile app allows residents to report issues in real time, without the hassle of tracking down phone numbers or logging onto their computers at home.”

Smartphone users can download the Hoffman Estates mobile app through the iPhone or Android app store by searching for “Hoffman Estates Mobile App.” The application is free to download and use, but does require free registration with the “Citizen Support Center” in order to submit reports.

Users can register for an account through the mobile app or at www.hoffmanestates.org/faqs. For a complete mobile app tutorial, visit www.hoffmanestates.org/mobileapp.

As with any new technology, the village plans to update the mobile app on a regular basis. In the next software update, an anonymous “Police Tips” button will be added to aid in crime reporting. Knowing that the next generation of citizens often prefer communicating via cellphone, this option will create another avenue for reporting criminal activity and solving crimes.

To provide feedback on the mobile app, or if you would like to suggest additional features, contact Emily Kerous by email at emily.kerous@hoffmanestates.org